The list of national projects SAS
Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre SAS
Genetic analysis of juniper species Juniperus communis var. communis, J. sibirica and their putative hybrids J. communis var. intermedia in Slovakia
Genetická analýza borievok Juniperus communis var. communis, J. sibirica a ich predpokladaných hybridov J. communis var. intermedia na Slovensku
| Duration: |
1.1.2023 - 31.12.2026 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Galgóci Martin PhD. |
| Annotation: | The subject of our study are the species J. communis var. communis L., J. sibirica Lodd v Burgsde and J. communis var. intermedia (Sahur) Sanio, which is presumed to be a hybrid origin coming from some of the mentioned parents. In the study, we will search for the anatomical features of the needles and at the same time, we will do DNA studies aimed at finding DNA species-specific markers. As well, we will do population genetic studies that should give us a new knowledge about the genetic structure and the diversity and in the end the information about the uniqueness of these individual populations. We also plan to make some hybridology studies to verify the hybridological affinity of the parental species together with related studies aimed at the determining of pollen quality at the semifinal level. The obtained seeds will be a subject to the cytological study focused on the study of pre- and pozygotic disorders during the embryo development. |
Adaptation and tolerance mechanisms of fast growing trees to metal(loid)s and drought - a way how to restore and reuse contaminated sites and marginal land
Adaptačné a tolerančné mechanizmy rýchlorastúcich drevín na (polo)kovy a sucho - cesta ako obnoviť a opätovne využiť kontaminované územia a opustené miesta
| Duration: |
1.7.2024 - 30.6.2028 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Vaculíková Miroslava PhD. |
| Annotation: | Metal and metalloid pollution is one of the crucial factors that negatively affect the environment and quality of our life. In Slovakia there is more than 800 registered contaminated sites at the moment, from which more than 300 have not been remediated or reclaimed yet. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find out various strategies and solutions for sustainable soil decontamination or appropriate land use. This project aims to find out response mechanisms of selected fast-growing trees, like poplars (Populus sp.) and willows (Salix sp.) to metal contamination, and at the same time find out how they respond to drought, one of the major consequences of changing climate in Central European region. The results of the project could have a great potential for application of selected species for restoration of contaminated sites and abandoned marginal land, and production of safe and valuable wood biomass as a renewable source of energy. |
Understanding COmmunity asseMBly driven by Alien Trees
Ako nepôvodné druhy stromov limitujú vytváranie biologických spoločenstiev?
| Duration: |
1.1.2024 - 31.12.2027 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Šibíková Mária PhD. |
| Annotation: | The main aim of this project is to obtain new findings about processes, causal factors, and underlying mechanisms responsible for developing specific plant communities driven by alien trees. Previous studies show that plant communities dominated by alien trees differ from native forest communities significantly in the case of species composition, functional traits composition, and occurrence of functional species groups. Neophyte and archaeophyte invasive trees come from different continents, creating novel interactions at the community level. Thus, the mechanisms of community development follow different rules than native-only communities, and these processes remain unknown. The question of developing herbal synusia under the alien tree species that already formed a forest structure remains unknown, and the proposed project aims to fulfill this knowledge gap. These findings will be crucial for the adaptation of organisms creating ecosystems during ongoing climate crises. |
Red Book of Plant Communities of Slovakia
Červená kniha rastlinných spoločenstiev Slovenska
What we (do not) know about the genus Crepidotus (Agaricomycotina, fungi)
Čo (ne)vieme o rode Crepidotus (Agaricomycotina, huby)
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Adamčík Slavomír PhD. |
| Annotation: | Fungi of the genus Crepidotus (Agaricomycotina) have pileate fruiting bodies with a lamellate hymnophore and a typically a reduced stipe. They grow on various dead plant substrates, especially wood. They are circumpolarly widespread and relatively common from tropical to hemiboreal regions. The genus Crepidotus was processed monographically several times, but the individual species were defined only on the basis of morphological features. Phylogenetic studies have confirmed the genus Crepidotus as a separate lineage of Agaricomycotina, but species delimitation and relationships are not sufficiently known and resolved. This project focuses on reconstructing of phylogenetic relationships in the genus, the identification of species diversity and the molecular delimitationof the species concept that was so far defined only morphologically. We will use traditional methods of statistically supported morphological observations in combination with phylogenetic analysis of several regions of DNA. A robust dataset of sequences, morphological observations and ecological data will make it possible to monitor evolutionary processes and the adaptive function of morphological structures. |
Species-rich Carpathian grasslands: mapping, history, drivers of change and conservation
Druhovo bohaté lúky a pasienky Karpát: mapovanie, história, príčiny zmien a ochrana
| Duration: |
1.7.2022 - 30.6.2026 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Janišová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | European agriculture is at a crossroads. Continuing the industrial intensification of agricultural production and the associated abandonment of marginal land equals continuing the direct negative environmental impacts on landscape quality and further loss of biodiversity. The second available option is adopting the quality of the landscape and its sustainability as essential criteria for optimization and management of agricultural production. The main aim of our transdisciplinary project is to support this second option with practical scientific knowledge on environmental and societal potentials regarding sustainable grassland management in the Carpathians using traditional agricultural practices, as well as on which social and institutional features might help embedding such management within the modern Slovak economy. The main objectives of the project are: 1) to identify and map biodiversity-rich grassland areas in the Carpathians and related local environmental and social factors; 2) identify and map areas with high environmental and social potential for successful grassland restoration in Slovakia; and 3) propose a national strategy for state and non-governmental support regarding ecological restoration, conservation and management of the identified grassland areas. We intend to reach such a comprehensive and practical understanding through a collaborative combination of the latest available earth observation data for the Carpathian region, analytical methods and tools, but also pioneering field research; all in parallel on behalf of the scientific fields of botany, ecology, geography, remote sensing and social anthropology. The planned outputs of the project – scientific studies and the proposal of a national strategy to support species-rich grasslands – can, in addition to direct use by contracted domestic recipient organisations (MoE SR and BROZ), also serve as a template for applied research focusing on ecological grassland restoration in Europe and beyond. |
Evolutionary and ecological outcomes of plant invasions: What are the potential consequences of post-invasion hybridization and polyploidization on the invasiveness of Solidago taxa in Europe?
