“Research on Osteogenic Gene Variants Takes a Significant Step Forward in Understanding Bone Fracture Healing”
A team led by prominent researcher Erhan Yelekçi in Turkey has submitted a patent application to the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office for their significant study, which unveils the role of genetic factors in the healing process of bone fractures.
The research promises to pave the way for the development of new methods that could be used in the treatment of nonunion or delayed union bone fractures. Presented in the Acta Ortopedica journal, this study is supported by esteemed specialists including Prof. Dr. Teoman Kankılıç, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Çeliktaş, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dilara Akın, and Research Assistant İlkay Civelek. The research extensively examined the effects of mutations in BMP4, BMP6, and RUNX2 genes on the bone fracture healing process.
During the study, DNA samples from 30 patients were analyzed, identifying a total of 12 mutations in these genes. Notably, four missense mutations that could negatively affect bone repair processes were highlighted. The study also investigated the impact of these mutations on protein interactions and pathological processes. These findings will enhance our understanding of the genetic mechanisms involved in bone fracture healing and provide a new roadmap for further research in this field.
Additionally, the outcomes of this study will contribute to the development of strategies for the more effective use of genetic factors in the diagnosis and treatment of bone fractures. The patent application will ensure the recognition and protection of this innovative study in Turkey and globally, facilitating the commercialization of scientific findings and their broader dissemination. This development also highlights Turkey’s commitment to innovation in biotechnology and genetic engineering.