Project
Biomedical Research Center SAS
International Projects
A4L_BRIDGE The role and mutational profile of immune checkpoint molecules in hematologic malignancies
A4L_BRIDGE Úloha a mutačný profil imunitných kontrolných bodov v hematologických nádoroch
| Duration: | 1. 11. 2024 - 31. 10. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | A4L_BRIDGE Open Access call 2024 |
| Program: | Iné |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Lopušná Katarína PhD. |
A4L_BRIDGE Expression of immune genes in human skin non-immune cells affected by TBEV infection
A4L_BRIDGE Expresia imunitných génov v neimunitných bunkách ľudskej kože ovplyvnených infekciou TBEV
| Duration: | 1. 11. 2024 - 31. 10. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | A4L_BRIDGE Open Access call 2024 |
| Program: | Iné |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Štibrániová Iveta PhD. |
| Annotation: | The tick, host and pathogen form an interactive triangle in which the host's skin is the site of first contact. Despite its effective barrier function, the skin is still the main entry point for most tick-borne pathogens, including tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). TBEV enters the skin through the saliva of infected ticks during feeding. TBEV targets resident skin cells, resulting in an antiviral response activated by viral RNA. Through immunomodulation, tick saliva promotes TBEV replication at the tick feeding site. One of the most abundant non-immune cells of the skin - keratinocytes - not only represent a potential reservoir of TBEV, but are also capable of eliciting an immune response to TBEV that may influence its distribution to target organs. Skin keratinocytes will be treated with TBEV (Hypr) or salivary gland extracts (SGE) from uninfected and TBEV (Hypr) infected ticks of two species, Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor reticulatus. Using mRNA-seq, we want to identify the expression of genes associated with innate antiviral responses of TBEV-infected human skin keratinocytes and to elucidate the potential influence of bioactive compounds in the SGE of TBEV-infected ticks on this expression. Transcriptional profiling of SGE-treated cells from TBEV-free ticks compared to TBEV-infected SGE-treated cells, obtained within this study would also provide a comprehensive picture of how tick feeding affects the local environment over time. |
A4L_BRIDGE Identification of TGF-β 1 binding molecule(s) in saliva of adult ticks Dermacentor reticulatus
A4L_BRIDGE Identifikácia molekúl viažúcich TGF-β 1 v slinách dospelých kliešťov Dermacentor reticulatus
| Duration: | 1. 11. 2024 - 31. 10. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | A4L_BRIDGE Open Access call 2024 |
| Program: | Iné |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Bartíková Pavlína PhD. |
| Annotation: | Ticks are successful vectors of the broadest spectrum of pathogens due to their unique features – hematophagy, extended feeding periods (up to weeks), prolonged life-span and complex development, and blood digestion within midgut cells. Their parasitic lifestyle resulted in development of a broad spectrum of evasive and disarming mechanisms of host defense reactions. Tick saliva is a mixture of proteins, peptides and non-peptide molecules that interfere with various components of hemostasis, wound healing, and host immune system. Additionally, some of these bioactive molecules have a promising therapeutic perspective to cure some human diseases associated with dysregulation of specific cytokines/growth factors and alterations in their signaling pathways. According to the ability of tick saliva to bind a human growth factor TGF-β1, in a previous project we tried to identify these molecule(s) using a pull-down purification with coupled biotinylated TGF-β1 followed by LC-MS (timsTOF Pro) analyses. However, purified samples were still very rich on protein content, up to 967 (female ticks) or 617 protein groups (male ticks), respectively. Thus, combination of these two methods was not very effective and the identification of TGF-β1 binding molecule(s) is still undergoing. Prior LC-MS/MS analyses, we plan to combine more purification methods (NGC chromatography, IEF-PAGE and Western-blot) to reduce the number of protein groups in samples. |
A4L_BRIDGE - Alliance4Life Bridging the Research and Innovation Gap in Life Sciences
Alliance4Life Preklenutie výskumnej a inovačnej priepasti v živých vedách
| Duration: | 1. 3. 2024 - 29. 2. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | 101136453 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | prof. RNDr. Pastoreková Silvia DrSc. |
| Annotation: | The persisting R&I gap between Western and Eastern Europe is a major challenge to the EU. It includes under-developed R&I ecosystems, a lower ability to attract and retain talents, single-track research careers with a lack of modern HR, and fragmented industry-academia collaboration. To improve the situation in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), Alliance for Life Sciences (Alliance4Life) was formed by 12 progressive health research institutions and universities in 11 CEE countries. Since 2018 it has become a lively community and role model of modern institutional governance and excellent research in CEE, piloted strategic institutional reforms, and succeeded in influencing national R&I reforms and EU policy. With the A4L_BRIDGE project, the alliance focuses on a broader implementation of the successfully piloted strategic changes toward enhanced attractiveness, competitiveness, and innovation strength, and newly also addresses excellence in higher education. The scientific collaboration will be boosted by a Virtual Research Centre, connecting different research groups, and thanks to seed funding, initial research projects with IP originating in CEE will be prepared to be developed into RIA projects for Horizon Europe. The alliance will develop a complex educational matrix, including mentoring, e-learning, and international internships, targeting both academic and non-academic staff in all career stages. The Industry Relationship Platform will stimulate knowledge transfer and partaking in applied research projects. Societal actors will be invited to shape the research agendas and will be addressed at events for end users of health research results. Events, webinars, and dissemination activities will target national stakeholders and policymakers, promoting ERA values and supporting the empowering of low-performing regions in their R&I upscale. The A4L_BRIDGE project will thus significantly contribute to bridging the gap in R&I performance in the EU. |
| Project web page: | https://alliance4life.ceitec.cz |
ADDIT-CE - Alzheimer's Disease Diagnostics Innovation and Translation to Clinical Practice in Central Europe
Alzheimerova choroba: Diagnostika, inovácie a translácia do klinickej praxe v strednej Európe
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 101087124 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | prof. MUDr. Ukropcová Barbara PhD. |
| Annotation: | Alzheimer’s disease (AD) affects millions of individuals worldwide, and currently there are no effective disease-modifying therapies. Prompt AD diagnosis is beneficial with respect to care and delay of disease progression. However, the implementation of modern AD diagnostics in clinical practice in Czechia and Slovakia is fragmented. To address this, the EU-funded ADDIT-CE project will support the cooperation between academia, business, government and civil society. The partnership is expected to strengthen research and innovation in the field of AD diagnostics and introduce novel technologies into AD clinical management. ADDIT-CE will help design a national plan for combatting dementia and establish a functional innovation ecosystem that will revolutionise diagnostic approaches and continue to serve society even after the project’s completion. |
| Project web page: | https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101087124 |
NETSKINMODELS - European Network for Skin Engineering and Modeling
Európska sieť pre kožné inžinierstvo a modelovanie
| Duration: | 15. 9. 2022 - 14. 9. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA21108 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Šramková Monika PhD. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA21108/ |
SIGMA-1EUROPE - European Network for Sigma-1 Receptor as a Therapeutic Opportunity
Európske konzorcium pre Sigma-1 receptor ako terapeutický cieľ
| Duration: | 25. 10. 2024 - 24. 10. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | CA23156 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Cagalinec Michal PhD. |
| Annotation: | The sigma-1 receptor (S1R) is a ligand-regulated endoplasmic reticulum chaperone protein and a target for innovative compounds for the treatment of neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases, cancers and pain diseases. The SIGMA-1 EUROPE network will bring together disciplines and expertises across Europe to advance the exploration and identification of the role of the Sigma-1 receptor in physiology and pathologies, to design innovative S1R ligands for cellular biology and medicine, and ultimately to train young researchers and innovators to revise our views of the diseases, to think out-of-the-box and explore novel and innovative therapeutic opportunities. |
ERA4HEALTH - European partnership fostering a European Research Area (ERA) for health research
Európske partnerstvo prehlbujúce spoluprácu v rámci Európskeho výskumného priestoru (ERA) pre zdravotnícky výskumu
| Duration: | 1. 11. 2022 - 30. 10. 2029 |
| Evidence number: | 101095426 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | doc. MUDr. Imrich Richard DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Excellent EU programs push health R&I but are not sufficient. Synergy with strategic initiatives in MS and a new model for impactful collaborations are needed to address the challenges for health. ERA4Health brings the opportunity to increase EU transnational collaborative research funding by creating a funding body for joint programming in priority areas addressing EU Public Health Needs, with total duration of 7 years. ERA4Health focuses on tackling diseases and reducing disease burden and the following challenges: 1) the increasing demand for a better quality of life and a better care of patients, 2) the need to transform public health care systems in more effective, efficient, equitable, accessible, and resilient ones and 3) the need to strengthen disease prevention and health promotion. In this view, ERA4Health objectives are: .SO1- Support relevant medical research including clinical fields and intervention areas (prevention, diagnosis, treatment) .SO2- Improve the utilisation of existing health technologies in clinical practice .SO3- Build capacity, in particular in conducting Investigator Initiated Clinical Studies at EU scale .SO4- Implement and advance the practice of RRI across the breadth of the programme ERA4Heatlth will be implemented in 2 phases: . Phase 1 (2 years) will implement joint calls focused on nutrition and lifestyle-related diseases, cardiovascular diseases and nanomedicine (4 in two years). In parallel, it will establish a supporting framework to overcome the challenges in launching international IICSs joint calls. . Phase 2, if the EC approves it: additional multinational calls for IICSs and joint calls for other priority areas will be launched in accordance with the decision of the Health Programme Committee taken at the end of previous Phase 34 partners (20 from EU, 3 Third Countries associated to HE and 2 non-associated, non EU), will commit 90,510,000€, during the 3 first years, as financial support to third parties. |
ATHEM-03-GEN - Genomic instability in cells from persons exposed to RF from base stations
Genomická nestabilita v bunkách od osôb vystavených RF zo základných staníc
| Duration: | 8. 9. 2021 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 5916145 |
| Program: | Iné |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Beliaev Igor DrSc. |
| Annotation: | The blood samples from persons exposed to radiofrequency radiation (RF) from base stations will be analyzed for DNA damage and genetic instability using comprehensive techniques and endpoints including oxidative damage, comet assay, chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei assay, preleukemic gene fusions. The data will be correlated with RF exposures provided by the German partner. |
TRANSPAN - Identification of biological markers for prevention and translational medicine in pancreatic cancer
Identifikácia biologických markerov pre prevenciu a translačnú medicínu pri rakovine pankreasu
| Duration: | 11. 10. 2022 - 10. 10. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA21116 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Smolková Božena PhD. |
| Annotation: | Pancreatic cancer (PC) has a high mortality rate and is projected to become a massive public health problem in Europe. This Action will boost research on prevention of PC, particularly in the discovery of genetic risk factors, risk stratification, identification of biomarkers for early detection and patient monitoring, elucidation of biological mechanisms and functional pharmacogenomics for personalized medicine. These aims will be attained by expanding an existing interdisciplinary network. The Action will be organized in the following working groups: • Disease risk profiling. This WG will use germline genetic variants, epigenetics, transcriptomics and environmental factors to model disease risk and apply risk stratification scores to better select individuals eligible to be screened for PC or its precursors. • Non-invasive biomarkers. This WG will apply state-of-the-art liquid biopsies for the detection and characterization of circulating tumor cells and DNA, tumor-derived exosomes, tumor-educated platelets, epigenetic markers, and will test their diagnostic value for PC precursors and early-stage PC. • Tumor profiling. Genomic, epigenomic and transcriptional profiling of PC and its precursors in a multiregional analysis fashion will be used to identify novel biomarkers with prognosis and predictive value for PC patient stratification. • Functional genomics and therapy. This WG will functionally validate candidate genetic variants from germline or tumor studies by using cutting-edge approaches such as CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing. It will also generate novel approaches such as organoids / zebrafish avatars to implement (chemo)therapeutic strategies based on the patient in an effort to implement personalized medicine for PC. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA21116/ |
DYNALIFE - Information, Coding, and Biological Function: the Dynamics of Life
Informácia, kódovanie a biologická funkcia: Dynamika života
| Duration: | 2. 10. 2023 - 18. 9. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA21169 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Farkaš Robert CSc. |
| Annotation: | The previous and current work of our group focuses on the mechanistic aspects of apocrine secretion (AS), a novel and previously incorrectly described type of non-canonical and non-vesicular transport and secretory mechanism. We discovered AS by serendipity in salivary glands of Drosophila, a well defined genetic model organism. Our long-term goal is to decipher molecular and genetic aspects of AS using tools so uniquely available in the fruitfly. As we already found, AS is phylogenetically conserved, and it is present in all eukaryotic metazoans, including human. In addition, AS is implicated also in at least two dozen of human disorders. Material released by AS is considerably enriched in proteins (proteomics identified >1500 entities), and this liquid “soup” contains highly viable or zymogen-like dormant proteins capable of immediate activation upon challenge. All these aspects make phenomenon of apocrine secretion very dynamic biological system. Currently, we are the only research group in the world that deals with elementary molecular-genetic and structural aspects of apocrine secretion per se. |
ISIDORe - Integrated Services for Infectious Disease Outbreak Research
Integrované služby pre výskum prepuknutia infekčných chorôb
| Duration: | 1. 2. 2022 - 31. 7. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 101046133 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Klempa Boris DrSc. |
RESIST-D - Reward-stress interactions as neurobiological substrate for resilience and vulnerability in mental health and depression: A translational large-scale project
Interakcia medzi odmenou a stresom ako neurobiologický podklad odolnosti a rezistencie v duševnom zdraví a depresii: Rozsiahly translačný projekt
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | NEURON_RV-114 |
| Program: | ERANET |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Hlaváčová Nataša PhD. |
CCI4EU - COMPREHENSIVE CANCER INFRASTRUCTURES 4 EUROPE
KOMPLEXNÉ ONKOLOGICKÉ INFRAŠTRUKTÚTY 4 EUROPE
| Duration: | 1. 5. 2023 - 30. 4. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 101103746 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Čierniková Soňa PhD. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cci4eu.eu/ |
TRANSLACORE - Translational control in Cancer European Network
Kontrola translácie v Cancer European Network
| Duration: | 4. 10. 2022 - 3. 10. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA21154 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Jurkovičová Dana DrSc. |
Genome Editing to Treat Humans Diseases
Liečba chorôb modifikáciou genómu
| Duration: | 15. 9. 2022 - 14. 9. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA21113 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | prof. PharmDr. Ježová Daniela DrSc. |
INFOGUT - International networking on in vitro colon models simulating gut microbiota mediated interactions
Medzinárodná sieť zameraná na in vitro modely hrubého čreva simulujúce interakcie sprostredkované črevnou mikrobiotou
| Duration: | 9. 10. 2024 - 8. 10. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | CA23110 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Matúšková Miroslava PhD. |
IMMUNO-model - Modelling immunotherapy response and toxicity in cancer
Modelovanie toxicity a odpovede na imunoterapiu pri liečbe rakoviny
| Duration: | 2. 11. 2022 - 1. 11. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA21135 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Smolková Božena PhD. |
| Annotation: | The IMMUNO-model COST Action aims to foster research and innovation in the field of preclinical immuno-oncology models with the ultimate goal of advancing in the treatment of cancer patients by improving their outcomes and quality of life. The unprecedented change that immunotherapy has represented in the treatment of cancer is best illustrated by the spectacular results obtained in previously incurable malignancies, such as metastatic melanoma. However, the widespread use of these therapies has been hindered by their limited effectiveness and associated toxicities. A better understanding on the complex interactions between tumor cells and the immune system is strictly required to address these problems, and to develop more effective and safer immunotherapies. However, one of the most important obstacles in immuno-oncology research is the scarcity of preclinical models that faithfully recapitulate human immunity and contribute to identify novel therapeutic targets, characterize biomarkers of therapeutic response and toxicity, and generate reliable data on drug synergies. IMMUNO-model will bring together European researchers from diverse sectors (academia, clinical, industry) with the common goal of establishing a Network that endorses immuno-oncology research by specifically promoting the sharing, standardization and application of immunotherapy preclinical models. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA21135/ |
NanoBio4Can - Nanobiotechnologies for Innovative Therapeutic Approaches for Cancer
Nanotechnológie pre inovatívne terapeutické prístupy pre rakovinu
| Duration: | 1. 11. 2023 - 31. 10. 2028 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Matúšková Miroslava PhD. |
| Annotation: | NANOBIO4CAN is a new collaborative research & training programme of excellence for the recruitment of 24 postdoctoral fellows in the field of cancer nanomedecine It is led by Sabanci University Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM) in collaboration with 3 leading Turkish research centers in life sciences: TUBITAK Marmara Research Center (TUBITAK-MAM), Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM) and Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center (IBG). The overarching objective of the programme is to enhance the potential and future career perspectives of recruited postdoctoral fellows by providing a highly interdisciplinary & intersectoral research approach in nanobiotechnology & cancer research while maintaining the highest research quality standards and fulfilling all the principles of Open Science. The programme will also further strengthen the collaborative approach of the beneficiary and implementing participating entities by consolidating their excellence and outstanding track-record and providing the ideal setting for prospective postdoctoral researchers in the programme’s research priorities |
Precision-BTC-Ne - Precision medicine in biliary tract cancer
Presná medicína pri rakovine žlčových ciest
| Duration: | 9. 10. 2023 - 8. 10. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | CA22125 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Jurkovičová Dana DrSc. |
PRAGMATICK - Prevention, anticipation and mitigation of tick-borne disease risk applying the DAMA protocol
Prevencia, predvídanie a zmierňovanie rizika ochorenia prenášaného kliešťami pomocou protokolu DAMA
| Duration: | 18. 10. 2022 - 17. 10. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA21170 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Minichová Lenka PhD. |
| Annotation: | Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) represent a national security threat for every country, exacerbated by climate change, human population expansion, urbanization, and globalization. Based on theoretical expectations previously EIDs were thought to be rare and impossible to anticipate because they require novel genetic mutations to infect novel hosts. A new conceptual framework has been developing for nearly 40 years and has recently been articulated in a manner that leads directly to a protocol for taking proactive or anticipatory steps in coping with EIDs, especially those numerous high probability/low impact pathogens. The framework is called the Stockholm paradigm, which shows that a major trigger of emerging disease, now and in the past, has been climate change. The PRAGMATICK COST action aims to disseminate knowledge and promote the application of the Stockholm paradigm in order to anticipate and mitigate disease risk associated with the presence and spread of ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) under anthropogenic pressure and changing climate. This research network will apply the comprehensive and highly focused DAMA (Document, Assess, Monitor, Act) protocol that allows to “anticipate to mitigate” emerging diseases. The main focus is on urban tick and TBP hotspots and the spread and establishment of ticks and TBPs. PRAGMATICK will find new ticks and tick-borne pathogens before they find us. By applying citizen science and supporting capacity building in the domain of tick and tick-borne disease prevention, the Action will eventually lead to new and improved insights in the potential threats related to this important group of vectors across Europe. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA21170/#tabs+Name:Description |
PRAGMATICK - Prevention, anticipation and mitigation of tick-borne disease risk applying the DAMA protocol
Prevencia, predvídanie a zmierňovanie rizika ochorenia prenášaného kliešťami pomocou protokolu DAMA
| Duration: | 18. 10. 2022 - 17. 10. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | CA 21170 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Špitalská Eva PhD. |
| Annotation: | Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) represent a national security threat for every country, exacerbated by climate change, human population expansion, urbanization, and globalization. Based on theoretical expectations previously EIDs were thought to be rare and impossible to anticipate because they require novel genetic mutations to infect novel hosts. A new conceptual framework has been developing for nearly 40 years and has recently been articulated in a manner that leads directly to a protocol for taking proactive or anticipatory steps in coping with EIDs, especially those numerous high probability/low impact pathogens. The framework is called the Stockholm paradigm, which shows that a major trigger of emerging disease, now and in the past, has been climate change. The PRAGMATICK COST action aims to disseminate knowledge and promote the application of the Stockholm paradigm in order to anticipate and mitigate disease risk associated with the presence and spread of ticks and tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) under anthropogenic pressure and changing climate. This research network will apply the comprehensive and highly focused DAMA (Document, Assess, Monitor, Act) protocol that allows to “anticipate to mitigate” emerging diseases. The main focus is on urban tick and TBP hotspots and the spread and establishment of ticks and TBPs. PRAGMATICK will find new ticks and tick-borne pathogens before they find us. By applying citizen science and supporting capacity building in the domain of tick and tick-borne disease prevention, the Action will eventually lead to new and improved insights in the potential threats related to this important group of vectors across Europe. |
Role of the CA IX ectodomain in tumor growth and metastasis
Úloha ektodomény CA IX v nádorovom raste a metastázovaní
| Duration: | 11. 11. 2014 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Program: | Iné |
| Project leader: | prof. RNDr. Pastoreková Silvia DrSc. |
| Annotation: | This project is aimed at understanding the role of the CA IX ECD in tumor growth and metastasis in vivo using mouse models. We intend to evaluate growth of tumor xenografts (following subcutaneous implantation of tumor cells) and colonization of lungs (following injection of tumor cells into the tail vein) in absence and presence of the recombinant CA IX ECD. In addition, we plan to evaluate potential therapeutic targeting of CA IX ECD through analysis of the anticancer effect of antibodies binding to different regions of the ectodomain, including M75 and VII/20. Particularly M75 is of great interest, because the N-terminal PG region, to which M75 binds, was recently found to be involved in cell adhesion and spreading, the processes contributing to metastatic dissemination. On the other hand, MAb VII/20 binds to the central CA catalytic domain and was previously shown to reduce the growth of primary tumors, but its effect on metastasis has not been examined so far. Thus, we expect that the project will allow us to dissect the role of ECD in metastasis and propose antibody-based therapeutic strategies to reduce metastatic growth. |
AMETIS - The role of Adipose tissue and muscle crosstalk in the regulation of METabolic flexibility: exploration of novel predictors of the lifestyle Intervention Success in patients with obesity
Úloha tukového tkaniva a svalov v regulácii metabolickej flexibility: Skúmanie nových prediktorov úspešnej intervencie do životného štýlu obéznych pacientov
| Duration: | 1. 5. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | NU23-01-00509 |
| Program: | Iné |
| Project leader: | prof. MUDr. Ukropcová Barbara PhD. |
VACCELERATE - VACCELERATE - European Corona Vaccine Trial Accelerator Platform
VACCELERATE - Európska platforma na akceleráciu klinického skúšania vakcín proti novému koronavírusu
| Duration: | 28. 1. 2021 - 27. 1. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | H2020-IBA-SC1-CORONAVIRUS-2020-4-ID: 101037867 |
| Program: | Horizont 2020 |
| Project leader: | prof. RNDr. Pastoreková Silvia DrSc. |
| Annotation: | The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for concerted efforts towards vaccine development in Europe. The EU-funded VACCELERATE project creates a platform connecting all European vaccine development stakeholders. VACCELERATE maps clinical trial and laboratory sites across Europe and identifies the best locations for conducting Phase 2 and 3 vaccine trials. A Volunteer Registry provides access to trial participants. The network coordinates laboratory support and provides standardised assays and trial protocols. VACCELERATE identifies and shares emerging public health questions, provides answers through its own clinical trials, and lends expertise and tangible support to vaccine developers from industry and academia. With these efforts, VACCELERATE partners are creating a network ready to face emerging pandemics and enhance vaccine development capacity in Europe. |
| Project web page: | https://vaccelerate.eu |
ANGELA - Early detection of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma with the Cytosponge coupled with molecular biomarkers and machine learning
Včasná detekcia spinocelulárneho karcinómu pažeráka pomocou Cytosponge v spojení s molekulárnymi biomarkermi a strojovým učením
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2023 - 31. 8. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | TRANSCAN-3/2022/655/ANGELA |
| Program: | ERANET |
| Project leader: | Ing. Karhánek Miloslav PhD. |
WIMANET - Wildlife Malaria Network
Výskum malárie voľne žijúcich zvierat
| Duration: | 28. 9. 2023 - 27. 9. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | CA22108 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Minichová Lenka PhD. |
| Annotation: | Vector-borne diseases, and emerging infectious diseases of wildlife, are major contributors to the global disease burden and of increasing concern globally. Haemosporidian parasites are ubiquitous in nature, hugely diverse, and associated with morbidity and mortality across taxa, including humans, livestock and wildlife. Many research groups globally focus on these parasites as model systems for addressing a broad range of ecological and evolutionary questions with economic and health implications. This Action will bring together individuals and research groups to focus on coordinating research objectives to which multiple groups can contribute existing datasets, meaning that questions can be addressed at a global, rather than a local or regional, scale. Ornithologists, mammologists and herpetologists have a long history of investigating haemosporidian parasites in natural populations; these studies have provided insights into host-parasite associations, parasite geographic distributions, host-switching and the context-dependence of host-parasite relationships, alongside pathogenic impacts and conservation implications of haemosporidian infections. Increasingly, research groups are investigating the vectors of these parasites, and utilising novel genetic techniques to understand parasite gene expression, among many other examples. Coordinating and sharing research efforts between groups offers huge potential for large-scale collaborative research initiatives. This Action will promote the development of a common research agenda by providing opportunities for training, collaboration and knowledge exchange, targeting diverse researchers across disciplines to foster an interdisciplinary approach, whilst also recruiting and supporting a diversity of new researchers. The Action will target stakeholders, policymakers and the general public to endorse knowledge transfer and maximise the reach of the network. |
| Project web page: | https://www.cost.eu/actions/CA22108/#tabs+Name:Description |
N/A - Investigation of selected triorganotin compounds potentially acting as nuclear retinoid X receptor ligands in breast cancer derived cell lines by in silico and in vitro approaches
Výskum vybraných triorganocíničitých zlúčenín potenciálne účinkujúcich ako ligandy nukleárnych retinoidných X receptorov v ľudských karcinómoch prsníka pomocou in silico a in vitro metodologických prístupov
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 31. 8. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2024-03-15-004 |
| Program: | Bilaterálne - iné |
| Project leader: | Ing. Brtko Július DrSc. |
ZOE - Zoonoses Emergence across Degraded and Restored Forest Ecosystems
Vznik zoonóz v poškodených a obnovených lesných ekosystémoch
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 101135094 |
| Program: | Horizont Európa |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Klempa Boris DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss may facilitate the emergence of zoonotic diseases. The 4-year ZOE project will analyze the links between landcover and land use changes in tropical biodiversity hot-spots facing loss of primary forest and biodiversity and in temperate regions that have undergone ecosystem degradation and deforestation over historical timescales. In areas experiencing different levels of ecosystem degradation, biodiversity assessments will be based on remote sensing-based GIS analysis of landscape structures, geobotanic plant mapping, and targeted trapping of rodents, ticks, and mosquitoes, as prototypic reservoirs and vectors of zoonotic diseases (macro-organism scale). Host and soil-associated microbiome and virome high-throughput sequencing will be combined with assessment of human exposure to prototypic zoonotic pathogens, using high-throughput serological analyses (microbiological scale). ZOE will link with local communities and stakeholders to address perceived land use and land cover changes, disease occurrence, coping strategies, and risk behaviour. Results will be synthesized in modelling and risk mapping frameworks linking biodiversity loss and zoonotic disease risks and tested in forecasting scenarios to feed into cost-efficient monitoring schemes and early warning systems. An online knowledge platform will be created to link all relevant stakeholders of the biodiversity-health nexus, including other EU-funded consortia, national and supranational organizations stakeholders, local communities, and the public. A joint stakeholder conference will be organized, and community engagement workshops will specifically co-create and advance knowledge in local communities involved in ZOE. The ZOE project is proposed by an interdisciplinary consortium with expertise in geography, geobotanics, ecology, virology, immunology, epidemiology, sociology, psychology, anthropology and science dissemination from 7 EU and 4 American countries. |
| Project web page: | https://www.zoe-project.eu/ |
ProteoCure - A sound proteome for a sound body: targeting proteolysis for proteome remodeling
Zdravý proteóm pre zdravé telo: zacielenie proteolýzy na remodeláciu proteómu
| Duration: | 1. 11. 2023 - 6. 10. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | CA20113 |
| Program: | COST |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Farkaš Robert CSc. |
| Annotation: | Our work focuses on the mechanistic aspects of apocrine secretion (AS), a novel and previously incorrectly described type of non-canonical and non-vesicular transport and secretory mechanism. As we discovered apocrine secretion in Drosophila, well defined genetic model organism, we are pursuing research aimed at deciphering its molecular and genetic aspects using tools so uniquely available in the fruitfly. AS is evolutionarily conserved, and can be found in all eukaryotic metazoans. Material released by apocrine secretion is considerably enriched in proteins (>1500 entities), and this liquid soup contains highly viable or zymogen-like dormant proteins capable of immediate activation upon challenge. Numerous of these proteins are proteases and their regulators/inhibitors. The main function we described for this secretion is a first defense line in immune response, where these proteases become rapidly activated in action against microorganisms or other antigens. Moreover, AS is implicated also in at least two dozen of human disorders. |
REACH - Reversing Epitranscriptomic Alterations for CHemosensitization of Pancreatic Cancer
Zvrátenie epitranskriptomických zmien pre chemosenzibilizáciu nádorov pankreasu
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 31. 8. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | TRANSCAN-3/2023/977.C/REACH |
| Program: | ERANET |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Smolková Božena PhD. |
National Projects
GBECIRRP - Role of Gingko-biloba in the epigenetic modulation and cell malignant transformation against ionizing radiation as used in radiotherapy patients
Úloha Gingko-biloby v epigenetickej modulácii a malígnej transformácii buniek proti ionizujúcemu žiareniu u pacientov podstupujúcich rádioterapiu.
