Biomedical Sciences Department Students Visit Exogen Genetic Laboratory at Zheen Hospital
Third-stage students from the Biomedical Sciences Department at Cihan University – Erbil conducted an educational visit to the Exogen Genetic Laboratory at Zheen Hospital on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. The visit was organized under the supervision of Assistant Lecturer Hero Ismael Mohammed.
Upon arrival, the students were warmly received by Ms. Banu Kamaran Ibrahim, the Laboratory Coordinator, who accompanied them throughout the laboratory tour and provided detailed explanations of the laboratory’s diagnostic procedures and workflows.
During the first part of the visit, students explored the DNA Isolation Unit, where Ms. Banu explained the process of receiving and handling patient samples, followed by DNA extraction using both manual procedures and automated extraction systems. She also introduced them to molecular diagnostic techniques, including Conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Real-Time PCR (RT-PCR), as well as the analysis of DNA samples through gel electrophoresis.
The visit then proceeded to the Cytogenetics Laboratory, where students received an overview of sample processing and chromosome analysis techniques, particularly Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) and karyotyping. Miss Banu highlighted that many stages of these procedures are performed manually. She also emphasized the importance of specialized knowledge, technical expertise, and careful interpretation in identifying chromosomes and detecting chromosomal abnormalities.
In the final part of the visit, students explored the Bioinformatics Unit, where Mr. Pola Brzo explained the role of bioinformatics in genetic diagnostics. He introduced the analysis of genetic data obtained through Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Sanger sequencing, demonstrating how these technologies are used to examine patient results and identify genetic mutations.
On behalf of the Biomedical Sciences Department, Assistant Lecturer Hero extends her sincere appreciation to the management and laboratory team of Exogen Genetic Laboratory, particularly Ms.Banu and Mr. Pola, for their warm hospitality, informative explanations, and valuable contribution to enhancing the students’ practical knowledge and educational experience.
