Gonca Dönmez Arat

Gonca Dönmez Arat is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medical Biology at Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University's Faculty of Medicine. She holds a Doctorate in Medical Biology from Republic University (2008–2014) and a Master's in Medical Biology and Genetics from the same institution (2005–2008). Her Bachelor's degree in Biology was completed at Hacettepe University (1999–2003).

Her research focuses on cancer biology, genetic polymorphisms, and the cytotoxic effects of plant extracts (e.g., Hypericum crenulatum, Origanum minutiflorum) on cancer cells. Key areas include apoptosis mechanisms, gene-environment interactions in oncology, and molecular pathways in diseases like breast cancer, osteoarthritis, and lung cancer.

Her publications (2015–2022) predominantly explore:

• Genetic risk factors for cancer (MDM2, Wnt, FOXP3 polymorphisms)
• Plant-derived compounds as anticancer/neuroprotective agents
• Molecular mechanisms in hepatotoxicity and hearing loss

Awards:

• Prof. Dr. Altan Günalp 3rd Prize (2011, XII. National Congress of Medical Biology and Genetics)

Research Projects: She leads multiple projects, including:

• Effects of Capparis ovata polysaccharides on colon cancer (ongoing)
• Apoptotic pathways of Hypericum crenulatum in schizophrenia (2018–2021)
• Foxp3 gene polymorphisms in osteoarthritis (2016–2017)
• Wnt antagonist genes in breast/lung cancer