BEÜ Develops Research on Colon Cancer

Bülent Ecevit University Faculty of Arts and Sciences Department of Chemistry faculty members Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zuhal Gerçek and Dr. Ufuk Yıldız have synthesized a novel molecule exhibiting anticancer effects by triggering cell death as a result of their research. They have demonstrated that the molecule shows selective activity against colon cancer among cancer types. According to Health Ministry statistics, of the 104,610 new cases of colon cancer expected to emerge this year—one of the five most common cancer types in Turkey—53,200 are projected to result in death. In addition to numerous side effects of drugs used in treating the disease, resistance to medications is known to develop following long-term use. To address these issues, the scientific community has focused on obtaining selective drugs for specific cancer types. Within the scope of these studies, compounds synthesized as a result of research conducted by Bülent Ecevit University Faculty of Arts and Sciences Department of Chemistry faculty members Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zuhal Gerçek and Dr. Ufuk Yıldız were investigated for their effects on breast, lung, prostate and colon cancer cells through biological activity studies conducted by İstinye University faculty member Prof. Dr. Engin Ulukaya. As a result of the studies conducted, one compound was proven to exhibit anticancer effects by selectively triggering cell death against colon cancer. In a statement regarding the matter, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gerçek stated that they will continue their research conducted through collaboration between the two universities, and that selective active compounds for different cancer types will be synthesized in the near future and introduced to the Turkish pharmaceutical sector.