Assoc. Prof. Dr. at Kocaeli University, Turkey
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gülçin Gacar is a distinguished academician and biomedical researcher at Kocaeli University, specializing in stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and cancer therapeutics. With over two decades of experience, she has made significant contributions to translational medical science, particularly in the areas of mesenchymal stem cell applications, oxidative stress response, and neurodegenerative disease models. Her leadership in national scientific projects, extensive publications in internationally indexed journals, and mentoring of graduate and doctoral students exemplify her dedication to advancing health sciences. Dr. Gacar’s work bridges laboratory-based biomedical research with clinical relevance, making her a respected figure in the Turkish and European scientific communities. She actively participates in multidisciplinary collaborations and professional associations, and has been honored with several national and international awards for her research excellence and scientific communication. Her dynamic approach and consistent research output position her as a leading voice in innovative biomedical research in Turkey and beyond.
Professional Profile
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Education
Dr. Gacar holds a Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology from Kocaeli University, awarded in 2005, where her research focused on gene expression under varied thermal and growth conditions in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. She previously completed her M.Sc. in Medical Biology at the same university in 2001, investigating antibiotic resistance in Shigella species isolated post-earthquake. Her foundational education began with a B.Sc. in Biology from Istanbul University in 1996. Through this academic trajectory, she developed a deep understanding of cell biology, microbiology, and molecular genetics. Her strong academic background is complemented by further specialization in stem cell research and flow cytometry techniques. Over the years, she has enriched her scientific acumen by integrating multidisciplinary knowledge and keeping abreast with current developments in molecular medicine, immunology, and tissue engineering. Her educational foundation has been pivotal in shaping her robust research capabilities and her success as a mentor, educator, and investigator in health sciences.
Professional Experience
Dr. Gülçin Gacar has served in several critical academic and research roles at Kocaeli University since 2001. She is currently an Associate Professor at the Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Stem Cell Sciences, where she also teaches doctoral-level courses on immunology, cell cycle regulation, and flow cytometry. Previously, she held positions as Assistant Professor at the Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Center and in the Department of Public Health Nursing. She has also served as the head of the Flow Cytometry Laboratory. Her professional trajectory highlights a steady ascent through academic ranks, underpinned by her research excellence and leadership in scientific project management. Dr. Gacar has supervised multiple master’s and doctoral theses on cutting-edge topics in stem cell therapy, neurobiology, oncology, and tissue engineering. Beyond research and teaching, she actively contributes to curriculum development, laboratory administration, and interdepartmental collaborations, embodying the role of a versatile academic professional in health and life sciences.
Research Interest
Dr. Gacar’s primary research interests revolve around stem cell-based therapies, cancer biology, oxidative stress mechanisms, and neurodegenerative disorders. She investigates mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes, photodynamic cancer therapies, and regenerative models for diseases such as Alzheimer’s and diabetes. Her work also includes exploring the cytotoxic effects of bioactive compounds on various cancer cell lines and studying the immunomodulatory properties of stem cells in transplantation. By focusing on cell signaling pathways, gene expression analysis, and flow cytometry-based techniques, she aims to understand how stem cells can be harnessed for therapeutic use. Her interests are inherently translational—linking laboratory findings to potential clinical applications. Through projects funded by national science agencies and universities, Dr. Gacar is pioneering approaches that use stem cells and nanomedicine for regenerative outcomes. This intersection of molecular biology and therapy design defines her role as an innovator in personalized and regenerative medical research.
Award and Honor
Dr. Gülçin Gacar has earned numerous accolades recognizing her outstanding contributions to biomedical research. She was the recipient of the Best Oral Presentation Award from the European Biotechnology Thematic Network Association and earned poster and presentation awards from prestigious bodies such as MOKAD, TEOD, and TÜRK DİYABET VAKFI. She received an ECNP Research Grant and a Travel Stipend Award from the International Association for Dental Research (IADR). Her work on stem cells, Alzheimer’s models, and cancer therapies has frequently been highlighted at national and international conferences. These recognitions not only reflect the scientific merit of her research but also her ability to effectively communicate complex findings. Dr. Gacar’s consistent recognition over the past decade underscores her reputation as a high-impact researcher and speaker. Her awards stand as a testament to her innovation, leadership, and dedication to addressing critical problems in health and disease through rigorous scientific inquiry.
