Thanks to the diverse focus of scientific teams at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, we also cooperate with a number of other groups, whether from Mendel University or other universities in the Czech Republic (VUT, MUNI, VFU) and abroad.
| 1. Role of monocyte metabolism and transcription factor networks in progression of human sepsis. | |
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| Program: | VES 2018 |
| Number: | NV18-06-00529 |
| Provider: | AZV ČR |
| Investigator:
Co-investigator: |
Mgr. Jan Frič, Ph.D. FNUSA-ICRS
Ing. Lucie Vaníčková, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2018 – 2021 |
Abstract:
The host immune system plays a critical role in the development and progression of sepsis, but the mechanisms that lead to cellular dysfunction, organ failure and death remain poorly defined. Peripheral blood monocytes are a
major source of the effector molecules that are closely correlated with sepsis development and clinical outcomes. We aim to dissect the signalling pathways and transcription factor networks that control monocyte function in human sepsis.
We will also use a newly-developed 3D organoid model to assess how patient monocyte signalling is influenced by lung tissue, which is the most common site of infection in sepsis and serves as a reservoir of monocytes for
release into the blood. Given that sepsis-linked changes in monocyte function alter the metabolite content of blood, we will also use a metabolomic approach to identify novel biomarkers within the volatile fraction of patient serum. This project will better define the molecular determinants of monocyte activity in human sepsis and assist the identification of new prognostic biomarkers for use in the clinic.
| 2. Towards the Understanding a Metal-Tumour-Metabolism | |
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| Program: | Starting Grant 2017 |
| Number: | 759585 |
| Provider: | ERC |
| Investigator: | prof. RNDr. Vojtěch Adam, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2018 – 2022 |
Abstract:
A tumour cell uses both genetic and protein weapons in its development. Gaining a greater understanding of these lethal mechanisms is a key step towards developing novel and more effective treatments. Because the metal ion metabolism of a tumour cell is not fully understood, we will address the challenge of explaining the mechanisms of how a tumour cell copes both with essential metal ions and platinum based drugs. The metal-based mechanisms help a tumour to grow on one side and to protect itself against commonly used metal-based drugs. On the other side, the exact description of these mechanisms, which are being associated with multi-drug resistance occurrence and failure of a treatment, still remains unclear. We will reveal the mechanism of the as yet not understood biochemical and molecularly-biological relationships and correlations between metal ions and proteins in a tumour development revealing the way how to suppress the growth and development of a tumour and to markedly enhance the effectiveness of a treatment.
To achieve this goal, we will focus on metallothionein and its interactions with essential metals and metal-containing anticancer drugs (cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin). Their actions will be monitored both in vitro and in vivo. For this purpose, we will optimize electrochemical, mass spectrometric and immune-based methods. Based on processing of data obtained, new carcinogenetic pathways will be sought on cell level and proved by genetic modifications of target genes. The discovered processes and the pathways found will then be tested on two animal experimental models mice bearing breast tumours (MCF-7 and 4T1) and MeLiM minipigs bearing melanomas.
The precise description of the tumour related pathways coping with metal ions based on metallothioneins will direct new highly effective treatment strategies. Moreover, the discovery of new carcinogenetic pathways will open a window for understanding of cancer formation and development.
| 3. InteGRated systems for Effective ENvironmEntal Remediation | |
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| Program: | H2020 |
| Number: | SEP-210512132 |
| Provider: | European Commission |
| Co-investigator: | doc. Mgr. Markéta Vaculovičová, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2019 – 2022 |
Abstract:
Increasing chemical pollution seriously compromises the health of ecosystems and humans worldwide. Hazardous compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, heavy metals and emerging pollutants contaminate soils/sediments, ground and surface waters. To prevent/minimise the risks associated with the accumulations of these chemicals in the environment it is key to establish low-cost/green methodologies for the treatment and redevelopment of contaminated areas. Several physico-chemical methods have been explored to remove pollutants in the environment, but these are complex, energy consuming or expensive. The exploitation of the capability of bacteria, fungi and phototrophs to transform toxic contaminants into harmless end-products, can lead instead to cheap and sustainable bioremediation alternatives.
