Functional Studies Department

Today, a major focus in biomedical research is the identification of key causative genes in various diseases through multi-omics studies, investigating the etiology and treatment of diseases using modern genetic engineering tools, as well as the development of cellular and animal models. This constitutes one of the most critical research areas, aimed at validating data and translating findings into diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Therefore, the presence of laboratories equipped with specialized and experienced personnel and state-of-the-art facilities is essential to achieve these objectives. In the laboratories of this department, in addition to bioinformatic analyses (e.g., in silico prediction / in silico medicine) to evaluate the impact of genetic variations on gene function and their products, cellular and animal models tailored to specific genes and diseases will be designed and produced.

Furthermore, building on the existing expertise and infrastructure at Royan Institute in the construction of diverse genetic constructs and the practical application of CRISPR-based genome editing (including the design and creation of cellular and animal models), along with the availability of a zebrafish model production facility at the Royan Diabetes Center, this department is poised to develop its activities with substantial speed and scope.