Research Skill
Dr. Gacar brings a robust set of research skills to her field, combining deep expertise in flow cytometry, molecular diagnostics, and cell culture techniques. She is proficient in designing and conducting in vitro and in vivo experiments, especially those related to mesenchymal stem cell behavior, apoptosis assays, and oxidative stress modeling. Her experience spans RNA/protein expression analysis, immunohistochemistry, exosome isolation, and advanced imaging techniques. She is skilled in statistical data interpretation and scientific project management, having led and participated in numerous multi-phase research grants. Her ability to translate molecular research into therapeutic models is evident in her published work and thesis supervision. Furthermore, she regularly trains students and lab personnel in technical procedures and project methodologies, emphasizing both scientific rigor and reproducibility. Her multidisciplinary approach combines biology, medicine, and bioengineering, making her a well-rounded and technically proficient researcher equipped to lead high-impact biomedical investigations.
Conclusion
Dr. Gülçin Gacar is an outstanding and impactful researcher with a long-standing record in translational biomedical research, particularly in stem cell therapy and cancer treatment. Her work bridges basic science with clinical applications, and her mentorship and leadership amplify her contributions to the scientific community. With her strong publication record, consistent research funding, and educational leadership, she is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. Her future research promises continued advancements in regenerative medicine and innovative therapeutic approaches.
Publications Top Noted
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E. Karaöz, B.N. Doğan, A. Aksoy, G. Gacar, S. Akyüz, S. Ayhan, Z.S. Genç, …
Isolation and in vitro characterisation of dental pulp stem cells from natal teeth
2010 – Citations: 308
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E. Karaöz, A. Aksoy, S. Ayhan, A.E. Sarıboyacı, F. Kaymaz, M. Kasap
Characterization of mesenchymal stem cells from rat bone marrow: ultrastructural properties, differentiation potential and immunophenotypic markers
2009 – Citations: 261
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K. Schallmoser, E. Rohde, A. Reinisch, C. Bartmann, D. Thaler, C. Drexler, …
Rapid large-scale expansion of functional mesenchymal stem cells from unmanipulated bone marrow without animal serum
2008 – Citations: 228
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H. Vahaboglu, F. Budak, M. Kasap, G. Gacar, S. Torol, A. Karadenizli, …
High prevalence of OXA-51-type class D β-lactamases among ceftazidime-resistant clinical isolates of Acinetobacter spp.: co-existence with OXA-58 in multiple clones
2006 – Citations: 148
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P.C. Demircan, A.E. Sariboyaci, Z.S. Unal, G. Gacar, C. Subasi, E. Karaoz
Immunoregulatory effects of human dental pulp-derived stem cells on T cells: comparison of transwell co-culture and mixed lymphocyte reaction systems
2011 – Citations: 126
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S.S. Gocmez, N. Gacar, T. Utkan, G. Gacar, P.J. Scarpace, N. Tumer
Protective effects of resveratrol on aging-induced cognitive impairment in rats
2016 – Citations: 114
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A.T. Özdemir, R.B.Ö. Özdemir, C. Kırmaz, A.E. Sarıboyacı, Z.S.Ü. Halbutoğlları, …
The paracrine immunomodulatory interactions between the human dental pulp derived mesenchymal stem cells and CD4 T cell subsets
2016 – Citations: 90
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F. Kolayli, G. Gacar, A. Karadenizli, A. Sanic, H. Vahaboglu, Study Group
PER-1 is still widespread in Turkish hospitals among Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp.
2005 – Citations: 90
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G. Akpinar, M. Kasap, A. Aksoy, G. Duruksu, G. Gacar, E. Karaoz
Phenotypic and proteomic characteristics of human dental pulp derived mesenchymal stem cells from a natal, an exfoliated deciduous, and an impacted third molar tooth
2014 – Citations: 89
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Y.M. Lee, S.Y. Shin, S.S. Jue, I.K. Kwon, E.H. Cho, E.S. Cho, S.H. Park, E.C. Kim
The role of PIN1 on odontogenic and adipogenic differentiation in human dental pulp stem cells
2014 – Citations: 64
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E. Karaöz, A. Okçu, G. Gacar, Ö. Sağlam, S. Yürüker, H. Kenar
A comprehensive characterization study of human bone marrow MSCs with an emphasis on molecular and ultrastructural properties
2011 – Citations: 63
