New technology to prevent genetic diseases discussed at Izmir University of Economics
Izmir University of Economics (IUE) hosted a workshop which thoroughly addressed the “Crispr Cas” technology, a newly developed technology in molecular biology to prevent the genetic diseases. Speakers from different universities across the nation shared information about the significance of Crispr Cas technology, which is still in testing stage, benefits of this technology and how it would be practiced. More than 50 academics from all over Turkey and students attended the workshop. The “Crispr Cas” technology, which is carried into effect as a result of long-term studies, allows outside intervention to cells via chemicals, thus allowing making changes in the DNA of the cell.
CAN BE USED IN CANCER TREATMENT
In addition to prevention of genetic diseases, it is planned to be used in advanced cancer patients as a treatment. The workshop on October 12 welcomed Asst. Prof. Osman Doluca from IUE Department of Biomedical Engineering, Asst. Prof. Cihan Aydın from Istanbul Medeniyet University, Asst. Prof. Oktay Kaplan from Abdullah Gül University, Research Asst. Burak Berber from Eskişehir Technical University, and Dr. Cihan Taştan, R&D Supervisor from Acıbadem LabCell as guest speakers.
“BRINGS MANY ADVANTAGES”
Asst. Prof. Osman Doluca gave information about the “Crispr Cas” technology and pointed out the importance of the workshop. Doluca said, “A new technology under the name of ‘Crispr Cas’ has been developed in the field of molecular biology. This technology allows outside intervention to cells via chemicals. As a result of the intervention, changes in the DNA of the cell are easily performed. Crispr Cas technology is in testing stage across the world. The use of this technology extensively will be very important particularly in prevention of genetic diseases. Similar technologies in the past were very expensive and therefore not being used widely. However, Crispr Cas technology is cost efficient. It is very advantageous in that sense.”
“IT IS IN TESTING STAGE IN TURKEY”
Stating that hosting such a workshop with the attendance of academics from all over Turkey was very important in terms of recognition of the Crispr Cas technology, Asst. Prof. Doluca said, “This newly developed technology is in testing stage worldwide. Individual clinical studies are being conducted in Turkey. There were presentations on how to use the new technology, how we can support it. Applied techniques with examples were also shared in the workshop. Academics were taught the basic methods as well.”
