The DESAM Research Institute at Near East University provides a multidisciplinary working environment in order to advance in medicine, biomedical science, biotechnology, and health technology through innovative research. Bringing together scientists and experts from medicine, clinical microbiology, biotechnology, engineering, molecular biology, and artificial intelligence, DESAM addresses critical challenges in human health, infectious diseases, drug design and emerging biomedical technologies.
DESAM Research Institute majorly focusing on the development advanced molecular diagnostics, antimicrobial solutions, vaccine research, phage therapy, and next-generation therapeutic approaches supported by bioinformatics, genomics, molecular docking studies and AI-based analysis. Its research also explores organ-on-chip systems, 3D bioprinting and pandemic preparedness as part of the center’s broader mission to contribute to global health advancement.
DESAM has 5 different research laboratories where innovative projects, and international academic collaborations were pursued. As a research institute DESAM aims to transform scientific knowledge into practical, real-world biomedical applications. The institute’s vision is to strengthen scientific capacity, support technological innovation, and contribute to sustainable and future-oriented healthcare solutions.
The institute hosts 13 different research groups. Periodic meetings are held with the leaders of each research group, and collaboration between the groups and other research centers is encouraged. As a result of these collaborations, multidisciplinary studies emerge, leading to innovative and pioneering products as well as scientific publications.
The vision of DESAM includes:
- To create a multidisciplinary research ecosystem by integrating health, technology, and engineering
- To ensure scientific sustainability in line with the Fourth-Generation University approach
- To conduct pioneering studies in artificial intelligence, genome engineering, 3D bioprinting, and mathematical modeling
- To encourage academic independence, creativity, and original scientific production
- To strengthen national and international scientific visibility
- To build innovative technological bridges between health and social sciences
- To translate scientific impact into societal benefit,
The mission of DESAM includes:
- To train qualified researchers and academics in contemporary scientific and technological fields
- To enhance advanced research capacity, including post-doctoral research programs
- To support research competency through institutional certificate programs
- To develop national and international collaborative research projects
- To conduct R&D activities in health technologies, artificial intelligence, molecular medicine, and biotechnology
- To promote research and development initiatives that serve public benefit
- To provide an open and innovative laboratory environment for all scientists and researchers
With a strong focus on translating scientific innovation into practical solutions, DESAM contributes to impactful advancements in biomedical science, healthcare technologies, and real-world health outcomes.
Board of Directors
- Assoc. Prof. Cenk Serhan Özverel (Director)
- Prof. Tamer Şanlıdağ (Member)
- Prof. Seda Vatansever (Member)
- Prof. Murat Sayan (Member)
- Prof. Dilber Uzun-Özşahin (Member)
- Prof. Beyza Hatice Ulusoy (Member)
Researchers/Academics
- Prof. Tamer Şanlıdağ
- Prof. Murat Sayan
- Prof. Seda Vatansever
- Assoc. Prof. Cenk Serhan Özverel
- Assoc. Prof. Nazife Sultanoğlu
- Assoc. Prof. Cemile Bağkur
- Assist. Prof. Ayşe Seyer
- Dr. Gökçe Akan
- Dr. Gülten Tuncel-Dereboylu
- Dr. Ahmet Çağlar Özketen
- Dr. Ayşegül Bostancı
- Dr. Erdal Şanlıdağ
- Research Assist., MSc. Melis Kalaycı
- Research Assist. Meryem Demir
DESAM Laboratories
DESAM Molecular Medicine Laboratory
The DESAM Molecular Medicine Laboratory provides advanced molecular biology and genetic research capabilities, supporting both scientific investigation and applied biomedical innovation. Equipped with modern instruments such as Real-Time PCR, automated nucleic acid extraction, and next-generation sequencing, the laboratory enables comprehensive analysis of DNA, RNA, gene expression, and pathogen identification. Research focuses on genetic and rare diseases, infectious disease surveillance, antimicrobial resistance, and genomic characterization. In collaboration with international networks, the laboratory contributes to global standards in molecular diagnostics and precision medicine, playing a central role in DESAM’s mission to integrate science, technology, and healthcare.
