Sedigheh Gharbi | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Sedigheh Gharbi | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sedigheh Gharbi | Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran | Iran

Assistant Prof. Dr. Sedigheh Gharbi is a dedicated Iranian biologist. She is currently an Assistant Professor at Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, specializing in molecular biology with a strong focus on non-coding RNAs and their roles in cancer and cardiac regeneration. With over a decade of academic and research experience, Dr. Gharbi has contributed extensively to understanding microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs in disease mechanisms. She is recognized for her work on cardiomyocyte regeneration, cancer biology, and novel RNA regulatory networks. Dr. Gharbi has published numerous peer-reviewed articles, demonstrating her commitment to advancing biomedical research. Her research aims to translate molecular findings into potential therapeutic strategies, especially in oncology and regenerative medicine. She is also known for mentoring students and collaborating internationally to foster innovation in life sciences.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Sedigheh Gharbi completed her PhD in Molecular Biology at Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran. Her doctoral thesis focused on the microRNA expression profile alterations in serum and urine of sulfur mustard victims, under the supervision of Prof. Seyyed Javad Mowla. This work laid the foundation for her expertise in microRNAs and their diagnostic potential in toxicology and disease. Before her PhD, she earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Isfahan, where she conducted research on the mutational screening of the PIK3CA gene in breast cancer patients under Prof. Manoochehr Tavassoli. This early work sparked her interest in cancer genetics and molecular markers. Her education combined advanced molecular techniques with applied biomedical research, equipping her with the skills necessary for innovative studies in RNA biology and its implications in human diseases.

Experienc:

Since 2014, Dr. Gharbi has served as an Assistant Professor at Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, where she lectures and leads research in molecular biology and cancer genetics. Her academic career is marked by active involvement in teaching, supervising graduate students, and securing research projects. She has a proven record in managing interdisciplinary studies focused on cardiomyocyte regeneration and RNA biology. Dr. Gharbi’s research experience spans molecular profiling of cancer biomarkers, non-coding RNA regulatory networks, and nanotechnology applications in drug delivery. She has collaborated with multiple research teams nationally and internationally, contributing to both fundamental science and translational medicine. Her role involves experimental design, bioinformatics analysis, and dissemination of findings through scientific publications and conferences. Dr. Gharbi’s experience in mentoring young scientists and publishing extensively positions her as a leader in her field.

Research Focus:

Dr. Gharbi’s primary research focus lies in the regulatory roles of non-coding RNAs—especially microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)—in disease pathogenesis and therapy. She investigates cardiomyocyte regeneration by exploring how lncRNAs influence cell cycle progression, aiming to improve heart repair after injury. In oncology, her research centers on the regulatory structure of E-cadherin and the involvement of non-coding RNAs in cancer progression and management. Additionally, Dr. Gharbi is dedicated to identifying novel miRNAs and elucidating their functions in cellular processes like apoptosis and proliferation. Her work integrates molecular biology techniques with bioinformatics to uncover RNA-based biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The intersection of nanotechnology and RNA therapeutics is another emerging area in her studies, aiming to optimize cancer treatment delivery systems. Overall, her research contributes to understanding complex gene regulation mechanisms and developing RNA-based precision medicine strategies.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. Mir-542 As A Potential and Promising Therapeutic Target For HPV-Positive Cervical Cancers

  2. CircPAN3/miR-221/PTEN Axis and Apoptosis in Myocardial Infarction: Quercetin’s Regulatory Effects

  3. Controlled cytotoxicity of Ag-GO nanocomposite biosynthesized using black peel pomegranate extract against MCF-7 cell line

  4. Characterization of the first microRNA in human CDH1 that affects cell cycle and apoptosis and indicates breast cancers progression

  5. Curcumin loaded on graphene nanosheets induced cell death in mammospheres from MCF-7 and primary breast tumor cells

  6. Bioinformatics Prediction of microRNAs Regulating Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Cancer Cells

  7. Secondary toxic effect of graphene oxide and graphene quantum dots alters the expression of miR-21 and miR-29a in human cell lines

  8. Statins: Complex outcomes but increasingly helpful treatment options for patients

  9. Synthesis and characterization of d10 transition metal complexes in bulk and nano scales: DNA binding, molecular docking and anticancer activity against MCF-7 cell line

  10.  Quantification of circulating miR-517c-3p and miR-210-3p levels in preeclampsia

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Assistant Prof. Dr. Sedigheh Gharbi is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award based on her consistent track record of innovative, impactful research and academic contributions. Her focus on molecular biology, especially the regulatory roles of non-coding RNAs in cancer and cardiac regeneration, addresses some of the most challenging issues in contemporary biomedical science. Her extensive publication record in reputable journals reflects the quality and significance of her work. While there are opportunities for further enhancing her international collaborations, funding portfolio, and translational efforts, her current achievements already mark her as a leading researcher with great potential for continued contributions. Awarding her the Best Researcher Award would recognize her scientific excellence and encourage further advancements in her promising research career.