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 31. 7. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00426 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Gulati Sachin PhD. |
| Annotation: | Therapeutic resistance to radiotherapy is one of the main obstacles in cancer treatment. This project develops combination strategies involving Ginkgo biloba (GB) as a radiosensitizer to overcome radioresistance in conventional radiotherapy and enhance its antitumor effects. We will evaluate the role of GB as a radiosensitizer in promoting apoptosis induced by reactive oxygen species using flow cytometry after irradiation of human tumor cell lines. Currently, no study addresses the role of GB as an epigenetic drug in combination with irradiation for therapy. We will investigate epigenetic modulation through DNA/RNA methylation and histone protein modifications in tumor cell lines affected by GB after irradiation. Changes in malignant cell transformation will be assessed using the soft agar colony formation assay and cell transplantation methods in SCID mice. We will monitor GB's differential response to tumors by evaluating tumor size, weight, and histopathological analysis. |
| Project web page: | http://www.biomedcentrum.sav.sk/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Opis_projektu_R2-R4_final_09I03-03-V04-00426.pdf |
„Matching" grants to resources obtained from the private sector in the framework of research cooperation
„Matching“ granty ku zdrojom získaným od súkromného sektora v rámci výskumnej spolupráce
| Duration: | 13. 6. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I02-03-V02-00023 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | prof. RNDr. Pastoreková Silvia DrSc. |
„Matching" grants to resources obtained from the private sector in the framework of research cooperation
„Matching“ granty ku zdrojom získaným od súkromného sektora v rámci výskumnej spolupráce
| Duration: | 6. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I02-03-V02-00034 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | prof. RNDr. Pastoreková Silvia DrSc. |
Nano-Neuro-Plast - Activation of the VGF/BDNF/TrkB pathway by synthetic mRNA encapsulated in polyplex nanoparticles: effects on neural excitability, neuroplasticity and animal behavior
Aktivácia VGF/BDNF/TrkB dráhy syntetickou mRNA zapúzdrenou v polyplexových nanočasticiach: účinky na nervovú excitabilitu, neuroplasticitu a správanie zvierat
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0202 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | prof. PharmDr. Ježová Daniela DrSc. |
Analysis of the clinical relevance of EDA2R gene duplication in autistic boy stem cells to his disease.Characterization of EDA2R receptor expression in stem cells obtained from the dental pulp of permanent and temporary teeth.
Analýza klinickej relevancie duplikácie EDA2R génu v kmeňových bunkách chlapa s autizmom k jeho ochoreniu. Charakterizácia expresie EDA2R receptora v kmeňových bunkách získaných z dentálnej pulpy permanentných a dočasných zubov.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 1/0483/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Altaner Čestmír DrSc. |
GPHELIC - Analysis of the role of G-patch proteins in regulating RNA helicases involved in pre-mRNA splicing in Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Analýza úlohy G-patch proteínov pri regulácii RNA helikáz zapojených do zostrihu pre-mRNA kvasinky Schizosaccharomyces pombe
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0205 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Ing. Čipák Ľuboš PhD. |
Analysis of the role of poorly characterized factors in regulating the processivity of RNA polymerase II in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Analýza úlohy málo charakterizovaných faktorov v regulácii procesivity RNA polymerázy II v kvasinke Schizosaccharomyces pombe
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0014 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Selický Tomáš PhD. |
| Annotation: | Maintenance of gene expression depends on the regulation of RNA transcription catalyzed by RNA polymerase II (RNAP II). RNAP II is a complex enzyme composed of several subunits. The largest subunit of RNAP II, Rpb1, features a distinctive C-terminal domain (CTD) consisting of multiple repeats of a consensus heptapeptide YSPTSPS. It is known that RNAP II activity correlates tightly with the phosphorylation pattern of the heptapeptide repeats in the CTD. Currently, several CTD kinases and phosphatases are known to be associated with initiation, productive elongation, and termination of transcription. In this project, I plan to analyze the regulatory role of two poorly characterized factors, SPBP4H10.16c and Whi2, associated with RNAP II CTD S5 small phosphatase Psr1, for their possible role in the regulation of RNAP II processivity in the fission yeast S. pombe. A better understanding of how SPBP4H10.16c and Whi2 factors modulate the activity of phosphatase Psr1 would allow us to reveal how tightly the activities of particular CTD kinases and phosphatases are regulated and how an imbalance in phosphorylation of RNAP II CTD due to dysfunction of SPBP4H10.16c, Whi2, and Psr1 affects gene expression. |
NEWSPLIC - Analysis of the role of newly identified spliceosome-associated factors in the assembly and remodeling of early splicing complexes and the activation of the spliceosome in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Analýza úlohy novoidentifikovaných faktorov viažucich sa na komplex zostrihu pre-mRNA pri zostavovaní a prestavbe skorých komplexov zostrihu pre-mRNA a aktivácii komplexu zostrihu pre-mRNA v kvasinke Schizosaccharomyces pombe
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00445 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Ing. Čipák Ľuboš PhD. |
CoViD - Antiviral drugs against COVID-19: Design, synthesis and biological activity testing of specific inhibitors of viral proteases of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2
Antivirálne liečivá proti COVID-19: Dizajn, syntéza a testovanie aktivity špecifických inhibítorov virálnych proteáz koronavírusu SARS-CoV-2
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0108 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Nemčovičová Ivana PhD. |
| Annotation: | The pandemic of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes serious diseases of the respiratory tract (COVID-19), poses a long-term threat to human health. The vaccination of the population with available vaccines in Slovakia is low and currently only one broad-spectrum antiviral drug - remdesivir, which is targeted to viral RNA polymerase, has been approved for the treatment of COVID-19. Our team, based on many years of experience in designing new antiviral agents (e. g. against HIV-1, HCV, Dengue, influenza A virus), has been intensively researching viral protease inhibitors since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. targeted against the main protease Mpro and papain-like protease PLpro of SARS-CoV-2 virus, which are among the key pharmacological targets for antiviral therapy. The presented project builds on our previous results, which combine competencies from five experienced groups of researchers from two universities (FaF and PriF UK, UCM), together with CHÚ SAV and VÚ BMV SAV. The project strategy is based on the following integrated approach to drug research: • Computer-assisted design and optimization of specific peptidomimetic α-ketoamides that inhibit the proteolytic activity of Mpro; optimization of two series of bis-benzylidenecyclohexanones and benzamides that inhibit the proteolytic and deubiquitination activity of PLpro for the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. • Development of synthetic routes and synthesis of peptidomimetic α-ketoamides, benzamides and bis- benzylidenecyclohexanones. • Testing for inhibition of enzymatic activity of three groups of substances on recombinantly prepared enzymes Mpro and PLpro and development of new methods for testing inhibitory activity on viral enzymes. • In vitro antiviral activity testing of three groups of substances at the level of inhibition of human cell lines infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus. • Research into the interactions of new inhibitors with biological membranes and the optimization of absorption and bioavailability. |
MyeLon - Bacterial Lon protease as an emerging tool for multiple myeloma treatment
Bakteriálna Lon proteáza ako perspektívny nástroj na liečbu mnohopočetného myelómu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0215 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Jakubíková Jana PhD. |
Barrier proteins in relation to myelin and mental disorders
Bariérové proteíny vo vzťahu k myelínu a mentálnym poruchám
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0044 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Karailiev Peter PhD. |
GLYCO4BIO - Biochip systems for targeted glycan analysis of biomarkers for biomedical and biotechnological applications
Biočipové systémy na cielenú glykánovú analýzu biomarkerov pre biomedicínske a biotechnologické aplikácie
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0243 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Nemčovičová Ivana PhD. |
| Annotation: | The GLYCO4BIO project focuses on research and development of analytical systems based on microarray biochips enabling targeted and high-throughput glycoprofiling and their use in biomedicine and biotechnology. This is a strongly interdisciplinary research with a high degree of innovation, especially in the field of construction and application of original biochip devices on the microarray platform. New systems for analyzing glycan structures in various types of biological samples will be developed, verified and validated, such as a high-performance microfluidic reflectometric label-free microarray system, and an on-chip glycoprofiling platform combining microarray and MS technology. The expected benefit of the presented project is mainly in the development of innovative biochip systems for targeted glycorecognition based on modern technologies and their use in biomedicine, biotechnology, the study of biointeractions and in the analysis and screening of biomarkers. The systems will be applied, for example, in the research and detection of biomarkers of congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG), cancer, gestational diabetes, in oncological research, as well as in the development and characterization of the therapeutic proteins. The developed biochip systems significantly outperform traditional techniques and have a high potential for their translation into clinical analysis. The expected results of the project will improve and expand the possibilities of diagnostics and therapy, and significant benefits are also expected in the expansion of knowledge in the field of biomedical research, glycoproteomics and biotechnology. |
Biologically relevant mixtures of endocrine disruptors: effects on in vitro models of ovarian intrafollicular processes and ovarian cancer cell lines
Biologicky relevantné zmesi endokrinných disruptorov: účinky na in vitro modeloch ovariálnych intrafolikulárnych procesov a ovariálnych nádorových líniách
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0145/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Bujňáková Mlynarčíková Alžbeta PhD. |
ChromUM - Targeting high-order chromatin regulation for the treatment of poor prognosis uveal melanoma
Cielená modulácia chromatínovej štruktúry v liečbe malígneho melanómu uvey so zlou prognózou
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0294 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Smolková Božena PhD. |
| Annotation: | Significant strides in cancer therapy have arisen from the successes of targeted therapies, DNA repair inhibitors, and immunotherapy. Despite these advances, a substantial proportion of cancer patients, including those with uveal melanoma (UM), fail to benefit from these approaches, prompting the consideration of alternative mechanisms. While extensive DNA methylation reprogramming has been demonstrated in poor prognosis UMs, higher-order chromatin structures in the context of gene expression remain unexplored. Drawing from our preliminary data, which highlights the deregulation of epigenetic modifiers, predominantly histone and chromatin remodelers, we posit that these epigenetic regulations play an even more pivotal role in UM progression than DNA methylation itself. Understanding these mechanisms holds therapeutic promise. However, the success of third-generation epigenetic drugs, targeting histone modifications and chromatin remodeling, is possible only in molecularly selected patient populations using biomarker-driven approaches. To achieve this, we will leverage up-to-date technological advances that revolutionize the understanding of cell-to-cell variability, including high-throughput next-generation sequencing and single-cell omics. The scATAC-seq (Single cell Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin using sequencing) technique, assessing genome-wide chromatin accessibility, in combination with scRNA-seq (Single cell RNA sequencing), will be employed to identify novel enhancers or gene regulatory regions for a given cell type or context of interest. This approach aids in deciphering tissue heterogeneity, evaluating the extent of reprogramming in individual UM subpopulations, and their role in UM progression. Selection of the most relevant targets will be based on epigenomic profiling. The efficacy and safety of mono- and combination therapies will be assessed in vitro and in vivo, utilizing already developed and validated patient-derived xenograft models. |
TBEFAFS - Circulation of tick-borne encephalitis virus in foci close to agricultural farms and in sylvatic sites of Slovakia
Cirkulácia vírusu kliešťovej encefalitídy v blízkosti poľnohospodárskych fariem a lesných lokalitách na Slovensku
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0247 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Ličková Martina PhD. |
| Annotation: | Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral disease of the central nervous system which is caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV). The main source of infections in humans are infected ticks attached to the skin, mainly the species Ixodes ricinus. In addition, alimentary TBE infections exist through consumption of unpasteurized milk and dairy products from infected livestock (sheep, goats, cattle). In Europe, Slovakia is characterized by a relatively high proportion of alimentary TBE in the total number of TBE cases. During the last few decades the TBE incidence including alimentary infections has an increasing trend and new TBEV foci have been identified in the northern parts of Slovakia and at higher altitudes. TBEV circulates in natural foci, ticks are its vectors and small mammals, mainly rodents, are its reservoir hosts. In spite of extensive knowledge on TBEV foci in Slovakia gained during the second half of the 20th century, in the current era of global changes and increasing TBE incidence, relatively few attention is given to the exploration of TBEV foci. In the proposed project, we will apply the “One Health” approach. The main aim of the project is the characterization of peculiarities in TBEV circulation and spread in recently discovered foci near agricultural farms in Slovakia. In addition, the role of small rodents in maintenance of TBEV microfoci and differences in virus circulation between rural foci and natural foci in forest ecosystems will be investigated. The project has a character of basic research with possible utilization of the project outcomes by farmers in the elimination of TBE infection risks in freely grazing livestock and by the epidemiological information system of the Public Health Authority of the Slovak Republic. |
ExCell - Exercise modulates cargo of circulating extracellular vesicles in humans in health and disease
Cvičenie moduluje náklad cirkulujúcich extracelulárnych vezikúl u ľudí v zdraví a chorobe
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00421 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Alchus Laiferová Nikoleta PhD. |
Cytokine profiling together with carbonic anhydrase IX immunotargeting as a promising tool in diagnostics and treatment of pancreatic cancer
Cytokínové profilovanie v spojení s imunotargetingom karbonickej anhydrázy IX ako perspektívny nástroj v diagnostike a liečbe rakoviny pankreasu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0480 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Švastová Eliška PhD. |
Detailed analysis and elucidation of functions of Cka1 and Ksg1 protein kinases using the conditional ATP analog-sensitive mutants
Detailná analýza a objasnenie funkcie Cka1 a Ksg1 proteínkináz využitím ich kondičných na ATP analógy citlivých mutantov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0021/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Čipák Ľuboš PhD. |
DNA methylation biomarkers as a tool for the implementation of liquid biopsy in uveal melanoma
DNA metylácia ako nástroj pre implemetáciu tekutej biopsie u melanómu uvey
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0027/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Horváthová Kajabová Viera PhD. |
| Annotation: | Uveal melanoma (UM) is aggressive cancer originating from the pigmented layers of the eye. Clinical decision-making in UM routinely relies on evaluating metastasic risk based on clinicopathologic tumor features. Moreover, prognostic assessment for patients who undergo sight-preserving approaches can only be determined through invasive tissue biopsies, which carry the risk of spreading tumor cells. The non-invasive liquid biopsy, which in UM involves detecting tumor-related genetic aberrations in blood samples, is currently hindered by several challenges. Recent research has revealed that DNA methylation is a prominent feature of high-risk UMs. Therefore, we hypothesize that tumor-specific DNA methylation changes identified in peripheral blood may serve as reliable prognostic markers. Their specificity and sensitivity will be tested and validated in a carefully curated cohort of UM patients. Implementation of liquid biopsy in UM has the potential to support clinical decision-making and improve patient care. |
NonATBofTBD - Non-antibiotic approach for the treatment of tick-borne infections
Eliminácia kliešťami prenášaných infekcií bez použitia antibiotík
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0325 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Špitalská Eva PhD. |
EPIRAD - Epigenetic regulation effect of circRNA on radiation-induced damage
Epigenetická regulácia účinku circRNA na radiačne-indukované poškodenie
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | SK-CN-23-0038 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Beliaev Igor DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Pulmonary fibrosis caused by radiation exposure is a common complication of radiotherapy patients. Due to the lack of effective prevention and drugs in clinical practice, lung damage due to fibrosis is not a controlled and reversible process. Previous studies found that epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) is a key driving factor and an important link in the process of pulmonary fibrosis. Moreover, the EMT process is accompanied by a significant change in the expression profile of cyclic RNA (circRNA), now considered to be a key element of the mechanism for the regulation of pulmonary fibrosis. The screening research done by the Chinese team has shown that circRNA0085439 is a radio-responsive circRNA. Overexpression of circRNA0085439 can effectively reverse the radio-induced decrease in the expression of epithelial marker E-cadherin and the increase in the expression of interstitial marker N-cadherin. The Slovak research team will test two independent methods for quantification of circRNA0085439 in selected lung epithelial cell lines. This approach will be used for validation of qPCR data. In the proposed project, we hypothesized that circRNA0085439 may activate the Hippo signal pathway by SAV1, thus inhibiting the occurrence and development of radioactive pulmonary fibrosis. We plan to carry out a targeted synthesis of nanoparticles based on gold, platinum, and palladium, and to study their physico-chemical and biological properties in cellular and animal models. We predict that the size, concentration, incubation time with nanoparticles, dose, and type of radiation will affect the expression of circRNA0085439. On this basis, we plan to select and develop a nanocarrier functionalized with circRNA0085439, which will be characterized using spectroscopic and thermogravimetric methods in terms of its functionality and stability, to determine the ability to induce overexpression of circRNA0085439. |
AVAK - Eradication of multiresistant microorganisms including carrier strains in patients using the personalised approach
Eradikácia multirezistentných mikroorganizmov vrátane nosných kmeňov u pacientov pomocou personalizovaného prístupu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0546 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Zelník Vladimír CSc. |
| Annotation: | Currently, the extent of the spread of multidrug-resistant microorganisms (MDR) is a global problem. The prevalence of resistance to antibiotics reduces the effectiveness of treatment and leads to the appearance of difficult-to-treat infections and increased mortality. The commonness of MDR also hurts the environment, including agriculture, which is a threat to food security. According to the WHO, the circulation of cephalosporin-resistant E. coli in 2022 reached 42% in 76 countries, and methicillin-resistant S. aureus – 35%. The development of new therapeutic solutions, including alternative ones, and the improvement of existing ones, which will reduce the use of antimicrobial drugs and the spread of antimicrobial resistance is very important. Autovaccination is one of the known alternative methods used to treat chronic recurrent diseases. Despite extensive experience with the use of autovaccines, the mechanisms of their effect are not sufficiently studied, there are no standardized methods, which limits their wide use. The use of the possibilities of modern immunology and microbiology will make it possible to deepen knowledge about the immune mechanisms of the effect of autovaccines and to modernize the method of production of autovaccines to increase the safety of the autovaccine and preserve its immunogenicity, which will have a positive social and economic effect. |
An experimental study of the interactions of viroids with their plant hosts
Experimentálne štúdium interakcií viroidov s ich rastlinnými hostiteľmi
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V06-00032 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Glasa Miroslav DrSc. |
Extracellular vesicles a tool integrating adaptive response to exercise: in vitro and in vivo studies
Extracelulárne vezikuly ako nástroj integrovanej adaptačnej odpovede na cvičenie: štúdie in vitro a in vivo
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0161/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Ukropec Jozef DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Obesity is the pathophysiological basis of many chronic diseases. Regular exercise prevents obesity and its comorbidities. Adaptation to exercise evokes highly integrated molecular, structural, and functional changes aimed at improving effectivity and flexibility of energy metabolism. Exerkines, signalling molecules released into the blood during exercise, could be effectors of integration, and for better bioavailability they could be transported within extracellular vesicles (EVs). The primary goal is to investigate the molecular composition and capacity of EVs, released into the blood during exercise, to mimic metabolically significant effects of exercise in cells derived from human skeletal muscle and adipose tissue, and to integrate multiorgan changes in energy metabolism in mice. This project will (i) examine the role of EVs in the acute and adaptive response to exercise and (ii) identify biologically relevant molecules that have the potential to improve the metabolic health in patients with obesity. |
Functional analysis of uncharacterized spliceosome-associated factors of Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Funkčná analýza necharakterizovaných na komplex zostrihu viažúcich sa faktorov kvasinky Schizosaccharomyces pombe
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0064/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Kretová Miroslava PhD. |
| Annotation: | Pre‐mRNA splicing is a process characterized by cutting out of the introns and joining the exons together to produce mature mRNAs. Despite the basic principles and most of the factors involved in the splicing process have been defined, there are still many factors which functions during splicing cycle have not yet been characterized. The aim of this project is to study the molecular functions of so far uncharacterized factors SPAC683.02c, SPAC1071.09c, SPAC1952.06c, SPAC30D11.14c and SPBC11C11.01 of the fission yeast S. pombe, which were predicted to be involved in splicing. We will characterize the molecular functions of these factors, focusing on how they regulate other splicing factors and how the efficacy of splicing is affected due to their dysfunction. Overall, this project would allow us to define the molecular functions of predicted splicing factors of S. pombe and expand our understanding of the complexity of mechanisms regulating pre-mRNA splicing. |
MITOFUN - Genetic causes of rare inherited metabolic diseases with emphasis on functional studies of novel variants
Genetické príčiny vzácnych metabolických ochorení s dôrazom na funkčné štúdie nových génových variantov.
