Life Sciences Center
7 Saulėtekio av., LT-10257 Vilnius
Tel. +370 5 223 4419
E-mail
Director – Dr Daumantas Matulis
STAFF
107 teachers (incl. 77 holding research degree), 281 research fellows (incl. 194 holding research degree), 115 doctoral students.
INSTITUTES
Institute of Biotechnology
Institute of Biochemistry
Institute of Biosciences
7 Saulėtekio ave, LT-10257 Vilnius
Tel. 239 8210, fax 239 8204
E-mail:
www http://www.gf.vu.lt
Dean – Prof. Dr Eglė Lastauskienė
DEPARTMENTS
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Department of Botany and Genetics
Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology
Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics
Department of Zoology
Centre for Ecology and Environmental Research
RESEARCH AREAS
• Genomics, Biomolecules and Biotechnologies: Fundamental and Applied Research
• Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Preservation of Environment and Use of Natural Resources
• Investigation of Nervous System and Behaviour
DOCTORAL DISSERTATIONS MAINTAINED IN 2022
Mėlynytė Sigita Sex differences in auditory-evoked electrical brain activity: a case of N2 and
P3 waves
Parčiauskaitė Vykinta Gamma range auditory steady-state responses as correlates of individual cognitive abilities
Kišonas Juras Studies of the effects of ionizing radiation on healthy tissues
Neringa Daugelavičienė Investigation of primary keratinocytes and epidermoid carcinoma cells response to photodynamic treatment
Karolina Žilionytė Evaluation of chemoimmunotherapy efficacy in murine tumor models with different antigen processing and presentation mechanism functionality
Gedmantė Radžiuvienė HER2 onkogeno amplifikacijos ir raiškos variacijos šaltinių nustatymas
Tatajana Kirtiklienė Investigation of characteristics and transmission of the virulent strains of pathogenic microorganisms in the view of molecular epidemiology
MAIN CONFERENCES ORGANIZED IN 2022
1. Lithuanian Microbiological Society Conference „Microbiology 2022“, April 28-29, Birštonas, Lithuania
2. ARQUS Research Focus Forum on „Healthy aging from a multidisciplinary perspective“, June 27-29, 2022
3. Lithuanian Neuroscience Association XIV conference, 2022.11.25.
4. 3rd Baltic Biophysics Conference, 2022.10.6-7.
DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY
Saulėtekio al. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius
Tel. 239 8225
E-mail:
Head – Dr Aušra Sasnauskienė
STAFF
Professors: Dr S. Serva, Dr V. Starkuvienė (part-time), Dr K. Sužiedėlis (part-time).
Associate professors: Dr J. Armalytė, Dr V. Jonušienė, Dr D. Labeikytė, Dr A. Markuckas, Dr A. Sasnauskienė, Dr A. Zimkus.
Assistant professors: Dr L. Aitmanaitė, Dr A. Konovalovas, Dr A. Mikalkėnas, E. Žalytė.
Teaching assistant: V. Žitkutė.
Lecturer: Z. Žitkus.
Senior researchers: Dr J. Armalytė, Dr A. Sasnauskienė.
Researchers: Dr D. Dabkevičienė, Dr V. Jonušienė, Dr A. Konovalovas, Dr D. Labeikytė, Dr A. Zimkus.
Research assistants: Dr L. Aitmanaitė, E. Žalytė, V. Žitkutė.
Doctoral students: E. Celitan, L. Klimkaitė, T. Liveikis, G. Skinderytė, A. Jasinevičius.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Molecular virology: mechanisms, applications
• Bacterial pathogenesis, antibiotic resistance, opportunistic pathogens
• Molecular mechanisms of resistance to anti-cancer treatment
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Projects Supported by the University Budget
Investigation of Mechanisms of Cellular Homeostasis and Their Clinical and Biotechnological Application. Dr J. Armalytė, Prof. Dr S. Serva, Dr A. Sasnauskienė.
Molecular analysis of viruses, bacterial and eukaryotic cells: 1) research on molecular biology of yeast dsRNA viruses and application of biologic nano-scaffolds for facilitated delivery of bioactive compounds; 2) microbial pathogenesis of gram-negative bacterial pathogens with the emphasis on opportunistic pathogens, molecular mechanisms of antibiotic resistance and its spread and evolution; 3) cellular and molecular mechanisms of cancer cell`s resistance to anti-cancer treatment; 4) molecular mechanisms of membrane trafficking.
Synergistic Antibiotic-Photodynamic Therapy Combination in Inactivation of Opportunistic Pathogen Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (No. MSF-JM-3/2021). Science promotion fund of Vilnius University project. Project participant – L. Klimkaitė. 2021–2022.
Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy is a biophotonic technology, which can be used as an alternative to antibiotics or in combination with them. Project results indicated that chlorophyllin-based antimicrobial photodynamic therapy and antibiotic ciprofloxacin combination worked synergistically and reduced S. maltophilia isolates growth and viability more efficiently. Project results were presented in FEMS Conference on Microbiology 2022, Belgrade, Serbia.
Application of CRISPR-Cas13 Technology in Studying Mechanisms of Chemoresistance (No. MSF-JM-2/2021). Science promotion fund of Vilnius University project. Project leader – V. Žitkutė. 2021–2022.
The ability of CRISPR-Cas13 technology to down-regulate the expression of long-lived proteins was evaluated. CasRx RNase was applied to down-regulate the expression of serpin B5 in chemoresistant colorectal carcinoma cells. Transcriptome changes after serpin B5 silencing has been determined.
Development of model system of endometrial cancer (MSF-JM-17/2022). Science promotion fund of Vilnius University project. Project leader – E. Žalytė. 2022–2023.
The permission from the Bioethics Committee for generation of endometrial cancer model using postoperative cancer tissue have been received.
National Research Projects
Individualised nasal microbiome test – novel tool for diagnostics and health care (YourAirwayMicrobiome) (01.2.2-LMT-K-718-03-0079) (2021-2023). Research Council of Lithuania. Target scientific research in smart specialization field (SMART) project. Project partner for research performed at Vilnius University Julija Armalytė.
Viractome - integrative approach for functional yeast virus analysis (09.3.3-LMT-K-712-19-0157) Research Council of Lithuania, Project for Development of Scientific Competences of Scientists, other Researchers and Students through Practical Research Activities. (2020-2022).Project leader – S. Serva.
The objective of study – formulation of principles of functional yeast virus analysis. The metabolic pathway-substantiated and oriented set of proteins, constituting a link between the virus proteome and host gene expression changes, were addressed. This study outlined the dataset of cellular factors critical for the viral infection, combining both host- and virus-driven interactors into the integrative approach.
Biocontrol of wild berry microbiota composition by yeast counterpart (CONFIDENT) (P-PD-22-058) Research Council of Lithuania, Project for Development of Scientific Competences of Scientists, other Researchers and Students through Practical Research Activities. (2022-2024). Project leader – S. Serva.
For the first time, comprehensive profiling of wild berry microbiomes will be performed and the relationship between the composition and functioning of microbial taxa addressed. The composition of eukaryotic counterpart will be further investigated to decipher the role of fungi in biocontrol of food safety.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS
Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (Lithuania)
Nature Research Centre (Lithuania) Centre for Innovative Medicine (Lithuania)
National Cancer Institute (Lithuania)
University of Ostrava (Czech Republic) Masaryk University (Czech Republic)
Heidelberg University (Germany)
Universite Libre de Brussels (Belgium)
Université Paris-Saclay (France)
OTHER RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
Prof. S. Serva
• CEO of Association Futura Scientia;
• Chairman of Lithuanian Biochemical Society;
• Member of management committee of 2020–2022 European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) activity CA17103: “Delivery of antisense RNA therapeutics (DARTER)”.
MOST IMPORTANT PARTICIPATION CASES OF RESEARCHERS IN WORKING GROUPS OR COMMISSIONS SET UP BY STATE AUTHORITIES, STATE AND MUNICIPAL INSTITUTIONS, ORGANISATIONS, BUSINESS ENTITIES
Prof. S. Serva
• Chairman of GMO Expert Commitee at Ministry of Environment of Lithuania;
• Member of Expert Board for Biomedical and Agrosciences at Agency for Science, Innovation and Technology of Lithuania.
MOST IMPORTANT RESEARCH DISSEMINATION ACTIVITIES
1. https://www.lrt.lt/mediateka/irasas/2000197094/mokslas-skubantiems-ar-lietuvoje-jau-reikia-sunerimti-del-antibiotikams-atspariu-organizmu;
2. https://www.lrt.lt/naujienos/mokslas-ir-it/11/1724136/itakingas-mikroorganizmu-pasaulis-diktuoja-taisykles-musu-sveikatai-kodel-sterilumas-nera-gerai-o-vaikams-reikia-leisti-zaisti-purvyne;
3. https://www.vu.lt/naujienos/spectrum/straipsniai/virusines-nanostrukturos-universalus-irankis-vakcinoms-kurti;
4. https://www.15min.lt/verslas/naujiena/mokslas-it/zurnalas-spectrum-virusines-nanostrukturos-universalus-irankis-vakcinoms-kurti-1290-1954594;
5. https://healthnews.com/news/viral-nanostructures-versatile-tool-for-vaccine-development/?fbclid=IwAR2Ai4i_J-FZ9wuEGYdM2TnMQMIMMezIsCEFUnqfAxvPMd_7QV9Y-1H4vXw
DEPARTMENT OF BOTANY AND GENETICS
Saulėtekio al. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius
Tel. 239 8257
E-mail:
Head – Prof. Dr Habil. Juozas Lazutka
STAFF
Professors: Dr S. Jarmalaitė, Dr E. Kutorga, Dr Habil. I. Pašakinskienė (part-time), Dr D. Žvingila.
Associate professors: Dr T. Čėsnienė, Dr V. Morkūnas (part-time), Dr R. Šiukšta (part-time), Dr K. Daniūnaitė (part-time), Dr V. Dedonytė (part-time).
Assistant professors: Dr I. Prigodina Lukošienė (part-time), Dr M. Rasimavičius (part-time), Dr R. Rimgailė-Voicik (part-time).
Lecturers: S. Juzėnas, A. Meldžiukienė, P. Venckus, A. Stapulionytė, A. Sipavičiūtė
Assistants: Dr K. Šnipaitienė, Dr R. Kubiliūtė (part-time)
Junior Assistants (part time): B. Buragaitė Staponkienė, V. Mensonas, M. Babonaitė, V. Pukenytė
Researchers: Dr V. Dedonytė (part-time), Dr J. Mierauskienė, Dr V. Morkūnas (part-time), Dr D. Naugžemys, Dr J. Patamsytė, Dr J. Butkuvienė, Dr R. Šiukšta (part-time), Dr K. Daniūnaitė (part-time), Dr R. Rimgailė-Voicik, Dr K. Šnipaitienė. Dr R. Kubiliūtė (part-time)
Research assistants: Dr M. Rasimavičius, Dr T. Arslanova.