DESAM Cell and Tissue Culture Laboratory
The Cell and Tissue Culture Laboratory at DESAM Research Institute provides an advanced platform for experimental biology and tissue engineering, supporting multidisciplinary studies in cancer biology, stem cell research, 3D bioprinting, and biomedical applications. Equipped with modern cell culture systems, imaging technologies, and bioprinting capabilities, the laboratory enables artificial tissue model development, molecular analyses, drug testing, and translational research. It also offers educational and collaborative opportunities, including hands-on training and safety programs, playing a key role in advancing innovative biomedical science and health technology.
DESAM NEU3D Laboratory
The NEU3D Laboratory at DESAM Research Institute integrates engineering, design, and biomedical science to advance 3D printing and bioprinting in healthcare. Equipped with DESAM’s 3D bioprinter, it enables the creation of anatomical models, tissue scaffolds, and biomedical prototypes from clinical and research data. Focusing on tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, biomaterials, and rapid clinical prototyping, NEU3D supports translational research and patient-specific solutions, reinforcing DESAM’s mission to merge science, technology, and modern healthcare.
DESAM Antimicrobial / Phage Laboratory
The Antimicrobial / Phage Laboratory within DESAM is dedicated to discovering and developing new antimicrobial agents effective against rapidly spreading, drug-resistant pathogenic microorganisms. The lab’s core mission includes evaluating antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-parasitic activities of natural-product derived compounds and novel molecules. In addition, the laboratory investigates mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis and virulence to better understand infections and to design innovative therapeutic strategies. This includes research on bacteriophages; viruses that specifically target bacteria, offering a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics.
DESAM Research Institute Kit Production and Genome Analysis Laboratory
The Kit Production and Genome Analysis Laboratory at DESAM, established in 2021, strengthens regional diagnostic capacity and pandemic preparedness. Initially focused on SARS-CoV-2, it now develops molecular diagnostic kits for a range of infectious and public-health-related pathogens, with 13 kits currently in use at Near East University Hospital Laboratories. The laboratory also performs genome-level analyses, including sequencing and variant characterization, enabling rapid pathogen identification. By integrating research, technology, and clinical application, it plays a key role in pandemic preparedness, regional health security, and translational biomedical innovation.
Kits Developed by DESAM Research Institute
For more information about DESAM Research Institute laboratories
Events Organized by DESAM Research Institute
DESAM Research Institute regularly organizes scientific events that promote academic exchange, interdisciplinary learning, and collaboration across fields such as biotechnology, molecular medicine, artificial intelligence, and health sciences. Between 2023 and 2025, DESAM has hosted a wide range of symposiums, workshops, conferences, scientific meetings, hands-on laboratory courses, mentorship sessions, and international congresses, contributing to a vibrant academic ecosystem within Near East University.
