Erkan Kiriş

Dr. Erkan Kiriş is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Middle East Technical University. His laboratory conducts molecular neurobiology research using mouse embryonic stem cells and patient-derived human induced pluripotent stem cells to model neuronal and glial systems.

Research investigates neurotrophin signaling pathways in neurodegenerative diseases and molecular mechanisms underlying sex-specific differences in these conditions. A second research focus examines botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) mechanisms and develops stem cell-based detection technologies. Studies identify compounds that modulate BoNT toxicity using motor neuron systems derived from stem cells.

Recent publications include development of iPSC lines from multiple sclerosis patients and studies on ubiquitin-proteasome pathway inhibitors as BoNT modulators. Laboratory activities include collaborations with U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases and National Cancer Institute.