Senior biologists: Dr J. Rukšėnienė, Dr V. Kleizaitė, Dr V. Vaitkūnienė, E. Vabuolė (part-time), J. Mačiulaitis (part-time)
Doctoral students: G. Radžiuvienė, L. Šiaulienė, D. Žalimas, D. Žilovič, I. Vincerževskienė, M. Babonaitė, J. Gaiževska, R. Maleckaitė, A. Šeštokaitė, B. Buragaitė-Staponkienė, K. Žukauskaitė, I. Vaicekauskaitė, E. Vabuolė, V. Pukenytė, V. Mensonas.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Search and application of the most effective biomarkers for genetic monitoring of human, animal and plant populations
• Investigation of mutagenic and antimutagenic effects of chemical compounds in human cells in vitro and experimental model systems in vivo
• Analysis of epigenetic changes in human diseases
• Studies of DNA polymorphism in plant populations
• Plant developmental, population genetics and phylogenetics
• Plant, algae and fungal species diversity, systematics, sociology, biology, ecology and distribution
• Research and monitoring of rare, protected and alien plant and fungal species
• Research in algal biotechnology
• Composition, structure and dynamics of lichen and plant populations
• Studies of historical fungal, algae, lichen and plant collections, maintained in the Herbarium of Vilnius University; study of the history of botany in Lithuania
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Projects Supported by the University Budget
Function, Variability and Genome Structure in Higher Eukaryotes. Prof. J. R. Lazutka, Prof. S. Jarmalaitė.
Recent genome-scale analyses have provided novel insights into the genomic and epigenomic landscape of various diseases, including mutational profiles, DNA methylation, protein-coding and microRNA (miRNA) expression patterns. Despite the validation of previously known alterations, various newly discovered genetic and epigenetic features have been proposed as measures of cancer aggressiveness as well as tools for diagnosis. Using a variety of genome-wide and target-oriented methodologies, we aim at the (epi)genetic characterization of various human tumours (prostate, kidney, breast, lung, etc.). Epigenetic changes in other diseases were studied as well.
Main publications:
1. Kubiliūtė R, Žukauskaitė K, Žalimas A, Ulys A, Sabaliauskaitė R, Bakavičius A, Želvys A, Jankevičius F, Jarmalaitė S. Clinical significance of novel DNA methylation biomarkers for renal clear cell carcinoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. 2022;148(2):361-375. doi: 10.1007/s00432-021-03837-7
2. Vaicekauskaitė I, Sabaliauskaitė R, Lazutka JR, Jarmalaitė S. The Emerging Role of Chromatin Remodeling Complexes in Ovarian Cancer. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Nov 8;23(22):13670. doi: 10.3390/ijms232213670.PMID: 36430148
3. Snipaitiene K, Bakavicius A, Lazutka JR, Ulys A, Jankevicius F, Jarmalaite S. Urinary microRNAs can predict response to abiraterone acetate in castration resistant prostate cancer: A pilot study. Prostate. 2022;82(4):475-482. doi: 10.1002/pros.24293.
Plant Polymorphism, Genome Stability and its Changing Factors. Prof. D. Žvingila.
Genetic polymorphism as a fundamental component of biodiversity is critical in the situation of the global climate change and is exploited in plant species conservation and breeding. We studied the natural and induced plant genome variability using genetic, biochemical, statistical and bioinformatical methods. Our studies aimed to evaluate the population genetic diversity and genetic interactions of plant taxa. These studies reveald a wide distribution and abundance of hybrids between the river species Ranunculus aquatilis, R. fluitans and R. kauffmannii with the still water species R. circinatus (Batrachium, Ranunculaceae) in rivers of two postglacial landscapes of East Europe (Lithuania and Central European Russia).
The study of DNA polymorphisms in blue honeysuckle populations confirmed the opinion of other authors that geographically separated haskap populations are genetically divergent. In this study, this was determined at the level of noncoding DNA (ISSRs). The revealed high population differentiation reflects the complex intraspecific taxonomic structure of this honeysuckle species. On the other hand, the lack of polymorphism at the cpDNA level indicates the integrity of diverged populations or subspecies of one specie.
The genotoxicity studies on soil contamination by hazardous environmental pollutants using Vicia faba and other test-systems showed that strong background abiotic stressors (pretreatment with Co) can aid investigations of mild stressors (slight levels of soil pollution) by complementing each other in antioxidant content reduction and by induction of DNA changes.
Main publications:
1. Bobrov, A.A., Butkuvienė, J., Chemeris, E.V., Patamsytė, J., Lambertini, C., Aučina, A., Sinkevičienė, Z., Naugžemys, D. Extensive hybridization in Ranunculus section Batrachium (Ranunculaceae) in rivers of two postglacial landscapes of East Europe. Scientific Reports. 2022, 12: 12088. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-16224-0
2. Šiukšta, R., Pukenytė, V., Kleizaitė, V., Bondzinskaitė, S., Čėsnienė, T. The butterfly effect: mild soil pollution with heavy metals elicits major biological consequences in cobalt-sensitized broad bean model plants. Antioxidants. 2022, 11, 793. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11040793
3. Naugžemys, D., Patamsytė, J., Žilinskaitė. S., Hoshino Y, Skridaila, A., Žvingila, D. Genetic structure of native blue honeysuckle populations in the western and eastern Eurasian ranges. Plants. 2022, 11: 1480. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11111480
The Structure, Functioning in Ecosystems and Conservation of Vegetation, Algobiota and Mycobiota. Prof. E. Kutorga.
The Botany, Algology and Mycology Research Group focuses on the diversity, biology, distribution and ecology of plants, algae, fungi and lichens. We studied morphology, ITS sequence, distribution and ecology of a rare fungal species Tricholoma joachimii (Basidiomycota) which was for the first time recorded in the eastern Baltic region. Another research showed, using molecular markers, that the pest of tree Prunus serotina, an invasive fruit fly Rhagoletis cingulata, is present in Lithuania, and that this region is the most northerly eastern region where populations of this invasive fly are found to date.
Little is known about the distribution of stable carbon isotopes in lycophytes, oldest living plant lineage. The aim of our study was to determine the distribution of stable carbon isotopes in sporophytes of Spinulum annotinum. The samples were analysed using a Combustion Module Cavity Ring-Down Spectroscopy (CM-CRDS) System. The study revealed that there are significant differences between δ13C in different S. annotinum organs. The Shannon Diversity Index was a significant predictor for δ13C values in S. annotinum while distance from water body, outgrowth size did not show significant differences. The δ13C values and the discovered relationship with abiotic habitat conditions and neighboring plant species in the community provided a baseline for future lycophyte ecophysiology research.
In Europe, Echinocystis lobata, a North American member of Cucurbitaceae, is considered one of the most abundant invasive alien plants. The study of fresh mature fruits of E. lobata, as well as the total number of seeds and number of undeveloped seeds per fruit, was conducted in Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Slovakia. Moreover, the well-developed seeds from selected study sites were weighed. The statistical analysis showed the significant effect of habitat origin, habitat type, and height on most of the studied fruit and seed traits.
Historical published data, supported by herbarium specimens, provide valuable information concerning the occurrence of a given species in a given area. We revised K. Szaftnagel bryophyte collections preserved at the Herbarium of Vilnius University (WI), and analysed the data provided in his published notes “Zapiski bryologiczne “ (1908).
Main publications:
1. Clarke A.E., Rimgaile-Voicik R., Paškauskas R., Mažeika J. δ13C in above-ground and below-ground organs of Spinulum annotinum (Lycopodiaceae). Flora. 2022, 294: 152119. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.flora.2022.152119
2. Iršėnaitė R., Kutorga E., Kvederavičiūtė K., Naujalis J.R. Tricholoma joachimii (Tricholomataceae, Basidiomycota), a rare European species new for the eastern Baltic region. Nova Hedwigia. 2022, 114(1-2): 77–89. DOI: 10.1127/nova_hedwigia/2022/0674
3. Kostrakiewicz-Gierałt K., Pliszko A., Barabasz-Krasny B., Bomanowska A., Dajdok Z., Gudžinskas Z., Kucharczyk M., Maćkowiak Ł., Majk J., Możdżeń K., Podgórska M., Rasimavičius M., Rewicz A., Szczęśniak E., Wójcik T., Stachurska-Swakoń A. The relationships of habitat conditions, height level, and geographical position with fruit and seed traits in populations of invasive vine Echinocystis lobata (Cucurbitaceae) in Central and Eastern Europe. Forests. 2022, 13(2), 256. https://doi.org/10.3390/f13020256
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS
Nature Research Centre (Lithuania)
Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania)
National Cancer Institute (Lithuania)
Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos (Lithuania)
Institute for Ecosystem Studies, Florence (Italy)
Tampere University, Finland
Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto, Portugal
Medical University of Gratz
University of Bologna (Italy)
Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry (Lithuania)
University of Greifswald (Germany)
University of Tartu (Estonia)
OTHER RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
Prof. J. R. Lazutka
• editor of the journal Open Life Sciences;
• editorial board member of the journal Current Issues in Molecular Biology.
• Editorial board member of the journal Biologija
Prof. D. Žvingila
• member of GMO Expert Commitee at the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania;
• member of the Standing Commission on National Plant Genetic Resources.
Prof. S. Jarmalaitė
• Council member of Life Sciences Centre, Vilnius University
• Research council member of National Cancer Institute, Lithuania
• A chairman of management committee of Lithuanian Society of Oncologists
• Acting editor of the Oncologija Journal
• Member of editorial group Acta Medica Lituanica Journal
Dr I. Arslanova
• member of Lithuanian Mycological Society.
Prof. E. Kutorga
• editorial board member of multivolume edition Lietuvos grybai (Mycota Lithuaniae);
• chairman of the Council of Lithuanian Mycological Society;
Dr I. Prigodina Lukošienė
• member of the Scientific Council of Life Sciences Center;
• member of of Lithuanian Mycological Society;
• member of Nordic Lichen Society.
Dr M. Rasimavičius
• member of the International Equisetological Association (IEA).
Dr R. Rimgailė-Voicik
• member of American Fern Society.
Dr J. Rukšėnienė
• member of Lithuanian Mycological Society.
Dr J. Butkuvienė
• member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (Fresh water plant specialists group).
MOST IMPORTANT NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL AWARDS RECEIVED FOR R&D ACTIVITIES
1. Dr Raimonda Kubiliute awarded for the best presentation (Title: “Epigenetic biomarkers for non-invasive renal cancer diagnosis and prognosis”) in the national conference “Bioateitis: gamtos ir gyvybės mokslų perspektyvos”. November 24, 2022, Vilnius, Lithuania https://www.lma.lt/news/1785/38/15-oji-Lietuvos-jaunuju-mokslininku-konferencija-Bioateitis-gamtos-ir-gyvybes-mokslu-perspektyvos
MOST IMPORTANT PARTICIPATION CASES OF RESEARCHERS IN WORKING GROUPS OR COMMISSIONS SET UP BY STATE AUTHORITIES, STATE AND MUNICIPAL INSTITUTIONS AND ORGANISATIONS, AND BUSINESS ENTITIES
Prof. S. Jarmalaitė
• European Commission, Health and Food Safety EC Subgroup of Cancer, Expert;
• member of Assembly BBMRI-ERIC;
• Committee member of National Health Council of the Seimas;
• member of the National Cancer Prevention and Control Committee; a
• member of the Policy on Rare Diseases group under Health Ministry;
• member of Lithuanian Science Award Committee
Prof. E. Kutorga
• member of the Invasive Species Control Council of the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania;
• member of the Lithuanian Red Data Book Commission of the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania;
• member of the Sub-commission on Terminology of The State Commission of the Lithuanian Language (as expert in Mycology).
Prof. J. Lazutka
• Chairman of of the Commission of Higher Education Institutions‘ Review (at the Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education)
Dr I.Prigodina Lukošienė
• member of the Scientific Council of the Nature Research Center.
