International Collaboration for Osteoporosis Treatment

Five scientists from Izmir University of Economics (IUE) have launched a research project to develop a drug for osteoporosis, commonly known as bone loss, which primarily affects women over the age of 50. The project, which offers hope against a disease that causes hip, spine, and wrist fractures, severe pain, and loss of height, is supported by a 3 million TL grant from TUBITAK and is set to complete in 24 months.

50,000 DRUG MOLECULES TO BE EXAMINED

As part of an international bilateral cooperation involving researchers from the University of Malta, the project will first conduct biochemical analyses and research into genes associated with osteoporosis. Following this, 50,000 drug molecules, including medications currently used for other diseases, will be screened to determine their potential effectiveness in treating osteoporosis. This testing phase will utilize a specialized AI-supported modeling system.

TO BE TESTED ON ZEBRAFISH

In the final stage, the candidate drug will be tested on a zebrafish model in which osteoporosis has been induced. After modifying the bone structure of the fish in a laboratory setting, the drug will be applied to observe whether any bone regeneration or improvement occurs. The Project, which aims to improve the quality of life for millions of patients worldwide, is led by Prof. Dr. Zeynep Fırtına, Head of the IUE Department of Genetics and Bioengineering, alongside Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cihangir Yandım from the same department, Prof. Dr. Metiner Tosun and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elif Barış from the Faculty of Medicine, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kaya Oğuz from the Department of Computer Engineering.

AFFECTING 200 MILLION PEOPLE

Providing details about the study, Prof. Dr. Fırtına noted that osteoporosis negatively impacts approximately 200 million people globally. Highlighting that there is currently no highly effective drug for osteoporosis without side effects, she said, “Osteoporosis is often perceived merely as a decrease in bone density; however, we are facing a condition that has much deeper impacts on patients' daily lives. This disease can make even the simplest movements daunting. Ordinary activities like walking, bending over, carrying items, or going out alone can become significant sources of anxiety over time. Living with the constant risk of fractures creates a major burden, not just physically, but emotionally and socially as well.”

TURNING KNOWLEDGE INTO TANGIBLE BENEFITS

Stating that they would scan a vast pool of drugs, Prof. Dr. Fırtına said, “One of the most important aspects of our work is investigating the potential of repurposing traditional drugs used for different diseases for the treatment of osteoporosis. By using an AI-supported modeling system, we aim to accelerate the process and identify the strongest candidates among a vast number of molecules. We then intend to support this data with experimental models to yield scientifically robust results. Our goal is to present an innovative approach that can improve quality of life and transform scientific knowledge into a tangible benefit for the millions affected by this disease.”