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0257 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Gašperíková Daniela DrSc. |
GENRES - Genomics of pyrethroid-resistant mosquitoes from genus Culex infected by West Nile virus in connection to a better understanding of changes in the viral susceptibility
Genomika pyretroid-rezistentných komárov z rodu Culex infikovaných vírusom západonílskej horúčky v súvislosti s lepším pochopením zmien v citlivosti na vírus
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00447 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Čabanová Viktória PhD. |
Glymphatics - Glymphatic system and its utilization in pharmacotherapy of CNS diseases
Glymfatický systém a jeho využitie vo farmakoterapii ochorení CNS
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0274 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Račeková Enikö CSc. |
| Annotation: | The glymphatic system is a recently discovered system represented by paravascular spaces in the central nervous system (CNS), which promotes efficient elimination of soluble proteins and metabolites from the nervous tissue to the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Efficiency of the glymphatic drainage decreases during the aging, whereas the accumulation of metabolites and protein aggregates (e.g. tau protein, amyloid beta) in the nervous tissue may result in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the fact that the glymphatic system plays a key role in the homeostasis of nervous tissue, the knowledge on its organization is limited mostly to the brain regions, while organization of the spinal glymphatic system remains unknown. Understanding of organization and physiology of the glymphatic system could have an impact on the development in the field of pharmacotherapy of the CNS pathologies. Proposed project focuses on the study of the glymphatic system and its utilization for the administration of the therapeutics in the treatment of CNS diseases. The first aim in the proposed project is to analyze the components of the glymphatic system during the ontogenesis, focusing on characterization of attributes, which are important for maintenance of homeostasis and for its potential utilization in the pharmacotherapy. The second aim of the project is to investigate, whether the glymphatic system could be utilized for the intracisternal application of therapeutics loaded into the biodegradable nanoparticles based on silicon dioxide, which could overcome restrictions related to the application of drugs via hematoencephalic barrier, or |
LEONORA - Verification of clinically relevant biomarkers for the stratification of CRC patients by molecular and bioinformatic methods.
Hľadanie klinicky relevantných biomarkerov pre stratifikáciu CRC pacientov použitím molekulárnych a bioinformatických metód.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0170/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Poturnajová Martina PhD. |
| Annotation: | The Slovak Republic has the second highest incidence and mortality from colorectal cancer (CRC) in the world. 50% of patients develop metastases and 40% of stage II-III patients relapse within 5 years after surgical treatment. Research therefore focuses on identifying high-risk patients using new prognostic biomarkers. In the project we will analyze the expression of newly discovered long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), their correlation with disease prognosis, chemoresistance and metastasis and verify the possibility of their use as a prognostic biomarker of the disease. The results could enable to define the risk groups of CRC patients with a worse prognosis or indicate the treatment decision between a more radical vs. gentle therapy for an individual patient. Linking applied research with the needs of the clinical oncology using the latest biostatistical and bioinformatics methods allows us to approach the personalized treatment of CRC patients. |
StressTargets - Searching for new neurobiological targets implicated in stress-related mental disorders in unique animal models
Hľadanie nových neurobiologických cieľov súvisiacich so stresovými duševnými poruchami na jedinečných zvieracích modeloch
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00442 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Hlaváčová Nataša PhD. |
Assessment of protective action of selected phytochemicals against metal nanoparticle-induced neurotoxicity using in vitro cell models
Hodnotenie protektívneho pôsobenia vybraných fytochemikálií proti neurotoxickým účinkom kovových nanočastíc pomocou bunkových modelov in vitro
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0156/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Scsuková Soňa CSc. |
| Annotation: | The rapid progress of nanotechnology has led to a wide variety of innovative (nano)products and applications but has also raised concerns for potential human exposure and adverse health effects. Metal nanoparticles (NPs) are used widely in everyday products and biomedical applications. There is evidence that after crossing the blood-brain barrier, NPs can interact with neural cells inducing a series of disruptions in the nervous system, thereby increasing the potential risks of neurotoxicity. The potential mechanisms of NP action are related mainly to oxidative stress and inflammation. Recently, new approaches increasing the biosafety of NPs are of great interest. Administration of phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties seems to provide a promising potential to mitigate the adverse effects of NPs on biological systems. In the present project, possible protective action of selected phytochemicals against metal NP-induced neurotoxicity will be analyzed using series of in vitro tests. |
NeuroSocial - Characterization of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the brain areas relevant for development of social behaviour in the autism-related model
Charakterizácia excitačných a inhibičných neurónov v oblastiach mozgu doležitých pre vývin sociálneho správania v modeli autizmu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0189 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Bakoš Ján PhD. |
Characterization of NF-kB signaling by defining the anti-myeloma activity and mechanisms of action of QNZ inhibitor
Charakterizácia NF-kB signalizácie definovaním anti-myelómovej aktivity a mechanizmov účinku inhibítora QNZ
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA grant 2/0087/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Cholujová Dana PhD. |
Characterization of novel proteins involved in the regulation of pre-mRNA splicing
Charakterizácia nových proteínov podieľajúcich sa na regulácii zostrihu pre-mRNA
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0059/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Čipáková Ingrid PhD. |
Characterization of the soluble form of carbonic anhydrase IX in molecular subtypes of breast cancer and its significance for prognosis.
Charakterizácia solubilnej formy karbonickej anhydrázy IX v molekulárnych podtypoch karcinómu prsníka a jej význam pre prognózu.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0154/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Režuchová Ingeborg PhD., MPH |
| Annotation: | Carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) is a recognized endogenous marker of tumor hypoxia, and its high expression in the tissue of many solid tumors, including breast carcinomas, is considered an adverse prognostic marker. The importance of the soluble form of CAIX, which can be detected in body fluids, is not yet reliably defined. The soluble CAIX (sCAIX) contains, in addition to the CAIX ectodomain, cleaved from tumor cells by metalloproteases, also CAIX-positive exosomes. Since sCAIX circulates in the body even after primary tumor removal, it can further act in autocrine and/or paracrine signaling. Evaluation of sCAIX levels and their correlation with CAIX expression in tumor tissue and other clinicopathological parameters in early breast cancer patients, together with detailed knowledge of CAIX biogenesis and its soluble form in molecular subtypes of breast cancer, considering their different molecular composition and response to hypoxia, may contribute to the understanding of sCAIX role in disease prognosis. |
APOGEN - dentification of genes controling apocrine secretion
Identifikácia génov kontrolujúcich apokrinnú sekréciu.
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0550 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Farkaš Robert CSc. |
| Annotation: | Apocrine secretion (AS) presently can be characterized as noncanonical and nonvesicular transport and secretory cellular mechanism. On the contrary to classic and intensely investigated exocytosis (merocrine secretion) the major components of which are well characterized for years, the molecular and genetic determinants of apocrine secretion only start to be deciphered due to intensive research in salivary glands of Drosophila melanogaster. In this project we plan to continue and broaden the identification of novel genes linked to the process of AS, as well as study interactions of proteins that represent components of a signaling pathway using molecular and genetic tools available in Drosophila. Previous proteomic analysis of apocrine secretions already indicated strong evolutionary conservation between fruitfly and man, which supports the idea that disclosure of new determinants in Drosophila may provide deeper insights also into pathologies associated with AS dysfunction in humans. |
Identification of key genes for metastasis and tumorigenicity in gastrointestinal tumour cells using epigenetic CRISPR/dCas9.
Identifikácia kĺúčových génov metastázovania a tumorigenicity v bunkách gastrointestinálnych nádorov pomocou epigenetického CRISPR/dCas9.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2025 - 31. 12. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0144/25 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Kozovská Zuzana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Oncological diseases arise as a result of various genetic changes. In addition to mutations in oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes, epigenetic changes that trigger genome instability and alteration in gene expression also play a key role. In the project, we will focus on understanding the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation of expression of key genes of tumorigenicity and metastasis in gastrointestinal tumors with their use in early diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) and pancreatic cancer (PDAC). We will use gene-specific editing of methylation of selected genes (MLH1, CDH1, CXCL12, VHL, TWIST1, DSC2, and NID2) associated with tumor progression using epigenetic CRISPR/dCas9. An approach in which we specifically methylate/demethylate a particular gene and thereby reduce/increase its expression is more effective than using broad-spectrum epigenetic inhibitors that act on the entire genome and, in addition to changes in desired genes, can induce changes leading, for example, to tumor progression. |
INCAM - Identification of novel biomarkers linked to the relapse of metastatic colorectal cancer after metastasectomy
Identifikácia nových biomarkerov spojených s relapsom metastatického kolorektálneho karcinómu po metastasektómii
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0296 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Matúšková Miroslava PhD. |
| Annotation: | Colorectal cancer (CRC) belong to the most frequent malignancies worldwide. Approximately 20% of CRC patients are diagnosed with liver metastases at the time of primary tumour diagnosis. The liver is the most frequent site of metastases and often the only organ affected. After liver metastasis resection, 5-year overall survival rates range 31–60%. Nevertheless, 50–75% of patients experience recurrence after surgery, and the majority of such recurrences occur within 2 years. Furthermore, over half of the patients die within five years following resection. Despite many studies focused on clinical outcome prediction were conducted, there is still a need for a reliable biomarker to predict poor prognosis. We propose that the benefit of surgical removal of liver metastases in CRC patients is strongly dependent on the genetic and expression signature of malignant tissue. The metastasectomy represents a highly invasive procedure that should be preceded by non-invasive examination, e.g. by examination of circulating nucleic acids (liquid biopsy) from peripheral blood. We aim to identify a credible biomarker or set of biomarkers in patients’ plasma and correlate them with the time of relapse after liver metastasis removal. Using high-throughput DNA and RNA sequencing we will identify novel candidate biomarkers, evaluate their clinical relevance by biostatistical methods and determine the functional effect of selected biomarker(s) in vitro and in vivo. Functional analysis will be performed in engineered patient-derived organoids and patient-derived xenografts, which represent innovative up to date preclinical models recapitulating the clinicopathological traits and genetic profiles of the original patient’s tumour tissue. |
REZTEST - Identification of new treatment options in refractory testicular germ cell tumors
Identifikácia nových možností liečby u refraktérnych testikulárnych nádorov zárodočných buniek
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0158 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Kučerová Lucia DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most common tumors in young males with increasing incidence in Slovakia and resemble the clinical and biological characteristics of a model for the cure of cancer. Nonetheless, a small proportion of patients does not have a durable complete remission with initial cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Only 20–40% of them can be cured with the use of platinum-containing standard-dose or high-dose salvage chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation. Patients who fail to be cured after second-line salvage therapy have an extremely poor prognosis and long-term survival had been documented in <5%. Numerous new treatment regimens, including targeted and biological therapies, have been evaluated in patients with refractory TGCT, however, with very limited efficacy. The aim of this project is to identify new therapeutic targets in chemorefractory disease using high-throughput methods of molecular biology through translational research and to identify new drugs that overcomes cisplatin resistance. |
Identification of novel proteins and small molecules involved in tick-host-pathogen interaction
Identifikácia nových proteínov a malých molekúl zapojených do interakcie kliešť-hostiteľ-patogén
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0144/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Minichová Lenka PhD. |
| Annotation: | Ticks are vectors of pathogens, which cause serious diseases in humans and economic losses in economically important animals. In the presented project, we will focus on intracellular bacteria. We will create a model of tick-pathogen interaction (a model of artificial feeding of ticks) to be able to quantify and subsequently regulate the amount of pathogens entering the ticks together with the ingested blood. Thereafter, we will monitor the course of the intake of pathogens, their distribution in the tick's organs, and the excretion of pathogens over time and apply the most modern omics methods to study and characterize ticks’ immune system processes. We will monitor how the immune system regulates the survival of pathogens, their multiplication in the vector’s body and subsequently the transmission to the host. Identified pathogen-modulated tick-specific compounds may be valuable targets for defining effective antimicrobial therapy or developing protective antigens capable of blocking pathogen transmission. |
Immune checkpoint BTLA as a potential biomarker in the therapy of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Imunitný kontrolný bod BTLA ako potenciálny biomarker v terapii difúzneho veľkobunkového B-lymfómu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0288 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Lopušná Katarína PhD. |
Individual radiosensitivity of cancer patients and use of Gingko biloba in the prevention of radiotherapy induced side effects
Individuálna rádiosenzitivita onkologických pacientov a využitie Gingko biloba na prevenciu vedľajších účinkov rádioterapie
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0079/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Durdík Matúš PhD. |
| Annotation: | Severe side effects are present in ?5% of cancer patients treated with radiotherapy (RT) while no relevant method for assessment of individual radiosensitivity is clinically available. We will perform in vitro radiation-induced apoptosis assay and in vivo cytokinesis blocked micronuclei (CBMN) and chromosomal aberrations (CA) assay with the aim to detect radiosensitive (RS) patients before the RT. We will compare the radiation response of RS and normal responding patients in vitro using the analysis of radiation-induced DNA repair foci, CBMN and CA. Gingko biloba is an ancient plant with strong antioxidant capabilities and its extract could be used in the protection from RT-related healthy tissue side effects in breast cancer patients. The goal is to validate the appropriate combination of techniques for detecting the RS patients, to study the potential protective effect of Gingko biloba extract and the effect of previous COVID-19 infection on the RT-related healthy tissue side effects in cancer patients. |
Infrastructure for monitoring the vital functions of experimental animals and biochemical analysis of the monitored tissues
Infraštruktúra na monitorovanie vitálnych funkcií experimentálnych zvierat a biochemickú analýzu sledovaných tkanív
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V06-00111 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Pavel Jaroslav PhD. |
Infrastructure for extracellular vesicle processing and phenotyping
Infraštruktúra pre spracovanie a fenotypizáciu extracelulárnych vezikúl
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V06-00035 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Balážová Lucia PhD. |
Infrastructure for the study of genetic causes of rare metabolic diseases
Infraštruktúra pre štúdium genetických príčin vzácnych metabolických ochorení
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V06-00033 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Gašperíková Daniela DrSc. |
Infrastructure for the study of carbon dioxide in tumor glucose metabolism
Infraštruktúra pre štúdium oxidu uhličitého v nádorovom metabolizme glukózy
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V06-00036 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | PharmDr. Goliaš Tereza PhD. |
Infrastructure for research on thermogenesis and adipose tissue metabolism
Infraštruktúra pre výskum termogenézy a metabolizmu tukového tkaniva
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V06-00034 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Baláž Miroslav PhD. |
Inhibition of Hypoxia-Induced Carbonic Anhydrase IX as a Strategy to Overcome Chemoresistance in Colorectal Cancer
Inhibícia hypoxiou-indukovanej karbonickej anhydrázy IX ako prostriedok na prekonanie chemorezistencie v kolorektálnom karcinóme
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0008 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Ing. Puzderová Barbora PhD. |
| Annotation: | Solid tumors like colorectal cancer (CRC) are associated with a more aggressive phenotype, characterized by the development of hypoxia and acidosis. Hypoxia-induced carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX) significantly contributes to the adaptive mechanism of tumor cells by regulating pH, thereby enhancing their survival, invasiveness, and immune evasion. CRC is one of the most common cancer types associated with chemotherapy resistance. Immunotherapy, based on the inhibition of immune checkpoints, is increasingly emerging as a prominent approach in CRC treatment. The combination of standard chemotherapy and immunotherapy has shown promise in improving the prognosis of CRC patients. In this project, we aim to target CAIX in a 3D co-culture model consisting of colorectal cancer cells HCT116wt or the resistant cell line HCT116 FUR, stromal fibroblasts MRC5, and immune cells PBMC, with the goal of sensitizing colorectal cancer cells to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. |
RENASTHERA - Novel renal antisense therapy platform for CKD
Inovatívna antisense terapeutická platforma pre CKD - chronické ochorenie obličiek
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0494 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Bábelová Andrea PhD. |
| Annotation: | Chronic kidney disease (CKD) with its progressive nature towards end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is a lethal and rapidly progressing severe health complication associated with significantly decreased quality of life and high mortality rates. Strikingly, despite the progress made in early-diagnostics of CKD, state-of-the-art therapeutics do not significantly decrease the risk of renal and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality rates in CKD patients which remain devastatingly high. This fact highlights an urgent need not only for novel therapeutics but also for the implementation of progressive experimental and clinical tools into translational drug discovery. In this context, the proposed RENASTHERA project offers a novel therapeutic solution to stop progressive renal function loss. This solution is based on a patented method of nucleic acid inhibition. Periostin, a 90 kDa secreted protein was identified as a key player in CKD development, inhibition of which effectively prevented CKD progression. The design, synthesis, and functional validation of an RNA inhibitor specifically designed for periostin RNA is thus the clearly defined scope of the proposed RENASTHERA project. |
PDAid - Innovative approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Inovatívne prístupy k diagnostike a liečbe duktálneho adenokarcinómu pankreasu
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I01-03-V04 -00073 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Smolková Božena PhD. |
| Annotation: | Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is one of the most aggressive malignancies of the gastrointestinal tract. The 5-year survival of patients is on average 8-10%. The only curable treatment method is complete resection of the tumor, and despite radical treatment, the average 5-year survival rate is only approximately 20%. At diagnosis, more than 80% of patients have a locally advanced or metastatic stage of the disease. Early diagnosis and optimization of treatment procedures using the latest knowledge from whole-genome analyzes represent current strategies to improve the unfavorable prognosis of patients with PDA. The PDAid project presents an integrated approach to early diagnosis and treatment that combines bioinformatics, molecular biology and clinical translation. At the center of our research is the effort to use the tools of molecular biology to improve the management of patients with PDA through innovative methodologies. The goal of the project is to provide powerful tools for early detection and monitoring of the course of the disease in patients with PDA. The partial goals are: 1. Comprehensive screening of publicly available whole genome data and identification of methylation markers for diagnosis and monitoring of the course of the disease. 2. Analysis of DNA methylation by next-generation sequencing (NGS) in cfDNA from plasma. 3. Integration of liquid biopsy techniques. The integration of two liquid biopsy techniques (a combination of mutational and methylation markers) will overcome the limitations of traditional tissue biopsy methods and provide real-time monitoring of disease progression and response to treatment. 4. Validation and transfer into clinical practice. We will validate the clinical relevance and diagnostic accuracy of the identified methylation markers in relevant cohorts of patients with PDA using the digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) method. 5. In silico analysis will also bring knowledge about expression changes in tumors. We will focus on the deregulation of the expression of epigenetic regulators, which opens up possibilities for targeted epigenetic therapy. 6. The use of the organotypic slice culture (OTSC) methodology to validate the efficacy of epigenetic inhibitors in the treatment of PDA represents an innovative approach to the therapy of PDAs, characterized by frequent treatment resistance, as it will allow modeling the PDA microenvironment and provide more relevant testing of treatment efficacy. |
CATCA - Interactions of calcium transport systems in carcinogenesis
Interakcie vápnikových transportných systémov v karcinogenéze
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0176 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | prof. Ing. Križanová Oľga DrSc. |
ACE2MAS - Cardiometabolic effects of Mas receptor stimulation by modulation of the renin-angiotensin system - the key role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2.