Courses and Workshops
- Academic Writing with New Approaches
- Basic Molecular Techniques Course
- Basic Cell Culture Course
- Bioinformatics Course
- Scientific Project Writing Course
- Academic Writing Course
- Basic Cell Culture Course
- Advanced Cell Culture Course
- Third Generation Sequencing
- Mentorship Program
- TÜBİTAK and BAP Project Writing Course
- Hands-on Stem Cell Culture Workshop
- From Farm to Table Milk Workshop
- Yoga Workshop (Childhood Leukemia Week)
- ISO 22000: Food Safety Training
- Mentorship Academy: Ethics Violations and Mobbing
Seminars and Post-Doc Seminars
- 2023 Earthquakes and Seismicity of the Eastern Mediterranean
- Talking About Chronic HIV (World AIDS Day)
- Diabetes Camp
- Culture and Civilization
- Renaissance and Printing Press
- Classical and Canon
- Academy, Madrasa and University
- Humanism and the Republic of Letters
- Intellectual and Intellectualism
- Reformation, Secularization and Laicism
- Craft and Art
Conferences and Periodic Conferences
- New Horizons: Science and Technology Meetings
- Role of Tumor Immuno-microenvironment in Cancer
- mRNA Technology and Vaccines
- Studying the Society
- Three-Body Problem and Climate Change
- Language and Community
- Public Space and the Novel
- East–West Debate
- The Long Revolution
- Nation and People
- Physical Inactivity: Molecular Basis of the Pathway to Diabetes
- Canine Placental Function & Endocrine Regulation
- Philosophy of Social Sciences
- Synthetic Biology as a Bridge Between University, Community and Industry
- The Canine Placenta
Symposiums
- World Alzheimer’s Day Symposium
- World Diabetes Day Symposium
- Project Management Symposium
- Stem Cell Symposium
- Project Application Processes
- Advanced Targets in Academic Writing
Congress
- 1st International DESAM Biotechnology Congress
Exhibitions
- Medicine Day Painting Exhibition
International NEU DESAM Biotechnology Congress
The first International NEU DESAM Biotechnology Congress, held between 17–20 October 2024, brought together 112 researchers from 11 countries—including the USA, Germany, Austria, the United Arab Emirates, China, Iran, the TRNC, Kosovo, Egypt, Pakistan, and Turkey—and 19 universities in Northern Cyprus, marking a major step toward establishing DESAM as a regional research hub in biotechnology.
Throughout the four-day scientific program, experts from medicine, microbiology, veterinary sciences, artificial intelligence, bioengineering, and related fields presented their latest research on medical biotechnology, microbial biotechnology, molecular biotechnology, AI-assisted biotechnology, and food biotechnology. The congress provided an exceptional platform for knowledge exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, and international networking, especially for early-career scientists engaged in PhD and postdoctoral studies.
By hosting this large-scale scientific event, DESAM demonstrated its commitment to global collaboration, innovative research, and shaping the future of biotechnology through impactful scientific dialogue and cooperation.
DESAM Research Groups
DESAM operates through 13 specialized research groups addressing different fields of health, biotechnology, and biomedical sciences. Each research group is led by at least one senior researcher and consists of expert scientists, post-graduate students, and multidisciplinary collaborators. These groups actively follow current scientific developments and conduct innovative projects that align with DESAM’s mission of integrating science, technology, and healthcare.
Research Groups include:
- Beekeeping, Bee Products and Bee Diseases
- Natural Products
- Drug Design and Development
- Stem Cell
- Microfluidic Systems
- Microbial Pathogenesis
- Neurodegenerative Diseases
- Obesity and Cancer
- Reproductive Medicine
- Medical Devices and Instrumentation
- Tropical and Vector-Borne Diseases
- Viral Dynamics
- Veterinary Research
Through laboratory-based studies, computational tools, and interdisciplinary approaches, these groups contribute to cutting-edge research topics such as antimicrobial resistance, vaccine candidates, artificial intelligence in health, tissue engineering and personalized treatment strategies. The details of research groups can be reached at: https://desam.neu.edu.tr/research-groups/?lang=en
Strategic Achievements and Future-Oriented Initiatives of DESAM Research Institute
Diagnostic Kit Productions
As a research institute integrating science, technology, and healthcare, DESAM rapidly established the Kit Production and Genome Analysis Laboratory during the COVID-19 pandemic, when significant logistical limitations prevented diagnostic kits from reaching the island. Initially founded as an urgent troubleshooting initiative, the laboratory successfully developed reliable molecular diagnostic tools within only one month.
Today, the laboratory has evolved into a strategic unit for future pandemic preparedness, focusing on early detection technologies, genome-level surveillance, and rapid diagnostic development. Supported by artificial intelligence-based prediction models, DESAM now designs diagnostic kits ahead of potential outbreaks. To date, 13 diagnostic kits have been produced and are routinely used at Near East University Hospital, strengthening regional molecular detection capacity and significantly contributing to outbreak control and public health resilience.
