Ali Yetgin

Title : The role of plants in modern drug discovery and screening

Abstract:

Plants have played a pivotal role in the realm of contemporary drug discovery and screening, serving as a vast source of diverse and bioactive compounds. The present study thoroughly examines the multifarious contributions of plants to the progression of pharmaceutical research and development. Commencing with a historical outlook on the utilization of plant-derived remedies, we chart the evolution of plant-based drug discovery from traditional herbal medicine to sophisticated screening techniques. The innate complexity of plant secondary metabolites has incited scientific interest in their potential therapeutic applications. Through systematic screening endeavors, numerous bioactive compounds possessing medicinal properties have been identified, paving the way for the creation of innovative pharmaceuticals. Additionally, the symbiosis between traditional knowledge and contemporary scientific methods has facilitated the discovery of previously unexplored reservoirs of bioactive compounds. In this investigation, we scrutinize the diverse approaches employed in the screening of plant extracts and isolated compounds, spanning from high-throughput assays to virtual screening methods. We emphasize the significance of biodiversity conservation in conserving access to valuable plant resources for future drug discovery undertakings. The intricate interplay between ethnobotanical sagacity, phytochemistry, and advanced screening methodologies underscores the critical role that plants continue to play in addressing unfulfilled medical needs. As the pharmaceutical industry endeavors to seek sustainable and innovative solutions, harnessing the potential of plants offers a promising pathway for discovering novel therapeutic agents. Through a comprehensive evaluation of the current state of plant-based drug discovery and screening, this review underscores the enduring significance of plants in shaping the future of medicine.

Biography:

Ali Yetgin completed his undergraduate degree in molecular biology and genetics and his graduate degree in biotechnology from Izmir Institute of Technology. He worked as a researcher at Dokuz Eylül University Microbiology Laboratory during his undergraduate and graduate studies. Here, he conducted research on the antimicrobial effects and biochemical properties of various plant, moss and fungal species. The findings obtained during this research process have been published in the form of articles in various scientific platforms. He has also participated in international conferences as a speaker and poster presenter. So far, it has been included in 50 publications, including 18 articles and 32 presentations. With his master's thesis on "Plant-On-Chip Devices for Seed Screening", he developed chips that enable rapid screening of seeds. He works as an R&D Specialist at Toros Agri Industry and Trade Co. Inc., the company and fulfills the task of national/international project submission coordination. He also continues his doctoral studies at Cukurova University and carries out his thesis on the development of microbial fertilizers.