Department of Cell and Tissue Culture
Research Areas:
1. Cancer Research: Evaluation of the effects of bioactive compounds extracted from local medicinal plants on cancer cell lines in vitro.
2. Toxicity Testing: Assessment of the potential toxic effects of various substances on tissue integrity and cellular health.
3. Cell and Immunology Research: Investigation of cell viability, cellular interactions with their microenvironment, and studies related to immune system function.
4. Immunohistochemical Detection of Cancer: Immunochemical analysis of tissues to identify tumor markers and cancer related biomarkers.
Research Projects
Hematologic Malignancies and Immune Monitoring Using Flow Cytometry
This project employs advanced flow cytometry technologies to investigate hematologic malignancies and assess immune responses in cancer patients. An advanced DEXI Flex flow cytometer (Beckman Coulter) equipped with 13 fluorescence filters is used for high-precision analysis of cellular characteristics and biomarkers. In addition, a BD Accuri flow cytometer with a 4- fluorescence filters is utilized for teaching and training purposes, supporting capacity building in flow cytometry applications.
Research Objectives:
- Hematologic Malignancies:
- Analysis of cellular and immunophenotypic profiles in:
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
- Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
- Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
- Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML)
- Investigation of immune status by monitoring CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T-cell populations Assessment performed
- pre- and post-chemotherapy to evaluate treatment-related immune alterations.
New Genetic Advances in Combating Childhood Glaucoma
Primary Congenital Glaucoma (PCG) is expected to be relatively common in Libya; however, no genetic screening programs currently exist, and data regarding its prevalence and associated pathogenic mutations remain limited.
This research aims to investigate variants in the CYP1B1 gene—specifically in exons II and III—as essential steps toward understanding the genetic basis of the disease.
The ultimate medical goal of the study is to support the development of a genetic screening program that enables early diagnosis and timely treatment of affected children before irreversible vision loss occurs. The study also seeks to explore the correlation between genetic mutations and disease severity.
Study Objectives
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Collect demographic data and medical histories of patients diagnosed with Primary Congenital Glaucoma.
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Identify mutations in exons II and III of the CYP1B1 gene in affected patients and their family members.