On June 23, a preliminary discussion of the dissertation submitted by Matanat Jeyhun Bakhishova, a researcher at the Institute of Molecular Biology, was held at the Institute of Genetic Resources. The dissertation, entitled "Structure of the Anticancer Pentapeptide Glu-Gln-Arg-Pro-Arg and Its Possible Mechanisms of Action on Lung Carcinoma Cells," was submitted in the specialty 2415.01 – Molecular Biology for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Biology. The scientific supervisor of the dissertation is Corresponding Member of ANAS Oktay Gasimov. The official reviews were presented by Doctor of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor Suzan Vatankha and Doctor of Philosophy in Biology, Associate Professor Taleh Yusifov. The meeting was chaired by Doctor of Biological Sciences Afat Mammadova. Following the introduction of the candidate's biographical information, Matanat Bakhishova presented her dissertation, providing a comprehensive overview of the relevance of the research, its main objectives, key findings, and scientific significance. She noted that the study investigated the structure and biological properties of a promising anticancer pentapeptide isolated from rice bran, as well as its various isomers. The findings demonstrated that different forms of the peptide interact differently with target proteins associated with cancer and COVID-19, thereby modulating their biological activity. The obtained results are considered significant for the development of novel therapeutic agents and the improvement of drug delivery systems.

An extensive discussion of the dissertation followed. The candidate answered the questions raised by the participants and responded to their comments and recommendations. The research was highly appreciated by the specialists, and it was recommended that the dissertation proceed to the next stage of the defense process.