11 January، 2026
Thesis defence
College of Pharmacy at the University of Mosul Discusses Master’s Thesis on the Anti-inflammatory Effects of Zingiberene in Osteoarthritis
On the morning of Sunday, January 11, 2026, the College of Pharmacy at the University of Mosul held a public defense for a Master’s thesis submitted by the student Riyam Odai Hatem Sultan Al-Taweel. The session took place at the Seminar Hall, focusing on her thesis titled:
> “Effects of Ginger-Derived Zingiberene on Osteoarthritis: Modulation of Certain Inflammatory Markers”
>
Research Scope and Objectives
The study conducted a scientific investigation into the pathological role of key inflammatory cytokines—specifically TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6—highlighting their pivotal role in stimulating inflammation and accelerating the progression of osteoarthritis. Furthermore, the researcher explored the anti-inflammatory efficacy of Zingiberene, a natural compound extracted from the ginger plant, which has gained increasing research interest within the pharmaceutical sciences.
Key Findings
The study’s results demonstrated Zingiberene’s capacity to effectively reduce levels of inflammatory cytokines, showing a degree of efficacy comparable to Naproxen, a widely utilized pharmacological treatment for inflammatory conditions. These findings suggest that Zingiberene holds promise as a natural therapeutic alternative, though the study emphasized the necessity for further clinical research to elucidate its mechanisms of action and optimal dosing.
The Examination Committee
The defense committee comprised the following distinguished members:
* Assistant Professor Dr. Zeina Haitham Fathi (College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul) – Chair.
* Assistant Professor Dr. Bader Al-Din Karim Hamad (College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University) – Member.
* Lecturer Dr. Samir Mohammed Mahmoud (College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul) – Member.
* Assistant Professor Dr. Mohanad Emad Mohiuddin (College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul) – Member and Primary Supervisor.
* Assistant Professor Dr. Zaid Muwaffaq Younis (College of Pharmacy, University of Mosul) – Member and Secondary Supervisor.
Conclusion
Following a rigorous scientific defense, the committee commended the researcher for her significant effort and the study’s academic and practical value in advancing natural therapeutic alternatives. The thesis was officially accepted with minor revisions.
