Dr. Alp Can is a distinguished researcher and academic leader in histology, embryology, and stem cell biology, with a particular focus on human umbilical cord-derived stromal cells and reproductive biology. His research has significantly advanced understanding of mesenchymal stem cell properties, differentiation potential, and their applications in regenerative medicine, particularly in cardiovascular and reproductive models. With over 90 publications in SCI-indexed journals and more than 6,800 citations (h-index: 39), his work has been recognized globally, including being listed among Stanford University’s top 2% most influential scientists. Dr. Can has directed over 30 research projects and authored 15 scientific books, contributing extensively to knowledge dissemination in cell and tissue engineering. His patented innovations—covering cryopreservation of umbilical cord stroma, advanced methods for transport and storage of mesenchymal stromal cells, and 3D-printed tissue scaffolds with controlled release properties—reflect his commitment to translational science and biomedical innovation. As editor of Stem Cell Bulletin and an active member of leading international societies such as ISSCR, ASCB, and ESHRE, Dr. Can continues to foster scientific collaboration and mentor emerging researchers in cellular therapy, reproductive toxicology, and regenerative medicine. His work bridges fundamental research and clinical applications, advancing the frontiers of modern cell biology.
Featured Publications:
Yemisci, M., Gursoy-Ozdemir, Y., Vural, A., Can, A., Topalkara, K., & Dalkara, T. (2009). Pericyte contraction induced by oxidative-nitrative stress impairs capillary reflow despite successful opening of an occluded cerebral artery. Nature Medicine, 15(9), 1031–1037. https://doi.org/10.1038/nm.2022
Karahuseyinoglu, S., Cinar, O., Kilic, E., Kara, F., Akay, G. G., Demiralp, D. Ö., Can, A., & others. (2007). Biology of stem cells in human umbilical cord stroma: In situ and in vitro surveys. Stem Cells, 25(2), 319–331. https://doi.org/10.1634/stemcells.2006-0286
Can, A., & Karahuseyinoglu, S. (2007). Concise review: Human umbilical cord stroma with regard to the source of fetus-derived stem cells. Stem Cells, 25(11), 2886–2895. https://doi.org/10.1634/stemcells.2007-0417
Gürsoy-Özdemir, Y., Can, A., & Dalkara, T. (2004). Reperfusion-induced oxidative/nitrative injury to neurovascular unit after focal cerebral ischemia. Stroke, 35(6), 1449–1453. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.STR.0000126044.61190.81
Alarcon-Martinez, L., Yilmaz-Ozcan, S., Yemisci, M., Schallek, J., Kılıç, K., Can, A., & others. (2018). Capillary pericytes express α-smooth muscle actin, which requires prevention of filamentous-actin depolymerization for detection. eLife, 7, e34861. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.34861
Unal-Cevik, I., Kılınç, M., Can, A., Gürsoy-Özdemir, Y., & Dalkara, T. (2004). Apoptotic and necrotic death mechanisms are concomitantly activated in the same cell after cerebral ischemia. Stroke, 35(9), 2189–2194. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.STR.0000137607.23073.95
Çinar, M. E., Bilecenoglu, M., Öztürk, B., & Can, A. (2006). New records of alien species on the Levantine coast of Turkey. Aquatic Invasions, 1(2), 84–90. https://doi.org/10.3391/ai.2006.1.2.5