How Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Is Revolutionizing Life Sciences
Through the Lens of a Groundbreaking International Conference
In May 2013, a scientific convergence in northwestern Iran quietly sparked a revolution. The 1st Tabriz International Life Science Conference (TILSC) and 12th Iran Biophysical Chemistry Conference (IBCC)—hosted simultaneously at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences (TUOMS)—gathered global minds to tackle medicine's most pressing challenges 1 5 . This landmark event symbolized Iran's emergence as a life science powerhouse, anchored by institutions like TUOMS, which ranks among Iran's top medical universities and holds global top-100 positions in pharmacology and polymer science 7 . Over a decade later, the discoveries seeded here continue to resonate, from nanoparticle drug delivery to epigenetic cancer therapies.
TUOMS operates 16 specialized research centers where theoretical biophysics meets clinical solutions. This interdisciplinary architecture fuels its ascent in global rankings—notably #51 worldwide in pharmacology and toxicology —and drives four transformative fields:
The Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Center engineers chitosan-based nanoparticles for targeted cancer drug delivery, increasing chemotherapy precision while reducing systemic toxicity 4 .
Collaborative projects with the Neurosciences Research Center employ single-nucleus RNA sequencing to decode cellular crosstalk in multiple sclerosis, revealing new therapeutic targets 9 .
Leveraging TUOMS' strength in polymer science (#1 globally for high-impact polymer publications), scientists develop biodegradable scaffolds for tissue regeneration 7 .
A flagship study from TUOMS' Nanotechnology Research Center exemplifies how biophysical chemistry translates to lifesaving applications.
Enhance tumor-specific delivery of doxorubicin (a potent chemotherapy drug) while mitigating its cardiotoxic side effects.
Chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) were functionalized with cancer-targeting peptides using carbodiimide crosslinking chemistry 4 .
Doxorubicin was encapsulated via electrostatic adsorption at pH 5.0.
NP size, zeta potential, and drug release kinetics were quantified using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and HPLC.
Breast cancer xenografts in murine models received either NP-doxorubicin or free doxorubicin. Tumor volume, survival rates, and cardiac biomarkers were monitored for 28 days.
| Parameter | Value | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Average Diameter | 142 ± 8 nm | Optimal for tumor penetration via EPR effect |
| Zeta Potential | +32.1 mV | Stable colloidal dispersion |
| Drug Loading Efficiency | 89.4% | High payload capacity |
| Sustained Release | 78% over 72 hrs | Reduces dosing frequency |
| Group | Tumor Volume Reduction | Median Survival (Days) | Cardiac Toxicity Incidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Untreated Control | 0% | 38 | N/A |
| Free Doxorubicin | 28% | 53 | 80% |
| NP-Doxorubicin | 64% | 72 | 25% |
A 2025 Life Science Alliance study co-authored by TUOMS researchers identified TEAD-inhibiting compounds that suppress mesothelioma growth in NF2-mutant tumors by disrupting YAP-TEAD oncogenic signaling 9 .
Collaborative work on cell-free chromatin profiling detected subclinical vascular damage in asymptomatic COVID-19 patients, enabling early intervention 9 .
Biophysical analysis of RING E3 ubiquitin ligases revealed how single-residue mutations alter ubiquitin transfer efficiency—information critical for designing targeted protein degraders 9 .
| Reagent/Material | Function | Application Example |
|---|---|---|
| Chitosan | Biocompatible cationic polysaccharide | Nanoparticle drug carrier (TUOMS cancer studies) |
| PEG Derivatives | "Stealth" coating reducing immune clearance | Enhancing nanoparticle circulation time |
| Carbodiimide Crosslinkers | Activate carboxyl groups for peptide binding | Functionalizing nanoparticles |
| SPR Chips (e.g., Biacore) | Immobilize biomolecules for binding assays | Quantifying protein-ligand kinetics |
| CRISPR/dCas9 Systems | Targeted epigenetic modulation | Gene expression studies without DNA cleavage |
The legacy of the 2013 TILSC/IBCC conference extends far beyond three days of academic exchange. It crystallized TUOMS' role as a global innovation catalyst, where biophysical chemistry principles solve biological problems with engineering precision. As the university climbs in global rankings (#269 in life sciences as of 2024) , its research portfolio—spanning from nanostructured drug carriers to epigenetic liquid biopsies—continues to redefine medical possibility. The next frontier? Personalized nanomedicine calibrated by multi-omics data, emerging from labs where chemistry, physics, and biology converge without borders.
For conference abstracts or collaboration opportunities, visit the TUOMS Biotechnology Research Center portal or explore the Iran Society of Biophysical Chemistry's upcoming events 2 8 .