Dr M. Rasimavičius
• member of the sub-commission on Terminology of The State Commission of the Lithuanian Language (as expert in Botany).
CONSULTATIONS PROVIDED BY THE UNIT TO THE PUBLIC OR ECONOMIC ENTITIES
Dr J. Butkuvienė
• Cooperation with “Ephitas” Public Institution in evaluating the effectiveness of renaturalization measures for renaturalized river sections. 2019–2022.
• Cooperation with MB “Scientia Practica” in the assessment of the status of populations and habitats in Pavilniai and Verkiai regional parks. 2021–2022.
MOST IMPORTANT RESEARCH DISSEMINATION ACTIVITIES
1. Arslanova T.: video interview for LRT, program: “The school of creativity”; 17 October 2022.
2. Jarmalaitė S. Kam genetikui reikia jūsų ašarų? LOGIN2022 https://konferencija.login.lt/agenda.php
3. Kutorga E.: articles (28, e.g.: https://www.vle.lt/straipsnis/godunas/ ; https://www.vle.lt/straipsnis/valgomasis-dantenis/; https://www.vle.lt/straipsnis/kelmabude/ ; https://www.vle.lt/straipsnis/poniabudele/ ; https://www.vle.lt/straipsnis/sausapinte/; https://www.vle.lt/straipsnis/baravykas/ ; https://www.vle.lt/straipsnis/ausunis/ ), interviews( https://www.ziniuradijas.lt/laidos/persona-grata/ar-grybai-gali-isgelbeti-nuo-krizes?video=1 ; https://www.lrt.lt/mediateka/irasas/2000214491/gimtoji-zeme-kas-svarbaus-aptarta-lietuvos-ukininku-sajungos-35-ajame-suvaziavime?time_start=878 ) .
4. Rimgailė-Voicik R.: interview for lrt.lt: „Mokslininkė Rimgailė-Voicik: kliūtis mums geriau pažinti augalus – jų lyginimas su žmonėmis ir gyvūnais“ https://www.lrt.lt/naujienos/gyvenimas/13/1604851/mokslininke-rimgaile-voicik-kliutis-mums-geriau-pazinti-augalus-ju-lyginimas-su-zmonemis-ir-gyvunais. Collaboration with Vilnius Photography Art Center “7:14”, open lecture at Plungė District Municipal Public Library, 19 May 2022 https://www.visitplunge.lt/renginys/doviles-dagienes-doda-ir-emilijos-petrauskienes-fotografiju-parodos-pristatymas/; Study of Hugo Sheu Herbarium held in Šilutė Hugo Scheu Museum https://www.facebook.com/SilutesMuziejus/posts/pfbid027EEamkoVew8qNfR9dod7mT23VV6x2rHsaL89ZRFdG8WMtvFznDQz2XjcAVq5zkRLl
5. Šiukšta R. Lecture for the students of National Student Academy on the topic “Augalų hormonai – ką jie gali?“ (“Plant hormones – what are they capable of?”). 2022-01-03, Vilnius University Life Sciences Centre, Vilnius
DEPARTMENT OF MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
7 Saulėtekio ave, LT-10257 Vilnius
Tel. 8 5 2398213
E-mail:
Head Prof. Dr Nomeda Kuisienė
STAFF
Professors: Dr N. Kuisienė, Dr L. Kalėdienė, Dr E. Lastauskienė.
Associate professors: Dr A. Gegeckas, Dr R.Gudiukaitė, Dr V.Kašėta (part-time).
Assistant professors: Dr R. Baranauskienė.
Assistant professors-researchers: Dr A. Gricajeva, Dr R. Kananavičiūtė.
Lecturers: Dr J. Raugalas.
Teaching assistants: T. Kirtiklienė, J. Versockienė.
Chief researchers: Dr S. Šulčius.
Senior researchers: Dr G. Alzbutas (part-time).
Researchers: Dr A. Kaunietis.
Postdoctoral researchers: Dr G. Gyraitė.
PhD students: R. Bikmurzin, K. Čekuolytė, G. Jansonaitė, I. Lenkaitė, V. Malūnavičius, R. Mažylytė, V. Mažrimaitė, A. Slavinska.
Specialists: V. Dzekevičienė, R. Jurkevičienė, J. Lekavičiūtė.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Genomics and Biotechnologies: Fundamental and Applied Microbial Research
• Research of Microorganisms for Innovative Biotechnologies
• Biocatalysts Selection for Biomass Conversion
• Prokaryotes for Biotechnology, Biopharmacy Efficiency and Safety Food Production Development
• Strategies in Antimicrobial Therapy
• Protein Engineering
MAIN RESEARCH AREAS
• Antimicrobial peptides
• Bioactive compounds of microorganisms
• Bioremediation, biodegradation, waste treatment
• Electroporation and magnetoporation methods for the biocontrol of the skin colonizing microorganisms
• Microbial biotechnologies
• Microbial culture collections
• Microbial enzymes
• Molecular taxonomy of prokaryotes
• Photoinactivation of microbial biofilms, microfungi spores
• Yeast prions
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Projects Supported by the University Budget
Selection and Research of Microorganisms for Innovative Biotechnology Creation. Prof. Dr L. Kalėdienė. 2022.
Although the potential for microbial degradation is ubiquitous, many organic contaminants are not or often only poorly transformed in natural environmental conditions, thus, organic and other waste treatment and recycling (bioremediation of polluted environments) is an important topic of the research group. Through exploitation of advances of conventional and molecular biology techniques, search, identification, and characterization of microbial enzymes (lipases and carboxylesterases) active towards fatty acid esters, aromatic and other compounds are done. Another emerging topic nowadays is alternative antibacterial compounds such as bacterial ribosomally synthesized peptides with antibacterial activity (bacteriocins). These natural compounds have considerable diversity with respect to their size, structure, mechanism of action, inhibitory spectrum, immunity mechanisms and targeted receptors. The research group is also participating in research regarding safe bacterial biofilm control method development for European Space Agency (ESA). In collaboration with the Institute of Photonics and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Physics (Vilnius University), a novel natural photosensitizers-based antimicrobial photoinactivation (API) technology that is safe for the use in the confined, closed-loop systems such as spacecraft is being developed. The group is currently adapting the API technology and creating the prototype that could be used for the destruction of phytopathogenic microfungi infecting strawberries. The project was implemented under the project of Lithuanian Agency for Science, Innovation and Technology. Eukaryotic microorganisms’ β-glucans, a diverse group of polysaccharides, exhibiting immunostimulating activity, are among the research group’s topics as well. Enzymes, antimicrobial and other biologically active compounds, which are identified, characterized and analysed by our research group, are attractive both, biotechnologically and in basic research.
Main publications:
1. Bikmurzin, R., Bandzevičiūtė, R., Maršalka, A., Maneikis, A., Kalėdienė, L. FT-IR method limitations for β-glucan analysis. Molecules. 2022; 27(14): 4616. doi: 10.3390/molecules27144616.
2. Gricajeva, A., Buchovec, I., Kalėdienė, L., Vitta, P. Riboflavin- and chlorophyllin-based antimicrobial photoinactivation of Brevundimonas sp. ESA1 biofilms. Frontiers in in Cellular and Infection Microbiology. 2022; 12: 1006723. doi: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1006723.
3. Gricajeva, A., Kumar, A., Gudiukaitė, R. Insights into polyester plastic biodegradation by carboxyl ester hydrolases. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology. 2022; 97: 359-380. doi: https://doi.org/10.1002/jctb.6745.
Molecular Microbiology of Prokaryotes for Modern Biotechnology and Biopharmacy. Prof. Dr N. Kuisienė. 2022.
In 2022, one of the main focuses of our research was molecular and genomic epidemiology of multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria. Molecular approach was used to study multidrug-resistant invasive isolates of Escherichia coli. The results of the study showed genetic relatedness of these isolates. Screening for antimicrobial resistance genes revealed those responsible for resistance to β-lactams (TEM, the CTX-M-9 group, AIM, and NDM genes), aminoglycosides (aadA, strA, and strB), sulfonamides (sul2 and sul3), fosfomycin (fosA), and tetracyclines (tetA). Investigation of the virulence factors of invasive isolates showed that some virulence genes (hlyA, cnf1, and sfaD/E) increased in frequency over the five-year period from 2014 to 2018. Molecular epidemiology studies of invasive Listeria monocytogenes and Haemophilus influenzae isolates have also been started by our scientific group in 2022. Ten genomes of other invasive microorganisms, namely Neisseria meningitidis, have been sequenced to contribute to genomic epidemiology of these important pathogens. Analysis of these genomes is ongoing in our laboratory.
Another important topic of our research in 2022 was genome mining-based screening for pectin degrading enzymes in mesophilic endospore-forming bacteria of the genus Paenibacillus. Partial enzymatic degradation of pectin produces pectic oligosaccharides that are known to possess bifidogenic, anticancer, antiobesity, and antioxidant properties. Results of our study showed that the genomes of Paenibacillus encode a whole range of different polysaccharide lyases. Majority of these genes coded pectate lyases with a few rhamnogalacturonate lyases and hypothetical proteins. Predicted substrates of these hypothetical enzymes were pectin, chondroitin, heparin, and rhamnogalacturonan I. Results of this analysis let us to suppose that all these enzymes are extracellular enzymes. Cloning and biochemical characterization of recombinant polysaccharide lyases is ongoing in our laboratory.
Main publication:
1. Kirtikliene, T., Mierauskaitė, A., Razmienė, I., Kuisiene, N. Genetic characterization of multidrug-resistant E. coli isolates from bloodstream infections in Lithuania. Microorganisms, 2022, 10: 449. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms10020449
Strategies in Antimicrobial Therapy and Protein Engineering. Prof. Dr E. Lastauskienė. 2022.
The aim is a screening of the compounds exhibiting antibacterial and antifungal activity; determination of the mechanisms of the action of the new antimicrobial compounds and analysis of the cell death type; construction of novel proteins with the potential application in biotechnology and biopharmacy.
New microbial producents synthesizing active compounds against pathogenic Candida yeasts and Fusarium spp. were discovered as well as active compounds against pathogenic Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus strains.
By using direct evolution strategies, we improved microbial lipolytic enzymes, constructed the new fused lipolytic proteins, and analyzed their application in the ester synthesis. Lipolytic enzymes as biocatalysts can be used in organic synthesis reactions to produce precursors of drug and bioactive compounds, biofuel production, and polyester waste degradation.
Metagenome research of the microbial population from various environments is carried out by our group. Two main strategies are held in this part of the research: determination of environmental pollution-related microbial communities and discovery of the micro-plastic degrading microorganisms and determination of the microbial populations in medical samples to understand the contribution of the microbiota to the progression of diseases: f.e. development of carcinoadenomas, colorectal cancer, diabetic foot and etc.
Main publication:
1. Savickaitė, Agnė; Druteika, Gytis; Sadauskas, Mikas; Malūnavičius, Vilius; Lastauskienė, Eglė; Gudiukaitė, Renata. Study of individual domains' functionality in fused lipolytic biocatalysts based on Geobacillus lipases and esterases // International journal of biological macromolecules. Amsterdam : Elsevier. ISSN 0141-8130. eISSN 1879-0003. 2021, vol. 168, p. 261-271. DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.12.026.
