Researchers from our Institute have won funding for research projects under the Opus 23 and Polonez Bis 2 competitions announced by the National Science Center (NCN).
Opus 23 is a competition intended for researchers at all stages of their scientific careers. The criteria include elements such as the scientific level of the planned research, the innovative nature of the scientific problem whose solution is proposed, the impact of the implementation of the research project on the development of the scientific discipline, or the scientific achievements of the project manager.
- Dr. Mariola Słowińska – Soluble scavenger receptor cysteine-rich domain-containing protein – SSc5D, a new player of innate immunity in turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) semen involved in yellow semen syndrome
Funds awarded: PLN 2,285,548
The project aims to obtain new information on the turkey semen protein SSc5D, which belongs to the family of cysteine-rich scavenger receptors (SRCRs) that have critical immune functions. To date, their position in avian semen has not been described. The project focuses on providing detailed information on the structure, tissue localization, and role of SSc5D in the antimicrobial protection of semen. Developing knowledge on this subject may be necessary for improving the reproduction of turkeys, an economically important species of breeding birds in Poland.
- Dr. Urszula Krupa-Kozak – Effect of intestinal microbiota modulation induced by the chicory inulin-type β-fructans on metabolic parameters and biomarkers of the gut-skin axis in chronic skin inflammation
Funds awarded: PLN 2,014,890
Intestinal microflora is crucial in the proper functioning of all organisms – it enables the digestion of food and the functioning of the immune system. It also plays an important role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelium, which is a selective barrier from the external environment. Dysfunctions of the intestinal microflora translate into the structure of the intestines and the potential development of diseases, including plaque psoriasis. The aim of the project is to determine whether dietary supplementation with inulin-type β-fructans derived from chicory can alleviate the symptoms of psoriasis – previously it was shown that these compounds change the composition and activity of the bacterial microflora. The results will elucidate the nature of the interaction between the gut microbiota and the skin, providing further clues about the functioning of the gut-skin axis.
- Prof. Jerzy Juśkiewicz – The potential of the combined osmoconcentration-lactic fermentation process in shaping the profile of bioactive components of new onion varieties studied in an in-vivo model (Project partner)
Project leader: Dr. inż. Katarzyna Grzelak-Błaszczyk (Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Lodz University of Technology)
IARFR budget: PLN 493 368
Nutraceuticals (e.g. onion) are food ingredients that, apart from being nutritional, also have health-promoting properties. One of the methods of their preservation is the process of osmoconcentration (dehydration in aqueous concentrated solutions). The project is to examine the effect of osmoconcentration and the combination of this process with lactic fermentation on the chemical composition and health-promoting properties of new onion varieties and the bioactive compounds contained in them. An integral part of the project are in vivo tests necessary to assess the impact of fermented onion products on the metabolic processes of the consumer.
As a part of Opus 23 Life Sciences panel, 89 projects have been awarded funds out of 691 submitted applications.
Polonez Bis 2 is a competition for research projects carried out by scientists coming from abroad.
- Dr. Taisiia Yurchuk – EGF, IGF-1 and cumulus cells co-culture system for in vitro maturation of mammalian oocytes as a female fertility preservation strategy
Funds awarded: PLN 1,111,317
One of the latest modifications of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that help with difficulties or inability to conceive children, is the extracorporeal egg cell maturation (IVM). It has many advantages (avoiding metastases, can be used in women of all ages, independent of the phase of the menstrual cycle), however its effectiveness is not all satisfactory yet. Various substances are involved in the development of oocytes, including IGF-1 or EGF, the action of which is not fully understood. The aim of the project is to investigate whether these growth factors have a positive effect on the quality of mature oocytes and the development of the embryo. The obtained results may be the basis for modifying the maturation medium in order to increase the effectiveness of IVM.
Prestigious POLONEZ BIS 2 grant was awarded to 21 scientists out of 78 applicants.
