The project of FENS and EFSUN researcher Gül Kozalak received EMBO Scientific Exchange Grant for exchanges and collaborations between research groups of Micro-Nano Scale Heat Transfer & Microfluidics research group at Sabanci University and The BioInterfaces group at University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland.
In this collaboration, the aim is to investigate the impact of PEG-PLGA nanoparticles on MM cells by utilizing two distinct synthesis methods. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of cancer that affects plasma cells and is the second most common hematological cancer worldwide. Although initial responses to existing treatment options are good, patients become increasingly resistant to drugs, and the disease inevitably relapses. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles for their biocompatibility, ability to encapsulate various drugs, biodegradability, high bioavailability, and low systemic toxicity. The ultimate goal of this research is to translate the findings of pre-clinical imaging and drug delivery studies of nanoparticles, which are tailored to target specific biological functions, into practical application.
The exchange programme will lay a solid foundation for ongoing subsequent studies on nanoparticles and will lead to new research projects. Therefore, this research visit will bridge the gaps between relevant fields and research groups. In addition, this collaboration will strengthen the reputation of groups and contribute to its position at the forefront of scientific advancement. FENS ve EFSUN researcher Ali Koşar from Sabanci University and Prof. Oya Tagit from University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland will act as advisors in this Exchange Program.