The Bilkent University Genetic and Biotechnological Research and Development Center (BİLGEN) was founded in 1998 as a joint project of the Technology Development Foundation of Turkey (TTGV) and Bilkent Holding Ltd. It is affiliated with the Molecular Biology and Genetics Department at Bilkent, but works independently. The aim of the center is to perform genetic, molecular biological, and biotechnological research and to channel this information into practical applications for the benefit of the public. The Genetic Diagnosis Unit at BİLGEN is the first to be certified by the Ministry of Health as a Genetic Diagnosis center.
The center is endowed with state-of-the-art equipment, which facilitates the diagnosis of hereditary cancer as well as a number of other diseases. Overall, there are nearly 30 genetic tests performed at the center, most of which are available in Turkey only at BİLGEN. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Öztürk, the head of the center, says, "One of the most requested tests is for Familial Mediterranean Fever, a common disease in Mediterranean countries; another is a test determining the success of a bone marrow transplant." Molecular diagnosis of leukemia is also frequently conducted here.
As well, the center plays a significant role in early diagnosis, which is crucial for the treatment of some diseases. For further information about the work of the center, you can visit its homepage http://www.bilkent.edu.tr/bilgen.
You can also contact Füsun Elvan at ext. 2393 or go in person to the Faculty of Science, B Building, 3rd Floor.
Seda Çöl (MBG/ III)