GREENER proposes the development of innovative, efficient and low-cost hybrid solutions that integrate bioremediation technologies with bio-electrochemical systems (BES). BES, such as microbial fuel cells, break down organic contaminants
through the action of electroactive bacteria while generating electrical current. We will investigate the synergetic effect of different bioremediation strategies and demonstrate effective pollutants removal in water and soil/sediments, while generating side products of interest, such as bioelectricity. The type and entity of contamination, along with the specific physico-chemical/microbial characteristics of the environment to be depolluted, will feed into a decision-making toolbox. The latter will allow the establishment of ad hoc integrated solutions, which will take into account effectiveness of biodegradation, costs, environmental risks and social aspects. Fundamental research will be performed at lab-scale, while pilot-tests will be used to proof the scaling-up feasibility for field applications. Environmental benefits and risks, compared to standard remediation approaches, including energy efficiency, will be investigated.
| 4.Assessment of Simultaneous Application of SIT and MAT to Enhance Bactrocera Fruit Fly Management | |
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| Program: | |
| Number: | 2190 |
| Provider: | FAO/IAEA |
| Investigator: | Ing. Lucie Vaníčková, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2019 – 2023 |
Abstract:
Genus Bactrocera Macquart (Diptera: Tephritidae) belongs to the family of true fruit flies and contains over 500 species occurring in South-east Asian and Pacific regions. The genus Zeugodacus currently includes 192 species. Most species within this genus are restricted to the Oriental and Australasian Regions, with a few species reaching into the eastern Palearctic in China and Japan, except for Z. cucurbitae which was introduced into other parts of the world.
Bactrocera dorsalis, B. carambolae, B. oleae and Zeugodacus cucurbitae are considered one the most destructive pests of agricultural crops worldwide. Despite their economic importance, little is known about the production of cuticular hydrocarbons in both sexes of Bactorcera spp. and Zeugodacus. Investigating the chemical ecology of this important pests may allow shedding light on mate choice mechanisms, adding useful information to improve behavior-based control strategies. In this research we propose to ivestigate in detail the epicuticular composition of Bactrocera spp. and Z. cucurbitae males and females using two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometric detection and multivariance factorial analysis together with behavioral assays.
This study will add basic knowledge to the chemical ecology of the metioned fruit flies, pointing out the potential implications for Integrated Pest Management, with special reference to the development of behavior-based control tools and new tephritid lures.
| 5. Encapsulation of cholinesterase reactivators using apoferritin for enhanced bioavailability in central nervous system |
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|---|---|
| Program: | Standard projects |
| Number: | 19-13628S |
| Provider: | GAČR |
| Investigator:
Co-investigator: |
Doc. PharmDr. Kamil Musílek, Ph.D.
Mgr. Zbyněk Heger, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2019 – 2021 |
Abstract:
Organophosphorus compounds are produced as chemical warfare agents or used as insecticides and cause life endangering intoxications. For the treatment of intoxication, acetylcholinesterase reactivators (oximes) are used as causal antidotes.
Currently, clinically used or promising experimental reactivators (so-called quaternary reactivators) have major
limitation in a very limited penetration into the central nervous system, where intoxication and irreversible changes in nerve tissue also occur. For this reason, biocompatible delivery systems are developed to encapsulate the reactivator´s molecules, transfer them to the central nervous system, and then release for reactivation of organophosphorus intoxication. This project focuses on acetylcholinesterase reactivators encapsulated with apoferritin and preclinical research on their bioavailability in the central nervous system.
| 6. Paperfluidická přenosná zařizení pro rychlou a nízkonákladovou analýzu bez instrumentální detekce | |
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| Program: | Standard projects |
| Number: | 19-02108S |
| Provider: | GAČR |
| Investigator:
Co-investigator: |
prof. RNDr. Miroslav Macka, Ph.D.
