Bilkent University National Nanotechnology Research Center’s (UNAM) Asst. Prof. Gurkan Yesiloz has been utilizing UNAM’s advanced infrastructure and multidisciplinary research environment since 2020 to focus his research on microfluidic platforms, nanotechnology, biomaterials, tissue engineering, microwave and acoustic sensor technologies, organ-on-a-chip systems, targeted drug delivery, and biopharmaceutical innovations.
Asst. Prof. Yesiloz’s work aims to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical applications by integrating nano-carrier systems that enable drugs to reach the correct target in the body in a controlled manner by using acoustofluidic platforms that offer precise control at the microscale. He is also developing new protein-based carrier systems designed to enhance the effectiveness of drugs used in cancer treatment. These systems enable drugs to directly target cancer cells, reducing the risk of damage to healthy cells and contributing to more effective treatment outcomes.
Yesiloz’s research further explores the development of new production methods that enable more effective uses of existing drugs. Through microfluidic technologies, drugs can be transported in a more controlled manner, remain effective in the body for longer periods, and thereby make treatment processes more efficient. This particular approach allows for achieving higher therapeutic impact with lower doses in cancer treatment.
His current research efforts are directed toward developing new platforms for the more precise and controlled production of drug delivery systems. This enables precise control over the size and properties of drug-carrying microscale capsules, as well as the integration of microgel structures, allowing these technologies to be applied in both cancer treatment and areas such as vaccine development. These studies are attracting international attention not only for their scientific contributions but also for their potential to deliver practical, real-world solutions.
Asst. Prof. Yesiloz’s research reaches further than academic outputs, offering solutions with strong potential for commercialization and clinical translation. The nano-carrier systems he has developed are currently undergoing patent processes, receiving support through entrepreneurship programs, and being further advanced toward implementation as viable products in the healthcare sector. In addition, his projects supported by the Health Institutes of Türkiye (TÜSEB) contribute to the development of next-generation treatment approaches that directly target cancer cells while aiming to reduce side effects.
Asst. Prof. Gurkan Yesiloz’s high-impact research conducted at UNAM also extends beyond the field of academic and industrial cancer research to constitute a versatile technology platform capable of generating both commercial and societal value across fields such as regenerative medicine, diagnostic technologies, cosmetics, food, and advanced manufacturing processes.
Watch the NTV news feature highlighting the work of Asst. Prof. Gurkan Yesiloz: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGYm1gLOrw0