National Research Projects
Promotion of commercialization and internationalization of R&D results" (EUREKA) project Nanosilver and graphene oxide inks (No. 01.2.2-MITA-K-702-12-0002) Agency for Science, Innovation and Technology 01.2.2-MITA-K-702 Head of the project – Dr Eglė Lastauskienė. 2021-2022
The new antibacterial and antifungal inks for coating the different surfaces will be created in this project. The nanosilver particles are added to the graphene oxide inks and the antimicrobial properties are evaluated. The project is carried out together with Nature Research Center, JSC “Pro for Nano”, JSC „Graphene Composites“.
Analysis of the Geobacillus sp. Synthetized Silver Nanoparticles Mechanisms of Action on the Biocontrol of Pathogenic Skin Microbiota (No. KD-19142). Research Council of Lithuania. PhD project. Head of the project - Dr Eglė Lastauskienė. 2019–2023.
We evaluated the effect of pH in the inactivation protocol of Geobacillus sp. synthetized AgNPs and electroporation on Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. The results show that with some electroporation and pH values, lower concentrations of AgNDs are more effective against these bacteria than higher ones. By applying our improved methodology, we achieved effective inactivation rates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms. The evaluation of the AgNDs ability to supress the growth of Candida over time was tested as well. MICs have been shown to be ineffective in growing yeast culture in combination with AgNDs in the medium. Concentrations several times higher than the MIC were used to assess the time lapse effects of AgNDs.
Research of fused biocatalysts containing GDEst-95, GD-95 and Kut-SP domains. Project under measure No. 09.3.3-LMT-K-712 “Development of students' abilities to carry out R&D activities” of the activity “Development of students' scientific competence through practical scientific activities” “Development of students' abilities through research during semesters”, Grant No. 09.3.3-LMT-K-712-25-0030, (2021 09 01 – 2022 03 31), leader - Dr R. Gudiukaitė, participant - Microbiology MSc student Agnė Savickaitė.
This project is focused on synthesis improvement of recombinant Streptomyces scabiei cutinase (Kut-SP) through it fusion with GD-95 lipase and GDEst-95 esterase.
Use milk permeate as an alternative inducer for the synthesis of recombinant biocatalysts. Project under measure "Development of scientific competence of scientists, other researchers, students through practical scientific activities", "Student research during the summer", Grant No. P-SV-22-160. (2022 07 01 – 2022 08 31), leader - Dr R. Gudiukaitė, participant – Molecular biotechnology BSc student Aurimas Greičius.
The project is related to application of lactose analog for production of recombinant microbial enzymes.
Development of a heterologous expression system for enzymes with keratinolytic activity. The European Social Fund under the No P-ST-22 “Development of Competences of Scientists, other Researchers and Students through Practical Research Activities” measure, Grant No. P-ST-22-25, (2022 09 15 – 2023 03 31), leader Dr Audrius Gegeckas, participant – Microbiology MSc student Skaistė Jančauskytė.
One of the main objectives of this project is the use of a complex hydrolysis system of enzymes with keratinolytic activity to produce biologically active peptides or mixtures of peptides of enhanced value. With the development of systems for the analysis of microorganisms and their genes, it is becoming increasingly easy to identify all microorganisms present in one environment or ecological niche. It has been observed that microorganisms, when acting together, can assimilate substrates more efficiently and occupy a given position in the environment. This practice aims to optimise the physiological parameters of biological protein hydrolysis to hydrolyse globular and fibrillar proteins of different origins.
Development of a fibrillar protein degradation system to obtain biologically active peptides. The European Social Fund under the No 09.3.3-LMT-K-712 “Development of Competences of Scientists, other Researchers and Students through Practical Research Activities” measure, Grant No. 09.3.3-LMT-K-712-25-0130, (2021 09 01 – 2022 03 31), leader Dr Audrius Gegeckas, participant – Microbiology BSc student Skaistė Jančauskytė.
Keratin is an insoluble fibrillar protein which, due to its rigid structure, is not easily degraded by widespread proteolytic enzymes. Keratinases are members of the protease class of enzymes that can degrade naturally occurring keratin-containing substrates such as feathers, wool, nails, horns and other similar structures. These enzymes are considered to be of great value in many biotechnological processes, not only because of their ability to degrade substrates with complex structures, but also because of their high stability under extreme conditions. The literature emphasizes the replacement of chemicals with keratinases because compared to chemicals, enzymes are environmentally friendly, biodegradable, do not produce harmful by-products and demonstrate highly efficient results. The development of a protein expression system for the synthesis of such keratinolytic enzymes is of significant importance in order to have objectively large quantities of functionally active enzymes.
Studies on the synergistic effect of antimicrobial riboflavin-based photoinactivation and bacteriocins on the effectiveness of bacterial biofilm control. The European social fund project under the No 09.3.3-LMT-K-712 “Development of Competences of Scientists, other Researchers and Students through Practical Research Activities” measure, Grant No. 09.3.3.-LMT-K-712-25-0059 (2021 09 01 – 2022 03 31), head of the project – Dr A. Gricajeva.
Project’s aim was to evaluate if there can be a synergistic effect of riboflavin-based photoinactivation together with bacteriocins against bacterial biofilms that are dangerous in food industry.
Search, screening and identification of pyrethroid pesticide degrading bacteria. Project of development of competences of scientists, other researchers and students through practical research financed by Lithuanian Research Council. Grant No. P-SV-22-255, (2022 07 01 – 2022 08 31), head of the project – Dr A. Gricajeva.
Project’s aim was to find bacteria able to degrade pyrethroids using qualitative analysis and to identify active selected isolates.
Photodynamic antimicrobial inactivation of microfungi spores. Project of development of competences of scientists, other researchers and students through practical research financed by Lithuanian Research Council. Grant No. P-SV-22-227, (2022 07 01 – 2022 08 31), head of the project – prof. L. Kalėdienė.
Project’s aim was to quantitatively test photodynamic antimicrobial technology against spores of microfungi.
Antimicrobial photoinactivation of mold spores using natural photosensitizers. Project of development of competences of scientists, other researchers and students through practical research financed by Lithuanian Research Council. Grant No. P-ST-22-233, (2022 09 15 – 2023 03 31) head of the project – prof. L. Kalėdienė.
Project’s aim is to determine the efficiency of the natural photosensitizers-based antimicrobial technology against phytopathgenic mold spores.
Prototype of antimicrobial photoinactivation for protection against the fungi phytopathogens in greenhouses. Project No TPP-04-018 financed by Agency of Science, Innovation and Technology (ASIT) “ Project implemented together with industry partners („Audriaus Juškos ūkis“, UAB „MKDS“, UAB „Ledigma“ (2021 09 – 2022 09), chief researcher – prof. L. Kalėdienė; implementer of the project – Dr A. Gricajeva.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS
Institute of Photonics and Nanotechnology, Faculty of Physics, Vilnius University (Lithuania)
Vilnius TECH (Lithuania)
Nature Research Centre (Lithuania)
State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine (Lithuania)
Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (Lithuania)
National Public Health Surveillance Laboratory (Lithuania)
Vilnius University Hospital Santaros klinikos (Lithuania)
Republican Vilnius university hospital (Lithuania)
University of Latvia (Latvia)
University of Ljubljana (Slovenia)
University of Milan (Italy)
National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics (Estonia)
Jaypee University of Information Technology, Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (India)
Molecular Genetics Group, Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute, University of Groningen (The Netherlands)
Norwegian University of Science and Technology, NTNU (Norway)
Synthetic Biology Research Centre, The University of Nottingham, Biodiscovery Institute, Nottingham (United Kingdom).
JSC Avodės (Lithuania)
JSC Graphene Composites (UK)
JSC MKDS (Lithuania)
JSC Oda (Lithuania)
JSC Pro for Nano (Lithuania)
Company Audriaus Juškos ūkis (Lithuania)
OTHER RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
Prof. Dr N. Kuisienė
• member of the board of Lithuanian Microbiological Society, member of Lithuanian Biochemical Society.
Prof. Dr L. Kalėdienė
• member of Lithuania’s Genetically Modified Organisms Experts Committee, member of the board of Lithuanian Microbiological Society, Head of FEMS Policy group of Lithuanian Microbiological Society.
Prof. Dr E. Lastauskienė
• member of the board of Lithuanian Microbiological Society, Head of FEMS Education group of Lithuanian Microbiological Society, member of Lithuanian Biochemical Society.
Assoc. Prof. Dr A. Gegeckas
• member of the board of Lithuanian Microbiological Society, FEMS delegate of Lithuanian Microbiological Society, member of Lithuanian Biochemical Society.
MOST IMPORTANT RESEARCH DISSEMINATION ACTIVITIES
1. Eglė Lastauskienė – "Mind experiments". The world of invisible microorganisms: the future of antibiotics, the sterile world hypothesis, and bacteria in nuclear reactors, children's project evaluation group of VILIPO Olympiad, category of Environment, TV Show "Science Soup": What are the health effects of microplastics?, TV Show "Science Soup": About Microplastics? (First part), LRT Radio "Science in a Hurry": Is there a need to worry about antibiotic-resistant organisms in Lithuania?
2. Renata Gudiukaitė – contributed to the international conference The COINS 2022: Workshop for high school students and judge of poster presentations; lectures for National Student Academy; Lectures for High school teachers: 1. We are in the world of microorganisms; 2. Mold: cannot be left to destroy. Lectures are part of initiative “Training for the improvement of the competences of teachers in the field of natural sciences”; https://www.facebook.com/mokslastau/photos/a.102689245127208/348379380558192/; STEAM activity for schoolchildren from Ferdinand Rusčicas high school (Rudamina, Vilnius region); lecture for BioSa students.
3. Alisa Gricajeva – practical activities and lectures for gymnasium pupils; several comments and interview articles for the Lithuanian news portals.
4. Audrius Gegeckas – National Science festival „Erdvėlaivis Žemė”, International Microorganisms Day, lectures; Lithuanian students' non-formal education center, lecture.
5. Kotryna Čekuolytė – excursions in the Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology for school pupils; lectures and practical sessions for pupils; participation on the topic of microbiology in the LRT TV show “Minčiukų palėpė”, which is intended for children; workshop “How to Prepare for the Session of Poster Presentation?” (for the COINS 2023 conference) teacher of the practical part.
DEPARTMENT OF NEUROBIOLOGY AND BIOPHYSICS
7 Saulėtekio ave, LT-10257 Vilnius
Tel. 239 8222
E-mail:
Head - Prof. Dr Osvaldas Rukšėnas
STAFF
Professors: Dr A. Alaburda, Dr O. Rukšėnas, Dr V. Vengelienė, Dr I. Griškova-Bulanova.
Associate professors: Dr R. Buišas, Dr R. Grikšienė, Dr R. Guzulaitis, Dr V. Kisnierienė, Dr M. Mitkus, Dr K. Dapšys (Part-time), Dr G. Svirskis (part-time), Dr M. Korostenskaja (part-time) Dr U. Neniškytė.
Lecturers: Dr L. Bojarskaitė, Dr I. Lapeikaitė, Dr E. Pipinis, V. Gėgžna, V. Survilienė, V. Pupkis, D. Šimkutė, Dr A.Voicikas, R. Gaižauskaitė, I. Zelionkaitė.
