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13 September 2025

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Mitochondrial Analysis (mtDNA): Emerging Horizons in Medical and Forensic Research Prepared by: Dr. Feryal Ibrahim

The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Mitochondrial Analysis (mtDNA): Emerging Horizons in Medical and Forensic Research With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, it has become possible to employ machine learning and deep learning algorithms in studying mitochondrial functions and analyzing mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). This progress has opened new horizons in both medicine and forensic science. As the powerhouse of the cell, mitochondria play a central role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, and any dysfunction in their performance is linked to a wide range of diseases, from neurological disorders to cancers. Here, AI emerges as an effective tool capable of handling the massive and complex data associated with mitochondria—whether derived from microscopic imaging, genetic sequencing, or clinical information. One of the most notable applications is the use of generative AI models to design new sequences targeting mitochondria. Researchers have developed a Variational Autoencoder (VAE)-based model capable of generating millions of mitochondrial targeting sequences (MTSs). The effectiveness of these sequences was experimentally validated in yeast, plants, and mammals using advanced imaging techniques. These results pave the way for building dynamic libraries that can be leveraged in metabolic engineering and gene therapy. AI has also played a vital role in diagnostic and predictive medicine through the development of novel standards such as MitoScore, which employs multiple machine learning algorithms to predict mitochondrial function and link it to immune and metabolic responses, particularly in gastrointestinal cancers. In low-grade gliomas, machine learning models contributed to the development of indicators such as mtPCDI, which demonstrated strong predictive power for survival rates and enabled more precise therapeutic interventions. In structural imaging, deep learning techniques have accelerated the analysis of mitochondrial electron microscopy images, reducing analysis time by up to 90% compared with conventional methods. Through simulation-supervised deep learning models, algorithms were trained on synthetic but realistic datasets, enabling them to recognize mitochondrial dynamics in live-cell microscopy videos with unprecedented accuracy. At the genomic level, AI has contributed to the creation of tools such as MitoScape, which employs random forest algorithms to distinguish mtDNA reads from nuclear mitochondrial sequences (NUMTs) in high-throughput sequencing data. This advancement has opened the door to reanalyzing existing genomic datasets to uncover novel mitochondrial patterns associated with common and complex diseases, all within large-scale cloud computing environments. The clinical applications of this integration are clearly visible in fields such as reproductive aging assessment. By combining data on mitochondrial function and mtDNA with AI algorithms, researchers have been able to predict gamete quality and the success rates of assisted reproductive technologies. Additionally, these tools have identified distinctive mitochondrial signatures that can potentially be targeted pharmacologically in the future, positioning AI as a cornerstone of precision medicine. The integration of AI with mitochondrial research represents a paradigm shift in understanding cellular biology and its applications. From designing targeted sequences, to structural imaging and analysis, to clinical predictions and forensic applications, AI stands out as a powerful mediator capable of transforming complex data into actionable knowledge. These advancements are expected to strengthen early diagnosis, enhance the development of targeted therapies, and accelerate scientific discoveries toward broader horizons. Dr. Feryal Ibrahim Al-Dhafiri Center for Al-Mustaqbal Applications of Artificial Intelligence Al-Mustaqbal University – The First Among Private Universities in Iraq

12 September 2025

Al-Mustaqbal University Participates in the National Erasmus+ Day

Under the patronage and presence of H.E. Prof. Dr. Naim Al-Aboudi, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the National Erasmus+ Day was launched at the University of Baghdad in cooperation with the European Union Delegation in Iraq, from 8–9 September 2025. In his opening speech, the Minister emphasized the vital role of Erasmus+ programs in advancing higher education in Iraq, announcing the establishment of dedicated units in all Iraqi universities to follow up on Erasmus+ activities. Al-Mustaqbal University took part with an official delegation representing Prof. Dr. Hassan Shaker Majdi, President of the University. The delegation included Prof. Dr. Mudhafar Sadiq Al-Zuheiri, Director of Scientific and Academic Supervision, Dr. Samir Ibrahim Badrawi, Director of Cultural Relations, and Ms. Elaf Salah Mahdi, Erasmus+ Program Officer. The delegation reaffirmed the university’s commitment to international academic openness through student and staff mobility, strong regional and global partnerships, and hosting international postgraduate programs, thereby strengthening its pioneering role in the academic arena. 🔹 Al-Mustaqbal University is the first among private universities in Iraq

11 September 2025

The Blessed Birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Prof. Dr. Nidhal Khdhair Al-Abbadi, Director of the Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications at Al-Mustaqbal University, along with the center’s staff, extends heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Islamic nation on the occasion of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his pure family). May Allah bless everyone with goodness, prosperity, and blessings. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First Among Private Universities in Iraq

10 September 2025

Al-Mustaqbal University – Gold Sponsor of Baghdad International Book Fair 2025

Al-Mustaqbal University invites you to visit us at Booth S14 during the Baghdad International Book Fair: 📍 Location: Baghdad – Baghdad International Fair 📅 Date: September 10–21, 2025 ⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM 📌 Venue: Baghdad International Fairground – Al-Mansour – Baghdad Hall 🌟 Join us where knowledge meets culture, and together we shape an educational future worthy of Iraq’s promising generation 🇮🇶 🚀 Al-Mustaqbal University… Your trusted partner in the journey of knowledge and creativity Al-Mustaqbal University is the leading private university in Iraq

10 September 2025

A new book has recently been published under the title: “The Legal Framework of Artificial Intelligence in Forensic Evidence: An Analysis of Challenges and Contemporary Perspectives”, authored by Dr. Feryal Ibrahim Al-Dhafiri, specialized in Artificial Intelligence Engineering.