Kardiometabolické účinky stimulácie Mas receptorov modulovaním renín-angiotenzínového systému - klúčová úloha angiotenzín-konvertujúceho enzýmu 2.
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0421 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Ing. Zorad Štefan CSc. |
| Annotation: | The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a hormonal cascade whose chronic activation contributes to the development of cardiovascular pathologies caused mainly by remodeling of the heart and blood vessels. It is becoming apparent that the benefit of RAS inhibitors includes, in addition to Ang II inhibition, stimulation of the alternative arm of RAS mediated by the ACE2/Ang1-7/Mas receptor, which has vasodilatory, antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory and metabolic effects. The aim of the present project will be to compare the effect of ACE inhibition, AT1 blockade, stimulation of ACE2 (diminazene) and Mas receptor (cyclic Ang1-7, alamandine) in a model of old, obese, diabetic hypertensive Zucker rats with a focus on the potential benefit of Ang1-7/Ang1-5 on glucose utilization, insulin signal transduction, reduction of the inflammatory response and function of the cardiovascular system. Given the potentially key role of RAS and especially ACE2 in the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and the severe course of COVID-19, the aim of the present project will be to detect changes in membrane and serum ACE2 and expression of other key molecules for viral infection (ADAM17, TMPRSS2, furin and B0AT1 transporter) using various pharmacological interventions. The dependence of the putative alterations on the activity of the Mas receptor will be monitored by its specific antagonist A779. In vitro, following treatment of human alveolar cells and adipocyte cultures with RAS and diminazene inhibitors, the changes in the ability to bind SARS-CoV-2 virus will be assessed using a pseudoviral methodology. The obtained results might contribute to the elucidation of the role of ACE2 and Mas receptor in the pathogenesis of obesity and diabetes. The project might also contribute to the clarification of the choice of an effective RAS inhibitor in the elderly with a combination of hypertension, obesity and diabetes. |
CARDIOEND - CARDIOvascular protection mediated by alfa1AMPK against metabolic syndrome-mediated ENdothelial Dysfunction – identifying new risk factors
Kardiovaskulárna ochrana sprostredkovaná alfa1AMPK proti endotelovej dysfunkcii sprostredkovanej metabolickým syndrómom – identifikácia nových rizikových faktorov
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0154 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Hlaváčová Nataša PhD. |
| Annotation: | Disruption of vascular homeostasis caused by decreased nitric oxide bioavailability oxide due to oxidative stress and inflammation is the most serious complication of metabolic syndrome (MetS), leading to increased morbidity and mortality. There is an unmet need to identify key factors that prevent or protect vascular endothelium and thus improve primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. It appears that AMP-dependent protein kinase (AMPK) may be such a factor. Its protective properties and positive effect on endothelial function and oxidative stress are already known. These unique properties suggest that AMPK may be involved in improving metabolic control during MetS, but still, the molecular changes due to α1AMPK-related dysregulation during MetS development are poorly understood. The project focuses on risk factors affecting endothelial function during MetS and the AMPK as a potential tool to modify those risk factors resulting in MetS prevention or treatment. The originality of the project is based on a comprehensive evaluation of functional, molecular, and biochemical changes in endothelial function, inflammation, and metabolic senescence during MetS with a detailed focus on vascular endothelium - proliferation, senescence, and apoptosis. The focus will be put on risk factors affecting endothelial function such as the interaction/adhesion of leukocytes with the vascular endothelium and the AMPK-dependent role of erythrocytes during MetS development. The project will be enriched by the study of phenotypic and molecular changes at the level of the CNS, with an emphasis on neuroinflammation and behavioral changes. Importantly, the project has a translation character, as human studies in patients with MetS will also be performed. The obtained results may represent a potential tool for improving the current population’s health and reducing the economic burden associated with the treatment of this cardiometabolic disease. |
CIHLA - Clonal and immune interactions in high-grade transformation of B-cell lymphomas
Klonálne a imunitné interakcie pri high-grade transformácii Bbunkových lymfómov
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0482 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Cholujová Dana PhD. |
Checkpoint molecules and viral immunomodulators in cancer therapy
Kontrolné body a vírusové immunomodulatory v nádorovej terapii
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2022 - 31. 8. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 1136/01/02 |
| Program: | SASPRO |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Lopušná Katarína PhD. |
Lactate, a metabolic signal and energy source for alternative thermogenesis mechanisms
Laktát, metabolický signál a zdroj energie pre alternatívne mechanizmy termogenézy
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0102/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Baláž Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Cold exposure triggers a complex physiological response in our body, including activation of thermogenic mechanisms. Since energy expenditure is increased as a consequence of thermogenesis, pharmacological induction of this process presents a promising therapeutic approach to treat obesity and associated metabolic disease. The most obvious changes in plasma metabolome triggered by acute cold exposure include an increase in fatty acids and lactate. While fatty acids originate from lipolysis and fuel thermogenesis in brown fat, it is not clear what is the source and function of cold-induced lactate. The primary aim of the proposed research is to study the origin, fate and function of cold-induced lactate. Furthermore, we will perform the first metabolomic analysis of human brown fat and isolated adipocytes. We expect that the proposed project will uncover the role of cold-induced lactate, and in parallel reveal and validate new therapeutic targets with potential to improve metabolic health of obese patients. |
Lactate, a metabolic signal and energy fuel driving alternative thermogenic mechanisms
Laktát, metabolický signál a zdroj energie pre alternatívne termogénne mechanizmy
| Duration: | 1. 2. 2022 - 31. 1. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 1148/01/02 |
| Program: | SASPRO |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Baláž Miroslav PhD. |
Lipidomic study of the cell membrane of Rickettsia spp.
Lipidomické štúdium bunkovej membrány Rickettsia spp.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0147/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | MVDr. Csicsay František PhD. |
| Annotation: | Rickettsiae are obligate intracellular, gram-negative coccobacilli, transmitted by blood-sucking arthropods. Numerous human pathogens belonging to the transitional group (TRG), typhus group (TG), and spotted fever group (SFG) are spread by various arthropods. The vectors are different fleas, lice, ticks, or mites. The surface of these bacteria is covered by a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) layer, which is anchored to the outer membrane by a lipid domain. This lipid A is the bioactive part of LPS, it induces an innate immune response and has an endotoxic character. Despite the apparent importance of lipid A in maintaining the integrity of the bacterial outer membrane as well as its inflammatory potential during infection, this molecule is still poorly understood in Rickettsiae. The aim of this project is to reveal structural differences in the lipids of the rickettsial outer membrane using lipidomic techniques and mass spectrometry analyses, as well as to investigate the immunogenicity of the rickettsial lipidome. |
Mechanisms of peripheral nerve damage in chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
Mechanizmy poškodenia periférneho nervu pri chemoterapiou-indukovanej periférnej neuropátii.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0120/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | MVDr. Vanický Ivo CSc. |
| Annotation: | Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is an undesirable side effect of therapy that results in dose reduction or discontinuation of a life-saving treatment. In the presented project, we plan to test hypotheses of the presumed mechanisms of peripheral neuropathy in experimental models. In in vivo experiments, we want to confirm or rule out axonal degeneration with the doses of Paclitaxel, which cause hypersensitivity changes, and to document the accumulation of macrophages in peripheral nerves and spinal ganglia at different times of CIPN. In the critical phases of CIPN, we will detect the presence of inflammatory mediators (NO production) that can cause hypersensitivity. In in vitro experiments, we want to establish a co-culture model of explanted spinal ganglia and macrophages to monitor neuronal-macrophage interactions following Paclitaxel administration. |
COMPose - Metabolic dysregulation as the underlying principle of integrated pathophysiology of obesity-associated chronic diseases: Molecular Landscape of Complex Lifestyle Modification
Metabolická dysregulácia ako základný princíp integrovanej patofyziológie chronických ochorení súvisiacich s obezitou: Molekulárna krajina komplexnej úpravy životného štýlu
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00555 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Ukropec Jozef DrSc. |
Metabolic profiling of testicular cancer cells to increase the sensitivity of resistant cells to cisplatin
Metabolická charakterizácia nádorových buniek semenníkov s cieľom zvýšiť citlivosť rezistentných buniek na cisplatinu
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0099/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | PharmDr. Goliaš Tereza PhD. |
DUALCAPS+ - Alginate-based microcapsules with enhanced stability and biocompatibility for encapsulation of pancreatic islets in diabetes treatment
Mikrokapsuly na báze alginátu so zvýšenou stabilitou a biokompatibilitou pre enkapsuláciu pankreatických ostrovčekov v liečbe cukrovky
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0565 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Švastová Eliška PhD. |
MitoHF - Mitochondrial disease in heart failure
Mitochondriálne ochorenia a zlyhanie srdca
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0443 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Zahradníková, ml. Alexandra PhD. |
| Annotation: | Several mutations in mitochondrial genes of respiratory chain proteins are associated with heart failure (HF). The extent of their contribution to the development of HF at the level of cardiomyocytes (CM) is unknown. Recent findings indicate that various HF etiologies share similar remodeling of CM, especially of their membrane system and calcium signaling. The project is aimed to validate the in vitro model of HF development in a genetic disorder with reduced function of mitochondrial respiratory chain and to verify at the cellular level prevention of HF development by metabolic therapy with nutritional supplements. We will use the HL-1 CM cell line with allotopic expression of a mutant form of the MT-ND5 gene for subunit 5 of respiratory complex I (mG13513A), associated with human hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, to determine the impact of diseased mitochondria on cytoarchitecture and contractile function of cardiac myocytes. By methods of electron and confocal microscopy, cell electrophysiology, oxygraphy, and molecular biology, we will monitor expression and localization of dyadic proteins and changes in mitochondrial structure, localization, and oxidative capacity. Since genetic cardiomyopathy cannot yet be addressed by gene therapy, we will investigate the benefits of metabolic therapy for the compensation of invalidated mitochondrial function. We will compare in HL-1 CM the effect of the hereditary mitochondrial insufficiency with that of HF development imposed by overstimulation. We expect that nutritional supplementation of mitochondrial function will improve CM performance and suppress the development of HF. Results will be published in leading experimental cardiology and physiology journals and publicize them on the projec t website and in the media. Three PhD students and several M.S. students will participate in the project. |
| Project web page: | http://confolab.sav.sk/ovsb/projekty/aktivne-projekty/apvv-21-0443/ |
LEGOMICS - Modern "omics" approaches as effective tools for identification and characterization of leguminous viral pathogens
Moderné "omics" postupy ako efektívne nástroje pre identifikáciu a charakterizáciu vírusových patogénov strukovín
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0015 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Glasa Miroslav DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Legumes (the Fabaceae family) represent a nutritionally and economically important crop, important for human and livestock nutrition. However, the quality and quantity of legume production can be adversely affected by a complex of viral pathogens. Available knowledge on the presence, epidemiology and diversity of phytopathogenic legume viruses in field conditions, collections of long-term genetic resources and wild-type Fabaceae species in Slovakia are insufficient. The aim of the presented project is unbiased and accurate identification of the viruses present on legumes and subsequent genomic characterization of pathogens in our territory using modern sequencing approaches. The data obtained will be used to develop effective detection methods and targeted molecularepidemiological studies taking into account the regional diversity of pathogens, including seed-borne infectious agents. The susceptibility of selected legume genotypes to viral infection is evaluated by experimental inoculation with characterized virus isolates. The mutual interaction of selected genotypes of legumes and the investigated biotic pathogen will be analyzed by modern methods of cellomic research including next generation sequencing (genomics, transcriptomics) and the proteome will be studied by classical immunochemical methods in combination with modern analytical-chemical methods based on mass spectrometry (LC-MS / MS, nanoLC-ESI-Q-TOF). By combining these currently most progressive methods in plant virology, we obtain accurate and detailed data necessary for the most comprehensive evaluation of the pathogen / plant relationship. The methodological platform used, using modern and efficient genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and in silico procedures, will provide important knowledge for the diagnosis and characterization of viral diseases and also knowledge for improving the quality of legume cultivation in Slovakia. |
TregMS - Modified regulatory T cells for therapy of multiple sclerosis
Modifikované regulačné T lymfocyty na liečbu sklerózy multiplex
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0629 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. MUDr. Imrich Richard DrSc. |
Modulation of CXCR4/CXCL12 axis by the anti-myeloma activity of CXCR4 antagonist WZ811
Modulácia CXCR4/CXCL12 signalizácie anti-myelómovou aktivitou CXCR4 antagonistu WZ811
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA grant 2/0088/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Jakubíková Jana PhD. |
Molecular mediators of the response to complex lifestyle intervention in patients with obesity: Regulation of metabolic flexibility in vitro and in vivo
Molekulárne mediátory účinkov komplexnej úpravy životného štýlu u pacientov s obezitou: Regulácia metabolickej flexibility, in vitro and in vivo
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0604 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Ukropec Jozef DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Research of the molecular mechanisms enabling metabolic adaptation to exercise can provide an entire spectrum of the novel information on systemic and tissue-specific processes potentially useful for the prevention and treatment of obesity-related metabolic diseases. Therefore, we propose to study the key molecular mechanisms and mediators of the response to a multi-component (exercise, nutrition, mindfulness) obesity management program that leads to the modification of body composition, metabolic flexibility, cardiometabolic fitness and cognitive functions. Innovative clinical-physiological approaches, cell and animal models and molecular genetic methods will be used to identify and validate mediators of the intervention-induced metabolic health in patients with obesity. Recent research has shown that cell-specific exercise-induced protein secretion into the circulation is modulated by exercise training and that extracellular vesicles mediate cell-to-cell communication and whole-body metabolic integration. The proposed randomized clinical trial will be enriched by research on metabolic response to exercise. The final insight on the intervention effects will be obtained by integrating clinical data and parallel biophysically, biochemically and molecularly defined changes in systemic circulation, including changes in extracellular vesicles. Characterization of their membrane and cargo will reveal potential mediators of the intervention effects, which will be (i) functionally characterized in in vitro models and (ii) subsequently in mice with diet-induced obesity. This holistic approach provides the opportunity to study the complex processes determining the dynamics of the metabolic response to exercise, allowing thus the discovery of (i) metabolic flexibility biomarkers, (ii) indicators of the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions, and (iii) bioactive molecules with the capacity to mimic the effects of exercise, suitable for obesity management. |
CardCa2+CNS - Molecular mechanisms implicated in corticosteroid-monoamine interaction in stress-related cardio- and neuropathologies
Molekulárne mechanizmy interakcie signálnych dráh kortikosteroidov a monoamínov v kardio- a neuropatológiách vyvolaných stresom
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0061 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Cagalinec Michal PhD. |
| Annotation: | Stress is defined as an organism’s response to various stressors jeopardizing the homeostasis. Stressors accompany living organisms all through their life, when the first exposure happens even before the birth (e.g., maternal infection during the gestation). Stress is not necessarily harmful; controlled exposure to the certain stressors might be even beneficial (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy). On the other side, stress can also be involved in certain heart and brain disorders, which are the worldwide leading causes for disability and mortality. Based on our previous results in rats, we hypothesize that interaction between corticosteroids and monoamines is a factor determining whether certain stressor, administered to the organism of the specific sex, will be harmful, neutral, or even beneficial. We aim to perform a further investigation of corticosteroid-monoamine interaction in rat model of prenatal stress (maternal infection during the gestation caused by LPS administration) and to assess a role of Ca2+ signaling, which decodes diverse extracellular signals into specific cellular responses. Particularly, we will focus on investigation of changes caused by prenatal stress at the level of cardiomyocyte contractility and excitability of serotonin and dopamine neurons in the midbrain. Ca2+ signaling as a potential intracellular effector of corticosteroid-monoamine interaction will be monitored at the level of intracellular Ca2+ channels, which are considered as the main components of Ca2+ signaling in cardiomyocytes as well in neurons. We will also test pyridoindoles as the novel treatment strategies for the stress-related cardiovascular and neurological disorders. This will include in silico modeling (computer simulations of drug interactions) and in vivo treatment. |
IZOTIOVIVO - Molecular mechanisms of trialkyl-/triaryltin isothiocyanates' and carboxylates' antitumour properties - novel ligands of nuclear retinoid X receptors in rat mammary gland carcinomas and human tumour cell lines
Molekulárne mechanizmy protinádorových vlastností trialkyl- /triarylcíničitých izotiokyanátov a karboxylátov, nových ligandov jadrových retinoidných X receptorov v karcinómoch mliečnej žľazy potkana a v ľudských nádorových bunkách prsníka
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0314 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Macejová Dana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Organometallic compounds, on account of their structural diversity, are applied in human oncology in the treatment of cancer. Triorganotin derivatives showed significant cytotoxic properties. At the cellular level, they induce massive cell death in various types of cell cultures even at low concentrations and are able to activate the processes of apoptotic pathways, in which several molecular mechanisms play a role. A significant breakthrough in knowledge was our recent experimental confirmation of the ability of molecules of triorganotin compounds to bind to nuclear retinoid X receptors, and thus function as potent agonists. The aim of the present project is to investigate the in vivo effects of tributyl/triphenyltin isothiocyanates in the process of chemical carcinogenesis of the mammary gland of female rats, which is based on our current results of in vitro experiments. Simultaneously, the research of antitumour properties of triorganotin compounds activating RXR-RAR heterodimers comprising novel RXR agonists based on triorganotin carboxylates, is envisaged. In vitro analyses of molecular mechanisms leading to inhibition of tumour cell growth or induction of apoptosis in the presence/absence of natural ligands of RAR receptors on human breast tumour cell lines: MCF-7 (non-invasive, ER positive), T47D (ER positive), MDA-MB-231 (invasive, triple negative) and MDA-MB-436 (invasive, ER negative, PR negative), will be accomplished. We also plan to achieve new data on the possible endocrine disruption of triorganotin compounds on the murine TM3 cell line and the human COV434 cell line representing the reproductive system. We assume that the presented project will gain new and original knowledge about the mechanism of the action of the studied substances through their binding and activation of nuclear receptors, their transactivation as well as crosslink with other signalling pathways that may contribute to the development of novel treatment options for breast cancer. |
RICKCBTICK - Molecular fundamentals driving tick competence in pathogen transmission
Molekulárne základy riadiace kompetenciu kliešťov pri prenose patogénov
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0536 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Sekeyová Zuzana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Climate change is already affecting vector-borne disease transmission and spreading to new areas. Whereas they are responsible for more than 17% of all infectious diseases (causing more than 700 000 deaths annually) vector control and preventing the outbreaks become one of the WHO’s priorities. This project will elucidate the vector competence for pathogen transfer and describe the molecular and functional interface between the pathogenic bacteria (Rickettsia spp. and Coxiella burnetii) and their common tick vectors in Europe (Dermacentor reticulatus and Ixodes ricinus). Both pathogens can cause severe illnesses in humans or economic losses in ruminants (goats, sheep, cows), respectively. Pathogenic and immune pathways, together with mechanisms of pathogen survival within the vector and host, were characterized, but only a few studies were focused on the complex pathogen-vector interactions during feeding. We will apply an interdisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art imaging techniques to describe how the tick immune system may control the preservation of pathogens and their transmission. Our objective is (i) to develop new strategies for visualization and quantitation of tick-borne pathogens using state-of-the-art imaging techniques. This will lead us to (ii) identification of biomarkers (specific metabolites and proteins) important for pathogen transmission, which will be annotated or determined de novo. Finally, we will (iii) use identified tick-specific compounds modulated by bacterial factors as targets for defining effective antimicrobial therapy and development of protective antigens capable of blocking pathogens' transmission. |
| Project web page: | https://www.crp.gov.sk/apvv-23-0536/ |
Molecular-biological analysis of the mechanism of ischemic tolerance in mitigating the consequences of stroke by conditioning
Molekulárno-biologická analýza mechanizmu ischemickej tolerancie pri zmierňovaní následkov cievnej mozgovej príhody formou kondicionovania
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0101/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Mucha Rastislav PhD. |
| Annotation: | From clinical practice, it is known that after ischemic brain damage can induce tolerance to nerve tissue degradation through conditioning. However, a comprehensive description of this process at the molecular level has not yet been achieved. Understanding the mechanisms of neuroprotectivity activation after ischemic brain damage at the molecular level is necessary to understand this process. It is known that peripheral blood reflects changes in gene and protein expression in the brain very sensitively and specifically. The objectives of the proposed project are: 1) to identify potential markers (genes, proteins) of ischemic tolerance activation, and 2) to classify and specify genes and proteins in their signalling pathways by creating a reaction map of molecular cascades specific to the mechanism of ischemic tolerance in human blood samples and in a rat model. Achieving these goals will contribute to the understanding of neuroprotective processes and increase neuron survival rates. |
Sgs-Glue - Molecular-genetic analysis of salivary gland Sgs-glue secretion from Drosophila melanogaster and its biological properties
Molekulárno-genetická analýza glejového Sgs-sekrétu slinných žliaz Drosophila melanogaster a jeho biologických vlastností
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0103/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Farkaš Robert CSc. |
| Annotation: | Last decades there was much effort devoted towards identification of bioadhesives that were expected primarily to serve as inspiration for developing derivatives and biomimetics for variety of uses in medicine or industry. These include, for example, development of subcutaneous glue implantations, of biopolymers for regenerating of neurons and epidermal cells, for treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, of hemostatic barriers, diagnostic protocols and monitoring of microbial pathogens, or controlled release of therepautic drugs. One of the very successful outcomes are semisynthetic water-resistant polycatechol-styrene-based adhesives. However, multiprotein animal bioadhesives were too complex to be fully understood and widely used. In this project we propose using genetic tools to dissect molecular mechanism of formation and polymerization of so-called Sgs-glue from salivary glands of Drosophila, and thus to gain insights into understanding of bioadhesive complexity in general. |
WOLPACMUT - Mutations associated with Wolfram syndrome: alternative signaling pathways for calcium and mitochondrial physiology
Mutácie asociované s Wolframovým syndrómom: rozdielne signálne dráhy v zmysle metabolizmu vápnika a funkcie mitochondrií
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0473 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Cagalinec Michal PhD. |
| Annotation: | Wolfram syndrome (WS), characterized by diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, optical atrophy and deafness, is caused by mutations in WFS1 gene. Protein WFS1 is highly expressed in the brain and pancreas where its mutations are in line with the symptoms. Moreover, a high expression has been observed in the heart; however, in the vast majority of WS cases the cardiac symptoms have not been reported. WFS1 is localized in the membrane of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and strongly impacts calcium metabolism, mitochondrial function and ER stress. However, the principal question about WFS1 function still remains open – why the pancreatic β-cells and neurons are affected severely in WS, and why are the alterations in myocytes jut minor, when WFS1 is highly expressed in them? Possible explanation could be a yet unresolved compensatory mechanism present in myocytes and/or a different signalling pathway(s) when compared to neurons/ β-cells. Therefore, the first hypothesis is: Do the calcium metabolism and mitochondrial dynamics differ in cardiac myocytes when compared to neurons and pancreatic β-cells in case of WFS1 malfunction? The majority of WS cases represent recessive mutations; however, several dominant mutations have been identified as well. Therefore the second hypothesis is: Do the calcium metabolism and mitochondrial dynamics differ in cells expressing pathogenic dominant vs. recessive Wfs1 mutations? Moreover, complete novelty of the project represents characterization of the heterozygous WFS1 deletion variant recently identified in the first Slovak WS patient at the applicant’s institute. Use of up-to-date approaches including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, optogenetic techniques, confocal microscopy and the know-how of the proposed research team will help to resolve the WFS1 function which will serve for development of early diagnostics and effective treatment not only for WS, but also for diabetes mellitus and highly prevalent cardiovascular diseases. |