Junior research fellows: V. Survilienė
Doctoral students: D. Dankin, A. Šlėktaitė, A. Kalnaitytė, S. Mėlynytė, V. Parčiauskaitė, V. Survilienė, A. Grabauskaitė, J. Kišonas, G. Jarockytė, D. Šimkutė, P. Tarailis, L. Saveikytė, V. Pupkis, D. Gabrielaitis, R. Gaižauskaitė, W. Liang, M. Plečkaitis, E. Voronovič, I. Zelionkaitė, D. Pamedytytė, U. Kuliešiūtė, G. Urbonaitė, K. Mickevičius, A. Shelest, R. Bagdonaitė, I. Brimienė, E. Jankaitytė, M. Ghodousi
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Functional organization and realization of information coding/processing and decision making in human and animal nervous system and plant model, animal models for psychiatric disorders, electrical signalling in plant and animal cells
• Effect of sex and sex steroids on cognitive functions and socioemotional behaviour
• Behavioural pharmacology, animal models of psychiatric disorders.
• Electrophysiological biomarkers and neurotechnological applications
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Projects Supported by the University Budget
Glycocalyx profile and its changes on the neurons of human epileptic brain networks. Science Promotion Fund of Vilnius University. 2022-2023, leader U. Kuliesiute
Neuronal glycocalyx has been recently recognized as an active agent that contributes to neuronal synapse formation, neuron excitability as well as neuron-autonomous and microglia-dependent brain network remodelling. In particular, the sialic acid, which often dominates the ends of the chains of glycoproteins and glycolipids on neuronal surface, is required for appropriate brain development and function. Importantly, aberrant neuronal sialylation and/or desialylation are implicated in different neuropathological conditions, such as epilepsy.
We employ mouse hippocampal organotypic section as a platform to investigate the sialylation as a marker in the molecular mechanisms of synaptic pruning. Chemical inhibitors are used to modulate sialic acid synthesis and cleavage and to investigate how the composition of neuronal sialic acid shapes the formation of neuronal network. In addition, we employ surgically resected epileptic human brain tissue to characterise the composition and differences of multifunctional glycans in healthy and epileptic brain. Finally, we investigate the expression of genes that regulate sialylation during brain development in mouse hippocampus as well as healthy and epileptic human brain to fully understand the contribution of sialylation to healthy and aberrant neuronal network formation.
Electrophysiological manifestations of subjective perception of resting state. Science Promotion Fund of Vilnius University, 2021-2022, leader P. Tarailis
The resting-state paradigm is frequently applied in electroencephalography (EEG) research; however, it is associated with the inability to control participants’ thoughts. We aim to develop a paradigm to modulate certain aspects of resting state and test effect on EEG.
Diet-microbiota-nervous system: the impact of maternal high fat diet for offspring neurodevelopment. Science Promotion Fund of Vilnius University, 2021-2022, leader G. Urbonaite
Maternal metabolic abnormalities, induced by high fat diet, interfere with the neurodevelopment of the offspring both through through placental dysfunction and directly. The changes in maternal microbiota caused by a high fat diet can alter the levels of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines that disturb the metabolic environment during pregnancy. Both microbial changes and inflammatory cytokines during pregnancy disrupt the development of the brain of the offspring, such as neuron network formation, synaptic plasticity, myelination, leading to aberrant cognitive function, social behavior, and memory formation. In collaboration with Dr Agne Knyzeliene from the Preclinical Imaging facility (University of Edinburgh, UK) and Dr Guoda Laurinaviciute from the Department of Medicine (VU) we are researching the link between maternal obesity and neurodevelopmental pathologies by assessing behavioral aberrations, altered brain structure and connectivity, microglial inflammation and synaptic deficits in both male and female offspring to define their molecular and circuit mechanisms paving new paths for the development on novel interventions. First we investigate high fat diet-induced changes in microbiota both in mothers and in their offspring. Then we evaluate the impact of maternal high fat diet to the structure and connectivity of offspring brain as well as microglial inflammatory activation in brain regions of interest. Finally, we assess how maternal obesity affects the morphology of offspring retinas aiming to identify the hotspots in the central nervous system that can be used to evaluate neuroinflammation by non-invasive methods.
Temporary Principles of Coding of Stable Image (No. MSF-LMT-3). Science Promotion Fund of Vilnius University (2019–2022) Participant from department: Dr A. Šoliūnas.
National Research Projects
Importance of microbiota-intestinal-brain connection in the development of Alzheimer's disease: influence of endocannabinoid system. Nr. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-02-0014, 2019-2023, project leader Dr Aurelijus Burokas (VU BchI). (EU Funds Investment Action Program 2014-2020, Brain Attraction and Reintegration (SMART) Program). Participates from the department Dr Rokas Buišas, Gintarė Urbonaitė
Sex Differences of Auditory Steady-State Response. Research Council of Lithuania; Student’s project (No. 09.3.3.-LMT-K-712-25-0057); (2021-2022) Dr Robertas Guzulaitis, Neurobiology MSc student;
Determinants of quality of life in Lithuanian students: problematic usage of the Internet and neuropsychological profile. Research Council of Lithuania within the framework of National Programme “Welfare Society”. (2020-2022) 22442 Eur, head of VU part I. Griškova-Bulanova
Screening for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-03-0021). Funding: Research Council of Lithuania. (2020-2023) Head of project: Dr Evaldas Čiplys (GMC, BTI). Participants Dr R. Buišas, Dr V. Vengelienė, I. Pocevičiūtė, L. Saveikytė, D. Gabrielaitis
Biomarkers of the gut microbiota in autistic spectrum disorders (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718- -03-0099). Funding: Research Council of Lithuania. (2020-2023) Head of project: Dr Aurelijus Burokas (GMC, BChI). Participant Dr Rokas Buišas
Center for Genetic Modeling of Animals. EU Funds Investment Nr. 01.2.2-CPVA-K-703-03-0032, (2021-2023), Head of project Dr Daiva Baltriukienė
Yeast metabolic engineering for the biocatalytic synthesis of active substances or organic compounds. EU Funds, Nr. 01.2.1-LVPA-K-856-01-0222 (2020-2023) Head of project: UAB "Sanobiotec ".
International Research Projects
ElectroMechanoActive Polymer-based Scaffolds for Heart-on-Chip (EMAPS-Cardio), international research project funded under the EU’s Horizon 2020 framework programme, contract 953138. International coordinator Dr Christian Bergaud (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Paris, France) coordinator in Lithuania Dr Eiva Bernotienė (Centre for Innovative Medicine), Vilnius. Participant from VU Dr Aidas Alaburda. 2021 – 2025.
MBL partnership institute. (01.2.2-CPVA-V-716-01-0001), 2021-2023. Participant: U. Neniškytė (assigned funds €1 000 000)
The project aims to establish the partnership between Vilnius University Life Sciences Center and European Molecular Biology Laboratory for fundamental and applied research in the field of genome engineering and the development of CRISPR-Cas technologies. The group of U. Neniškytė is developing the methods for targeted CRISPR-Cas system delivery to mammalian nervous system.
Individual gamma frequency-based neurofeedback: development and implementation study. 2020-2022 Research project P-LJB-20-4, Research Council of Lithuania within the framework of collaboration with Japan, 79997 Eur, Project leader I. Griškova-Bulanova.
In this project the neurofeedback system based on individual gamma frequency is developed ant tested in a sample of yound subjects, and results are associated with individual cognitive abilities.
Marie Sklodowska Curie Actions Individual Fellowship, 2020-2022, €146 000, D U. Neniskyte, Dr A. Parimisetty
Effective neuron-microglial communication is a prerequisite to achieve the final connectome. It is mediated by both the formation of new synapses and selective removal of unnecessary connections through synaptic pruning. Recent evidences suggest that superfluous connections are eliminated by microglia. Almost 70% of the connections are lost in a primate cortex within six months of life. But what drives this selective elimination of so many synapses is a million-euro question. Identifying neuronal signals that differentiate weak synapses from the strong ones is an emerging frontier in cellular neuroscience. Several eat-me signals in synaptic pruning have been identified, but spare-me signals that limit phagocytic elimination of synapses are yet to be explored. Sialic acids on neuronal glycocalyx acts as spare-me signal and prevents microglial phagocytosis through Siglec receptors. Aberrant regulation of sialic acid caused neuronal loss and embryonic lethality. It is also becoming evident that sialic acid plays a key role in neurodevelopment, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which it regulates neurodevelopment is yet to be explored. This makes sialic acid an ideal candidate to evaluate its role in neurodevelopment. Hence, we aim to interrogate whether sialidases, glycocalyx recognizing proteins are developmentally regulated and also to define sialic acid’s role in synaptic pruning during neurodevelopment. We propose to implement gene, protein expression and metabolic profiling studies to investigate whether sialidases and glycocalyx recognizing proteins are developmentally regulated. Also, we will use fluorescent azido sugars in ex vivo cultures to visualise how sialic acid regulates synaptic pruning during neurodevelopment using superresolution STED microscopy. This paves a path to identify cellular and molecular mechanisms by which glycocalyx composition defines neuron-microglia interactions and thus circuit refinement through synaptic pruning.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS
Republican Vilnius Psychiatric Hospital (Lithuania)
University of Copenhagen (Denmark)
Florida Children Hospital (USA)
University of Lausanne (Switzerland)
Translational Research Center of University Hospital of Psychiatry Bern (Switzerland)
University of Poznan (Poland)
Kiev National Taras Shevchenko University (Ukraine)
Jagiellonian University (Poland)
Auckland University of Technology (New Zealand)
Valparaiso University (Chile)
National Institute of Mental Health (Czech Republic)
Durham University (UK)
Manchester University (UK)
University of Saltzburg (Austria)
Tubingen University (Germany)
School of Physiology, University of Wollongong (Australia)
Department of Biophysics, Institute of Biology and Biochemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (Poland)
Department of Biophysics, Institute of Biology and Biochemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (Poland)
Lund University (Sweden)
Center for Information and Neural Networks (Japan)
Beijing Sports University (China)
Tartu University, Faculty of Social Sciences (Estonia)
The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (Australia)
Belgrade University (Serbia)
University of Freiburg (Germany)
European Molecular Biology Laboratory (Italy)
National Sun Yat-sen University (Taiwan)
Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music (Latvia)
University of Azores (Portugal)
University of Tartu, Estonia
Prof. Boris Tabakoff, University of Colorado School of Medicine (USA)
University of Freiburg (Germany)
Centre for Innovative Medicine (Lithuania)
University of Azores (Portugal)
Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, CEFE, University of Montpellier, CNRS (France)
The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health (Australia)
OTHER RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
Prof. A. Alaburda
• board member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• board member of Lithuanian Biophysical Society;
• European Commission expert.
Dr R. Buišas
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association.
Dr I. Griškova-Bulanova
• Vice-president of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• board member of International Brain Research Organization (IBRO);
• member of the DANA Alliance for Brain Initiatives;
• member of European Dana Alliance for the Brain;
• member of Australasian Society for Psychophysiology;
• member of the International Society for Brain Electromagnetic Topography;
• review editor for Brain Imaging Methods, Fronties in Human Neuroscience;
• invited editor for Journal of Clinical Medicine “Substance and Behavioral Addictions: Updates on Etiology and Clinical Interventions“
Assoc. Prof. R. Grikšienė
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• member of the International Society for Brain Electromagnetic Topography;
Assoc. Prof. V. Kisnierienė
• member of the Lithuanian Biophysical society;
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• member of the European Biophysical Societies’ Association (EBSA).
Dr I. Lapeikaitė
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• member of the Lithuanian Biophysical Society;
• member of the European Biophysical Societies’ Association (EBSA).