doc. Markéta Vaculovičová, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2019 – 2021 |
Abstract:
Paper-based microfluidic analytical devices (μ-PADs) significantly advance the options of rapid and low-cost portable analysis. Instrumentation-free readout based on distance-based detection enhances the value of μ-PADs due to their extremely low cost, and simplicity of use without any instrumentation required. Selective reagents have to be immobilised on the μ-PAD to achieve formation of an accurate reaction boundary allowing distance-based detection, but so far only very limited range of immobilised reagent have been used. Herein we propose new ways of reagent immobilisation, thus broadening the range of reagents that can be used. We propose to utilise electrostatic interaction on μ-PADs with paper substrate modified to carry ionic charges, and explore other approaches including paper-embedded nano- or microparticles. Finally, integrated sample preparation compatible with distance-based detection μ-PADs will be studied for the determination of selected (bio)analytes in samples with various types of matrices.
| 7. Diffusive gradient in thin film technique (DGT): an effective tool for predicting mercury | |
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| Program: | Standard projects |
| Number: | 19-11528S |
| Provider: | GAČR |
| Investigator: | doc. Mgr. Pavlína Pelcová, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2019 – 2021 |
Abstract:
The proposed project deals with the optimisation and utilisation of the diffusive gradient in thin film technique (DGT) for the determination of bioavailable mercury species (Hg2+, CH3Hg+, C2H5Hg+, C6H5Hg+) in contaminated soil and aquatic environment (in the locality of Jedová hora – Brdy, Czech Republic), and with the assessing the capability of the diffusive gradient in thin film (DGT) technique to predict the bioavailability of mercury for agricultural crops and for aquatic plants. Furthermore, the influence of acid rain and soil parameters on the transport of mobile mercury forms from soil to plants will be also observed, and the contamination of the
Záskalská aquatic ecosystem, which is located at the foothills of Jedová hora, will be evaluated. The obtained results will serve to better understand the mercury bioaccumulation in similarly mercury-contaminated areas.
| 8. Zinc signaling and metallothioneins sub/isoforms expression in breast cancer: implications for prognostic and therapeutic purposes |
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| Program: | International projects |
| Number: | 19-13766J |
| Provider: | GAČR |
| Investigator: | prof. RNDr. Vojtěch Adam, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2019 – 2021 |
Abstract:
The project is focused on a detailed study of zinc-dependent signalization and its relation to expression of sub/isoforms of metallothioneins in selected subtypes of breast cancer. Research plan is a cooperation effort, connecting expertise of Prof. Haase (Technical University in Berlin) in analysis and biochemistry of zinc and zinc-dependent signalization with expertise of Prof. Adam (Mendel University in Brno) in metallomics and metalloproteomics with special emphasis on metallothioneins. In the project, we will study the influence of zinc-depletion and supplementation (in vitro and in vivo) on signal transductions, invassiveness and susceptibility to cytostatics using advanced analytical and molecular biology methods. Proposed study will enhance our knowledge on relation between zinc, metallothioneins and behavior of various subtypes of breast cancer, which is characterized by a steadily increasing incidence. The obtained data will form the basis for the use of zinc-dependent molecules as prognostic biomarkers for breast cancer.
| 9. Multidisciplinary research to increase the application potential of nanomaterials in agricultural practice | |
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| Program: | OP VVV – PAV |
| Number: | CZ.02.1.01/0.0/16_025/0007314 |
| Provider: | MŠMT |
| Investigator: | prof. RNDr. Vojtěch Adam, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2018 – 2022 |
The project uses a multidisciplinary approach for the design, development and testing of advanced nanomaterials, mainly based on selenium, but also other metals, semi-metals and biomacromolecular materials, as alternatives to antibiotics. The developed nanomaterials will be applied to three areas in order to accelerate their use in agricultural practice. They will be tested to validate their application potential, primarily in veterinary and phytosanitary medicine, where bacterial resistance presents major socio-economic problems. The project itself contains four interlinked research projects:
• VZ1 Advanced nanomaterials and the use of protein cages for their targeted transport
• VZ2 Use of advanced nanomaterials in the treatment of mastitis in livestock
• VZ3 Use of advanced nanomaterials to ensure sterility and antimicrobiality of coating materials in agricultural practice
• VZ4 Use of advanced nanomaterials for the treatment of plants against bacterial strains of Xanthomonas campestris pv. CampestrisThe main output of the project will be, on the one hand, publications in highly impacted ISI indexed journals, to which all presentations of the research activity of the VZ1 research plan will be directed, and, on the other hand, three international patent applications, which will be the output of VZ2, VZ3 and VZ4. Specifically, it will be research and development of intramammary injection as protection against mastitis (VZ2), sterile covering material with antimicrobial properties (VZ3) and plant protection product (VZ4). All three outputs are directed to the field of agricultural practice, and their use will be a significant socio-economic benefit in this sector.
