The College of Science at the University of Basrah organized a scientific lecture titled "The Impact of Microorganisms on Drug Metabolism within the Body." The lecture, presented by faculty members Dr. Alia Ahmed Abdul-Sattar and Dr. Suadad Abdul-Sattar Majeed, explored the role of the microbiome—the collection of microorganisms—in the metabolism of medications. The discussion focused on drugs, particularly those used for chronic conditions, and how the microbiome present in the digestive system interacts with these medications. The lecture aimed to highlight modern concepts in understanding drug metabolism and therapeutic efficacy, considering the vast presence of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. It outlined the mechanisms these microorganisms use to evade the effects of drugs, which can lead to variations in therapeutic response among individuals. The lecture recommended incorporating these contemporary insights regarding the role of the gut microbiome when prescribing medications, noting that microbial composition varies from person to person. This variation is influenced by several factors, most notably diet, which plays a primary role in shaping the microbial community. Consequently, this directly impacts health and the efficiency of the immune system, potentially reducing the need for pharmaceutical interventions to treat various diseases.