V. Pupkis
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• member of the Lithuanian Biophysical Society;
• member of the European Biophysical Societies’ Association (EBSA);
Dr M. Mitkus
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• member of European Ornithologists’ Union;
• member of International Society for Neuroethology;
• member of Lithuanian Ornithological Society;
• Lithuanian representative in the Committee on Animals in Research (CARE) by Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS).
Prof. O. Rukšėnas
• President of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• editorial board member of the journal Laboratorinė medicina (Laboratory Medicine);
• editorial board member of the journal Current Issues of Mass Communication;
• advisory editorial board member of the journal Sensory Systems;
• European Commission expert;
• member of Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS) governing board;
• organizing committee member of FENS Regional meeting 2021;
• member of the DANA Alliance for Brain Initiatives;
• member of European Dana Alliance for the Brain.
Dr A. Šoliūnas
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association.
Prof. V. Vengelienė
• member of Partnership for Assessment and Accreditation of Scientific Practice (PAASP);
• member of Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS);
• member of Lithuanian Neuroscience Association (LNA)
• Associate editor for Frontiers in Pharmacology, Translational Pharmacology (https://www.frontiersin.org/search/journal/pharmacology?query=vengeliene&tab=People&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.frontiersin.org%2Fjournals%2Fpharmacology%23editorial-board)
Dr U. Neniškytė
• member of the Board of Lithuanian Neurosciences Association;
• member of the Biochemical Society;
• member of Lithuanian Biochemical Society;
• member of Society for Neuroscience;
• member of editorial board of the journal Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience.
Dr A. Voickas
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association.
Dr R. Guzulaitis
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association
• member of Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS);
• member of Society for Neuroscience (SfN).
Dr E. Pipinis
• member of the Lithuanian Neurosciences Association.
BEST REPORTS DELIVERED AT CONFERENCES ABROAD
1. Ugnė Kuliešiūtė „The role of cell-surface sialic acid in the neuropathologies of human brain“, 4th EMBL Partnership Conference, Heidelberg, Germany
2. Inga Griškova-Bulanova “Effect of psilocybin on the ability to generate gamma activity:translational perspective in human and rat”, 22nd biennial IPEG Meeting 2022, New York, USA
MOST IMPORTANT NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL AWARDS RECEIVED FOR R&D ACTIVITIES
1. Dr I.Griškova-Bulanova – Werner M. Herrmann Prize
MOST IMPORTANT PARTICIPATION CASES OF RESEARCHERS IN WORKING GROUPS OR COMMISSIONS SET UP BY STATE AUTHORITIES, STATE AND MUNICIPAL INSTITUTIONS, ORGANISATIONS, BUSINESS ENTITIES
1. Prof. A. Alaburda – national expert for European Research Council (ERC) (Future and Emerging Technologies (FET) and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA).
2. Dr U. Neniškytė - Board member of the Research Council of Lithuania. Member of the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation. Member of the State Progress Council.
CONSULTATIONS PROVIDED BY THE UNIT TO THE PUBLIC OR ECONOMIC ENTITIES
Prof. V. Vengelienė
• Consultant for PAASP GmbH (Partnership for Assessment and Accreditation of Scientific Practice), Heidelberg, Germany
7 Saulėtekio ave, LT-10257 Vilnius
Tel. + 370 5 223 4430
E-mail: .
Head – Prof. Dr Virginija Podėnienė
STAFF
Professors: Dr V. Podėnienė, Dr S. Podėnas (part-time).
Associate professors: Dr E. Bukelskis, Dr J. Turčinavičienė, , Dr V. Sruoga (part-time), Dr A. Petrašiūnas, Dr A. Kaupinis (part-time)
Assistants: Dr G. Skujienė, Dr R. Aukštikalnienė.
Junior assistants: A. Lekoveckaite
Lecturers: Dr M. Biteniekytė, S. Skuja.
Senior researchers: Dr J. Havelka, Dr V. Sruoga (part-time). Dr M. F. Torres Jimenez, Dr A. Pašukonis, Dr J. Sakalauskaitė
Junior researchers: I. Gorban
Doctoral students: A. Lekoveckaite, L. Stasiukynas. G. Mockevičienė, B. Masoit, M. Riepšaitė
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Ecosystems and global change
• Mapping and catalogization of fauna
• Rare and endangered species both in terrestrial and aquatic systems
• Invasive species
• Species of medical and veterinary importance
• Biodiversity in tropics
• Biodiversity in dead wood
• Biosystematics studies in insects (Coleoptera, Hemiptera, Sternorrhycha: Aphididae, Diptera, Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera).
• Biomineralization in mollusc shells
• Biomolecular archaeology
• Morphological differentiation and population proteomics in coregonid fish
• Diversity and behavior of tropical frogs
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Projects Supported by the University Budget
Animal Biodiversity, Ecology and Population Structure. Prof. Dr V. Podėnienė, Prof. Dr S. Podėnas.
The study of the aphid genus Dysaphis was started, and the presence of four out of six species recorded in Vilnius city and its suburbs up to 2012 was confirmed, while D. hirsutissima was recorded there for the first time. Archeoentomological investigation of burial site in Vilnius was performed. Taxonomic studies of the Indian and Nepal Tipula (Vestiplex) crane flies (Diptera: Tipulidae) and East Palaearctic Hexatoma crane flies (Diptera: Limoniidae) were performed. Diversity of saproxylic Bibionomorpha and Tipulomorpha (Diptera, Nematocera) in dead wood is revealed. Analysis of the biodiversity of spiders and dipterous insects of Lithuania continued. Studies of phthalate pollution in the Curonian Lagoon and Lithuanian rivers and their genotoxic effects on mollusk populations have been started. Studies on the effects of phthalates on mammalian development have been initiated. Monitoring of fish communities in Lithuanian lakes was continued. Monitoring of black storks, birds of prey and owls in forests of northern, eastern and southern Lithuania continued. Taxonomic studies of Elachsitinae (Lepidoptera, Elachistidae) of Lithuania and some tropical regions performed, five new species for sciences were discovered and described from Sub-Saharan Africa and Nepal. Entomological survey to identify vector species possibly involved with the transmission of African swine fever virus is carried out.
Main publications:
1. Wolfe T. M., Hembach S., Petrašiūnas A., Juzėnas S., Stauffer Ch., Schuler H. 2022. The first report of a stable population of the American Eastern cherry fruit fly Rhagoletis cingulata (Bush) (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Lithuania. BioInvasions records 11 (4): 893–899. https://doi.org/10.3391/bir.2022.11.4.08
2. Sruoga, V., De Prins, J. 2022. New species of Urodeta Stainton, 1869 (Lepidoptera, Elachistidae, Elachistinae) from Ghana and Democratic Republic of the Congo, with identification keys to the Afrotropical species of the genus. ZooKeys, 1089: 25–36. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1089.79716
3. Pasukonis, A ; Serrano-Rojas, SJ; Fischer, MT; Loretto, MC; Shaykevich, DA (Shaykevich, Daniel A.); Rojas, B; Ringler, M; Roland, AB; Marcillo-Lara, A; Ringler, E; Rodriguez, C; Coloma, LA; O'Connell, LA. 2022. Contrasting parental roles shape sex differences in poison frog space use but not navigational performance. ELIFE 11 (e80483). DOI: 10.7554/eLife.80483
4. Ralimanana H, Perrigo AL, Smith RJ, Borrell JS, Faurby S, Rajaonah MT, Randriamboavonjy T, Vorontsova MS, Cooke RSC, Phelps LN, Sayol F, Andela N, Andermann T, Andriamanohera AM, Andriambololonera S, Bachman SP, Bacon CD, Baker WJ, Belluardo F, Birkinshaw C, Cable S, Canales NA, Carrillo JD, Clegg R, Clubbe C, Crottini A, Damasco G, Dhanda S, Edler D, Farooq H, de Lima Ferreira P, Fisher BL, Forest F, Gardiner LM, Goodman SM, Grace OM, Guedes TB, Hackel J, Henniges MC, Hill R, Lehmann CER, Lowry PP 2nd, Marline L, Matos-Maraví P, Moat J, Neves B, Nogueira MGC, Onstein RE, Papadopulos AST, Perez-Escobar OA, Phillipson PB, Pironon S, Przelomska NAS, Rabarimanarivo M, Rabehevitra D, Raharimampionona J, Rajaonary F, Rajaovelona LR, Rakotoarinivo M, Rakotoarisoa AA, Rakotoarisoa SE, Rakotomalala HN, Rakotonasolo F, Ralaiveloarisoa BA, Ramirez-Herranz M, Randriamamonjy JEN, Randrianasolo V, Rasolohery A, Ratsifandrihamanana AN, Ravololomanana N, Razafiniary V, Razanajatovo H, Razanatsoa E, Rivers M, Silvestro D, Testo W, Torres Jiménez MF, Walker K, Walker BE, Wilkin P, Williams J, Ziegler T, Zizka A, Antonelli A. Madagascar's extraordinary biodiversity: Threats and opportunities. Science. 2022 Dec 2;378(6623):eadf1466. doi: 10.1126/science.adf1466. Epub 2022 Dec 2. PMID: 36454830.
5. Antonelli A, Smith RJ, Perrigo AL, Crottini A, Hackel J, Testo W, Farooq H, Torres Jiménez MF, Andela N, Andermann T, Andriamanohera AM, Andriambololonera S, Bachman SP, Bacon CD, Baker WJ, Belluardo F, Birkinshaw C, Borrell JS, Cable S, Canales NA, Carrillo JD, Clegg R, Clubbe C, Cooke RSC, Damasco G, Dhanda S, Edler D, Faurby S, de Lima Ferreira P, Fisher BL, Forest F, Gardiner LM, Goodman SM, Grace OM, Guedes TB, Henniges MC, Hill R, Lehmann CER, Lowry PP 2nd, Marline L, Matos-Maraví P, Moat J, Neves B, Nogueira MGC, Onstein RE, Papadopulos AST, Perez-Escobar OA, Phelps LN, Phillipson PB, Pironon S, Przelomska NAS, Rabarimanarivo M, Rabehevitra D, Raharimampionona J, Rajaonah MT, Rajaonary F, Rajaovelona LR, Rakotoarinivo M, Rakotoarisoa AA, Rakotoarisoa SE, Rakotomalala HN, Rakotonasolo F, Ralaiveloarisoa BA, Ramirez-Herranz M, Randriamamonjy JEN, Randriamboavonjy T, Randrianasolo V, Rasolohery A, Ratsifandrihamanana AN, Ravololomanana N, Razafiniary V, Razanajatovo H, Razanatsoa E, Rivers M, Sayol F, Silvestro D, Vorontsova MS, Walker K, Walker BE, Wilkin P, Williams J, Ziegler T, Zizka A, Ralimanana H. Madagascar's extraordinary biodiversity: Evolution, distribution, and use. Science. 2022 Dec 2;378(6623):eabf0869. doi: 10.1126/science.abf0869. Epub 2022 Dec 2. PMID: 36454829.
National Research Projects
Development of an Action Plan for the Regulation of the Population Abundance of the Invasive Species (Arion lusitanicus) (2022 03 24 No. A56(1)-389). Dr G. Skujienė, M. Adomaitis, S. Juzėnas, student A. Jucevičiūtė. 2022.
The invasive species Arion vulgaris first time in Lithuania was detected in environs of Kaunas city in 2008. In twelve years, it has spread into the whole territory of Lithuania and now is known already from 164 localities. In some settlements and even in some nature reserves the abundance of slugs has reached up to 80–120 ind./m2. Control strategies for this invasive species in settlements with high density of slugs was prepared based on our results and data from other scientists.
