A Journey into Microbiology at Islamic Azad University
Exploring the microscopic organisms that shape our health, environment, and future through cutting-edge research and education.
Nestled within the vibrant academic ecosystem of the Science and Research Branch of Islamic Azad University in Tehran lies a department dedicated to exploring a world invisible to the naked eye. The Department of Microbiology, operating under the Faculty of Basic Sciences, serves as a crucial hub where scientific inquiry meets real-world problem solving.
With over 50,000 students across its campuses and a strong focus on postgraduate studies, the university provides a fertile ground for cutting-edge research 1 . Here, researchers and students delve into the intricate realms of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites—microscopic organisms that wield immense power over human health, agriculture, and the environment.
In the vast ostrich farms of Iran, a silent threat began affecting the health of these magnificent birds. Ostriches showed signs of respiratory distress—sneezing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. The potential culprits were microscopic organisms belonging to the Mycoplasma family.
114 samples collected from lungs, trachea, and air sacs of ostriches showing respiratory symptoms 5 .
Samples processed using specialized growth media to support mycoplasma survival and multiplication.
Employed Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to amplify specific DNA sequences unique to mycoplasma species 5 .
Used sequencing technology and alignment analysis to compare genetic sequences with known reference strains 5 .
The detected M. gallisepticum strains showed 97% homology to known strains 06/14, 05/14, and 16S, while the M. synoviae strains demonstrated 99% and 98% homology to MSR-812, MSR-795, and MSR-1019 strains 5 .
This genetic detective work revealed a crucial fact: the mycoplasmas affecting ostriches in Iran were strikingly similar to those typically infecting chickens—a finding with significant implications for disease management across species.
Supports microorganism proliferation for culturing challenging pathogens like mycoplasmas.
Isolates genetic material from samples for preparing templates for PCR amplification.
Amplifies target DNA sequences for detecting specific pathogens from minimal material.
Determines nucleotide order for identifying genetic variations in pathogens.
Cuts DNA at specific sites for analyzing genetic patterns (RFLP).
Verifies test accuracy for ensuring reliability of detection methods.
These tools represent just a fraction of the resources available to researchers at the Department of Microbiology. The department's laboratories are equipped with advanced instrumentation including biosafety cabinets, climate-controlled incubators, and molecular biology equipment 3 .
The department's pedagogical approach combines theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on experience. The mission, as echoed in the university's teaching laboratories, is to "cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation for the fascinating world of microbiology" through "hands-on experiential learning and interactive demonstrations" 3 .
The department's research aligns with the university's broader strengths in biotechnology and applied microbiology, where the institution demonstrates significant global research output 4 .
Faculty members like Dr. Sedigheh Taghinezhad-S contribute expertise in diverse areas including bacteriology, virology, and gut microbiota 6 , ensuring that students receive comprehensive training in both fundamental and applied microbiology.
The Department of Microbiology at Islamic Azad University's Science and Research Branch represents a microcosm of modern scientific inquiry—where traditional techniques meet cutting-edge technology, and where fundamental research translates into practical solutions. From tracking pathogens in ostrich farms to training future scientists, the department plays a vital role in advancing our understanding of the microbial world.
In the end, every PCR amplification, every genetic sequence analyzed, and every pathogen identified contributes to a larger mission: harnessing our growing knowledge of microbiology to protect health, support agriculture, and understand the intricate biological systems that shape our world.