Molecular Biology & Genetics
Gebze Technical University, Turkiye
Abu Musa Md Talimur Reza, PhD
Welcome Message
Welcome to the Non-coding RNAs Laboratory.
I’m Dr. Talimur Reza, and I lead our research into how small but powerful molecules—especially transfer RNAs (tRNAs)—silently shape the genetic language of life.
Our lab studies how tRNAs and other non-coding RNAs regulate gene expression, influence disease, and open new doors for RNA-based therapies. We blend molecular biology, genomics, and RNA engineering to uncover regulatory networks that govern cell behavior.
Research Focus
We specialize in tRNA biology, epitranscriptomics, and non-coding RNA therapeutics.
Key research questions include:
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How do anticodon tRNAs regulate codon-biased translation?
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Can modifying tRNA expression selectively downregulate oncogenes like MYC?
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What roles do tRNA-derived fragments play in cancer and cellular stress?
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How can we apply non-coding RNAs in agriculture and gene therapy?
Our research bridges fundamental biology and translational applications in cancer, biotechnology, and synthetic biology.
Teaching & Mentoring
I actively teach undergraduate and graduate courses on genetics, epigenetics, and RNA biology, and mentor students across research levels.
Courses Offered:
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Non-coding RNAs (MBG 534) – PhD/MSc
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Molecular Mechanisms of Epigenetics (MBG 423) – Senior Elective
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Population Genetics (MBG 328) – Core
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Genetics & Genetics Lab (MBG 221/223) – Undergraduate Foundation
Projects
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Cracking the MYC Code
TÜBİTAK 1001 (2023–2026)
Investigating how anticodon tRNAs can be used to inhibit MYC oncogene expression, a long-standing challenge in cancer therapy.
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Lung Cancer and tRNA Signatures
GTU Rector’s Endowment Fund (2024)
Mapping tRNA expression patterns in lung cancer cells to identify diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers.
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Ribosome Remodeling via tRNA
NCN MINIATURA 4 (2021)
Studying how shifts in tRNA expression can change ribosome composition and affect translation accuracy.