As part of its efforts to strengthen its academic and scientific presence and support the advancement of scientific research in Iraqi universities, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Khudhair, Head of the Department of Anesthesia Technologies at the College of Health and Medical Technologies, Al-Mustaqbal University, participated as Chair of the Dissertation Defense Committee for PhD candidate Mustafa Najm Abdullah Fadel at the College of Education for Pure Sciences, University of Diyala, on Sunday, August 16, 2026. The dissertation was entitled: “Biological Activity of Hydatid Cyst Wall and Fluid Antigens of Echinococcus granulosus on the Growth and Proliferation of Cancer Cells” The study investigated the biological activity of antigens extracted from the hydatid cyst of the parasite Echinococcus granulosus and evaluated their effects on the growth and proliferation of HRT-18 colorectal cancer cells, in comparison with NHF normal cells. It also examined the mechanisms underlying their effects, particularly their ability to induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) and cause DNA damage. The study employed a number of laboratory techniques and assays, including the Lowry method for measuring protein concentration, SDS-PAGE for antigen characterization, and the MTT assay to assess cell viability and cytotoxicity. In addition, DNA damage assessment and immunofluorescence staining were used to determine the expression levels of P53 and Caspase-3, which are associated with the mechanisms of programmed cell death. The findings revealed differences in protein concentrations among the prepared antigens. The MTT assay also demonstrated a significant decrease in the viability of colorectal cancer cells with increasing concentrations of the tested antigens, with a greater effect on cancer cells than on normal cells in several treatments. The results further indicated that hydatid cyst fluid antigen was the most effective among the investigated antigens in inhibiting cancer cell growth. It induced distinct morphological changes associated with programmed cell death, accompanied by increased expression levels of P53 and Caspase-3 and evidence of DNA damage. The study concluded that antigens extracted from the hydatid cyst of Echinococcus granulosus possess cytotoxic activity against cancer cells and the ability to induce programmed cell death, highlighting their potential as promising subjects for further investigation in the development of natural anticancer agents. The participation of Prof. Dr. Ahmed Khudhair in chairing the dissertation defense committee reflects the active scientific presence of Al-Mustaqbal University and the academic expertise of its faculty members. It also demonstrates the University's commitment to strengthening scientific and academic collaboration among Iraqi educational and research institutions, while supporting postgraduate studies and scientific research addressing health- and medical-related issues. Al-Mustaqbal University The First University in Iraq