Evolučné a ekologické dôsledky rastlinných invázií: aké sú potenciálne dopady hybridizácie a polyploidizácie po invázii na inváznosť taxónov rodu Solidago (zlatobyľ) v Európe?
| Duration: |
1.1.2023 - 31.12.2026 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Šingliarová Barbora PhD. |
| Annotation: | Because of the complexity of biological invasions and post-invasion processes (such as mating interactions with native species), a better understanding of the underlying factors and their management is challenging. Members of the genus Solidago represent exceptionally successful invaders in Europe. In this project, we aim to determine the impact of hybridization and introgression in alien-hybrid-native S. canadensis–xniederederi–virgaurea populations and polyploidization in S. gigantea populations on the evolutionary and invasive potential of newly formed genotypes within the invaded range in Europe. We will take an integrative approach combining relative DNA content screening, assessment of population genetic structure by up-to-date molecular markers and measurements of reproductive potential and fitness parameters. We expect to bring new insights into the microevolutionary processes and their impact on further invasiveness as well as to provide a baseline for nature conservation and management decisions. |
The plant species diversity and physiological response to changing ecological conditions of floodplain forests
Hodnotenie druhovej diverzity a fyziologickej odozvy rastlín na ekologické podmienky lužných lesov
Gemstones of biodiversity: taxonomy, evolutionary relationships and life strategies of target earth tongues (Fungi, Ascomycota)
Hrozienka v koláči biodiverzity jazýčkovitých húb (Ascomycota): taxonómia, evolučné vzťahy a životná stratégia
| Duration: |
1.1.2023 - 31.12.2026 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Kučera Viktor PhD. |
| Annotation: | Earth tongues (members of the families Geoglossaceae and Leotiaceae) represent rare fungi and are endangered in most countries of their occurrence but are, together with other fungi, gemstones of biodiversity. Even these fungi are uncommon more that 30 new species were described last decade. According to our research, more are expected to be delimited, namely new Microglossum and Geoglossum taxa in the region of the Carpathians. And more new taxa are expected to be described from other regions in co-operation with foreign colleagues as important addition to the knowledge of the biodiversity. Previous studies confirmed that some geoglossoid species (such as Sarcoleotia globosa and members of the genus Leotia) form ericoid mycorrhiza with plants. Since genus Microglossum is phylogenetically related to Leotia there is possible that also Microglossum species could have similar life strategies. Our preliminary analysis of DNA indicated that such hypothesis should be studies and tested. |
Chronic ionizing radiation affects susceptibility to pests in wild aquatic plants: Discovery and validation of biochemical mechanisms
Chronické ionizujúce žiarenie ovplyvňuje odolnosť divorastúcich vodných rastlín proti škodcom: Objav a potvrdenie biochemických mechanizmov
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Danchenko Maksym PhD. |
| Annotation: | Most environmental pollutants, including radionuclides, are persistent; hence, they chronically influence plants. Ionizing radiation is a ubiquitous stress factor with unclear consequences of prolonged exposure to low doses. Likely mechanism of damage to cellular biomolecules is mediated through reactive oxygen species. The central hypothesis of this project is compromised phytoimmunity in aquatic plants, particularly common reed (Phragmites australis), naturally grown in contaminated lakes of the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Upon initial verification, with laboratory feeding bioassays, we will explore biochemical mechanisms by front-end proteomics, including oxidative stress-related protein carbonylations. These findings will be validated and complemented using targeted enzymatic and immunolocalization assays. Essentially, the unbiased approach of this project will close the intriguing knowledge gap in fundamental radiobiology and produce practical knowledge for the monitoring of contaminated lakes. |
The integrative taxonomy of Elmidae and Dryopidae (Insecta: Coleoptera) from Borneo - one of the major evolutionary biodiversity hotspots
Integratívna taxonómia Elmidae a Dryopidae (Insecta: Coleoptera) ostrova Borneo - významného evolučného hotspotu biodiverzity
| Duration: |
1.1.2023 - 31.12.2026 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Čiampor Fedor PhD. |
| Annotation: | Borneo, along with part of Indochina, is one of Southeast Asia’s major evolutionary biodiversity hotspots. Its recent fauna is probably the result of in situ diversification associated with the accumulation of immigrants. The beetles of the families Elmidae and Dryopidae are morphologically and physiologically adapted to life in the aquatic environment. However, some genera of Dryopidae (e.g. Sostea, Geoparnus, Spalacosostea) are adapted to live in soil, leaf litter, or vegetation. The diversity and evolution of these groups’ are little explored, despite the almost cosmopolitan distribution and importance of organisms in eco-enviro studies. The project addresses the issues of taxonomy and phylogeny of Bornean species through an integrative taxonomy approach based on mitochondrial and nuclear markers in combination with morphological features and tries to identify common evolutionary patterns and trends in phylogeny and distribution. |