| Project web page: | http://confolab.sav.sk/ovsb/projekty/aktivne-projekty/apvv-21-0473/ |
m-ClicID - On the trace of mitochondrial chloride channel identity
Na stope identity mitochondriálneho chloridového kanálu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0085 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Polčicová Katarína PhD. |
iMMunoedit - Cancer immunoediting in multiple myeloma: immune checkpoints and clinical significance
Nádorové imunoeditovanie v mnohopočetnom myelóme: imunitné kontrolné body a klinický význam
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0183 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Jakubíková Jana PhD. |
| Annotation: | The understanding of cancer immunoediting, immune defense mechanisms against cancer, has been challenging in multiple myeloma (MM). A hallmark of the myeloma microenvironment is profound immune dysregulation and loss of immune surveillance. The overall objective is to characterize immunoediting in MM using cellular and molecular approaches. We will focus on understanding the complex innate and adaptive immune systems during the development of MM: from premalignant conditions MGUS and smoldering MM to symptomatic MM. We will define diverse immune checkpoint mechanisms and their biological sequelae on tumor promoting/suppressing immune subsets within the tumor microenvironment together with MM cells as well as blockage role of novel immune checkpoint inhibitors in ex vivo. Moreover, we will define the impact of anti-MM therapies on modulation of MM immunoediting in a homogeneously treated cohort of MM patients, allowing us to evaluate the impact of suppressed immune system on emergence of resistant tumor clones; and vice versa. MM immunoediting of primary patient samples together with immune checkpoint mechanisms, including regulatory co-stimulation/tumor antigen/checkpoint molecules and signaling pathways, will be evaluated using mass cytometry. These studies will identify mechanisms and biologic sequelae of immunoediting in MM, and provide for rational design of targeted and immune therapy in MM. |
Nanoceria - the complementary treatment to sensitize testicular tumors not responding to platinum agents
Nanocéria - doplnková liečba pre senzitizáciu testikulárnych karcinómov neodpovedajúcich na cisplatinu
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2025 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0029/25 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Jurkovičová Dana DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Drug resistance is one of the crucial problems of cancer treatment. Understanding molecular mechanisms of drug resistance enables investigation of novel therapeutical approaches. Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria), represent an excellent novel technology with enormous potential as antioxidant and radioprotective anticancer agents. They show inhibitory effects on cancer progression, are toxic to tumor cells but non-toxic to stromal cells, thus promising also their clinical use. Nanoceria will be tested on unique in vitro testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) cell models: pairwise cisplatin (CDDP) sensitive and resistant cell lines and generated 3D spheroids. TGCTs are known for excellent response to CDDP treatment, but small percentage of patients are resistant, recurrent or relapsing. We will test nanoceria as potential supplement to CDDP to sensitize resistant TGCTs. Due to the proapoptotic and anti-invasive properties, nanoceria could enhance therapy outcomes of CDDP via their co-delivery. |
Design and optimization of bioconjugation strategies of innovative 2D photothermal nanomaterials with tumor-targeting peptides
Návrh a optimalizácia biokonjugačných stratégií inovatívnych 2D fototermálnych nanomateriálov s tumornavádzajúcimi peptidmi
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0117/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Ščasná Katarína |
NO-ALZ.SK - Non-pharmacological strategies in the prevention of Alzheimer's Disease in Slovakia
Nefarmakologické postupy v prevencii Alzheimerovej choroby na Slovensku
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I01-03-V04 -00077 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | prof. MUDr. Ukropcová Barbara PhD. |
NONCOBLAST - Non-coding RNA as a biomarker for diagnostics and therapy of childhood leukemia
Nekódujúca RNA ako biomarker pre diagnostiku a terapiu detskej leukémie
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00458 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Jakl Lukáš PhD. |
| Annotation: | Current models of therapy are based on limited diagnostic tools based on the presence of leukemic cells (blasts) by cytometry and the presence and type of preleukemic fusion genes in the blasts. These diagnostic tools are used to classify the patient into 3 different risk groups. Each of them uses a different treatment protocol based on the international medical classification. There are still patients with poor response to treatment and the protocol must be changed. Current knowledge in the field of clinical research suggests a key role of ncRNA and could serve as a potential biomarker to predict poor response in patients and appropriate stronger therapy could be used from the beginning of therapy, which is essential. Patients with a good response to treatment who achieve remission are still at risk of leukemia relapse. NcRNAs could also be expressed differently in patients who relapsed compared to patients who achieved complete remission. |
| Project web page: | https://vaia.gov.sk/sk/2023/06/stipendia-pre-excelentnych-vyskumnikov-a-vyskumnicky-r2-r4/ |
NRPLCAR - Neuroprotective and regenerative potential of post-traumatic cure targeted to Angiotensin II receptors
Neuroprotektívny a regeneračný potenciál posttraumatickej liečby zacielenej na angiotenzínové receptory
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0248 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Pavel Jaroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Traumatic SCI can cause a serious lifelong disability with varied symptoms including paresthesia, spasticity, loss of motor control, and often severe pain. Despite the fact that intensive research of SCI pathology in recent decades has resulted in identification of many promising targets for treatment, following clinical trials were mostly negative and none of these experimentally promising approaches has been yet fully accepted in clinical practice. Current treatment for acute SCI is limited to surgical decompression and intravenous application of high-dose methylprednisolone, the clinical efficacy of which remains still unclear. Brain-machine interfaces and epidural stimulation showed considerable promise for functional recovery, although these strategies harness the function of spared fibres and bypass the injury site rather than eliciting biological repair. Therefore, the identification of SCImodifying interventions has a high clinical priority. Our experimental results indicated a transient long-term increase in blood pressure almost immediately after severe spinal cord trauma and a delayed transient expression AT2 receptors. The project proposal assumes the normalization of hypertension and limitation of fibrosis by AT1 receptor blockade and subsequent AT2 receptor stimulation with the aim of limiting the extent of damage and increasing the neuroregenerative ability of the damaged spinal cord tissue. Preliminary results suggest ed a promising potential of AT2 receptor stimulation in the processes associated with axonal regeneration and restoration of vascular system. |
NUVIR - New dry urine drop-based technology for viral RNA detection
Nová technológia na báze suchej kvapky moču pre detekciu virálnej RNA
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2025 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I01-03-V05-00006 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Čabanová Viktória PhD. |
TARGETMMCSC - Novel Drug Approaches Targeting Cancer Stem-like Cells in Multiple Myeloma Pathogenesis
Nové liečebné postupy cielené na nádorové kmeňové bunky v patogenéze mnohopočetného myelómu
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00451 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Jakubíková Jana PhD. |
New methods of detection of subtypes of selected herpesviruses in patients with hematological malignancies in Slovakia
Nové spôsoby detekcie subtypov vybraných herpesvírusov u pacientov s hematologickými malignitami na Slovensku
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0120 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Benko Mário PhD. |
| Annotation: | More than 40,000 patients are diagnosed with cancer every year in Slovakia. Hematological malignancies (HM) are the fourth most common among oncological diseases. HMs cause malignant tumors of the blood and blood-forming organs such as leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes or immunoproliferative diseases. Patients with HM often suffer from immunodeficiencies that disrupt the function of one or more components of the immune system. Viral infections are a major risk in this regard. In immunodeficient individuals, herpes viruses appear to be ideal candidates from the constellation of viruses for deeper study, as they have a unique ability to modulate the host's immune response unnoticed. A characteristic feature of herpesviruses is a latent infection that persists in the body for life after the primary infection. In most cases, the infection is asymptomatic, but in immunocompromised individuals (oncology patients, HIV-positive patients, organ transplant recipients), herpes viruses can reactivate and cause serious health complications. Herpesviruses are associated with a wide variety of diseases ranging from mild infections of the oral cavity to life-threatening diseases of the nervous system, urogenital tract, neonatal vision and hearing loss, as well as serious skin infections. The presented project focuses on the differential diagnosis of non-specifically identifiable herpesviruses in samples of HM patients in Slovakia. The research in question is unique as it is the first of its kind in our territory. The deepening of knowledge in the given issue has the potential to establish new diagnostic methods in the management of herpes diseases not only in patients with HM, but also in the diagnosis of other diseases associated with herpes viruses, which have not been routinely performed in laboratories in Slovakia. The proposed project is based on the current need in clinical practice and its results will be further used as a pilot study for other projects. |
EMBRACE TBE - Elucidating the mechanism behind severe tick-borne encephalitis
Objasnenie mechanizmu vzniku závažnej formy kliešťovej encefalitídy
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0379 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Ličková Martina PhD. |
| Annotation: | Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a serious human viral disease, which affects the central nervous system. The incidences of TBE in Europe increased from 0.4 in 2015 to 0.9 cases per 100,000 people in 2020. The disease manifests as meningitis, meningoencephalitis, or meningoencephalomyelitis and is responsible for more than 10,000 hospitalizations every year. Due to this, TBE represents a significant medical concern with high costs for the healthcare system and society. The exact determinants of disease severity are not known; however, some hypotheses are proposed. The ambition of the proposed study is to identify the factors affecting the severity of TBE. Neutralizing IgG auto-antibodies (auto-Abs) against type I IFNs were detected in patients with critical COVID-19 and in patients with severe West Nile virus infection. Therefore, the first aim of the proposed project is to test auto-Abs against type I IFN in the serum of TBE-diagnosed patients with neurological symptoms. Some mutations in virus proteins can influence the neuroinvasiveness of TBEV infection. Mutations within the protein E gene were associated with more frequent, severe, and fatal TBE infections. Hence sequencing of the virus in clinical samples using NGS will be performed. The last factor involved in disease severity is misdiagnosed flavivirus infection due to their cross-reactivity during diagnostics. The project will provide insightful information about whether auto-Abs against type I IFNs are associated with severe TBE cases. This information may enhance the treatment of diseases. Furthermore, the acquired serological data will offer further epidemiological details on TBEV and associated flaviviruses. Complete TBEV genome sequences from patient samples will shed insight on the genetic diversity of TBEV strains that are currently in circulation in Slovakia as well as potentially identify molecular factors that contribute to the virus pathogenicity. |
CYKLY - Elucidating the molecular mechanisms and metabolic regulation of substrate cycles
Odhalenie molekulárnych mechanizmov a metabolickej regulácie substrátových cyklov
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0291 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Baláž Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Obesity is one of the major threats to human health, being the primary risk factor for type 2 diabetes, fatty liver, and cardiovascular disease. Since energy expenditure is increased as a consequence of thermogenesis, pharmacological induction of this process presents an interesting therapeutic approach. Adipose tissue is the main site of nonshivering thermogenesis, and its main effector is Uncoupling protein 1. However, mice lacking this classical thermogenic pathway efficiently maintain their body temperature when gradually exposed to cold, suggesting the existence of yet unknown but equally potent alternative thermogenic mechanisms. Based on our preliminary data and existing literature, we propose that several substrate cycles operate in carbohydrate metabolism in brown fat and contribute to maintenance of temperature homeostasis, and therefore have the therapeutic potential to treat obesity and metabolic disease. Specific aims of our proposal are to 1) identify substrate cycles operating in brown adipose tissue, 2) delineate the molecular mechanisms and regulation of substrate cycles; and 3) to identify critical targets for pharmacological modulation of substrate cycles. Comprehensive transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of brown and white adipose tissue of human patients, wildtype C57Bl/6 and Ucp1 KO mice under different thermal conditions will provide important insights into adipose tissue energetics and serve as basis for identification of substrate cycles. We will take advantage of genetic mouse models, cell lines, pharmacological tools, and recent experimental developments, in particular employing NMR spectroscopy, metabolic tracing of 13C-labelled substrates, next-generation RNA sequencing, infrared thermography and bioenergetic measurements, to prove the existence, delineate the molecular mechanism and validate the physiological relevance of substrate cycles, as well as to identify and validate novel therapeutic targets with potential to treat obesity. |
ExExMaP - Unveiling the Secrets of Exercise: Decoding Exosomal Molecular Patterns in Humans During Exercise Using Metabolomic and Lipidomic Screening and Advanced Computational Analysis
Odhalenie tajomstva cvičenia: Dekódovanie exozomálnych molekulárnych vzorcov u ľudí počas cvičenia pomocou metabolomického a lipidomického skríningu a pokročilej výpočtovej analýzy
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00455 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | PharmDr. Olešová Dominika PhD. |
Uncovering the Role of Phosphatidylserine Synthases in the Control of Adipose Tissue Activation
Odhalenie úlohy fosfatidylserín syntáz v kontrole aktivácie tukového tkaniva
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0063 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Petrisková Lívia PhD. |
ORGIMMA-Tx - Orchestration of tumor and immune microenvironment in renal cell carcinoma and significance of tumor organoids in predicting therapy response
Organizácia nádorového a imunitného mikroprostredia v karcinóme obličkových buniek a význam nádorových organoidov v predikcii odpovede na liečbu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0496 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Baráthová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is among the most aggressive urological malignancies. RCC incidence continues to increase, especially in the Eastern Europe countries, while Slovakia is among the countries with the highest incidence and mortality. Clear cell RCC (ccRCC), the most common subtype associated with poor clinical outcome, is characterized by a high level of immune cell infiltration and high degree of angiogenesis. Metastases occur in more than a quarter of patients and 5-year survival is approximately 10-15%. ccRCCs are characterized by pseudohypoxia resulting from the inactivation of the tumor suppressor gene VHL and leading to the activation of the expression of hypoxia-induced proteins even in normoxic conditions. One such protein is carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX), a transmembrane metalloenzyme associated with adaptation of tumors to hypoxic stress and regulationof extracellular pH. In the project, we want to focus on bidirectional relationship between targeted therapy and immune microenvironment using multi-level analysis of specific biomarkers, immunoprofiling and signalling pathways associated with CAIX in ccRCC, on testing the effectiveness of new humanized antibodies specific to CAIX, and on clarifying their impact on the ccRCC immunophenotype. We plan to use several 3D co-cultivation models that more faithfully imitate tumor architecture and microenvironment. One of the 3D models are tumor organoids representing a new and modern approach in personalized/precision medicine. By co-cultivating organoids with autologous patient immune cells, it could bring new insights into the impact of CAIX on the immunophenotype of ccRCC. We hypothesize that humanized antibodies could represent a new therapeutic approach in the treatment of pseudohypoxic as well as hypoxic RCC. At the same time, they could significantly change the microenvironment and increase the effectiveness of immunotherapy or tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which are the standard of care of RCC patients. |
Verification of positive effect of fructose - methyl cellulose treatment on rat metabolism.
Overenie pozitívneho účinku podávania kombinácie fruktóza - metylcelulóza na metabolizmus potkanov.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0105/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Zorad Štefan CSc. |
| Annotation: | The presented project is based on preliminary results using a combination of fructose and methylcellulose (frucel). Frucel surprisingly reduces plasma uric acid concentrations, markers of lipid and protein oxidative damage, protein glycation and hemoglobin release from erythrocytes. In addition, frucel increases ACE2 protein expression in the kidney. We will introduce the administration of methylcellulose in a drinking fructose solution instead of a stressful gastric tube. We will investigate the effect of frucel administration on metabolic parameters such as: adiposity, fat cell size, glucose tolerance, protein glycation, ROS markers, hormone concentrations and expression of key RAS components. Experiments will be performed on healthy Wistar rats as well as on obese diabetic Zucker animals. The concentration of methylcellulose will be selected based on cellular experiments focused on the antioxidant effect of frucel. We believe that we will be able to verify the positive effect of the frucel on metabolism, including increasing ACE2 activity. |
CO2CANCER - Carbon dioxide in cancer glucose metabolism: an overlooked Achilles’ heel of cancer
Oxid uhličitý v nádorovom metabolizme glukózy: prehliadaná Achillova päta rakoviny
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0341 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | PharmDr. Goliaš Tereza PhD. |
CISplice - Understandingthe role of alternative splicing in cisplatin resistance
Pochopenie úlohy alternatívneho zostrihu pri rezistencii na cisplatinu
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00430 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | MVDr. Borszéková Pulzová Lucia PhD. |
| Annotation: | Cisplatin is one of the most effective broad-spectrum anticancer drug. Acquired resistance is the main reason for treatment failure in an intrinsically sensitive testis germ cell tumours (TGCTs). The aberrant alternative splicing (AS) of pre-mRNA is a common event in cancers development, progression and metastasis. Despite the advances in RNA-sequencing, the role of AS in chemoresistance remains poorly understood. The main goal of the project is to derive chemoresponse predictive biomarkers (splicing variants) and to understand the role of AS in cisplatin resistance of TGCTs. The top-down approach using next generation sequencing and in silico analysis will be used to define AS characteristics of resistant phenotype. The impact of aberrant AS events on gene expression, protein isoform expression and post-treatment survival will be also assessed. To address the involvement of AS and splicing regulators in post-treatment survival, splicing inhibition and gene silencing will be performed. |
| Project web page: | https://vvi.gov.sk/podporene-projekty/understandingthe-role-of-alternative-splicing-in-cisplatin-resistance |
Comparison between silibinin-conjugated gold nanospheres and nanobipyramids impacts on the treatment of liver fibrosis in vivo.
Porovnanie účinku nanosfér a nanobipyramíd zlata konjugovaných so silibinínom pri liečbe fibrózy pečene in vivo.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0116/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Svitková Barbora PhD. |
| Annotation: | Liver fibrosis occurs as a result of chronic liver damage associated with the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. It is the common outcome of various infectious and non-infectious diseases and represents a global health problem resulting from the high global prevalence and limited treatment options. Treatment of liver fibrosis is essential to prevent the development of liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, however, there is no effective pharmaceutical intervention to date for the treatment of this disease. One of the promising but yet barely explored approach to treat the liver fibrosis is offered by the targeted therapy using nanomaterials coated with an antifibrotic drug. In case of inorganic nanomaterials, spherical gold nanomaterials are being investigated for this aim. Interestingly nanomaterials of other shapes (e.g. nanobipyramids) could possess even better diagnostic and therapeutic features due to their unique physical-optical properties. |
Post-translational modifications of glutamate transporters stimulated by remote conditioning responsible for their enhanced glutamate uptake capacity
Post-translačné modifikácie glutamátových transportérov stimulované vzdialeným kondicionovaním zodpovedné za ich zvýšenú kapacitu vychytávania glutamátu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0038 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Končeková Jana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Glutamate represents the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. Extracellular glutamate concentration is strictly regulated by glutamate transporters (EAATs). However, during brain ischemia, the mechanisms ensuring glutamate homeostasis are significantly affected, resulted in glutamate accumulation in the extracellular space, what triggers the process of excitotoxicity. Improvement in the glutamate metabolism represents one of the key protective mechanisms stimulated by remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) what leads to the reduction of ischemic brain injury. RIC provides more effective glutamate uptake by EAATs, however, the specific mechanisms of glutamate transporters modulations are not clear. |
The potential of physical activity to influence the proliferative capacity and characteristics of tumor cells: identification of exerkines and mechanisms with antitumor effects
Potenciál fyzickej aktivity ovplyvniť proliferačnú kapacitu a charakteristiky nádorových buniek: identifikácia exerkínov a mechanizmov s protinádorovým účinkom
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0144/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Kurdiová Timea PhD. |
Significance of hypoxia induced carbonic anhydrase IX in diagnostics and therapy of lung adenocarcinoma
Potenciál hypoxiou indukovanej karbonickej anhydrázy IX v diagnostike a terapii adenokarcinómov pľúc.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0095/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Csáderová Lucia PhD. |
Surface modification of 3D printed titanium spinal implants to improve functional properties
Povrchová modifikácia 3D tlačených titánových spinálnych implantátov pre zlepšenie funkčných vlastností
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0157/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Jelenská Lenka |
HeaTME - Reprogramming pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma microenvironment towards immunotherapy
Preprogramovanie mikroprostredia duktálneho adenokarcinómu pankreasu voči imunoterapii
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0197 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Smolková Božena PhD. |
| Annotation: | Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a deadly disease with a 5-year survival below 10%. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors revolutionized cancer treatment, PDAC patients still do not benefit from immune therapies. This lack of response, which mainly resides in the low immunogenicity and non-inflamed nature of PDAC, can be predicted, in part, from the immune phenotypes present in the tumor microenvironment (TME). These aspects raise a primary clinical question: How to prime these "cold" tumors into "hot" and responsive to immunotherapy? Recently, epigenetic regulators have been shown to drive the immunosuppressive cancer microenvironment by silencing critical components of the antigen-presenting machinery, cytokines, or chemokines. Therefore, epigenetic reprogramming has emerged as one of the promising strategies to promote the immunogenicity of tumor cells. We hypothesize that distinct cell population subgroups in the PDAC TME, manifested by markers and intrinsic cell-cell communication networks yet to be discovered, can be targeted by epigenetic drugs (epi-drugs) to facilitate PDAC treatment and response to immunotherapy. The project HeaTME aims to increase understanding of the complexity and heterogeneity of PDAC TME by identification, integration, and mechanistic evaluation of critical TME elements driving PDAC drug resistance. The intent is to adopt comprehensive tumor-TME research models to identify, characterize and introduce novel, biology-backed targets involved in modulating multi-directional TME dynamics. The implementation of new strategies, such as spatial transcriptomics, will provide innovative comprehensive assessment of treatment -induced TME reprogramming and expose new vulnerabilities that will inform the design and testing of more effective epi -drug-based combination approaches aiming to reprogram PDAC towards immunotherapy. |
PaCRoT - The protective and anti-cancer role of thymol and its derivatives in colon cancer cell lines using the Japanese quial chorioallantoic membrane model
Protektívna a protirakovinová úloha tymolu a jeho derivátov na rakovinu hrubého čreva s použitím modelu choriovej alantoickej membrány
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00460 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Sedlačková Eva PhD. |
CURCUCAN - Anti - tumour and anti - inflammatory properties of curcumin in cancer patients
Proti-nádorový a protizápalový účinok kurkumínu u onkologických pacientov
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00456 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Durdík Matúš PhD. |
Radiation-induced noncoding RNAs in mononuclear cells of umbilical cord blood
Radiačne-indukované nekódujúce RNA v mononukleárnych bunkách pupočníkovej krvi
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0084/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Škorvaga Milan CSc. |
| Annotation: | Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including circular RNAs (circRNAs) and long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in regulation of gene expression in eukaryotic cells at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional level. Studies revealed that circRNA and lncRNA expression was altered by medium-dose IR, however, it is unknown whether they are regulated by low-dose IR. In this project, we wish to study the level of the expression of circRNAs (circPvt1, circSPRY2, KIRKOS-71, KIRKOS-73) and that of lncRNAs (lncMALAT1, lncGAS5), after exposure to low-dose IR and radiofrequency (RF) radiation in umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells (UCB MNCs). In addition, two recurrent Pvt1 chimeric transcripts, generated as posttranscriptional events, will be monitored in IR/RF exposed UCB MNCs. NcRNAs significantly deregulated in UCB MNCs by radiation will be applied for screening of peripheral blood of radiologists. This work is aimed at evaluating the potential of analyzed ncRNAs as biodosimetry markers of low-dose IR and RF radiation. |
Plant endornaviruses: parasites or symbionts of agricultural crops?
