Alp Can | Stem Cell Research | Distinguished Scientist Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Dr. Alp Can | Stem Cell Research | Distinguished Scientist Award

Ankara University School of Medicine | Turkey

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.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Orcid

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

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.