Combined management as a tool for conservation and restoration of grassland habitats
Kombinovaný manažment ako nástroj na ochranu a obnovu travinnobylinných biotopov
| Duration: |
1.1.2023 - 31.12.2026 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Janišová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | Protection, enhancement, and potential extension of the biodiversity-rich areas is a top priority of policies within the states, continents or globally. The most recent EU Green Deal Call identified biodiversity and ecosystems as key areas capable of improving the quality of the landscape and mitigating the effects of climate change. Semi-natural habitats are those areas, where most of the action can be taken. Low-intensity traditional farming maintained in mountain regions of the Carpathians is an inspiration for diversification of modern agroecosystems. However, the mechanisms of enhancing grassland biodiversity by diversification and combination of farming practices is still insufficiently known. In our project we would like to investigate multiple aspects of the selected combinations of traditional management practices - mowing, grazing, and manuring - and establish a manipulative experiment to test their effects on biodiversity if used as a restoration intervention in modern agricultural landscapes. |
Maryna Kryvokhyzha, R2 - Postdoctoral Fellow
Maryna Kryvokhyzha, R2 - Postdoktorand
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Mikroskopické sinice a riasy ako významný zdroj exopolysacharidov
Molecular dissection of synaptotagmins and their roles in the development of land plants
Molekulárna analýza synaptotagmínov a ich úlohy vo vývine suchozemských rastlín
| Duration: |
1.7.2024 - 30.6.2028 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
doc. RNDr. Jásik Ján DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Surprisingly, plant genomes contain homologs of genes that were thought to be typical for animal organisms. Plant synaptotagmins (SYTs), homologs of calcium sensors in animal neurons, are one of them. In the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana, the dominant AtSYT1 is involved in responses to various biotic and abiotic stresses. The roles of other family members are poorly understood. The particular expression patterns of AtSYTs found in our previous studies suggest that these genes are involved development of specific tissues. By complex analysis of single and multiple atsyt mutants, we aim to determine in which developmental programs of higher plants the AtSYT genes participated. In this project, we will also study SYT genes in the moss Physcomitrium patents and take advantage of the unique benefits of this model organism. We will characterize the spatio-temporal expression pattern of PpSYT genes at different levels. We will further analyze the distribution and intracellular dynamics of PpSYT proteins during different developmental stages. Using homologous recombination, we will create plant lines with GUS and GFP markers, and CRISPR/Cas9 techniques will be employed to inactivate single or multiple PpSYT genes. Using reverse genetics, cell biology and biochemistry approaches, we will analyze the function of PpSYT genes during entire plant ontogenesis. The project will contribute to understanding the role of SYT genes in the development of higher and lower plant and the phylogenesis of the SYT genes. |
Molecular cloning and biochemical characterisation of a peculiar protease from carnivorous sundew
Molekulárne klonovanie a biochemická charakterizácia unikátnej proteázy z mäsožravej rosičky
Aptamer-based analytical platform for in vitro and in situ analyses of complex carbohydrates
Nová analytická platforma pre in situ a in vitro analýzy komplexných sacharidov na báze aptamérov
| Duration: |
1.9.2022 - 31.8.2027 |
| Program: |
IMPULZ |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Mravec Jozef PhD. |
| Annotation: | Complex carbohydrates are some of the most important biopolymers. They provide a sustainable source of materials, and energy and are a major part of human and animal diets. Due to their high molecular weight and high complexity, the determination of the precise amount and structure of these molecules is extremely technically challenging. For instance, one of the currently used methods called Compositional Microarray Polymer Profiling exhibits several serious drawbacks such as the requirement for a high level of expertise, expensive equipment, and is very costly and time-consuming. The CARBODNA project aims to make a leap forward in the area and develop a novel analytical platform based on aptamers sometimes also called synthetic or chemical antibodies. These are fragments of polynucleotides with the ability to bind target molecules with high specificity and avidity comparable to conventional monoclonal antibodies. The initial task of the project is to generate aptamers specific for polysaccharide components of plant cell walls, especially for those still lacking any specific immunological probes as well as novel aptamers for macromolecular 3D structures such as intermolecular interactions forming the intricate cell wall architecture. These new probing tools will be utilized to create a new system for quantification and compositional profiling of samples of different origin utilizing common well-established methods of molecular biology as well as for detailed imaging of the cell wall ultrastructure. Finally, the new technology will be applied to study the dynamics of cell walls during plant somatic embryogenesis and cellular elongation. |
