Projects

In collaboration with Dr. Adi Idris from the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Australia, KUISCID launched a groundbreaking project to investigate the antiviral effects of small RNA molecules against the Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) virus. This research marks the first time such molecules have been developed globally for this purpose. Since studies have already shown that these molecules stop the virus from replicating, work is now continuing to advance them toward clinical trials.

In collaboration with Assoc. Prof. Onur Karatuna  at the EUCAST Development Laboratory and Central Hospital in Växjö, Sweden, KUISCID produced scientific outputs to standardize data on antibiotic resistance and consumption. This partnership aims to enhance the international comparability of research findings within the framework of EUCAST initiatives.

In another project launched in collaboration with the University of Zurich, KUISCID is developing an AI-based platform to detect multi-drug resistant bacterial outbreaks in hospitals in real-time. By integrating Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and epidemiological metadata, the project aims to identify transmission clusters rapidly and accurately. Additionally, the initiative focuses on the holistic analysis of data related to antimicrobial resistance, virulence, and clinical outcomes, while sharing these datasets on open-source platforms.

In collaboration with Philipps University Marburg, the study titled "Changes in Cellular and Extracellular Immunity Triggered During Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Infection" received funding from TÜBİTAK and the German Research Foundation (DFG). This research aims to investigate cellular immune responses, the role of extracellular vesicles (EV) in pathogenesis, and the long-term effects of the disease.

In collaboration with Dr. Hendrik Poinar from McMaster University in Canada, KUISCID has initiated joint projects on archaeogenetics (ancient DNA). This partnership focuses on laboratory studies of ancient pathogen DNA and advanced bioinformatics analysis. The collaboration includes conducting experimental research and implementing research exchange programs to further scientific expertise in this field.

In collaboration with UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles), KUISCID established a Bird Banding Station to monitor the ecological cycles of zoonotic diseases. This facility has evolved into a sustainable research infrastructure within the Ecological Research Network. The findings contribute to strengthening risk assessment, early warning, and surveillance systems for zoonotic diseases in Türkiye. This work also supports the development of preventive public health policies. Click here to watch the video introducing the study.

In collaboration with Prof. Adrian Egli, Director of the Institute of Medical Microbiology at the University of Zurich, the center launched a project for the rapid diagnosis of Klebsiella pneumoniae—a pathogen on the World Health Organization’s critical list. The study aims to identify infections at an early stage using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and AI-based algorithms. As part of this project, researchers Cansel Vatansever and Yukino Gütlin participated in mutual exchange programs to advance the research.

KUISCID is developing an original diagnostic system to rapidly and simultaneously detect both the virulence factors and antibiotic resistance mechanisms of Klebsiella pneumoniae. Supported by Nature and Seegene, a leading global molecular diagnostics company, this project represents a significant academy-industry collaboration. Seegene has already begun the design and development phases for these diagnostic kits. Future stages will involve evaluating the clinical applicability and effectiveness of the system.