Rastlinné endornavírusy: parazity alebo symbionty poľnohospodárskych plodín?
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0036/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Glasa Miroslav DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Plant endornaviruses (family Endornaviridae) are single-stranded RNA viruses that persistently infect agricultural crops. Endornaviruses are transmitted exclusively vertically through seeds, making them evolutionarily very long-term relationships with their hosts. Infection with endornaviruses can even have beneficial effects on their plant hosts, but these have so far been very little investigated. Despite the increasing knowledge about the complexity of the plant virome achieved through the application of massive parallel sequencing, the facts about persistent viruses, their diversity, natural host range and interactions with crops are still poorly understood. The project aim is to obtain original knowledge about the distribution of endornaviruses in various crops, to evaluate their molecular variability and to develop reliable and specific tools for their detection. At the same time, we will examine the effect of endornavirus infection on the phenotypic and growth characteristics in selected hosts. |
The response of selected populations of CNS cells to peripheral nerve injury and their possible role in regeneration.
Reakcia vybraných populácií buniek CNS na poranenie periférneho nervu a ich možná úloha pri regenerácii
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0109/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Blaško Juraj PhD. |
| Annotation: | The central and peripheral nervous systems form a single functional unit, which is also evident under pathological conditions. Peripheral nerve injury leads to the activation of glial populations - astrocytes and microglia in the spinal cord, which is likely an important factor in subsequent regenerative processes. In our project, we aim to map the spatial and temporal dynamics of glial and immune cell activation in the spinal cord and dorsal ganglia following nerve injury. These processes will be monitored under in vivo and in vitro conditions. In a further phase, we want to focus on the impact of preconditioning, i.e. the activation of the glial population in the spinal cord after peripheral nerve injury, on the regeneration of the segmentally related nerve. We believe that our project will provide new insights into the interrelationships between the peripheral and central nervous systems after traumatic injury. |
- - Regulation of hypoxic signalling in renal carcinoma with focus on the role of carbonic anhydrase IX in the tumor microenvironment
Regulácia hypoxickej signalizácie v karcinóme obličiek s dôrazom na úlohu karbonickej anhydrázy IX v nádorovom mikroprostredí
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0113/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Baráthová Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | Renal carcinoma is a serious urological malignancy. Due to the high incidence and mortality, it is a serious medical problem in Slovakia. The clear cell subtype of renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is characterized by mutation of von Hippel Lindau protein and high expression of CAIX. CAIX is not only a relevant biomarker of ccRCC, but also a suitable therapeutic target. In the project, we want to focus on testing effects of inhibition of two important RCC proteins -CAIX and HIF2. CAIX is a target protein of HIF1 in response to acute hypoxia, HIF2 plays an important role in chronic hypoxia. RCC is among highly immunogenic tumors. We will focus on monitoring the influence of CAIX inhibition using specific antibodies and HIF2 using the Belzutifan inhibitor on basic cellular parameters as well as on immune checkpoint proteins. We will use 3D models and tumor organoids prepared from RCC tumor tissue, which with their structure and architecture represent an experimental tool for tumor reproduction and study in vitro. |
RicCoxTrans - Regulation of Rickettsia and Coxiella transmission via hematophagous arthropods
Regulácia prenosu Rickettsia a Coxiella prostredníctvom hematofágnych článkonožcov
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00556 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Ing. Škultéty Ľudovít DrSc. |
Regulation of iron transport as a factor contributing to the chemoresistance of testicular tumours
Regulácia transportu železa ako faktor prispievajúci k chemorezistencii testikulárnych nádorov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0149/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Roška Jan PhD. |
| Annotation: | Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) predominantly affect young men and are highly treatable with conventional cisplatin (CDDP)based chemotherapy. Even advanced metastatic stages show excellent treatment outcomes. However, approximately 10 % of patients do not respond adequately to treatment, or develop resistance. Several mechanisms are thought to contribute to the development of CDDP resistance, including alterations of its transport, increased drug detoxification, increased DNA repair of CDDP-induced DNA damage, as well as changes in transduction of apoptosis. Ferroptosis is a special type of regulated cell death, distinguishable at the morphological, metabolic and genetic levels. This process is dependent on iron and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The aim of this project is to identify the role of ferroportin (SLC40A1) in the development of CDDP resistance. In addition, we plan to investigate its epigenetic regulation through micro RNA in TGCT cell lines with intrinsic or acquired CDDP resistance. |
Regulatory mechanisms of mutual communication between hypoxia-ischemia and inflammation during the acute and subacute phase of traumatic spinal cord injury and Siponimod treatment
Regulačné mechanizmy vzájomnej komunikácie medzi hypoxiou-ischémiou a zápalom v akútnej a subakútnej fáze po traumatickom poranení miechy a liečbe Siponimodom
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0115/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Kisucká Alexandra PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project is aimed to find out whether microglial proliferation and the hypoxia-induced transcription factor 1 (HIF-1) pathway occur simultaneously in the acute phase of spinal cord injury (SCI), and how is their mutual communication. Since HIF-1 is the main mediator of homeostasis in neuronal tissue exposed to hypoxia, we further plan to study the activation of HIF-1 and PI3K/Akt in the dysregulated microenvironment (inflammation) at the lesion site and in the cranio-caudal extent in the subacute stage of SCI. In addition, treatment with the anti-inflammatory drug Siponimod and its effect on the activation of specific signaling pathways and the regulation of mechanisms leading to the polarization of pro-inflammatory (M1/A1) and neuroprotective (M2/A2) subtypes of microglia/macrophages and astrocytes will be investigated. We hypothesize that treatment strategies that inhibit M1/A1 and promote their polarization to M2/A2 phenotypes may inhibit secondary SCI and promote spinal cord regeneration. |
Recreating Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Complexity: Implementation of Organ-on-a-Chip Technology for Enhanced Therapeutic Insights
Rekonštrukcia komplexnosti duktálneho adenokarcinómu pankreasu: implementácia technológie Orgán na čipe na zlepšenie terapeutických poznatkov
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0045 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Buociková Verona PhD. |
| Annotation: | Considering the highly aggressive nature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), our project aims to address the therapeutic challenges posed by this distinctive and heterogeneous disease. We propose to implement innovative organ-on-a-chip technology, specifically the MIVO® platform, to develop a complex preclinical model of PDAC that more accurately recreates the pancreas's multicellular architecture and physiological function. The dense extracellular matrix of the PDAC tumor microenvironment, which is considered a major obstacle to the efficacy of systemic therapy, is largely secreted by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). By co-cultivating patient-derived organoids (PDOs) with CAFs in dynamic conditions, we aim to retain the original tumor's histopathological and molecular characteristics, enabling more accurate prediction of human drug responses. Based on the role of epigenetic deregulation in PDAC progression and resistance to therapy, we hypothesize that combining epigenetic drugs with small molecule inhibitors will synergistically target key pathways implicated in PDAC progression. A high-throughput screening platform will enable rapid testing of several classes of inhibitors for their efficiency against PDAC. Our research holds the potential to yield novel insights into PDAC pathogenesis and facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic strategies for PDAC patients. Given the profound societal, economic, and clinical implications of PDAC, our work addresses a critical unmet need in pancreatic cancer treatment. |
ExoTREAT - Suicide gene therapy mediated by mesenchymal stromal and pancreatic tumor cell-excreted extracellular vesicles in the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Samovražedná génová terapia sprostredkovaná exozómami z mezenchýmových stromálnych a pankreatických nádorových buniek v liečbe duktálneho adenokarcinómu pankreasu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0143 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Buociková Verona PhD. |
| Annotation: | Despite the advances in pancreatic cancer research, the survival of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients remains low. Innovative therapies based on novel principles are therefore urgently needed. Tumor tropic behavior of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) led to the development of prodrug cancer suicide gene therapy. MSCs with integrated suicide gene yeast cytosine deaminase::uracilphosphoribosyl transferase (yCD::UPRT) proved to be an effective tool in the eradication of several deadly cancers in preclinical studies. The attractiveness of this approach lies in eliminating the systemic toxicity of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) by non-toxic prodrug 5- fluorocytosine (5-FC) administration, which is metabolized into toxic 5-FU intracellularly. We found that yCD::UPRT gene-transduced MSCs release extracellular vesicles that carry mRNA of the suicide gene in their cargo. Their sustained intracellular killing activity and prolonged temperature stability would assign them to “off-the-shelf” medication. The development, characterization, and safety assessment of this innovative vesicle-mediated PDAC- targeted therapy will be the main objective of the proposed project. PDAC cell lines and primary pancreatic tumor cells will be treated with suicide gene vesicles to determine the most efficient approach both in vitro and in vivo. The most relevant preclinical models - patient-derived organoids and xenografts, which closely mimic the patient tumor complexity, will be used for these purposes. Moreover, PDAC cell-released extracellular vesicles, known to form a pre-neoplastic niche, will be studied and characterized. Combining gene therapy with standard of care drugs administered in MSC- and tumor-vesicles will be assessed to prevent metastases formation. We believe that the new opportunities bought by scientific knowledge and multidisciplinary collaboration will help us to achieve the project's goals and potentially improve the survival of patients with PDAC. |
PROSEC - Blood elements-derived secretome as a source of bioactive factors mediating the neuroprotection
Sekretóm krvných elementov v úlohe zdroja bioaktívnych faktorov sprostredkujúcich neuroprotekciu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0069 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Bonová Petra PhD. |
| Annotation: | Stroke is the second leading cause of death and disability worldwide. In ischemic events, treatment options are limited to a single, time-limited, drug intervention (tPA) with the risk of hemorrhagic transformation. In the next decade, a progressive increase of stroke cases is expected, by up to one-third. Moreover, this number may be even higher in the context of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic. The need for additional supportive and regenerative therapies is thus becoming even more topical. In clinical practice, the remote conditioning method (RIC) is increasingly being used to mitigate the effects of stroke. The fundamentals of RIC lie in the endogenous stimulation of the mechanisms leading to neuroprotection via ischemia of a distant organ or limb. Despite many benefits, a serious limiting factor of the therapy is the timing, dose, but also unaffectable factors such as age, sex, and metabolic dysfunction of the patients. Cell therapy also appears to be an effective tool in regenerative medicine. However, due to safety issues, less than 1% of trials have been directed to stroke. In addition to graft cells, the positive effects of transplantation are mainly associated with the microenvironment that the cells produce by secretion. The use of a secretome thus eliminates the risk associated with the transplantation of living and potentially pluripotent cells. Another benefit in cell therapy safety issues is the paracrine activity in most of the differentiated cell types, blood cells including. Our experimental approach is a combination of both of the above strategies - it uses the paracrine activity of blood elements that have been endogenously stimulated by RIC. As a result, the blood cells derivate the secretome having a significant neuroprotective effect in a model of brain ischemia. The next essential step to bring this attractive strategy closer to clinical practice is the detailed characterization of the secretome and its bioactive properties. |
BIOFLEX - Uncovering the surfaceome and cargo of hepatic extracellular vesicles to identify circulating NAFLD biomarker
Skúmanie povrchu a obsahu pečeňových extracelulárnych vezikúl na identifikáciu cirkulujúceho biomarkera NAFLD
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0310 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Balážová Lucia PhD. |
Investigation of regulatory mechanisms of neuroblast migration in the rat rostral migratory stream in vitro
Skúmanie regulačných mechanizmov migrácie neuroblastov v rostrálnej migračnej dráhe potkana in vitro
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | NPS SAV 2024 |
| Program: | Iné projekty |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Žideková Monika PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project focuses on the migration of neuroblasts from the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricles through the rostral migratory stream (RMS) to the olfactory bulb (OB) in the brain of adult rats. The process of migration is crucial for the integration of new neurons into the neural circuits of the OB. Astrocytes and endothelial cells of blood vessels, which regulate migration through brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are involved in regulation of migration of neuroblasts in the RMS. Serotonin (5-HT) also influences migration of neuroblasts in the RMS, but the mechanism of its action is currently unknown. Since synergistic effects of BDNF and 5-HT on postnatal neurogenesis have been observed in another neurogenic area – the hippocampus- the aim of the project is to investigate whether 5-HT affect migration of neuroblasts in the RMS synergistically with BDNF or independently of BDNF. We will investigate this using in vitro method focused on migration of neuroblasts using RMS explants, with the addition of BDNF receptor antagonists and serotonin antagonist to the culture medium. |
Evaluation of the role of tumor microenvironment stromal component in breast cancer treatment outcome using an organoid model
Sledovanie vplyvu stromálnej zložky nádorového mikroprostredia na liečbu karcinómu prsníka v organoidovom modeli
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0067/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Buríková Monika PhD. |
Evaluation of 5G radiation induced genotoxicity and assessment of phytochemicals as modulator of radiation induced DNA damage and cancer
Stanovenie genotoxicity indukovanej 5G žiarením a štúdium fytochemikálií ako modulátorov radiáciou indukovaného poškodenia DNA a rakoviny
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0082/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Gulati Sachin PhD. |
| Annotation: | There are controversial data available regarding exposure of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) from mobile communication and induction of reactive oxygen species, DNA damage, and cancer. However, the available studies are not directly comparable because they were performed at different parameters of exposure, which were shown to be critical for appearance of the RF effects. We propose evaluation of genotoxic effects of RFR used in 5G signals. Genotoxicity and oxidative stress will be evaluated with appropriate combination of endpoints. Long term exposure of 5G signals in induction of cell malignant transformation will be evaluated using SCID mice. Phytochemicals such as extract from Gingko biloba and curcumin will be assessed in combination with 5G signals and high dose gamma-ray’s radiation used in radiotherapy to check their radio-protective impact of DNA damage, oxidative stress, and cell malignancies. |
Assessment of DNA damage and genetic instability in hospital workers occupationally exposed to low doses of ionizing radiation
Stanovenie poškodenia DNA a genetickej nestability v bunkách rádiológov vystavených nízkym dávkam ionizujúceho žiarenia
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0012/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Košík Pavol PhD. |
| Annotation: | High doses of ionizing radiation (IR) induce DNA damage and genetic instability relevant to various types of tumors. However, the consequences of chronic human exposure to low doses of IR, which are specific for diagnostic medical environment, are not conclusive so far. Our preliminary data suggests an increased DNA damage and genetic instability in Slovak radiology workers. The aim of this project is to validate these preliminary results with expanded group of radiologists (medical workers) by using applying comprehensive panel of state-of-the-art techniques, which would substitute clinically relevant protective measures. We will use the “gold standard” cytogenetic methods enriched with Metafer fluorescence microscopy and FISH. The obtained results will be correlated with cumulative dose of IR and clinical data of radiology workers including overcoming COVID-19 and vaccination. We will estimate a cancer risk in radiologists. We will investigate the persistence and genetic instability after COVID-19 by FISH. |
Stress-induced translocation of the intestinal microbiota in the regulation of the inflammatory response - sex differences in rodents
Stresom indukovaná translokácia črevnej mikrobioty v regulácii zápalovej odpovede - pohlavné rozdiely u hlodavcov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0160/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Vargovič Peter PhD. |
| Annotation: | Chronic stress alters communication between neuroendocrine and immune system, what significantly participates in the development of diseases related to chronic inflammation. In this respect, the intestinal microbiota, which affects both of these systems, plays an important role. Stress-related diseases show significant gender differences as a result of nerve, endocrine, immune differences, but also changes in the microbiota. Stress increases the translocation of the intestinal microbiota into the bloodstream, tissues and organs, thereby affecting the activity of immune cells and their inflammatory activity. The aim of the project is to describe the differences between male and female mice in stress-induced translocation of intestinal bacteria and its role in the communication of the neuroendocrine and immune systems, especially in the regulation of the inflammatory response. |
The immune cell subsets and apoptosis in response to influenza A virus
Subpopulácie imunitných buniek a apoptóza v odpovedi na infekciu vírusom chrípky A
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0014/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Betáková Tatiana DrSc. |
| Annotation: | an annual burden of around 3-5 million causes of severe illness and about 290, 000 – 650, 000 mortalities. The immune cells, such as T cells, macrophages, neutrophils etc. may serve a greater role in the pathogenesis of viral infection, than previously thought. The surface receptors and Fas-FasL signal should influence the development and function of the immune cells and production of distinct cytokine profiles. Role of NS1 protein in the regulation of immune response is not fully understand. The aims of this project are: i) study the development of immune cells subpopulations in the primary site of infection (lungs) and in secondary sites of infection (different organs); ii) determinate the role of apoptosis in immune cells; and iii) clarify the role of the NS1 protein in the development of immune cell subpopulations and in the introduction of apoptosis in these cells after infection with IAV. |
Synthesis, physicochemical, biological properties of glycoconjugates, N-heterocycle-based precursors and polysaccharide derivatives as potential anticancer and antiviral agents
Syntéza, fyzikálno-chemické a biologické vlastnosti prekurzorov na báze glykokonjugátov, N-heterocyklov a derivátov polysacharidov ako potenciálnych antikarcinogénnych a antivirotických liečiv
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0071/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Horváthová Eva PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project deals with new synthetic saccharide derivatives (heparin-like polysaccharides and chitosan-like saccharides substituted with imidazoline groups, imino-aromatic derivatives of quinazolinones and their complexes with transition metals). The molecular structure and photochemical properties of new synthesized glycoconjugates and polysaccharides will be analysed by means of NMR spectroscopy, together with HRMS, UV-VIS, FTIR, SEC-MALS and AFM methods, combined with theoretical calculations (DFT; geometry optimization, calculations of NMR parameters). Saccharide derivatives will be prepared by new synthetic methods utilizing catalytic effects of metal ions, microwave radiation and ultrasound. Apart from photochemical properties, antioxidant, cytotoxic, antiproliferative effects and interactions with DNA (cleavage, intercalation) will be tested as well. |
Fellowships for excellent PhD students (R1) - Mechanisms linking CAIX-associated hypoxic tumor microenvironment and obesity to pancreatic cancer progression in relation to immune response
Štipendiá pre excelentných PhD. študentov a študentky (R1) - Mechanizmy spájajúce CAIX-súvisiace hypoxické nádorové mikroprostredie a obezitu s progresiou rakoviny pankreasu vo vzťahu k imunitnej odpovedi
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V02-00031 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Ščasná Katarína |
Fellowships for excellent PhD students (R1) - Role of lactate in the control of energy metabolism
Štipendiá pre excelentných PhD. študentov a študentky (R1) - Úloha laktátu v kontrole energetického metabolizmu
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V02-00031 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Jančovičová Alžbeta |
Fellowships for excellent PhD students (R1) - Evaluation of immune checkpoints in B-cell malignancies
Štipendiá pre excelentných PhD. študentov a študentky (R1) - Zhodnotenie imunitných kontrolných bodov v B-bunkových malignitách
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V02-00031 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Suroviaková Katarína |
Study of effector proteins in pathogenicity and their use in the diagnosis of Rickettsiosis
Štúdia efektorových proteínov v patogenite a ich využitie v diagnostike Rickettsióz
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0129/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Quevedo Diaz Marco PhD. |
| Annotation: | Rickettsia is a genus of non-motile, gram-negative, non-spore-forming, highly pleomorphic bacteria that cause severe epidemic rickettsioses. The spotted fever group (SFG), the transitional group (TRG), and the typhus group (TG) are all members of the genus Rickettsia. Pathogenic Rickettsiae species have evolved mechanisms to avoid intracellular detection and elimination of pathogens in the host cells. During the infection, a subset of bacterial virulence factors, “effector proteins,” enter into the host cell where they function in modulating host cell processes and subsequently lead to bacterial pathogenesis. Bacterial effector proteins are translocated into the host cell by specialized secretion systems. The aim of this proposal is the identification and characterization of effector proteins of selected pathogenic rickettsiae in infected macrophages and their use in the diagnosis of rickettsiosis. |
BIOMARCURG - Study of biological markers and curcumin for diagnosis and treatment of glioblastoma
Štúdium biologických markerov a kurkumínu na diagnostiku a liečbu glioblastómu
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 31. 8. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00466 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Košík Pavol PhD. |
| Annotation: | Glioblastoma is the most aggressive form of brain tumor originating from glial cells with a maximum life expectancy of 15 months. Despite the establishment of multiple promising therapies, the clinical outcome of glioblastoma patients is dismal. Therefore, identification and validation of alternative and complementary diagnostic techniques represent an urgent and unmet clinical need. Liquid biopsy is recently considered as a non-invasive alternative procedure for tissue biopsy. For that purpose we plan to study a different expression of candidate miRNA in plasma/serum of peripheral blood before, during and after radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy of GMB. At the same time frequency of chromosomal aberrations and micronuclei will be analyzed in PB lymphocytes. Curcumin as the nutritional supplement will be provided to the glioblastoma patients after therapy and the improvement of their cognitive functions will be evaluated using specific cognitive tests. |
| Project web page: | https://vaia.gov.sk/sk/2023/06/stipendia-pre-excelentnych-vyskumnikov-a-vyskumnicky-r2-r4/ |
Study of diversity and interactions of Ixodes ricinus tick microbiome with the tick-borne encephalitis virus
Štúdium diverzity a interakcií mikrobiómu kliešťov Ixodes ricinus s vírusom kliešťovej encefalitídy
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0040/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Koči Juraj PhD. |
| Annotation: | The structure of microbial communities in organisms is often formed by interactions among individual microorganisms. Microbiome of the tick Ixodes ricinus, one of the most important vectors of pathogens causing serious diseases in Europe, significantly affects the colonization and survival of some clinically important bacteria. However, information on the role of the total microbiome of the tick Ixodes ricinus in virus transmission is still lacking. The aim of this project is (i) to identify the spectrum of microbial species in tick infected with tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) (ii) to characterize interactions between TBEV and selected microbial species in experimentally coinfected ticks, and (iii) to elucidate the role of immune pathways in TBEV-infected ticks. Valuable results obtained using innovative approach will significantly contribute to the understanding of the complex relationships among the tick microbial community, immunity and the virus determining the vector competence of ticks. |
Study of genotoxic effects from magnetic resonance imaging in human lymphocytes
Štúdium genotoxických zmien indukovaných magnetickou rezonanciou v ľudských lymfocytoch
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0140/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Zastko Lucián PhD. |
| Annotation: | Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become an integral noninvasive diagnostic imaging tool. By using a static and a time-varying gradient magnetic field in combination with a radiofrequency field, MRI provides excellent tissue contrast. Recent reports on potential genotoxic effects induced by routine 1.5 T cardiac MRI examination in lymphocytes have raised safety concerns. However, genomic instability caused by MRI scan has been examined using only few techniques so far and relationship of the obtained to situation when cells are exposed in human body is also questionable. The aim of our study is to reveal whether standardized MRI of 1.5 T is able to induce genotoxicity - using the gamma H2AX/53BP1 DNA repair foci, comet assay, micronuclei analysis, chromosomal aberration, apoptosis, and ROS induction in human lymphocytes in vitro, situated in tissue equivalent phantom of human body during procedure. Identifying genotoxic effects of MRI can result in possibility to some extent adjust its diagnostic use. |
aaa - Study of genetic instability in cells from leukemic patients and chemotherapy-resistant preleukemic stem cells at remission for prevention of relapses
Štúdium génovej nestability v bunkách leukemických pacientov a chemoterapeuticky-rezistentných preleukemických kmenových buniek pocas remisie ako prevencia relapsu
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0138/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Jakl Lukáš PhD. |
| Annotation: | Leukemia is the most prevalent malignity in children. It is known that some chromosomal translocations resulting in preleukemic fusion genes (PFG) in hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPC) are associated with leukemia. Translocation occurs as a result of incorrect DNA repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSB). Results of our previous study show that there is possible correlation between presence of PFG and increased level of endogenous DSB assessed with gH2AX/53BP1 DNA repair foci. Our first aim is to reveal whether the patients with most frequent PFG has higher level of DNA repair foci. It is considered that some preleukemic cells, which survive chemotherapy, could be a source for relapse. Our second aim is to characterize subpopulations of HSPC for presence of PFG in leukemia patients after chemotherapy in remission. Identifying of subpopulation of preleukemic stem cells responsible for relapse is needed for potential immunotherapy to prevent relapses. |
GlycoOFFviro - The study of HCMV virokine interactions underlying regulation of the immunological synapse for the development of a novel immunotherapeutic concept based on viral tricks
Štúdium interakcií HCMV virokínov zapojených do imunologickej synapsy pre vývoj nového imunoterapeutického konceptu založeného na vírusových trikoch.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 02/0026/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Nemčovičová Ivana PhD. |
| Annotation: | The molecular interactions regulating immune response take place in a nanoscale gap between T cells and antigen presenting cells, termed the immunological synapse. If these interactions are dysregulated, the host is susceptible to pathogens or tumor escape at one extreme and autoimmunity at the other. Treatments targeting the synapse have helped to establish immunotherapy as a mainstream element in cancer treatment. The novelty of our concept is to look at the molecules of immunological synapse that cytomegalovirus uses to turn down the immune system to figure out how to develop a new biotherapeutic drug. Within the project, we will investigate several HCMV virokines that function on NK and T cells and how they act in healthy and diseased states. The aim is to produce a detailed picture of their molecular architecture and function and therefore to serve as a molecular-level blueprint for rationalized design of bioimmunotherapeutics. This project is the logical continuation of our long-term joint initiative. |
Study of inverse relationship between carbonic anhydrases CA IX and CA IV and its significance for tumor phenotype
Štúdium inverzného vzťahu medzi karbonickými anhydrázami CA IX a CA IV a jeho významu pre nádorový fenotyp
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0050/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Takáčová Martina PhD. |
Study of the possibilities and limitations of the implementation of modern genetic analyses in clinical diagnostic procedures in patients without a clear and unambiguous clinical diagnosis
Štúdium možností a limitácií implementácie moderných genetických analýz v klinických diagnostických postupoch u pacientov bez jasnej a jednoznačnej klinickej diagnózy
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0114/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Zaťková Andrea PhD. |
| Annotation: | The project focuses on patients with rare to individual genetically determined diseases for which previous procedures have not led to a diagnosis. The main scientific objective is to analyse and characterize the potential of moving from exome analysis (WES), already part of diagnostic practice, to whole genome analysis (WGS), which also covers non-coding parts of the genome and provides the opportunity to analyse almost all types of genetic variation in more detail. Using WGS, we will analyse the DNA of patients to discover the genetic cause(s) of their disease. We will mainly use bioinformatics tools that have been developed at the collaborating workplace to analyse the variants and evaluate them. We expect to discover new variants in already known genes as well as in new candidate genes involved in the pathophysiology of rare diseases. These new findings can be developed in future basic research projects. Our so-called personalized medicine approach can also contribute to the choice of adequate therapies. |
Impact of the gut microbiome on the treatment and prognosis of patients with testicular germ cell tumors.
