Genes contain instructions that determine how our body should work. If these instructions are wrong, some diseases can occur in the body. Gene therapy has been used to treat these diseases in the world since 2003. In this treatment method, new or corrected genes are inserted into the body by going down to the genes at the root of the disease. Thus, genes work on repairing the body.
Today, gene therapy is used for some types of cancer, hereditary diseases and viral infections. In our Biotechnology Laboratory for gene therapy, Asst. Prof. Dr. Polen Koçak Denizci is conducting important studies on DMD and SSPE disease. DMD, which causes weakening of the muscles, is more common especially in boys, and the muscles of children with DMD weaken over time, making it difficult for them to move.
SSPE, on the other hand, is a disease that creates a problem in the brain, causing children's mental abilities to decrease and preventing them from controlling their movements. SSPE develops after an infection caused by a virus in childhood and makes it difficult for the brain to function over time. Thanks to research, new treatment options are being sought for both diseases.
We are developing a carrier system with gene therapy strategy for these diseases. In our laboratory, we are working on methods to correct faulty or incorrect genes. Speaking about the gene therapy to be developed, Asst. Prof. Dr. Polen Koçak Denizci; ‘In our studies, we focus on finding solutions to support the body's self-healing process. In this direction, we are developing a method to correct faulty genes in the body. The treatment we have developed aims to find the wrong genes and correct them. Thus, we are trying to develop a carrier system that will help treat diseases. With this carrier system, we are planning new treatment methods that can be used in many areas such as improving skin health and repairing damaged tissues in the body, not only DMD and SSPE.’
By developing these innovative carrier systems, we aim to offer solutions for more effective treatment of diseases and correction of genetic disorders.