Unraveling of functional diversity and ecological role of fungi of the family Clavariaceae
Objasnenie funkčnej diverzity a ekologickej úlohy húb čeľade Clavariaceae
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Caboň Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Clavariaceae are terrestrial fungi (Basidiomacetes, Agaricomycotina) with club or corral shaped fruiting bodies known as indicators of natural value of grasslands. Several studies demonstrated that Clavariaceae are root endophytes and may form an unspecified symbiosis with vascular plants. Diversity, habitat specificity and trophic interaction of the group are not well understood. This project aims to explore Clavariaceae diversity both by Sanger sequencing of targeted DNA regions using samples from fruiting bodies and by metabarcoding using high throughput sequencing of soil and plant root samples. Phylogenetic studies based on multi-loci data from Sanger sequences and morphology will be used to distinguish species diversity of the group. Our aim is to asses overall local Clavariaceae diversity in grasslands and to distinguish Clavariaceae endophyte diversity and plant specifity. We will use data from amplicon sequencing of bulk soil, rhizosphere and plant roots. This project have ambition to test possible in vitro cultivation of Clavariaceae with partner plants that may facilitate further studies of trophic style of these fungi. |
Uncovering cryptic diversity and evolution in polyploid species complexes
Objasnenie skrytej diverzity a evolúcie v polyploidných komplexoch druhov
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Optimalizácia izolácie exozómov z Juniperus communis L. a charakterizácia exozomálneho proteómu použitím LC-MS/MS
| Duration: |
1.7.2024 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Jurčík Ján PhD. |
| Annotation: | Juniperus communis L. is an evergreen coniferous shrub, which along with other representatives of its genus, has
long been utilized in traditional medicine, gastronomy, pharmaceuticals, and alcoholic beverages, due to their content
of biologically active compounds. Exosomes are nano-sized vesicular phospholipid particles commonly secreted from
eukaryotic cells into the extracellular space, and currently, extensive research is underway for their potential
therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Plant-derived exosome-like particles (PDENs) are significant in terms of their
cargo, as they contain DNA, RNA, lipids, and proteins, which are subsequently released into the extracellular matrix
as a form of cellular communication and have the potential to deliver nano-bioactive compounds into the human body.
My project aims to optimize the isolation of PDENs from mature fruits of Juniperus communis L., and to be the first to
characterize the proteome of isolated PDENs from Juniperus communis L. The potential application of PDENs is
significant and our results will contribute to a better understanding of the functioning of PDENs and exosomes in
organisms. |
Amaranth plasticity in response to heavy metals: multi-scale analysis from ecophysiological to molecular aspects
Plasticita láskavca v odpovedi na ťažké kovy: viacstupňová analýza od ekofyziologických po molekulárne aspekty
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Ing. Hricová Andrea PhD. |
| Annotation: | Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) gained popularity in the recent past due to its agronomic and exceptional nutritional properties. The growth and developmental characteristics make this plant also suitable for remediation of areas contaminated by metal ions. The main goal of the project is investigation of Amaranthus spp. plasticity in response to selected heavy metals (HM) through multiscale analysis of growth, morphology, ecophysiological performance, biochemical status, and ionome profile, primary related to stress. Moreover, identification of HM-regulated amaranth genes will be performed. Since endophytes facilitate adaptation to stressors and improve the effectiveness of phytoremediation of the host plants, metagenomic survey of the biodiversity of endophyte communities in the amaranth plants exposed to tested HM will be implemented. In addition, we assess silicon as a beneficial element in preventing the adverse effects of metal ions on investigated plant characteristics and traits. |
Understanding of complex biodiversity response to forest management: integration of multi-taxa approach in ecosystem function assessments
Pochopenie komplexnej odpovede biodiverzity na lesný manažment: integrácia multi-taxonomického prístupu v hodnotení ekosystémových funkcií
Integrative Bioinformatics Analysis of Next Generation Sequencing Data for Advanced Plant Research
Pokročilý výskum rastlín prostredníctvom analýzy údajov NGS
| Duration: |
1.7.2024 - 30.6.2026 |
| Program: |
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| Project leader: |
Mgr. Šlenker Marek PhD. |