Štúdium vplyvu črevného mikrobiómu na liečbu a prognózu pacientov s testikulárnymi nádormi z germinatívnych buniek.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 1/0071/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Čierniková Soňa PhD. |
| Annotation: | Testicular germ cell tumors (GCTs) are the most frequent type of cancer in young males between 20-40 years and represent a model of curable malignancy. Despite the excellent prognosis, even in metastatic disease, some patients experience disease recurrence and died due to cancer progression. Expanding data suggests that the gut microbiome has a pleiotropic effect on different aspects of normal as well as pathological processes, including cancer. This study aims to characterize the gut microbiome in xenografts with testicular cancer and GCT patients and its association with patient/tumor characteristics and treatment outcome and toxicity. Generated knowledge could be important in planning subsequent interventional studies for microbiota modulation in GCT patients, aiming to improve patient outcomes and decrease treatment-related toxicity. |
ChE v HF - Therapeutic role of selective ChE inhibition in heart failure
Terapeutická úloha selektívnej inhibície cholínesteráz v srdcovom zlyhávaní
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0541 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Zahradníková, ml. Alexandra PhD. |
| Annotation: | Heart failure (HF) is a chronic progressive disease that represents a significant public health burden worldwide. Despite important progress in the management of HF over the past few decades, overall mortality remains high. Recently, a growing body of evidence suggests that decreased cholinergic signaling may be a suitable therapeutic approach, leading to proposals for large clinical trials to evaluate the long-term effects of cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitors (ChEI) at different stages of HF. Nevertheless, the information about ChE in the heart is sparse. Our preliminary results confirm the presence of both known ChE, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), in heart with distinct localization and roles in the regulation of cardiac functions. In the proposed project, we aim to evaluate the role of AChE and BChE in the etiopathogenesis of HF induced by transverse aortic constriction. We will use two models: genetically modified mice lacking active AChE or BChE and pharmacological intervention with specific ChEI, including donepezil (AChEI), isoOMPA (BChEI), rivastigmin (systemic AChEI and BChEI) and pyridostigmine (peripheral AChEI and BChEI). Additionally, we intend to characterize the source of cardioprotective acetylcholine. A genetically modified mouse strain with virtually no AChE activity in skeletal muscle will be used to examine a novel hypothesis about the toxic effects of acetylcholine spillover from the skeletal muscle to distant tissues such as the heart. Spatial transcriptomics will be used to distinguish between neuronal and non-neuronal cardiac acetylcholine as well as track spatial changes in cardiac remodeling in HF and upon treatment. The project results should provide important insights into the protective role of the cholinergic system in HF and therapeutic use of ChEI. |
Testing the effectiveness of polygenic risk score calculations from whole genome sequencing data and evaluation of hereditary patterns of polygenic diseases
Testovanie efektívnosti výpočtov polygénového rizikového skóre z celogenómových sekvenačných dát a hodnotenie vzorov dedičnosti pri polygénových ochoreniach
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0146/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Radvánszky Ján PhD. |
| Annotation: | Genomic risk assessment for complex diseases using the polygenic risk scores (PRS) of individual patients is a highly topical issue in human genomics worldwide. The project builds on our pilot studies, in which we tried to implement and standardize whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and the use of PRS calculations for various complex diseases in our workplace. In the currently submitted project, we plan to expand our WGS data set with additional samples of patients, their family members, and population controls. We chose ulcerative colitis as a model disease. The plan is to achieve statistically significant results on the issues raised by our pilot studies. The project will aim to determine the effect of various variables on PRS calculations, study the possibility of dividing disease-specific genomic risks into genomic risks specific to individual biological pathways, and monitor patterns of inheritance of risk alleles and PRS values in affected families. |
Translational DNA synthesis as a possible mechanism of cisplatin resistance in testicular germ cell tumors
Translézna syntéza DNA ako možný mechanizmus rezistencie voči cisplatine pri testikulárnych nádoroch zo zárodočných buniek
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0025 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Holíčková Andrea PhD. |
METADISCA - Involvement of hypoxia-induced carbonic anhydrase IX in tumor cells-blood cells interaction during metastatic dissemination
Účasť hypoxiou indukovanej karboanhydrázy IX na interakcii nádorových buniek a krvných buniek počas metastatického šírenia
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00444 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Švastová Eliška PhD. |
GAMS - Effects of GLP-1 Analog on Multiple Sclerosis
Účinky GLP-1 analógu na sclerosis multiplex
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0261 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. MUDr. Imrich Richard DrSc. |
| Annotation: | The primary objectives of our study are evaluating effects of GLP-1 agonist treatment on axonal damage and neurodegeneration. Annualized changes in brain/grey matter volumes and plasma levels of neurofilament L will serve as the primary variables. The secondary objectives are to explore effects of GLP-1 agonist treatment on insulin resistance and cognitive functions in MS. Insulin resistance will be evaluated using indices of insulin sensitivity based on oral glucose tolerance test, and cognitive functions will be tested using Symbol Digit Modalities (SDMT) and Stroop test. Several others exploratory analyses and functional tests including non-invasive evaluation of endothelial dysfunction will be also performed in the study. Currently, there is a substantial gap in knowledge of clinically relevant GLP-1 analog effects on the MS progression. Despite some progress in development of novel treatments for relapsing MS in recent years, many unmet needs remain in terms of therapeutics and disability avoidance. If successful, our results may provide basis for a potential therapy with GLP-1 analogs for the treatment of patients with MS with aim at slowing the process of neurodegeneration and prevent or delay the development of co-morbidities associated with insulin resistance (mainly cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes). |
Effects of copper complex LL-344B3 on lung cancer cells
Účinky meďnatého komplexu LL-344B3 na rakovinové bunky pľúc
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0041 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Svitková Barbora PhD. |
Effects of regular exercise training on molecular, cellular and whole body processes associated with ageing: : Multi-organ integrative approach
Účinky pravidelného cvičenia na bunkové a molekulárne procesy asociované so starnutím: multi-orgánový integratívny prístup.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0076/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | prof. MUDr. Ukropcová Barbara PhD. |
MitoTransport - The effect of pathologic mutations and post-translational modifications on the functions of mitochondrial processing peptidase essential for transport to mitochondria
Účinok patologických mutácií a posttranslačných modifikácií na funkcie mitochondriálnej procesujúcej peptidázy nevyhnutnej pre transport do mitochondrií
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0407 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Gašperíková Daniela DrSc. |
ActiveBiome - The Effect of Physical exercise and Nutrition on Gut Microbiome and Quality of Life in childhood cancer survivors
Účinok telesného cvičenia a výživy na črevný mikrobióm a kvalitu života vyliečených onkologických pacientov
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0047 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. MUDr. Penesová Adela PhD. |
The role of cellular lipids in lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus life cycle
Úloha bunkových lipidov v životnom cykle vírusu lymfocytovej choriomeningitídy
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0078/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Tomášková Jana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Cellular lipids play a crucial role in every phase of the virus life cycle. These interactions range from virus binding to the plasma membrane of the host cell, to the release of new infectious progeny into the extracellular space. Although exploitation of lipid metabolism is a common replication strategy, viruses use a variety of mechanisms to hijack these critical cellular pathways. The proposed project aims to shed light on these processes during infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), a model representative of the Arenaviridae family. We will focus on LCMV-induced changes in the lipid anabolic and catabolic pathways and their role in the virus life cycle. Discovering new virus-lipid interactions will not only provide invaluable insights into the molecular mechanisms of viral pathogenesis but also help identify novel targets for developing antiviral therapeutics. |
The role of GPR180 in regulation of pancreatic beta cell function and pathogenesis of diabetes
Úloha GPR180 v regulácii funkcie beta buniek pankreasu a patogenéze diabetu
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0128/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Balážová Lucia PhD. |
FLIMB - The role of immune system in NAFLD progression and identification of potential immunological biomarkers
Úloha imunitného systému pri progresii NAFLD a identifikácia potenciálnych imunologických biomarkerov
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00463 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Vince Kážmérová Zuzana PhD. |
| Annotation: | 1. Excellence Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an important public health problem with growing numbers of NAFLD patients worldwide (global prevalence exceeding 30%)(1). Pathological conditions are different in each stage of NAFLD and raging from relatively benign fatty liver (NAFL) to more aggressive steatohepatitis (NASH), characterised by inflammation and increasing liver fibrosis. In last stages, liver cirrhosis with functional impairment or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are present (2). Recent preclinical and clinical studies provide evidence for a crucial role of immune cells in NAFLD progression. Liver-resident macrophages as Kupffer cells (KCs) and monocytes-derived macrophages are the key innate immune cells involved in the progression of NAFL, to NASH, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In addition, several immunological studies showed, that their unique polarization contributes to the progression of NAFLD (3). While innate immune cells are responsible for the initiation of liver damage, adaptive immune cells characterized by increased lymphocyte recruitment to the liver, play a key role in the chronic inflammation resulting to liver damage (4, 5). These signals also interact extensively with each other and form an integrated immune network in the pathophysiology of NAFLD (3), however further research is still required. In addition, determining inflammatory mediators and identifying activated immune cell profiles could significantly contribute to the determination of predictive biomarkers of NAFLD progression toward NASH or cirrhosis. Based on above mentioned assertions, the main aim of the project is to develop a novel “in vitro” cell system (hepatocytes and immune cells co-culture) mimicking a simplified version of cell-interaction processes involved in NAFLD progression and NASH pathogenesis. To evaluate and to understand which innate and adaptive immune processes are triggered, in vitro culture environment with nutritional overload-mimicking conditions specific for NAFL and NASH pathogenesis will be manufactured. Concurrently, monitoring and unrevealing the specific subsets of immune cells activated within both levels of immune response (innate and adaptive) could identify novel immunological biomarkers in NAFLD progression, as well. 2. Impact Major FLIMB impact from short term manner: Hepatic-immune cell interaction model will be used as a novel “in vitro” research tool providing a new insight into the understanding of key immunological processes involved in NAFLD progression. Advanced knowledge of connections between NAFLD progression and inflammation will be revealed. Major FLIMB impact from long term manner: Identification of immunological drivers responsible for the initiation of liver damage or potentiation of chronic inflammation could be utilised in the future as potential immunological biomarkers. In addition, NAFLD diagnostics is one of the major struggling issues in management of patients. Lack of specific, sensitive and non-invasive diagnostic tools complicate staging of the disease severity, stratification of patients depending on disease progression and hinder patient’s early intervention. Identification of novel biomarkers can help clinicians to discriminate between individual stages of the disease, to stratify patients with risk of NAFLD progression from those with simple steatosis. Moreover, some of identified immunological drivers could be in the future used for drug development intended for prevention or treatment of NAFLD, as well. FLIMB will be closely interconnected with already approved and financed research project in BMC (SRDA-22-0310, supervised by L. Balazova), aimed to uncovering the surfaceome and cargo of hepatic extracellular vesicles to identify circulating NAFLD biomarkers. Effect of co-cultivation with immune cells on cargo of hepatic EVs will be evaluated, where my expertise and know-how from “in vitro” cell co-culture system design and immunology will be utilized. Besides I extend my knowledge in field of energy metabolism and metabolic diseases, FLIMB can help me take a step towards independence in my future career, and my current expertise can be applied in development of new area of research. 3. Implementation FLIMB structure consists of three major work packages (WP) addressing the following aims that are logically and chronologically interconnected. FLIMB main work packages with related aims are following: WP 1: Development of novel “in vitro” hepatic-immune cell interaction model. Aim 1: Hepatocytes and stellate cells (HSCs) cultivation set-up Aim 2: KCs and Monocyte-derived macrophages (MoMs) cultivation set-up Aim 3: Optimalization of co-culture techniques inevitable for development of hepatic-immune cell model WP 2: Evaluation of innate and adaptive immune response in hepatic-immune cell model under nutritional overload-mimicking conditions. Aim 1: To generate nutritionally overload-mimicking conditions in hepatic-immune cell model Aim 2: Immunophenotyping of KCs and MoMs and evaluation of innate immune response Aim 3: Evaluation of adaptive immune response in hepatic-immune cell model (co-cultivation with PBMCs) WP 3: Identification of novel immunologic biomarkers in NAFLD progression Aim 1: Isolation of PBMCs from blood of healthy and NAFLD patients Aim 2: Immunophenotyping and comparison of PBMCs from healthy and NAFLD patients Aim 3: Identification of novel immunological biomarkers in cargo of hepatic extracellular vesicles (EVs) Dissemination of the results Active participation at congresses Publications (open access, peer-reviewed) Annual reporting The probability of successful FLIMB fulfilment in relation to host institution infrastructure is highly rated. The institution and its associated departments possess all inevitable technical (BD FACS Aria II SORP UV, laser confocal fluorescent system TCS SP2 AOBS [Leica Microsystems] with inverted microscope DMIRE-2), material and personal facilities necessary for realization of postulated aims. Moreover, the project will be implemented in laboratory of Dr. Balazova (Department of Metabolic Disorders in BMC), who previously demonstrated a strong scientific background in the field of energy metabolism and metabolic diseases, and in cooperation with clinicians (Dr. Med. Daniela Stanikova, PhD. Department of Paediatrics, Comenius University, Faculty of Medicine and National Institute for Children's Diseases, Bratislava, Slovakia) who will provide us blood samples form NAFLD patients. Concurrently, I have a strong scientific background in immunology, inflammation, development of cell culture systems and leading laboratory techniques monitoring immune response, as well. References: 1. Riazi K, Azhari H, Charette JH, Underwood FE, King JA, Afshar EE, et al. The prevalence and incidence of NAFLD worldwide: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol (2022) 7(9):851–61. doi: 10.1016/S2468-1253(22)00165-0. 2. Friedman SL, Neuschwander-Tetri BA, Rinella M, Sanyal AJ. Mechanisms of nafld development and therapeutic strategies. Nat Med (2018) 24(7):908–22. doi: 10.1038/s41591-018-0104-9. 3. Peiseler M, Schwabe R, Hampe J, Kubes P, Heikenwalder M, Tacke F. Immune mechanisms linking metabolic injury to inflammation and fibrosis in fatty liver disease - novel insights into cellular communication circuits. J Hepatol (2022) 77(4):1136–60. doi: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.06.012. 4. Marra F, Tacke F. Roles for chemokines in liver disease. Gastroenterology (2014) 147(3):577–94.e1. doi: 10.1053/j.gastro.2014.06.043. 5. Shetty S, Lalor PF, Adams DH. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells {{/amp]]mdash; gatekeepers of hepatic immunity. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol (2018) 15(9):555–67. doi: 10.1038/s41575-018-0020-y. |
The role of intracolonic hydrogen sulfide and butyrate in the development of hypertension in obese rats
Úloha intrakolonálneho sírovodíka a butyrátu v rozvoji hypertenzie u obéznych potkanov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0066/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Tomášová Lenka PhD. |
The role of metal metabolism in the replication and survival of Coxiella burnetii
Úloha metabolizmu kovov v replikácii a prežívaní Coxiella burnetii
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0125/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Ing. Škultéty Ľudovít DrSc. |
The emerging role of the microbiome in hematologic cancer patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Úloha mikrobiómu u hematoonkologických pacientov podstupujúcich vysokodávkovanú chemoterapiu s transplantáciou krvotvorných kmeňových buniek.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0069/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Čierniková Soňa PhD. |
| Annotation: | Targeting the microbiome in cancer treatment faces mounting research interest. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) became a routine treatment for a wide variety of hematologic malignancies. To eradicate cancer cells, high-dose chemotherapy or radiotherapy is given to the patients as a part of conditioning regimen prior to HSCT. Both treatment modalities lead to mucosal barrier disruption and heavily destroy intestinal biodiversity, followed by severe treatment-associated complications. The aim of the proposed study is to characterize the bi-directional impact of the human gut microbiome and influencing factors on the clinical outcome of patients receiving high-dose chemotherapy with HSCT, mainly in patients with autologous HSCT. Correlation between microbial community structure, metabolic and immunologic pathways and clinical outcome may identify the microbial biomarkers for the early detection of patients at high risk of severe treatment toxicity and post-transplant complications. |
Role of DNA damage and repair in response of urogenital cancers to cisplatin-based chemotherapy
Úloha poškodenia DNA a opravy v odpovedi nádorov urogenitálneho traktu na chemoterapiu na báze cisplatiny
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0075/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Chovanec Miroslav PhD. |
| Annotation: | Testicular germ cell tumours (TGCT) most commonly affect men in the third decade of life, while bladder cancer (BC) predominantly affects men in the seventh decade of life. The treatment of both malignancies is based on the use of cisplatin (CDDP), and congenital or acquired resistance to this drug worsens the overall prognosis of TGCT and BC patients. The aim of this grant proposal is to investigate the mechanisms of CDDP response in both malignancies and to look for possible correlations between the DNA damage and repair levels and survival of TGCT and BC patients, as we assume that patients who do not respond adequately to CDDP have aberrant levels of endogenous and CDDP induced DNA damage levels, as well as levels of DNA repair mechanisms. |
DRPGE - The role of DNA repair proteins in gene repression
Úloha proteínov DNA opravy v génovej represii
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2022 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-21-0210 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Ing. Čipáková Ingrid PhD. |
SUSMED - The role of sulfur species in the development of metabolic diseases
Úloha zlúčenín síry v rozvoji metabolických ochorení
| Duration: | 1. 8. 2024 - 30. 6. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V04-00468 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Tomášová Lenka PhD. |
Validation of FTA cards containing nucleic acids of biosafety level 3 pathogens (West Nile virus) under experimental conditions
Validácia FTA kariet uchovávajúcich nukleové kyseliny biosafety level 3 patogénov (West Nile virus) v experimentálnych podmienkach
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V06-00031 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Čabanová Viktória PhD. |
VIRO_ID - Viroids - unique subviral plant pathogens, their diversity and host interactions
Viroidy - unikátne subvírusové patogény rastlín, ich diverzita a interakcie s hostiteľom
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0067 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | doc. Ing. Glasa Miroslav DrSc. |
| Annotation: | Viroids are short single-stranded circular RNAs infecting plants that, unlike viruses, do not encode any proteins of their own. Despite their structural simplicity, viroids are able to replicate in plant hosts, establish themselves and cause very severe symptoms leading, in the case of agricultural crops, to significant economic losses. Knowledge about the species representation of viroids and their diversity in Slovakia is lacking, while in recent years we are confronted with an increase of reports of new and newly emerging viroid species and their divergent variants on a global scale. The aim of the project is to bring an up-to-date view of the occurrence of viroid infections in our territory, the identification of the causal agents and their molecular epidemiology. Metagenomic analysis of plant viromes using massive parallel and standard sequencing will enable the characterization of virus and viroid genomes, the possible identification of mixed infections and the depth of intra-isolate diversity polymorphism. The knowledge gained will be used for the development and optimization of tools enabling the specific detection of viroids in subsequent epidemiological studies (host range, population dynamics in different agroecological contexts...). With the help of prepared infectious pospiviroid clones and controlled infection of experimental plants, we will follow the etiology of the disease, molecular factors of host specificity and the role of key mutations in viroid pathogenesis. Understanding the factors influencing the diversification and evolution of viroids will enable a comprehensive view of their pathosystem and contribute to the adoption of effective preventive phytosanitary measures on a wider scale. With the modified viroid vector, we will also evaluate the potential of using viroid-induced silencing of gene expression (VdIGS) in plant functional genomics. |
PTSD - Influence of aripiprazole and enriched environment on morphological-functional changes in the hippocampus and behavior in animal model of the post-traumatic stress disorder
Vplyv aripiprazolu a obohateného prostredia na morfologicko-funkčné zmeny v hipokampe a správanie v animálnom modeli posttraumatickej stresovej poruchy
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0050/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Osacká Jana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop because of exposure to a severe traumatic event (stress). Its origin is related to the disruption of morphological-functional characteristics of the hippocampus and hippocampal neurogenesis. PTSD is associated with decreased hippocampal volume and reduced neurogenesis, and the origin of these changes is not fully understood. PTSD therapy includes psychotherapy and drug treatment. Available data suggest that antipsychotics, enriched environment or their combination may have a positive effect on hippocampal "normalization" and increased neurogenesis in PTSD patients. The aim of the presented project is to determine whether aripiprazole and the enriched environment in the PTSD animal model will positively affect impaired hippocampal function and neurogenesis. The functionality of the hippocampus will be assessed by behavioral tests, the level of neurogenesis and the activity of the selected brain areas by monitoring changes in expression of specific markers. |
Effect of type 1 angiotensin receptor blockade on the amelioration of neurogenic bladder dysfunction after severe spinal cord trauma.