| 10. Udržitelná produkce zdravých ryb v různých akvakulturních systémech – PROFISH | |
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| Program: | výzva č.02_16_019 Excelentní výzkum |
| Number: | CZ.02.1.01/0.0/0.0/16_019/0000869 |
| Provider: | OP VVV |
| Co-investigator: | doc. Mgr. Pavlína Pelcová, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2019 – 2023 |
| 11. Gastro-processing waste into a solid carbon product for material use | |
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| Program: | ZÉTA |
| Number: | TJ02000262 |
| Provider: | TAČR |
| Co-investigator: | Ing. Martina Vršanská, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2019 – 2021 |
Abstract:
The aim of this project is treatment of gastro waste (GW) into a solid carbonaceous product for material utilization by drying, pretreatment with the addition of additives for the pyrolysis process. The first is focused on defining energy in dried GW, as well as pyrolysis products: biochar, pyrolysis oil and syngas. The second direction focuses on the use of biochar in agriculture. The third direction focuses on biochar as a filter medium for removing pollutants from WW. Part of the project is design, production and testing of a functional sample: drying equipment, pyrolysis and filtration units. The project will determine which direction will be acceptable from the point of view of legislation, technical solution and economy. This goal will be achieved at the end of this project.
| 12. Promoting the functional diversity of soil organisms by applying classical and modified stable organic matter while preserving the soil’s production properties | |
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| Program: | EPSILON |
| Number: | TH03030319 |
| Provider: | TAČR |
| Investigator: | Ing. Martin Brtnický |
| Project solution period: | 2018 – 2022 |
Abstract:
The aim of the project is to support the functional diversity of soil organisms by applying stable organic matter. This is also achieved by finding methodological procedures and designing equipment for the conditioning (activation) of biochar and digestate. This will eliminate their negative impacts on the soil and improve the
ecological and economic aspects of agricultural production. The project will result in improved soil properties,
supporting functional diversity, promoting fertility and also returning carbon back into the soil. The project
will achieve certification of methodologies of the investigated technologies, design of devices for activation of
org. matter and verification of the result in semi-operation. The objectives of the project will be achieved in
relation to the field.
| 13. Research and development of innovative solutions in the laboratory diagnostics | |
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| Program: | TREND |
| Number: | FW01010202 |
| Provider: | TAČR |
| Investigator:
Co-investigator: |
TestLine Clinical Diagnostics s.r.o. – RNDr. David Lukš
doc. RNDr. Ondřej Zítka, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2020 – 2022 |
Abstract:
In the project, the partner’s workplace will have the task of designing and preparing magnetic particles with a defined size in the order of 100-2000 nm and defined coverage by organic molecules enabling subsequent conjugation of antigens and thus use in in-vitro immunodiagnostics. The particles will be developed with an emphasis on high stability when stored in solution (according to Testline’s requirements) and also with an emphasis on low production cost, so that production costs after all related inputs are competitive compared to globally sold analog products.
| 14. Development of new laboratory tests for the diagnosis of inflammation, sepsis and cardiovascular diseases based on chemiluminescence analysis on automated platforms – DIAGONAUT | |
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| Program: | TREND |
| Number: | FW01010052 |
| Provider: | TAČR |
| Investigator:
Co-investigator: |
BioVendor a.s. – Mgr. Martina Hložánková
doc. RNDr. Ondřej Zítka, Ph.D. |
| Project solution period: | 2020 – 2023 |
Abstract:
The aim of the presented project is the development of laboratory tests for the diagnosis of inflammation, sepsis and cardiovascular diseases. The diagnostic tests will operate on the principle of chemiluminescent immunoassay and will be compatible with an automated random access platform. The project also includes the development of a new Point-of-care testing (POCT) analyzer.