Main publication:
1. Adomaitis M., Skujienė G., Račinskas P. Reducing the Application Rate of Molluscicide Pellets for the Invasive Spanish Slug, Arion vulgaris. Insects 2022, 13, 301. https://doi.org/10.3390/insects13030301
Assessment of genotoxic and cytotoxic changes in bivalve molluscs of the Curonian Spit/ Lagoon (No P-ST-22-232) 2022 09 01 – 2023 03 31. Funded by Lithuanian Science Council (STSM). Dr G.Skujienė, student B. Jukonis.
European inland waters are under continuous threat of anthropogenic pollution. Determination of background level of biomarker response and subsequent classification of the impact increases the applicability of results. In the current study we evaluate the range of chemical contamination by measuring the concentrations of metals, phthalates and the levels of environmental genotoxicity by using the micronuclei and nuclear bud tests in bivalve mussels of the Curonian Lagoon. Aneuploidy, polyploidy of cells, meiotic injures, centromere dissociation and fragmented polyploid nuclei were assessed as cytogenetic disturbances.
Research project “Shell Archaeochrome”, EMBO (No. ALTF 314-2022). Dr Jorūnė Sakalauskaitė, Prof. Virginijus Šikšnys
The aim of Shell Archaeochrome project is to study and characterise mollusc shell biochromes using an integrated molecular approach. Mollusc shells present an incredible diversity of colours and patterns and shell biochromes encode important biological information. They may play a role in immunity, shell strengthening, protection from thermal stress and UV radiation. Yet, despite the great diversity and complexity of shell colours, their durability in biomineral structures (e.g., they can persist in the fossil record), there is no complete molecular understanding of shell pigmentation in any mollusc system.
Shell archaeochrome project will carry out an in-depth study of mollusc shell biochromes. Focusing on Littorina sp. shells which display colour polymorphism, we will use cutting-edge ‘ShellOmic’ techniques - transcriptomics and proteomics, including for ancient samples (palaeoproteomics) coupled with the first application of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing tools to elucidate the chemical nature of shell biochromes and associated proteins, and investigate which genes are involved in shell coloration and biomineralisation. Palaeoproteomics of archaeochromes (ancient chromoproteins) will shed light into biochrome stability over archaeological timescales. The project will be carried out in collaboration with the Biotechnology institute of Vilnius University and several international institutions: Department of Geobiology, Georg-August University of Göttingen (Germany), Tjärnö Marine Laboratory, University of Gothenburg (Sweden), CIBIO-InBIO, University of Porto (Portugal).
International Research Projects
Korean Fauna. National Institute of Biological Resources (South Korea). (No NIBR2022021111). Prof. S. Podėnas, Prof. V. Podėnienė.
The aim of the Korean Fauna project is to investigate fauna and flora of the Korean Peninsula (North and South Korea) and to complete National List of Species of Korea. Every year researchers from South Korea directed by scientists from NIBR collect and register different organisms and search for the specimens that are stored in scientific collections worldwide. Special attention is paid to endemic species. National Species List and List of Endemic species are updated and published constantly every five years. For the groups of organisms, that are less familiar for Korean researchers, foreign investigators are invited. We are working together with Korean colleagues on crane flies and related families of true flies (Diptera, Tipulomorpha) since 2012. Every year we add 15-20 new species for the Peninsula, some of them are new for science. We collect adult and preimaginal stages, teach Korean students and Master/PhD program students. Our goal is taxonomy, ecology and development of selected groups of organisms and evaluation of influence of climate change, agriculture, deforestation and fragmentation of habitats on distribution and abundance of separate species.
Main publications:
1. Podenas, S.; Park, S.-J.; Byun, H.-W.; Podeniene, V. 2022. Hexatoma crane flies (Diptera, Limoniidae) of Korea. ZooKeys 1105: 165-208. doi: 10.3897/zookeys.1105.82495
2. Podenas, S.; Park, S.J.; Byun, H.-W. 2022b. New record of Pilaria crane flies (Diptera: Limoniidae) new to Korea. Journal of Species Research 11: 38-46. DOI:10.12651/JSR.2022.11.1.038
3. Podenas, S.; Park, S.J.; Byun, H.-W. 2022c. Phylidorea crane flies (Diptera: Limoniidae) of Korea. Journal of Species Research 11: 47-60. DOI:10.12651/JSR.2022.11.1.047
4. Podenas, S.; Park, S.J.; Byun, H.-W. 2022d. Limnophila crane flies (Diptera: Limoniidae) of Korea. Journal of Species Research 11: 117-127. DOI:10.12651/JSR.2022.11.2.117
5. Podenas, S.; Park, S.J.; Byun, H.-W.; Aukstikalniene, R. 2022a. Prionolabis crane flies (Diptera: Limoniidae) new to Korea. Journal of Species Research 11: 29-37. DOI:10.12651/JSR.2022.11.1.029
Biodiversity Project on the Farm for Birds, Insects (Wild Bees and Other Aculeata and Beetles) and Spiders. BASF SE (Germany). R&D-SERVICE AGREEMENT No. (1.57)15600-INS-43. Assist. Dr G. Skujienė (project manager), S. Skuja, Dr M. Biteniekytė, V. Kuznecova, students J. J. Valiulis, T. Laurinaitis, J.A. Skuja, 2021–2025.
The aim of BASF SE (Germany) project is to investigate biodiversity in farmlands with the aim of documenting possible changes in birds, wild bees (pollinator) and other Aculeata, ground beetles and spider populations, as well as beneficial and pest populations over the years. Every year we add 2-4 new species for the Lithuania. The following questions are pursued: Which possible factors influence the bird, insects and spiders’ population in the study area (humans, pets, wild animals, hunters, diseases) outside of agriculture? Can the bird population be increased through the usual bird protection measures (nesting aids / perches) and other enhancement measures (flower strips, planting trees, hedges) in the respective study area? Our goal is taxonomy, ecology and development of selected groups of organisms and evaluation of influence of climate change, agriculture, deforestation and fragmentation of habitats on distribution and abundance of separate species.
Main publication:
1. Lazauskaitė M., Budrienė A., Budrys E., Skujienė G. Records of two southern bee species, Anthidium oblongatum (Illiger, 1806) and Xylocopa valga (Gerstaecker, 1872) (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae, Apidae) in Lithuania. Bulletin of the Lithuanian Entomological Society 2022, 6(34): 106-110. https://www.entomologai.lt/leidiniai/category/58-volume-6-34-2022
Project on Platform for innovation in Natural science online education (LINNEO). ERASMUS+ Partnership agreement No. 2022-1-IT02-KA220-SCH-000088667 between COSTA EDUTAINMENT S.P.A. (Coordinator, Italy), Be2Bit Ltd (Malta) and 6 others. VU represents Museum of Zoology staff: Dr G.Skujienė (VU project manager), V. Kuznecova, J.A. Skuja; I. Kančys; VU Botanical Garden staff: R. Ryliškienė. 2022/10/01-2024/09/30.
The LINNEO project aims to strengthen the capability of Primary School Teachers and Schools to provide innovative, effective and motivating digital education in NS, actually integrated in formal curricula and able to tackle the main obstacles raised by societal emergencies or other problems that prevent full access to learning opportunities for some groups of students. To achieve this, aim the LINNEO project will develop a web-based platform nurtured with high quality and engaging digital resources for primary education. To support teachers in the integration of the digital resources in their teaching practice LINNEO will develop Didactic Units and a set of reusable activities, that will result from the collaboration of the teachers of the schools’ partners in the project, experts in educational technologies and Natural Sciences Edutainment Institutions (NSEIs), using Natural Sciences resources from Museum of Zoology (LT), Botanical Garden (LT) and Marine aquarium (IT).
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS
Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre (Lithuania)
Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Museum of Zoology (Lithuania)
Silesian University, Katowice (Poland)
Zoological Institute of Russian Academy of Sciences, Saint Petersburg (Russia)
Drexel University (USA)
National Institute of Biological Resources (South Korea)
Korean Polar Research Institute, Seoul (South Korea)
University of Porto, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research (Portugal)
Kazimierz Wielki University, Bygdošč (Poland).
Senckenberg Museum of Natural History, Department of Görlitz and Deprtment of Dresden, (Germany)
Center for Adaptive Behavior and Cognition, Max Planck Institute for Human Development (Germany)
Institute of Systematic Biology, Daugavpils University (Latvia)
Trinity College of Dublin (Ireland)
The State Service for Protected Areas (Lithuania)
Baltic Environmental Forum (Lithuania)
Faculty of Medicine of Vilnius University, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Anthropology (Lithuania)
Finnish Museum of Natural History, University of Helsinki (Finland)
Vytautas Magnus University (Lithuania)
ArchaeoBiomics lab, Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin (Italy)
Section for Geobiology, The GLOBE Institute, University of Copenhagen (Denmark)
Department of Geobiology, Georg-August University of Göttingen (Germany)
UMR CNRS/UBFC/EPHE 6282 Biogéosciences, University of Burgundy-Franche-Comté (France)
Bioarchaeology research centre, Vilnius University (Lithuania)
Tjärnö Marine Laboratory, University of Gothenburg (Sweden)
CIBIO-InBIO, University of Porto (Portugal)
OTHER RESCEARCH ACTIVITIES
Prof. V. Podėnienė
• assoc. researcher of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA (USA);
• expert of the Lithuanian Innovation Agency.
Prof. S. Podėnas
• true member of Lithuanian Academy of Sciences
• assoc. researcher of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA (USA);
• expert of the National Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education (Lithuania);
• director of Nature Research Centre (Lithuania).
Assoc. Prof. E. Bukelskis
• chairman of the Fisheries Council of the Republic of Lithuania of the Ministers of Agriculture and Environment of the Republic of Lithuania;
• member of the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC);
• member of the Council of the Lithuanian Hydrobiological Society
Assoc. Prof. V. Sruoga
• member of the European Society of lepidopterology (Societas Europaea Lepidopterologica);
• member of the Lithuanian Entomological Society.
Assoc. Prof. J. Turčinavičienė
• expert of the Supervision Committee of Genetically Modified Organisms, http://gmo.am.lt/page?page=itemList&entity=biosafetyExpert;
• editorial board member of the journal Bulletin of the Lithuanian Entomological Society;
• member of the Lithuanian Entomological Society.
Lect. Dr R. Aukštikalnienė
• member of the Lithuanian Morphological Society.
Assist. Dr G. Skujienė
• curator of the Museum of Zoology of Vilnius University;
• member of the Lithuanian Entomological Society;
• external expert of Molluscs of the State Commission of the Lithuanian Language;
• member of the Council of the Invasive Species of Lithuania;
• member of the Working Group on Wildlife Welfare;
• member of Bioethics Society;
• member of Lithuanian Rural Development Program 2021–2030 Program Monitoring Committee, delegated by the association Environmental Coalition.
Assoc. Prof. A. Petrašiūnas
• member of the Commission of the Lithuanian Red Data Book of the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania;
• president of the Lithuanian Entomological Society;
• managing editor of the journal Bulletin of the Lithuanian Entomological Society;
• member of EAFE, European Association for Forensic Entomology.
• Head of the National Biology Olympiad organizing group, team leader of the Lithuanian team in International Biology Olympiad (IBO)
Lect. Dr M. Biteniekytė
• member of the Lithuanian Entomological Society.
Lect. S. Skuja
• member of the Lithuanian Ornithological Society;
• member of the Lithuanian Entomological Society.