A new book has recently been published under the title: “The Legal Framework of Artificial Intelligence in Forensic Evidence: An Analysis of Challenges and Contemporary Perspectives”, authored by Dr. Feryal Ibrahim Al-Dhafiri, specialized in Artificial Intelligence Engineering. The book aims to integrate traditional forensic sciences with the latest AI technologies, providing a practical and academic reference for researchers and specialists in forensic evidence. It emphasizes enhancing the quality of forensic analysis, acquiring new skills in modern technologies, and strengthening the criminal justice system in the digital age. Furthermore, the book highlights methods of detecting and distinguishing explosives and fire residues, illustrating how AI has contributed to accurate predictive and analytical models in crime scene investigations. Leveraging big data and intelligent analytics, these models provide reliable outcomes that significantly support judicial investigations. This publication represents a valuable addition to the academic and legal library, serving as a reference for researchers and professionals in forensic science and digital technologies. Al-Mustaqbal University – The First Among Private Universities in Iraq

3 September 2025

Application Still Open for Hosted Master’s Programs at Al-Mustaqbal University for the Academic Year 2025 / 2026

Al-Mustaqbal University announces that applications (online and paper-based) are still open for the Master’s programs hosted from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and offered at Al-Mustaqbal University for the academic year 2025 / 2026 in the following specializations: 🔸 M.Sc. in Electronic Systems Design Engineering Application Link Tuition Fee: $8,250, payable in 3 installments. Duration: 2 years (40 credit units). 🔸 M.Sc. in Clinical Anatomy Application Link Tuition Fee: $10,000, payable in 4 installments. Duration: 2 years (40 credit units). 📍 Key Information: Application Deadline: September 6, 2025. Classes Begin: October 6, 2025. The programs are delivered at Al-Mustaqbal University based on USM curricula. The awarded degree is issued by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), which is listed in the Scholarship Universities Guide. 📞 For inquiries, please contact via WhatsApp: 07728158480 📍 Address: Hilla–Najaf Road, Babylon Governorate 🔗 Al-Mustaqbal University Website 🔹 Al-Mustaqbal University – Ranked First among Private Universities in Iraq

2 September 2025

President of Al-Mustaqbal University Announces Copyright Certificate for the University’s Intellectual Property Protection Policy

Prof. Dr. Hassan Shakir Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, announced that the university has been awarded a Copyright Certificate by the National Center for Copyright Protection and Neighboring Rights, affiliated with the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities, for its official document “Intellectual Property Policy at Al-Mustaqbal University.” With this achievement, the university has become the first academic institution in Iraq to launch and establish an institutional policy framework dedicated to intellectual property protection. Prof. Dr. Majdi emphasized that this milestone represents a historic step in the university’s journey toward leadership and excellence. The policy was first unveiled during the Al-Mustaqbal Sustainability Week Festival last April, serving as a pioneering institutional reference that fosters an environment of creativity and innovation in Iraq. He further noted that intellectual property protection is not merely a legal procedure but a fundamental pillar of the knowledge economy, built upon ideas and innovation. It ensures exclusive rights for innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs, enabling them to advance their work with confidence. Moreover, it creates investment and commercial opportunities, strengthens institutional competitiveness, attracts partners and investors, and generates new revenue streams through licensing and rights transfer. It also provides a secure environment that encourages research and development and supports entrepreneurs in accessing funding for their projects. He concluded by affirming that Al-Mustaqbal University remains committed to empowering innovators and researchers, stressing that this achievement will further embed intellectual property culture as a cornerstone in building a modern Iraq founded on knowledge and innovation. The Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications congratulated this achievement, considering it a significant milestone in reinforcing an academic ecosystem driven by innovation and excellence. 🔗 Al-Mustaqbal University Website 🔹 Al-Mustaqbal University – Ranked First among Private Universities in Iraq

1 September 2025

Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications Extends Condolences on the Martyrdom Anniversary of Imam Al-Hasan Al-Askari (peace be upon him)

The Al-Mustaqbal Center for Artificial Intelligence Applications extends its deepest condolences to the presence of our Master, the Awaited Imam (may Allah hasten his reappearance), and to the entire Islamic nation on the sorrowful occasion of the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Al-Hasan Al-Askari (peace be upon him). Imam Al-Hasan Al-Askari embodied the finest meanings of patience, struggle, and faith, standing tall in defense of the religion of his grandfather, the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him and his family), despite the harsh conditions and strict surveillance imposed by the tyrants of his time. We pray to Almighty Allah to keep us steadfast in his guardianship, make us among those who adhere to his teachings, and grant us the honor of visiting him in this world and receiving his intercession in the Hereafter. Indeed, He is All-Hearing, All-Responding. May Allah increase our reward and yours in this great affliction.