 

Sibel Elif Gultekin | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gultekin | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gultekin , Gazi University Faculty of Dentistry , Turkey

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin is an accomplished academic and researcher in Oral Pathology and Periodontology at Gazi University, Ankara. With dual DDS and Ph.D. degrees, she has led the Department of Oral Pathology for a decade and significantly contributed to understanding oral cancer, odontogenic lesions, and HPV-related pathologies. Her collaborative research with institutions such as UCSF and the University of Cologne has yielded numerous high-impact publications and advancements in oral diagnostics. She has authored two books and published over 96 articles in reputable journals. A prominent figure in national and international research boards, Dr. Gültekin has also played a pioneering role in establishing oral pathology as a specialty in Türkiye. Her work integrates molecular biology with clinical oral health, emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and translational science. Recognized globally, she continues to mentor emerging scholars while contributing to policy-making and curriculum development in dental education.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  • Extensive Research Portfolio: Over 96 peer-reviewed publications, with 40 in SCI journals, reflects consistent scholarly productivity and scientific depth.

  • Citation Impact: High citation indices (Google Scholar: 1,381, h-index: 17) demonstrate strong academic influence and relevance in the field of molecular oral pathology.

  • International Collaborations: Long-term, productive collaborations with prestigious institutions including the University of Cologne and UCSF underline global recognition and trust.

  • Focused Expertise: Specialization in oral epithelial dysplasia, HPV-associated oral/oropharyngeal cancers, and molecular mechanisms of odontogenic lesions aligns closely with cutting-edge cell biology and translational research.

  • Academic Leadership: Established the Department of Oral Pathology in Türkiye and mentored future scientists, contributing to both academic infrastructure and talent development.

  • Editorial and Advisory Roles: Active roles in scientific boards and journals underscore her influence in shaping academic discourse and peer-review standards.

🛠 Areas for Improvement:

  • Patent Development: Incorporating translational research into patentable diagnostics or therapeutics would enhance practical impact and innovation scoring.

  • Funding & Industry Engagement: Broader engagement with industry-funded projects and clinical trials could further expand her work’s translational potential and outreach.

  • Global Clinical Guidelines Influence: Participation in international committees that develop clinical practice guidelines would strengthen policy-level impact.

🎓 Education:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin pursued her initial dental training and later earned dual Ph.D. degrees in Periodontology and Oral Pathology, demonstrating a unique interdisciplinary depth. She completed her undergraduate and doctoral education at Gazi University, Faculty of Dentistry, Ankara. Her academic journey also included prestigious international research fellowships at the University of Cologne (Germany) and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF, USA), where she focused on advanced molecular mechanisms in oral diseases, especially HPV-related oncogenesis and tissue regeneration. Her training reflects a blend of clinical excellence and a strong foundation in molecular biology and translational research. Through a blend of local and global academic exposure, Dr. Gültekin has acquired cutting-edge knowledge and technical expertise, which she continues to leverage in her teaching and research. Her international education and academic credentials have contributed to building strong scientific bridges between Türkiye and the global dental research community.

🧪 Professional Experience:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin has over 20 years of academic and research experience in dentistry, with a specialized focus on Oral Pathology and Periodontology. She currently serves as a full professor and head of the Oral Pathology Department at Gazi University Faculty of Dentistry, a position she has held for more than a decade. Dr. Gültekin has actively engaged in research collaborations with renowned institutions such as the University of Cologne and UCSF, significantly contributing to the fields of oral cancer and molecular diagnostics. She has completed over 50 research projects and advised numerous postgraduate theses. As a scientific advisor and board member for several national and international journals and associations, she plays a pivotal role in shaping academic and clinical standards. Her editorial appointments and leadership in symposia highlight her commitment to academic excellence and global research integration. She continues to lead innovation in oral health education and research policy.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Gültekin’s research centers on the molecular pathology of oral diseases, with particular emphasis on oral epithelial dysplasia, HPV-induced oral/oropharyngeal cancers, and the genetic underpinnings of odontogenic tumors and cysts. Her studies have investigated biomarkers such as p16, PDCD4, and VIM3, enabling improved early detection and classification of oral malignancies. She is also involved in exploring microsatellite instability, loss of heterozygosity, and B-RAF/MEK inhibition in the context of oral and maxillofacial tumors. A major dimension of her work includes periodontal tissue regeneration and molecular mechanisms of tooth development, which bridges clinical periodontology with developmental biology. Her research is translational, aiming to bridge bench-to-chairside pathways, and supports the development of personalized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. With over 1,300 citations and active involvement in global research initiatives, her investigations have significantly influenced current understanding and clinical approaches in oral pathology.

📄 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Microsatellite Instability and Loss of Heterozygosity as Prognostic Markers in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Genes, Chromosomes and Cancer (2024)

  2. 💊 Efficiency of B-RAF-/MEK-inhibitors in B-RAF mutated Ameloblastoma: Case report and review – Heliyon (2023)

  3. 🦷 Kişiselleştirilmiş Diş Hekimliği (Personalized Dentistry) – ADO Klinik Bilimler Dergisi (2023)

  4. 🧪 Apoptosis Related PDCD4: Promising Novel Biomarker for Early Detection of Oral Cancer – ADO Klinik Bilimler Dergisi (2022)

  5. 🧫 PD-L1 Expression and CD8+ Lymphocyte Infiltration Predict Outcome in Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma – IJMS (2020)

🔍 Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin stands out as an exceptional and qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work in the field of oral pathology and molecular diagnostics not only contributes to advancing science but also bridges basic research with clinical applications. With a solid foundation in interdisciplinary science, international collaboration, and academic leadership, she exemplifies the values the award seeks to honor. Her achievements strongly align with the criteria of sustained research excellence, innovation, and global impact.