| Annotation: | The rapid progress in botany, particularly in the area of plant phylogeny and the investigation of the origin of polyploid species, can undoubtedly be attributed to the widespread application of new generation sequencing methods (NGS) in recent years and concurrent development of bioinformatics tools designed to process such data. While these methods are generally universal and broadly applicable, there is an increasing recognition of the need for customized approaches that consider the unique characteristics of the plant species under study. This project's primary objective is to provide innovative, custom tailored bioinformatics solutions for the analysis of NGS data, obtaining answers to specific scientific questions. The developed scripts and tools will be made openly available, facilitating their use by other researchers in their studies and allowing for potential modifications to ensure further development. |
Ponds in the urban environment - biodiversity, non-native biota and ecological quality
Pondy v mestskom prostredí – biodiverzita, nepôvodná biota a ekologická kvalita
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Ing. Čejka Tomáš PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project is focused on studying the benthic invertebrate community structure of poorly known urban limnic habitats (so-called ponds), which are essential as potential sources of biodiversity of native and non-native species and as centres of dispersal of non-native species. The main objective is to understand the patterns of biodiversity of urban ponds, with emphasis on [1] comparing the importance of different types of ponds for the conservation of native biodiversity, [2] the penetration and survival of non-native macrozoobenthos species in urban environments, and [3] the origin and direction of dispersal of their populations of model non-native species based on genetic analyses. For the research, we selected ten Slovak cities in the Carpathian and Pannonian ecoregions with a representation of different types of ponds. The results of the detailed systematic research will contribute to the existing fragmentary knowledge in understanding the causal relationships between diversity, distribution and environmental status of these habitats. |
Plant calpains and their molecular mode of action in cell fate control
Rastlinné kalpaíny a ich molekulárny mechanizmus kontroly bunkovej identity
Reticulate or divergent evolution? Resolving processes behind the high species richness and endemism in Brassicaceae genera
Retikulátna alebo divergentná evolúcia? Objasnenie procesov, ktoré stoja za veľkou druhovou bohatosťou a endemizmom v rodoch čeľade Brassicaceae
| Duration: |
1.7.2022 - 30.6.2026 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
prof. RNDr. Marhold Karol DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Reticulate evolution is a challenging research topic, which has gained increased attention in recent years, stimulated by the progress made in genomic research and developments of new scientific techniques and approaches. It is now widely recognized that introgression and hybridization significantly affect plant evolution, but there is still much to discover and understand about these processes and their impact on diversification and speciation. The proposed research focuses on reticulate evolution in four genera of the Brassicaceae family (Alyssum, Cardamine, Erysimum, and Odontarrhena). Here we aim to explore in detail how reticulation events have shaped the evolution of the studied genera, to test whether the high endemism rate reflects multiple independent polyploidization events or increased diversification of polyploid lineages. We will also examine how historical and recent range shifts have stimulated introgression and allopolyploid speciation, and track the mode and rate of allopolyploid genome evolution. We will take an integrative approach that will combine methods of phylogenomics (RADseq and HybSeq techniques of next generation sequencing, complemented by microsatellite markers), cytogenomics, flow cytometry, morphometrics and ecological niche modeling. Bringing together data
from diverse sources provides complementary views and different perspectives on the patterns and processes studied. Our studies, focusing on several unrelated species groups, will also include a comparative aspect, go beyond species- or genus-specific patterns, and attempt to infer common and general mechanisms of reticulate evolution in plants.
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Revolutionizing the Future: Enhancing Forest Biomass Mapping and Carbon Sequestration Estimation through Remote Sensing Technologies
Revolučná budúcnosť: Zlepšovanie mapovania lesnej biomasy a odhadu viazania uhlíka pomocou technológií diaľkového prieskumu zeme.
| Duration: |
1.3.2025 - 28.2.2029 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Šibík Jozef PhD. |
| Annotation: | Mapping and monitoring the above-ground biomass (AGB) of forest stands are critical for understanding and mitigating climate change, supporting sustainable development, and meeting human needs. Accurate AGB estimation helps in carbon cycle monitoring, policy-making, and sustainable forest management.
The primary goals of the REFLECT project when identifying, designing, verifying, and determining various aspects related to mapping and monitoring the above-ground biomass of forest stands are to improve quantification accuracy, support climate change mitigation, aid sustainable development, and enhance policy-making through advanced methodologies, remote sensing, and machine learning.
