Molecular Immunology Research Center

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About the Center

 

Historical Background and Establishment of the Molecular Immunology Research Center (MIRC)
About the Center
Historical Background, Mission, and Strategic Objectives
The Molecular Immunology Research Center (MIRC) traces its origins to the 1970s, when Dr. Nikbin introduced HLA typing at the Immunogenetics Laboratory of the University of Tehran. The laboratory became a leading center for immunogenetic research, particularly HLA-based population studies and investigations of autoimmune, malignant, and infectious diseases. MIRC was formally established in 2007 with provisional approval from the Ministry of Health and Medical Education.
Since its establishment, MIRC has developed multidisciplinary research programs in immunogenetics, solid-organ transplantation—especially renal transplantation—and transplantation immunology. Its research has expanded to environmental immunology, including genetic susceptibility and the effects of air pollution on COPD, as well as autoimmune diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis. The Center has also explored Islamic immunology, studying the effects of intermittent fasting on immune and metabolic functions.
Strategic Objectives and Mission
MIRC aims to advance fundamental, translational, and applied immunological research while addressing clinically relevant health challenges. It applies advanced molecular and cellular techniques, supports postgraduate education and specialized training, and develops expertise in transplantation, immunogenetics, autoimmunity, and emerging therapies.
More recently, MIRC has strengthened its focus on translational and clinical research, particularly cell-based and immune-cell therapies for autoimmune diseases and cancer. Through national and international collaborations, the Center seeks to improve disease understanding, early diagnosis, innovative treatment, and patient outcomes, ultimately contributing to advances in modern immunology and public health.

 

Research Focus Area

 

  • Immunogenetics
  • Stem Cell Biology
  • Transplantation Immunology

 

Expertise, Facilities & Research Services

 

  • molecular biology laboratories
  • RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, real-time PCR (gene expression, genotyping)
  • DNA extraction and PCR
  • Primer design
  • ELISA
  • Solution and Buffer Preparation
  • flow cytometry

 

Collaboration Opportunities

 

The Molecular Immunology Research Center, committed to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering innovation, invites researchers, talented students, and academic-research institutions to join a dynamic network of experts and collaborate in the following specialized areas:

  • Immunogenetics (with particular emphasis on autoimmune diseases and malignancies)
  • Transplantation Immunology
  • Stem Cell Biology
  • Interdisciplinary Studies (with a focus on Islamic studies and environmental immunology)

Objectives of Collaboration:

  • Design and implementation of innovative research projects
  • Publication of high-quality articles and scientific books in reputable international journals
  • Knowledge exchange and development of applied research platforms

 

Director & Key Researchers

 

Center Director:

  • Dr. Mohammad Hossein Niknam
  • https://isid.research.ac.ir/MohammadHossein_Nicknam

Deputy Director:

  • Dr. Narjes Soleimanifar
  • https://isid.research.ac.ir/Narjes_Soleimanifar

Faculty member:

  • Dr. Sara Assadiasl
  • https://isid.research.ac.ir/Sara_Asadi

Non-Faculty Researcher:

  • Mohammadali Zolfaghari
  • Somayeh Mami

Laboratory Supervisor:

  • Maryam Sadr

Laboratory Technician and Research Associate:

  • Hanieh Mojtahedi
  • Akram Sadat Jaafarian
  • Sama Jabbaripour

 

Selected Achievements

 

  • 14 specialized books published in various fields of immunology including Ankylosing Spondylitis-Axial Spondyloarthritis: Cellular, Molecular and Environmental Factors
  • 10 memoranda of understanding established with academic and health institutions
  • Over 550 peer-reviewed articles published in international journals (H-index: 43)
  • 60 research projects approved and executed, predominantly as postgraduate theses
  • More than 10 training workshops and educational webinars, and 2 symposia organized
  • Ongoing academic session series on Immuno-Oncology, Emerging and Re-emerging Diseases, and Advances in Immunology

 

Why Collaborate with Us?

 

  • National referral center for immunogenetics and transplantation immunology
  • Access to unique patient cohorts, including well-characterized populations with autoimmune diseases (e.g., Ankylosing Spondylitis), transplant recipients, and diverse Iranian ethnic groups
  • Advanced research infrastructure, including HLA typing platforms and molecular biology laboratories
  • Strong translational research capacity, bridging basic immunology with clinical applications in transplantation, autoimmunity, and cell therapy
  • Proven experience in hosting international M.Sc. and Ph.D. students, fostering cross-cultural academic exchange and capacity building
  • Supervision and execution of student theses and research projects at both graduate and postgraduate levels
  • Organization of specialized training workshops in DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/RT-PCR, cell therapy, HLA typing, and scientific writing
  • Extensive collaborative network, formalized through 10 national and international memoranda of understanding
  • Interdisciplinary research portfolio, encompassing Immuno-Oncology, Emerging and Re-emerging Diseases, Immunology updates, and Islamic Immunology

 

Contact Information

 

Molecular Immunology Research Center (MIRC)
Email: mirctums2007@gmail.com
Address: No. 142, 4th Floor, Unit 8, Nosrat Street, between North Jamalzadeh Street and Dr. Gharib Street, Tehran, Iran
Postal Code: 1419733151
Phone: +98-21-66944508
Website: Mirc.tums.ac.ir

Last Update At : 07 September 2026