TÜBİTAK Funding for GTU MINDLAB's Project on Obesity

March 2, 2026 - GTU Office of Press and Public Relations
 

A new project conducted by the MINDLAB research group operating within Gebze Technical University (GTU), focusing on obesity and metabolic stress, is awarded funding under the TÜBİTAK 1002-A Rapid Support Module.

By adding a new study to its scientific research portfolio, Gebze Technical University is taking a significant step in the fight against obesity. Led by Res. Asst. Mehmet Soner Türküner (PhD) and conducted under the supervision of Prof. Ferruh Özcan, the project focuses on the role of the Salt-Inducible Kinase 2 (SIK2) protein in metabolic processes.

Investigating the Molecular Basis of Obesity

The main objective of the project is to examine the effects of SIK2 on the differentiation and stress responses of human adult adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) within a metabolic obesity model. Aiming to better understand the cellular foundations of obesity, one of the most critical public health issues worldwide, this study is expected to contribute to the identification of novel therapeutic targets by elucidating the mechanisms underlying adipose tissue dysfunction.

Young Researchers Preparing for the Future

The interdisciplinary research team includes Res. Asst. Ayşe Yazıcı (Researcher), Kaan Gürkan (Master’s Student), and Ahmet Tanrısever (Undergraduate Student). In addition to strengthening the project’s scientific outcomes, this structure also supports GTU’s mission of producing young researchers.