This exploration is driven by advanced remote sensing methods known as Remote Sensing of the Earth (RSE). Building upon this foundation, the REFLECT project aims to integrate expertise in creating precise 3D spatial data with disciplines such as dendrology, botany, and the physiological processes within an ecosystem. The project recognizes the interconnectedness of the carbon cycle and various ecosystem components, emphasizing the holistic perspective required to understand these relationships in both space and time. This will be achieved through the use of new technologies and DPRS (Digital Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing) methods. The initial phase of the research focuses on experiments that generate spatial 3D data from different perspectives and scales. Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) is employed to create highly detailed and accurate environment models, while satellite image evaluation provides a broader view of large-scale ecosystems at the expense of lower detail. The spatial data will be complemented by integrated analytical tools for advanced measurements of CO₂ flux in forest ecosystems. By fusing data from various sources and encouraging interdisciplinary, convergent collaboration, the accuracy of biomass and carbon sequestration estimation can be improved to meet societal requirements.
The overarching aim of the REFLECT project is to address a significant gap by developing a comprehensive methodology for quantifying carbon in ecosystems using RSE technologies that span from the lithosphere to the exosphere. By doing so, the project aims to contribute to global knowledge, facilitate interdisciplinary knowledge transfer, and advance forest ecosystem research in unexplored directions.
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Impact of climate change on the distribution of selected pathogens of Pinus sp. trees
Rozšírenie vybraných škodlivých patogénov Pinus sp. vzhľadom ku klimatickej zmene
Hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide: indispensable gaseous signaling molecules in plant defense responses to abiotic stress
Sírovodík a oxid dusnatý: nepostrádateľné plynné signálne molekuly v obranných reakciách rastlín na abiotický stres
| Duration: |
1.1.2024 - 31.12.2027 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Tamás Ladislav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO), small gaseous signaling molecules, are very likely involved in all developmental and stress-related processes in plants. Complex interconnection of different signaling pathways results in the both synergistic and antagonistic effect of H2S and NO; depending on their concentrations, cell type, redox status and phytohormones levels of plant cells. In order to gain more insight into the role of these signaling pathways in the response of barley root to stress conditions, the aim of the present project is the analysis of NO and H2S function in stress responses, using bioactive molecules to activate and/or to block some specific components of NO and H2S metabolic and signaling pathways. In addition, this approach may uncover the role of NO- and H2S-regulated physiological and biochemical processes involved in both defense and toxic responses of barley roots to unfavorable environmental conditions. |
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Sledovanie vplyvu zasolenia na diverzitu endofytických baktérií so zameraním na identifikáciu halotolerantných druhov zvyšujúcich stresovú toleranciu láskavca
| Duration: |
1.7.2024 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: |
MVDr. Kačírová Jana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Plants are exposed to many biotic and abiotic stress factors during their life cycle. Soil salinity is one of the main
abiotic stresses that adversely affect crop growth and production. In an effort to reduce the adverse effects of salt
stress on plants, many strategies are used such as genetic modifications, application of beneficial elements or
inoculation of plant growth promoting bacteria. Endophytic bacteria are a group of microorganisms that live in internal
plant tissues. It has been shown, that endophytes help plants cope with stress through several mechanisms.
However, it is not known what changes in the composition of the plant microbial community occur due to the
increased concentration of salt in the soil. The aim of the project will be to monitor changes in the representation of
endophytic bacteria with increasing salt concentration using next-generation sequencing. The object of investigation
will be two varieties of amaranth (Amaranthus spp.), which in recent years has been considered a promising
pseudocereal for its high nutritional and functional value. The expected benefit of the project will be knowledge about
changes in the diversity of bacterial communities in amaranth varieties with different sensitivity to the presence of
higher salt concentration and the possibility of using halotolerant species of bacteria for induced resistance and
supporting plants in cope with salt stress. |
Study of hydrolases involved in digestion in carnivorous plants of the genus Drosera
Štúdium hydroláz zúčastňujúcich sa procesov trávenia v mäsožravých rastlinách rodu Drosera
| Duration: |
1.1.2024 - 31.12.2027 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Ing. Libantová Jana CSc. |
| Annotation: | Carnivorous plants, including species of the genus Drosera, use a mixture of enzymes secreted by stalked glands of the leaf cuticle - the tentacles - to digest their prey. The proposed project involves the analysis of leaf proteins, including those involved in digestion, by a proteomic approach. Based on this, we will select a new hydrolase for more detailed study. Available orthologous gene sequences of related plant species will be used for primer design, and then the gene fragment and the complete gene will be isolated by PCR. The expression profile of the gene under investigation in the individual organs of Drosera plants will also be analysed. The project also includes the introduction of a eukaryotic expression system for the production and characterisation of proteins with post-translational modifications. Based on the results of previous research, some additional enzyme characteristics of purified chitinases and glucanases from carnivorous plants with potential for biotechnology will be investigated. |
Bees cannot make it all - DNA metabarcoding analysis of pollinator biodiversity for improving their protection and ecosystem services
Včely všetko nestihnú – DNA metabarkódingová analýza biodiverzity opeľovačov pre zlepšenie ich ochrany a ekosystémových služieb
| Duration: |
1.7.2022 - 30.6.2026 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Čiampor Fedor PhD. |
| Annotation: | According to many sources, we are witnessing a massive loss of biodiversity, with potentially catastrophic consequences for humanity. Pollinators, which are indispensable for agriculture, nutrition, ecosystems functioning and maintenance of their services, are also critically endangered. However, the real diversity of pollinators and the composition of their communities are unknown and without relevant data, their effective conservation is not possible. We therefore need to significantly improve knowledge and innovate biodiversity research practices. Conventional methods are lengthy, costly and error-prone, which reduces the predictive value of the results. DNA (meta)barcoding is now revolutionising our ability to assess biodiversity across a range of habitats. The approach is efficient and easy to implement, making it a 21st century tool for large-scale biodiversity research and monitoring. The project builds on recent advances in DNA metabarcoding of biota and uses DNA data analysis in combination with environmental factors to assess the biodiversity status of pollinators. Environmental DNA (eDNA) from flowers will also be used, which is a unique and innovative approach to biodiversity surveys of this important group of animals so far.