- Uniplex SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Diagnostic Kit
- Multiplex SARS-CoV-2 VOC RT-qPCR Diagnostic Kit
- PlantPlex GMO Screening Kit
- ResVir RT-PCR Diagnostic Kit
- VecBornDis Chikungunya qRT-PCR Diagnostic Kit
- VecBornDis Dengue qRT-PCR Diagnostic Kit
- VecBornDis West Nile Virus qRT-PCR Diagnostic Kit
- FCoV qRT-PCR Diagnostic Kit
- Real Monkeypox qRT-PCR Diagnostic Kit
- Dual VZV-MPOX Screening Kit
- HDV qRT-PCR Diagnostic Kit
- Upper Respiratory Tract Viruses Screening Panel qRT-PCR Kit
Olirin Nasal Spray
Olirin nasal spray is a naturally derived formulation developed through the collaboration of Near East University and MAGI Group – Italy, combining the antiviral compounds hydroxytyrosol and alpha-cyclodextrin. Hydroxytyrosol, extracted from olive leaves, exhibits broad-spectrum antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties and has demonstrated activity against several enveloped viruses, including influenza viruses, HIV, and coronaviruses. On the other hand, alpha-cyclodextrin, a natural cyclic oligosaccharide produced from plant-derived starch through enzymatic conversion, disrupts sphingolipid-rich lipid rafts that facilitate ACE2-mediated SARS-CoV-2 entry, thereby limiting the membrane environment required for viral endocytosis and replication. The synergistic interaction of these two agents enables Olirin to function both as a protective barrier against respiratory transmission and as an inhibitor of intracellular viral propagation. Early human studies have demonstrated its favorable safety profile, absence of adverse effects, reduction in viral load among positive cases, and potential to downregulate ACE2 expression, supporting its promise as a preventive and supportive intervention against SARS-CoV-2 and other enveloped viruses.
Phage isolation studies against multi drug resistant pathogens
Our researcher Dr. Ferdiye Taner working on phage isolation studies in the DESAM Antimicrobial/Phage Laboratory. A natural pond on the Near East University campus where phages are isolated.
Distinguishing Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) lesions from Monkeypox (Mpox) lesions can be clinically challenging, as both conditions may present with similar dermatological features. This difficulty can lead to delays in diagnosis and response, particularly in situations requiring rapid action such as potential outbreak scenarios. To address this need, we developed an artificial intelligence–based application capable of rapidly and accurately differentiating VZV and Mpox lesions. The application analyzes lesion images and provides a reliable preliminary classification within seconds, offering significant support to healthcare professionals in case management, isolation decisions, and early intervention. In the event of a possible outbreak, this tool has the potential to play a critical role by enabling swift patient differentiation and timely public health response.
FESAT Application
The DESAM Research Institute’s pioneering project, FESAT, was developed to address the growing need for rapid and accurate vector identification. Vector-borne diseases are a major global public health problem, causing more than 700,000 deaths each year. The identification of vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and lice is critically important for controlling these diseases. Traditional identification methods require advanced expertise and are time-consuming. Therefore, there is a need for fast and reliable alternative identification techniques.
In this study, a web-based application called FESAT was developed using artificial intelligence (AI) models to enable rapid and highly accurate identification of six different vector species. With an accuracy of 95.7%, the AI model was integrated into a user-friendly web platform, resulting in the FESAT Application. The application is designed for easy use by a wide range of users and has the potential to provide significant advantages to public health authorities, particularly in field surveillance activities.
Web interface of the FESAT App. A) Home screen, B) Vector classification interface, C) Image upload screen, D) Classification result.
Drug Design Studies
With growing interest in molecular drug design and development, DESAM now prioritizes computational and experimental drug discovery, emphasizing innovative therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, as part of multidisciplinary vaccine studies, candidate vaccines targeting current and emerging infectious diseases have been generated, demonstrating the institute’s commitment to translational and future-oriented biomedical innovation.