Vplyv blokovania angiotenzínových receptorov typu 1 na vylepšenie neurogénnej dysfunkcie močového mechúra po závažnej traume miechy.
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0084 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Snopková Jana PhD. |
| Annotation: | Scientific interest in spinal cord injury primarily focuses on developing clinically accepted therapies that could promote locomotor improvement. However, the loss of mobility after trauma is also accompanied by other autonomic system disorders. One of the most dangerous complications that often lead to repeated hospitalizations of patients and have a negative impact on their quality of life is neurogenic bladder dysfunction. A potential target for pharmacological intervention in this field is the renin-angiotensin system. The regulation of angiotensin receptors can significantly contribute to the alleviation of urinary problems. In the presented project, we focus on a comprehensive analysis of mechanisms that improve micturition affected by angiotensin receptor type 1 blockade after spinal cord trauma. We aim to investigate the impact on the afferent innervation of the urinary bladder, as well as on the spinal and supraspinal control of micturition. |
The effect of NG2 positive cell population on extent of damage and functional recovery following spinalal cord injury
Vplyv NG2 pozitívnej populácie buniek na rozsah poranenia a funkčnej obnovy po úraze miechy
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0117/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | MUDr. Kuchárová Karolína PhD. |
| Annotation: | he goal of this proposal is to affect the molecular and cellular mechanisms that, through the production of NG2 proteoglycan (NG2), prevent the functional recovery after the spinal cord injury (SCI). The injury increases the NG2 in the oligodendrocyte progenitors, pericytes, fibroblasts and inflammatory cells. When, where and which cell types of this diverse population respond to damage and treatment is not yet known. Considering the role of NG2+ cells following SCI, the present project will compare 1) the chondroitinase ABC treatment that promotes the functional recovery, but is intrathecal, i.e., invasive, to 2) an oral anti-fibrotic approach. The response of these functionally diverse cell types to treatment will be assessed by cell-specific and functional techniques. Findings from this project may reveal the NG2+ cell types involved in scar formation, and whether less invasive, but selective, approach targeting the NG2+ fibroblasts may protect neurons and improve functional recovery after the SCI. |
The effect of the AT2 receptor stimulation on revascularization of severe injured spinal cord
Vplyv stimulácie AT2 receptorov na revaskularizáciu vážne poranenej miechy
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | VEGA 2/0123/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Pavel Jaroslav PhD. |
Effect of Dietary Supplements on Follicular Fluid in Female Infertility: Mitigating Oxidative Stress
Vplyv výživových doplnkov na oxidačný stres vo folikulárnej tekutine u neplodných žien
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0022/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Kozics Katarína PhD. |
| Annotation: | nfertility, also known as sterility, is becoming an increasing problem in today's society. It occurs in both men and women. Oxidative stress is one of the causes of infertility. The effect of oxidative stress in infertile men is a confirmed risk factor that is partially eliminated by antioxidant supplementation. However, there is no such intervention for women yet. In this project, we want to focus on oxidative stress, which is one of the possible factors influencing the success of assisted reproduction (ART) in women. The aim of the presented project is to determine the influence of the antioxidant effect of nutritional supplements on oxidative stress in the follicular fluid in infertile women compared to a control group of women. In addition, the project focuses on the identification of potential biomarkers in the follicular fluid that are related to oxidative stress and thus to the success of ART. |
Innate antiviral defense responses of selected human skin cells to tick-borne encephalitis virus and their modulation by bioactive substances in tick saliva
Vrodené antivírusové obranné reakcie vybraných buniek ľudskej kože voči vírusu kliešťovej encefalitídy a ich modulácia bioaktívnymi látkami v slinách kliešťov.
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0108/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Štibrániová Iveta PhD. |
| Annotation: | Ticks and tick-borne viruses (TBVs) are an extraordinary medical problem. Together with the host, they form an interactive triangle in which the skin of the host is the place of their first contact. Despite an effective barrier function, the skin is still the main gateway for most tick-borne pathogens (including viruses) to enter, allowing them to multiply and disseminate extensively to other organs. The transmission of viruses through tick bites is not a mechanical process but is supported by tick saliva. Skin cells, including keratinocytes, are able to detect and defend against viruses also thanks to the mechanisms of innate antiviral protection. Defining an environment at the tick-host interface that is unfavorable for TBVs could open up the possibility of creating a new universal vaccine against TBVs. |
SYNDEAF - Identification of novel genetic variants in syndromic hearing loss by whole exome sequencing
Vyhľadávanie nových génových variantov syndrómových porúch sluchu pomocou celoexómového sekvenovania
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0236 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Gašperíková Daniela DrSc. |
Research of clinical and genetic aspects of ketotic hypoglycemia in children
Výskum klinických a genetických aspektov ketotických hypoglykémií u detí
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 1/0659/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Gašperíková Daniela DrSc. |
Investigation of new molecular regulatory mechanisms of selected biologically active 4H-pyran-4-ones in relation to their prospective applicability in human oncology
Výskum nových molekulárnych regulačných mechanizmov vybraných biologicky aktívnych 4-pyranónov vo vzťahu k ich perspektívnej využiteľnosti v humánnej onkológii
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2024 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0042/24 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Macejová Dana PhD. |
| Annotation: | The source of biologically active substances as primary components of pharmaceutical preparations are natural raw materials of mineral, plant or animal origin or synthetic compounds. There is another source, which is a combination of the previous ones, when a natural substance serves as the primary raw material for preparing a wide range of new synthetic compounds. 4H-pyran-4-ones are heterocyclic compounds containing oxygen. They are easily degraded into non-toxic products, capable of being included in the cycle of biogenic elements in nature. The chemical structure of 4H-pyran-4-ones has several reaction centres that allow the preparation of numerous diverse compounds. Important representatives of 4H-pyran-4-ones include 5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethyl-4H-pyran-4-one. The aim is to study the role of synthesized new derivatives of the base compound 5-hydroxy-2-hydroxymethyl-4H-pyran-4-one in processes leading to the induction of apoptosis and the inhibition of proliferation and migration of invasive tumour cells. |
The study of protein-protein interactions in ATAD3A-related neurological disorders
Výskum proteínových interakcií pri neurologických ochoreniach spojených s ATAD3A
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APD0050 |
| Program: | PostdokGrant |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Hromníková Dominika PhD. |
| Annotation: | Human ATAD3A (the ATPase family AAA domain-containing protein 3) is a mitochondrial transmembrane protein. At the organelle level, it is increasingly found in places of contact with the endoplasmic reticulum. These sites are known as MAMs, mitochondria-associated membranes. These multifunctional platforms in cells ensure homeostasis, from cholesterol synthesis, through Ca2+ ion transfer to autophagy induction and regulation of metastasis formation. Mutations in the ATAD3A gene are associated with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, from perinatal lethal forms to less severe neurodegenerative diseases, depending on the type of mutation. On cells from patients (fibroblasts) with a moderately severe form identified in our laboratory, we will study how the mutations found in them affect the function of the ATAD3A protein. We will aim to find out how mutations in this gene affect the interaction between ATAD3A and its partners. Based on the localization of mutations in ATAD3A, we will focus on partners located in the mitochondrial matrix (TFAM), in the mitochondrial membrane (MFN2, AMBRA1, VDAC1) and in the endoplasmic reticulum (PERK, σ1R). The key role of ATAD3A in the regulation of mitochondria-related mechanisms makes ATAD3A a promising area of research for mitochondrial and severe metabolic diseases. Understanding how the mutated ATAD3A gene affects cell homeostasis through MAMs and other protein partners is a pre-requisite for using these pathways as a therapeutic target in the future. |
Utilisation of a CAM model to study tumour microenvironment interactions
Využitie CAM modelu na štúdium interakcií nádorového mikroprostredia
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | NPS SAV 2024 |
| Program: | Iné projekty |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Čumová Andrea PhD. |
| Annotation: | Until recently, 2D cancer cell lines have been widely used in breast cancer research. These are now being replaced by primocultures in the form of organoids, 3D structures that more faithfully recapitulate the cancer tissue at the molecular, histological, and clinical levels. In this project, I will focus on the interactions between organoids and cells isolated from tumor microenvironment - mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) present in breast adipose tissue. The originality of the project lies in the use of an unconventional experimental model of the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of the Japanese quail embryo, which serves as the primary respiratory and excretory organ of the embryo. Compared to mammalian models, the CAM model offers both ethical and technical advantages, such as easier implantation and observation of tumors and metastasis. The lower financial cost of experiments and the shorter execution time are also important. The CAM model simulates the clinical signs of cancer growth, progression, and metastasis formation, which could help to elucidate the biological mechanisms behind these processes. |
Nanomedical approach to fight pancreatic cancer via targeting tumor-associated carbonic anhydrase IX
Využitie nanomedicíny v boji proti rakovine pankreasu prostredníctvom zacielenia nádorovo- asociovanej karbonickej anhydrázy IX
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0485 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Csáderová Lucia PhD. |
NaturPack - Application of natural plants oils and extracts for foodpackaging
Využitie prírodných rastlinných olejov a extraktov pre potravinové obaly
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2024 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0401 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Kozics Katarína PhD. |
| Annotation: | For many years, much attention has been paid to packaging materials. Packaging is a vital component of a food product, fruit or vegetable, as it aims to protect the product itself from external influences during transport or storage, to ensure the longest possible freshness of the food and at the same time serves to attract the customer. The properties of packaging are constantly being improved and are moving towards so-called active packaging. The latest packaging is resealable, sustainable, ecological, customized, and made of different material s (PET, PP, PS, paper, MaterBi PLA) that meets the technical requirements. However, our goal is to improve the biotechnological parameters so that the devastating/rotting processes of fruits and vegetables are inhibited. The packaging material being developed will be composed of biodegradable PLA/PHB polymers as a carrier component. The bioactive component is represented by vegetable oils, essential oils, and plant extracts obtained from the waste industry from fruit processing or plants. The packaging material will be prepared using electrospinning technology. It will be a nanofibrous membrane that will ensure sufficient permeability of gases and vapors. By applying bioactive components with antimicrobial properties to the supporting biodegradable polymer matrix, we expect an extended life of the food and its safety for the consumer. |
NANOTICK - Development of albumin and dendrimer-based nanosystems against tick-borne encephalitis virus
Vývoj nanosystémov na báze albumínu a dendriméru proti vírusu kliešťovej encefalitídy
| Duration: | 1. 9. 2024 - 30. 6. 2028 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-23-0348 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Koči Juraj PhD. |
| Annotation: | Tick-borne encephalitis is a clinically significant arboviral illness with potentially aggressive neurological sequels. Despite available and effective vaccination, the number of human TBE cases has increased over the last three decades. In up to 30% of symptomatic cases, TBEV infection can progress to chronic and persistent encephalitis. Unfortunately, no anti-TBEV therapy is available for chronic patients with a debilitating form of the disease. One of the most promising targets for the development of therapeutics against TBEV is domain III of the viral envelope protein E. Domain III is exclusively exposed on the virion surface and involved in viral attachment and cell entry. Camelid nanobodies (Nb) and small blocking peptides (bP) targeting the DIII offer elegant virus -entry blocking tools thanks to their size and low production costs. Nb and bP, however, do not cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a highly selective barrier that prevents common therapeutics from crossing from blood to the brain. The crossing could be improved by their conjugation with biocompatible nanocarriers and BBB-homing peptide (e.g., angiopep- 2). As a proof-of-concept, the project intends to create nanosystems based on PAMAM dendrimer and human serum albumin, which will be decorated with TBEV-blocking Nb or bP and homing peptide. The project also intends to evaluate the stability, safety, and biodistribution of nanosystems in vitro and in vivo. Due to the lack of reporter TBEVs in vivo, we aim to establish a reporter TBEV system to facilitate evaluation in vivo ability of the nanosystems to cross the BBB and neutralize the virus in CNS. We believe that the nanosystems developed and thoroughly evaluated in this project could be translated into anti-TBEV therapeutics. |
DITIMA - Development of unique TiMg composite dental implant
Vývoj unikátneho TiMg kompozitného zubného implantátu
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0417 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Takáčová Martina PhD. |
| Annotation: | Dental implants (Dis) become more affordable and sought solution across a globe, the will be in a place for longer periods and a need for maintenance will decrease. Titanium (Ti) and Ti alloys are the most widely utilized materials for production of DI. Even though Ti-based DI are used with a high success rate, two major issues have remained insufficiently resolved: the stress-shielding effect and their insufficient surface bioactivity. That pushes competition, progress and R&D in the related area further and brings a need for novel solutions, approaches and material concepts. The main aim of proposed project is a development of an innovative endosseous biomedical DI fabricated from the unique partially biodegradable Ti - magnesium (Mg) composite material. New DI will minimize the main drawbacks of the contemporary DI, while it maintains the mechanical performance and fatigue endurance of Ti-based references. An advantageous combination of the mechanical, fatigue, corrosion and biological properties of developed DI is owing to a special DI`s design, which reflects and takes advantage of Ti17Mg, the material it will be manufactured from. Ti17Mg is the experimental powder metallurgy material invented by project partners, which selectively exploits the advantages of both biometals. In the project a new DI will be designed and optimized, in order to reflect unique behavior and workability of Ti17Mg. Performance of DI will be assessed and optimized systematically in an environment, which simulates real-life conditions in a human body, including mechanical, fatigue and corrosion testing, and in-vitro and in-vivo biological evaluation using cell culture, small and large animal models. All assays will be carried out in accordance with related ISO specifications. It is anticipated that at the end of the project new innovative high value-added DI is available and pending for testing in a human body. Expectedly TRL 6 will be accomplished at the end of project. |
Significance of dopaminergic neurons for neuromotor development and social interactions
Význam dopamín produkujúcich neurónov pre neuromotorický vývin a sociálne interakcie
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0057/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | doc. RNDr. Bakoš Ján PhD. |
WAMPIRE - Warranty of blood safety towards mosquito-borne viruses infections in the era of global change
Záruka bezpečnosti krvi a krvných derivátov vo vzťahu k ochoreniam prenášaných komármi v ére glabálnej zmeny
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0347 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Čabanová Viktória PhD. |
Establishing a Cytogenetic Biodosimetry Facility at Cancer Research Institute of Biomedical Research Centre of Slovak Academy of Science
Zavedenie zariadenia cytogenetickej biodozimetrie na Ústave experimentálnej onkológie, Biomedicínske centrum SAV
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 09I03-03-V01-00068 |
| Program: | Plán obnovy EÚ |
| Project leader: | Vinnikov Volodymyr PhD. |
| Annotation: | Radiation biodosimetry by cytogenetic analysis is widely used in radiation protection and medical management of radiation accidents. However, this robust radiobiological technique can be also applied for radiation effects assessment in radiotherapy patients. The aim of the project is to provide a thoroughly calibrated and verified methodology for measurement of absorbed radiation dose by cytogenetic biomarkers, suitable for radiobiological experimental research and clinical applications in various scenarios of radiation exposure. Project plan includes 3 tasks: (1) Dose responses will be constructed in vitro for chromosomal aberration yield and interphase cell death, induced in human blood lymphocytes by 6 MeV photons of clinical linear accelerator. The resultant calibration curve will be established in compliance with ISO 19238 and IAEA Manual on cytogenetic biodosimetry and validated in a double-blind biodosimetric exercise with in vitro irradiation and also via biological dose estimates in cancer patients after their first radiotherapy fraction. (2) Cytogenetic dose response in vitro will be studied in the radiation dose range of 0.05 – 1.0 Gy in order to enhance the resolution of the calibration curve at low levels of radiation exposure. An algorithm for statistical processing of cytogenetic data using Bayesian analysis for biodosimetry of low radiation doses will be developed and tested via re-estimation of biological doses in a cohort of professionally exposed people (radiologists). (3) A novel calibration approach for advanced cytogenetic biodosimetry of medical localized exposure will be developed in an experiment with irradiation of blood samples in a human-tissue-equivalent phantom. A dose-volume effect in the outcome of chromosome damage in human lymphocytes in such conditions will be quantified and formalized. To validate such an approach, dose-volume biodosimetric estimates in patients undergoing partial irradiation for medical purposes will be obtained and compared with true radiation doses. Finally, an improved methodology of cytogenetic biodosimetry will be established and implemented at BMC SAV that will increase the accuracy and efficacy of genotoxic and cytotoxic effects assessment in humans in various scenarios of medical radiation exposure. |
INFOTICK - Getting the right info on ticks.
Získanie pravdivých informácií o kliešťoch.
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2023 - 30. 6. 2027 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-22-0372 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | Mgr. Špitalská Eva PhD. |
| Annotation: | Despite the fact that the castor bean tick, Ixodes ricinus has been studied for a century, many questions regarding its ecology remain unanswered. Several aspects of its basic biology and phenology are still unexplored. Global changes, including climate shifts, transformation of the landscape and urbanization, contribute to the switch not only in tick distribution, but also in bionomics and seasonal activity of ticks. The ornate dog tick, Dermacentor reticulatus adapts quickly to changing conditions and its range is expanding. There is the need for detailed description of areas where these ticks are found (natural as well as urban habitats), since their ranges have changed during the last decades. The main risk factor for tick-exposed people in a given area is the density of infected questing ticks. In the proposed project, questing activity of ticks will be monitored using the tick-plot methodology „tick gardens“ in field plots as well as flagging the vegetation for questing ticks. Using the tick-plot methodology, we will also follow the tick life cycle and the seasonality of various developmental events (especially moulting) as well as the longevity of different life stages. Since these two species of ticks are considered epidemiologically the most important, we will also identify the prevalence and occurrence of both pathogen infected questing ticks and infected ticks feeding on animals. Furthermore, with changing conditions, the invasion and occurrence of „non-native“ species of ticks in Slovakia will be closely monitored since these emerging tick species can introduce new pathogens to our area. The information obtained by the resarch team during the project as well as during previous studies will be transfered and used in the development of a mobile application for tick identification and the creation of a website that will bring benefits to the general public and professionals to understand the risk of infection with the tick-borne pathogens. |
AMETHYST - Ameliorating Effects of Aging by Physical Exercise: Molecular, Metabolic and Structural Adaptations, Multi-Organ Integrative Approach
Zlepšenie prejavov starnutia pravidelným cvičením: multi-orgánový integratívny prístup k molekulovej, metabolickej a štrukturálnej adaptácii na cvičenie
| Duration: | 1. 7. 2021 - 30. 6. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | APVV-20-0466 |
| Program: | APVV |
| Project leader: | prof. MUDr. Ukropcová Barbara PhD. |
Coping with psychosocial stress situations in patients with depressive disorder in relation to age and unravelling the mechanisms involved
Zvládanie psychosociálnych stresových situácií u pacientov s depresívnou poruchou v závislosti od veku a odkrývanie zúčastnených mechanizmov
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2023 - 31. 12. 2026 |
| Evidence number: | 1/0644/23 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | prof. PharmDr. Ježová Daniela DrSc. |
| Annotation: | The main goal of the project is to reveal differences in neuroendocrine changes important for coping with stressors between adolescent and adult patients with depressive disorder compared to healthy subjects. The focus will be given to the disclosure of neurobiological basis underlying consequences of social pain and cognitive deficit on the development and course of depression. Another important goal is to uncover novel endocrine and immune correlates and changes in brain plasticity related to depression. Expected results are likely to help to identify potential therapeutic targets and enable adequate therapeutic intervention with respect to the age of the patient. The project is of a translational nature with an overlap between clinical and preclinical research. The original findings to be obtained will certainly broaden the current knowledge of the pathophysiology of depression and stress coping. They will contribute to better preventive and treatment options for depressive disorders in relation to age. |
Enhancement of endocannabinoid signaling as a promising target for the treatment of stress-related psychiatric disorders
Zvýšenie endokanabinoidnej signalizácie ako perspektívny terč pre liečbu psychických porúch podmienených stresom
| Duration: | 1. 1. 2022 - 31. 12. 2025 |
| Evidence number: | 2/0158/22 |
| Program: | VEGA |
| Project leader: | RNDr. Hlaváčová Nataša PhD. |
Projects total: 202