The main objectives of the project are (a) DNA metabarcoding analysis of pollinator biodiversity associated with three model crops (oilseed rape, poppy, apple), (b) estimation of the impact of environmental factors on pollinator diversity, (c) estimation of the impact of pollinator biodiversity on crop yields, and (d) significant addition of unique pollinator fauna data to reference DNA barcoding databases.
The outputs of the project will improve the general knowledge of biodiversity, enhance the possibilities for routine application of DNA methods in the future and provide a knowledge base for more effective informed decision making in the context of adaptation to climate change and sustainable development.
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Inland saline habitats in Central Europe: islands of specific diversity in the midst of changes of natural ecosystems
Vnútrozemské slaniská strednej Európy: ostrovy špecifickej diverzity v čase výrazných zmien prírodného prostredia
| Duration: |
1.1.2024 - 31.12.2027 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
RNDr. Dítě Daniel PhD. |
| Annotation: | The proposal follows up on the results of a long-term research on inland saline habitats in the Pannonian Lowland and adjacent regions in central Europe. We aim to detect the main causes of spatio-temporal vegetation changes in time intervals of 5 to 20 years from regional scale to the entire Pannonian area. We evaluate the impact of land use and restoration activities on saline vegetation obtained from data from a baseline study on permanent plots in several sites across the Podunajská nížina Lowland (Slovakia). Furthermore, we delineate the borders of halophytic vegetation within the contact plant communities of all habitat types, which is required to explicitly describe the content of these European priority habitats threatened by land use changes. Finally, an insectological survey about the distribution and ecological relationships of orthopteran assemblages indicating natural saline grasslands aims to fill a research gap in the plant-fauna interactions, focused on the less explored Pannonian subregions. |
Influence of the cell wall proteins on embryogenic capacity of selected of conifers
Vplyv proteínov bunkovej steny na embryogénnu kapacitu pri vybraných druhoch ihličnanov
| Duration: |
1.1.2022 - 31.12.2025 |
| Program: |
VEGA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Klubicová Katarína PhD. |
| Annotation: | Cell wall (CW) is a complex and dynamic structure of plant cells which controls growth and morphology of plants during development and in response to the environment. Despite being present in low amount in CW, proteins play a key role in various processes and many of them are potentialy useful in biotechnology. Somatic embryogenesis (SE) represents an efficient plant regeneration system for theoretical studies as well as for mass propagation, especially in conifers. Process occuring during SE needs deeper understanding to use the regeneration system for conifer micropropagation more effectively. The aim of the submitted proposal is
investigation of a CWPs potentially important during the induction of embryogenic tissue of selected conifers by proteomic approach. Obtained results may serve as a basis for SE markers suggestion and contribute to better understanding of the SE in woody plants.