One of our most recent studies, which received the Second Best Oral Presentation Award at the KLIMUD Congress held in November 2025, focuses on addressing the growing problem of drug resistance in Candida auris (recently renamed Candidozyma auris). This fungal pathogen has drawn global attention due to its multidrug resistance, resilience in harsh environmental conditions, and its ability to cause outbreaks in hospital settings. In this study, we evaluated the in vitro effects of seven newly synthesized compounds against C. auris.
The conducted in vitro antifungal susceptibility assays, along with molecular docking analyses, revealed that two of the seven compounds demonstrated significantly higher efficacy against C. auris compared to fluconazole, which was included as the reference drug. The next phases of the study are currently ongoing.
Assist. Prof. Ayse Seyer from the DESAM Research Institute delivering her presentation and receiving her award at the KLIMUD 2025 Congress, November 2025
Kit Development for Second-Tier Molecular Differential Diagnosis in Expanded Newborn Screening by Sequential Mass Spectrometry Using Third-Generation Sequencing Technology” Project
The project titled “Kit Development for Second-Tier Molecular Differential Diagnosis in Expanded Newborn Screening by Sequential Mass Spectrometry Using Third-Generation Sequencing Technology” was supported by the Istanbul University Scientific Research Projects Coordination Unit under the Research Universities Support Program.
The aim of our project is to address a major global and national public health issue: rare diseases, particularly inherited metabolic disorders, which constitute a significant portion of these conditions. Failure to diagnose these diseases or delays in diagnosis can lead to irreversible damage—most notably intellectual disability and developmental delay. Therefore, establishing a diagnosis during the newborn period, identifying these genetically based diseases before clinical symptoms appear, initiating early treatment, and thereby preventing brain damage, organ damage, disability, and early mortality are of vital importance.
Although clinical, biochemical, and radiological findings, peripheral smear, and bone marrow examinations may aid in the diagnostic process, definitive diagnosis requires enzyme analysis and molecular genetic testing.
Within the scope of the project, it was aimed to develop an expanded newborn screening kit using the Oxford Nanopore system, which has been shown in the literature to be superior to other platforms in terms of practicality, cost, and theoretical approach, and which maintains its relevance for routine diagnostic integration among DNA sequencing platforms. This kit will enable molecular confirmation of certain inherited rare metabolic diseases detected in children through expanded newborn screening.
As a result of the studies conducted within the project, two panels were designed, and while validation studies are still ongoing, four articles have been published in SCI-indexed journals, contributing to the scientific community.
Visit of The DESAM Research Institute Director to The University of Sharjah Within The Scope of An Ongoing Collaborative Project
Assoc. Prof. Cenk Serhan Özverel, the Director of our Institute, visited the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, one of our key protocol partners with whom we jointly conduct numerous collaborative projects. During the visit, he presented DESAM’s ongoing work, particularly in the fields of health and artificial intelligence, introducing current projects and engaging in fruitful discussions on potential collaboration opportunities and brainstorming sessions. His presentation was received with great interest.
Our visit to University of Sharjah, UAE, in 2024.
In Summer 2024, Dr. Erdal Şanlıdağ Visited The Italian MAGI Group Laboratory As Part Of An Ongoing Collaborative Research Project.
Dr. Erdal Sanlıdağ, one of our institute’s researchers, visited the Italian MAGI Institute in 2024 as part of a jointly executed project. During his stay, he continued and advanced the collaborative research activities within this internationally recognized center.
Awards received for innovative studies conducted by members of the DESAM Research Institute
Members of the DESAM Research Institute continue to strengthen Near East University’s scientific presence with their award-winning studies. The list below highlights national and international recognitions received for innovative research, oral presentations, and solution-oriented contributions across various scientific fields.
For further information please contact: [email protected]
Website: https://desam.neu.edu.tr/?lang=en