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Influence of habitat heterogeneity on composition of root-associated mycobiome in temperate rocky habitats
Vplyv rôznorodosti prostredia na zloženie hubových spoločenstiev kolonizujúcich korene rastlín v temperátnych skalných stanovištiach
| Duration: |
1.9.2025 - 31.8.2029 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Caboň Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Rocky habitats in temperate regions are harsh environments due to sun exposure combined with extreme temperature changes, limited water availability, and poorly developed soil. They support highly specialized plant communities and serve as diversity refugies for numerous endemic and relict species. The survival of rocky plants in such stressful environments is critically influenced by interactions with their root mycobiome (fungal community). Some fungi exhibit exceptional adaptation to rocky habitats, where they play a crucial role in nutrient cycling. However, their composition can be significantly shaped by soil properties and site characteristics. The interactions between the mycobiome and the rhizosphere of rock-dwelling vascular plants in isolated rocky habitats of temperate regions remain largely unexplored. Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing and metagenomics have revolutionized mycobiome characterization and allow effective assessment of cryptic diversity of soil organisms. This project focuses on analyzing the root-associated mycobiome (RAM) of vascular plants in exposed temperate rocky habitats of Central Europe. We aim to investigate how variations in bedrock type, site heterogeneity, and host identity shape the mycobiome under extreme ecological conditions. The project integrates metabarcoding analysis of RAM in native saxicolous plants with assessments of biological fungal traits indicating their ecological function. Additionally, we will conduct controlled cultivation experiments to experimentally validate the observed mycobiome shifts. |
Developing leaf traps of carnivorous sundews: Source of unique hydrolases with a high potential in biotechnology
Vývin listových pascí mäsožravých rastlín rosičky: Zdroj unikátnych hydroláz s možnosťami využitia v biotechnológiách
Development of an aptamer-based approach for studying flax fibre cell wall diversity
Vývoj prístupu pre štúdium diverzity bunkovej steny ľanového vlákna založeného na aptaméroch
| Duration: |
1.7.2024 - 30.6.2026 |
| Program: |
|
| Project leader: |
Ing. Harenčár Ľubomír PhD. |
| Annotation: | One of the possible strategies for sustainability is to find new ways of utilizing underappreciated native crops, which requires new analytical approaches. Linum usitatissimum L., as a multipurpose crop closely linked to Slovak culture, is a suitable candidate for describing the properties of the fibre cell wall using aptamers. Various analyses have been employed to assess the biodiversity of flax as well as to characterise cell wall properties. However, there is still a lack of novel effective tools for answering the questions: what distinguishes fibre and oil type of flax, and what role does the composition and structure of the cell wall play in this distinction? These answers are important not only for plant biology, as flax fibre is a great example of a non-conventional cell wall, but also for the production of high-quality flax fibre, especially in dual-purpose varieties. Current molecular probes for cell wall analysis have limitations in targeting a broad range of structures with precision. Aptamers, short single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules, are synthesized in vitro through SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment). While extensively applied in biomedical and environmental research, their use in cell wall research is emerging. The aim of this project is to develop novel respectively select existing aptamers specific to the flax fibre cell wall, which are capable of distinguishing between fibre- and oil-type flax, as well as quantifying and describing flax cell wall properties.
Keywords: Carbohydrate synthesis, modification and turnover; Applied genetic engineering, transgenic organisms, recombinant proteins, biosensors; Agriculture related to crop production, applied plant biology; Linum usitatissimum L.; Aptamer
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The role of reproductive systems, hybridization, and symbiosis in the evolution and long-term survival of vascular plants in a rocky environment
Význam reprodukčných systémov, hybridizácie a symbiotickej asociácie pre evolúciu a prežívanie cievnatých rastlín v prostredí skalných biotopov
| Duration: |
1.7.2023 - 30.6.2027 |
| Program: |
SRDA |
| Project leader: |
Mgr. Slovák Marek PhD. |
| Annotation: | Non-forest rocky habitats represent ecological islands within the surrounding landscape, and despite their challenging environmental conditions, they are biodiversity hotspots, harboring exceptional species diversity and a high proportion of relic and endemic species. Nevertheless, due to their high inaccessibility, rocky plant species have received far less attention than their counterparts in adjacent ecosystems. Consequently, the mechanisms and factors underlying their adaptability and evolution have remained elusive, despite the fact that this knowledge is crucial for their conservation and long-term survival, particularly in light of global climatic changes. We plan to investigate the significance of selected intrinsic and extrinsic traits on long-lived shrubby species of the genus Daphne (Thymeleaceae) as a model system using cutting-edge techniques (RADseq-based genomics, metabarcoding, among others) combined with computer niche modeling, karyological, and morphological analyses. The major aims of this project are to compare the overall genetic structure and level of clonality of two rock specialists, D. arbuscula (West Carpathians) and D. petraea (Southern Alps), to the more common, still relic, and rare D. cneorum. We will also focus on the level of interspecific hybridization and introgression, as well as the diversity of mycorrhizal assemblages in the studied rock species, and develop hypotheses about their role in the adaptation and survival of both species in hostile rocky habitats. We hope that our investigation will provide novel information not only about the target species but also on the evolution and adaptation of rock-dwelling species to the challenging environment of mid-elevation altitudinal rocky habitats in the temperate zone. We believe that the project's outcomes will provide critical information for addressing conservation strategies and, thus, ensuring the long-term survival of these valuable and rare species of European flora. |
Living on the edge. Evolutionary and bioecological aspects of narrow endemic Daphne arbuscula Čelak. (Thymelaeaceae) inhabiting extreme rocky habitats
Život na hrane. Evolučné a bioekologické aspekty stenoendemického druhu Daphne arbuscula Čelak. (Thymelaeaceae) obývajúceho extrémne skalné biotopy
The total number of projects: 39