Dr J. Sakalauskaitė
• Affiliated scientists at the ArchaeoBiomics lab, University of Turin;
• member of the Malacological Society of London;
• member of the International Society for Biomolecular Archaeology.
Dr Maria Fernanda Torres Jimenez
• Affiliated scientist at the Gothenburg Global Biodiversity Centre
• Invited editor for the Applications in Plants Sciences Journal
• Member of the Botanical Society of the Americas
• Marius Jakulis Jason Foundation Scholar
Dr A. Pašukonis
• Member of The Association for the Study of Animal Behaviour
• Member of The Societas Europaea Herpetologica
• Member of The International Bio-Logging Society
• Supervisor for a field research expedition to study tropical amphibians at Los Amigos
• Biological Station, Peru in collaboration with Stanford University (November 2022)
MOST IMPORTANT PARTICIPATION CASES OF RESEARCHERS IN WORKING GROUPS OR COMMISSIONS SET UP BY STATE AUTHORITIES, STATE AND MUNICIPAL INSTITUTIONS, ORGANISATIONS, BUSINESS ENTITIES
Prof. V. Podėnienė
• member of the national committe of the UNESCO program „Man and the Biosphere“.
Assoc. Prof. A. Petrašiūnas
• member of the Commission of the Lithuanian Red Data Book of the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania;
CONSULTATIONS PROVIDED BY THE UNIT TO THE PUBLIC OR ECONOMIC ENTITIES
1. All staff – consultations by the scientists of Botany and mycology group and Zoology Department on the identification and use of animals, protists, plants, fungi and lichens, as well as nature protection.
2. Dr G. Skujienė – expertise and lectures of molluscs Vertigo geyeri monitoring – for specialists of protected areas. In-service training and abilities to perform assigned functions (state environmental monitoring) training Project of the Environmental Project Management Agency of the Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Lithuania No. LIFE16 IPE / LT / 016 “Optimization of NATURA 2000 network management in Lithuania” throw The Lithuanian Fund for Nature.
3. Dr G. Skujiene – moderator of practical events for teachers (biology) Public Institution “EduEducational Forum”, project “Development and testing of general education content and organization models in general education”, project No. 09.2.1-ESFA-V-726-04-0001
4. Dr G. Skujiene - Integrated science education in Lithuania: achievements and future perspectives. Project No. S-REP-21-3. Lithuanian Science Council. 2021-2022.
MOST IMPORTANT RESEARCH DISSEMINATION ACTIVITIES
1. Dr G. Skujienė - 2022 March 25/ YouTube with G.Skujiene ,, Biodiversity observations in farmers' fields - how and why is it done? Part 1, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nbGdDXSdHUI
2. Dr G. Skujienė - Delfi: https://www.delfi.lt/uzsakomasis-turinys/agro/siuolaikini-ukininkavima-ir-bioivairove-galima-suderinti.d?id=90199613
3. Dr G. Skujienė - 2022-09-11 Delfi TV show "Delfi theme" (interview with G. Skujiene): "Sad news for farmers - a new, insolent pest is invading their fields" https://www.delfi.lt/agro/sodinu-auginu/liudnos-zinios-ukininkams-i-ju-laukus-braunasi-naujas-izulus-kenkejas.d?id=88120453
4. Dr Maria Fernanda Torres Jimenez - 2022 March. Lecturer at the one-week workshop titled "Target capture for Illumina sequencing" at Tjärnö (Sweden). Organised by ForBio.
5. Dr Maria Fernanda Torres Jimenez - 2022 April. Online seminar titled "Mutualismos entre plantas y hormigas - evolución entre montañas" (Spanish) hosted by the Universidad del Rosario, Colombia. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHmXTnBXThw
6. Dr Maria Fernanda Torres Jimenez - 2022 August. Scientific seminar titled "Of plants, fungi, and sequencing" at Royal Botanic Garden Kew, UK
7. April 2022 "Dead wood and Saproxylic flies (Nematocera, Diptera)
CENTRE FOR ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
7 Saulėtekio ave, LT-10257 Vilnius
Phone: 239 8299
E-mail:
Head – Assoc. Prof. Dr Alius Ulevičius
STAFF
Associate professors: Dr A. Ulevičius, Dr G. Ignatavičius,.
Assistant professors: Dr V. Kalcienė, Dr I. Nedveckytė, Dr A. Samas, Dr V. Valskys, Dr G. Trakimas (part-time).
Senior researcher: Dr A. Judžentienė (part-time).
Researcher: DrG.Trakimas (part-time).
Doctoral students: M. H. Ünsal, H. R. Hassan, L. Galinskaitė, A. Kovrigina, D. Šalkauskienė.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Pollution of natural ecosystem components and anthropogenical environmental impact assessment
• Ecology of the key-stone species of ecosystems: population dynamics and structure and environmental effects
• Toxic impacts of environmental pollutants to ecosystems using tests of luminescent microorganisms and biomarkers
• Infochemical interactions and behaviour of organisms
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Projects Supported by the University Budget
Effects of Stress and Serotonin on the Individual Behaviour of Drosophila melanogaster (MSF-JM-1/2021). Project leader – G.Trakimas, Participant – I. Nedveckytė, 2021-2022.
Previous research showed that Drosophila melanogaster flies exhibit individual non-heritable locomotor handedness, which varies in the predictability of left-right choices. We found that the unpredictability of turning behavior increased in fruit flies reared with spiders, and turn bias variability decreased when flies were fed an inhibitor of serotonin (5-HT) synthesis. The number of turns was the lowest in the fruit flies grown with predators. The results of this study demonstrate a negative association between the unpredictability of the turning behavior of fruit flies and the hunting success of predators. We also show that the neurotransmitter serotonin controls the turning variability of fruit flies, acting as a modulator of turn bias variability. The team produced two drafts on the current results of the project.
The effect of phthalates entering Lithuanian waters with sewage on the development of mammals. MSF-JM-18/2022. Project leader – V. Valskys
The aim of this study is to determine the effect of plastic chemical components - phthalates, which enter Lithuanian waters with sewage, on the physiological, morphological-anatomical, genetic and neurological characteristics and development of a model organism (laboratory rat) of several generations.
National Research Projects
Seasonal features of school air pollution and its impact on the incidence of respiratory diseases and allergies in primary school students. Research Council of Lithuania, S-MIP-20-52 (2020-2022). Dr V. Valskys – research group member.
The school environment is crucial for the child’s health and well-being. This study aims to evaluate the level of indoor aerosol pollution in primary schools and its relation to the incidence of doctor’s diagnosed asthma among younger school-age children. The cross-sectional study was carried out in 11 primary schools of Vilnius. Particle number (PNC) and mass (PMC) concentrations in the size range of 0.3–10 µm were measured using an Optical Particle Sizer (OPS, TSI model 3330). The incidence of asthma per school ranged from 1.8 to 6.0%. There was a statistically significant correlation between the incidence of asthma and PNC as well as asthma and PMC in the particle size range of 0.3–1 µm (r = 0.66, p = 0.028) and (r = 0.71, p = 0.017) respectively. No significant correlation was found between asthma incidence and indoor air pollution in the particle size range of 0.3–2.5 and 0.3–10 µm. We concluded that the number and mass concentrations of indoor air aerosol pollution in primary schools in the particle size range of 0.3–1 µm are primarily associated with the incidence of doctor’s diagnosed asthma among younger school-age children.
Main publication:
1. Izabelė Juškienė; Arūnas Valiulis; Nina Prokopčiuk; Ulrich Franck; Algirdas Valiulis; Vaidotas Valskys; Vitalija Meščeriakova; Violeta Kvedarienė; Indrė Valiulytė; Edita Poluziorovienė; Ingrida Šaulienė. Indoor air pollution effects on pediatric asthma are submicron aerosol particle–dependent. European Journal of Pediatrics. 2022, 181, 6. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-022-04443-6
International Research Projects
EU Life programme. Algae – Economy Based Ecological Service of Aquatic Ecosystem (life17 env/lt/000407). 2018–2023. Dr Vaidotas Valskys - research group member.
The project AlgaeService for LIFE seeks to promote best practices in ecological service and the circular economics approach by implementing innovative complex system which has both demonstration and innovation character.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS
Nature Research Centre (Lithuania)
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (Lithuania)
University of Latvia (Latvia)
Lithuanian Geological Survey (Lithuania)
Boston University (USA)
National Institute of Chemical Physics and Biophysics (NICPB) (Estonia)
Natural Resources Institute (Finland)
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) (Sweden)
OTHER RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
Nedveckytė I.
• member of the committee of the international student conference "OpenReadings 2022" in the fields of biology/genetics/biomedical sciences.
• 2022 April 22 - May 15, chairwoman of the evaluation committee of the international student conference "VILIPO" (in the field of environmental studies). https://www.vilipo.lt/jugdes/
Ulevičius A.
• 2022. Member of the Scientific Committee of the 9th International Beaver Symposium, 18-22 September 2022, Brasov, Romania https://9internationalbeaversymposium.com/
MOST IMPORTANT PARTICIPATION CASES OF RESEARCHERS IN WORKING GROUPS OR COMMISSIONS SET UP BY STATE AUTHORITIES, STATE AND MUNICIPAL INSTITUTIONS, ORGANISATIONS, BUSINESS ENTITIES
Dr A. Ulevičius
• member of expert group of wolf population management in Lithuania by the Ministry of Environment; member of expert group of Game and Trophies by the Lithuanian Council of Hunters and Fishermen.
• member of Steering Committee by the Ministry of environment on the National Study preparation on Ecosystem Services.
MOST IMPORTANT RESEARCH DISSEMINATION ACTIVITIES
1. Dr Irena Nedveckytė. Comment on national television – “What is the impact of microplastics on humans and the environment?“
2. https://www.lrytas.lt/verslas/mano-pinigai/2022/11/28/news/nuo-kitu-metu-vidurio-svarbus-pokyciai-parduotuvese-pirkejai-jau-zino-kaip-suksis-is-padeties-25238079
3. Nedveckytė I. – multiple meetings and educational excursions with secondary school students;
4. Kalcienė V. – invited judge of abstracts at 65th International conference for students of physics and natural sciences Open Reading 2022 in the category of „Biology, Genetics and Biomedical Sciences“. (2022-03)
5. Kalcienė V. – participant as invited judge at the international competition for students aged 14-19 „VILIPO OLIMPIAD 2022“in the category of “Environment” (2022-04-22 2022-05-15);
INSTITUTE OF BIOCHEMISTRY
7 Sauletekio av., LT-10257
Phone (+370 5) 223 4378
E-mail:
http://www.bchi.vu.lt
Director - Dr Kastis Krikštopaitis
STAFF
67 research fellows (63 holding research degree), 35 doctoral students.
DEPARTMENTS OF THE INSTITUTE
Department of Bioanalysis
Department of Bioelectrochemistry and Biospectroscopy
Department of Biological Models
Department of Molecular Cell Biology
Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology
Department of Xenobiotics Biochemistry
Laboratory of Bioorganic Compounds Chemistry
Proteomics Centre
RESEARCH AREAS
• Signalling Pathways and Epigenetic Regulation in Cancer and Stem Cells
• Investigation and Application of Biocatalysts and Self-Assembled Structures
DOCTORAL DISSERTATIONS MAINTAINED IN 2022
I. Aleknavičienė. Investigation of adsorbed biomolecules using new Raman scattering-enhancing surfaces.
M. Lesanavičius. Reduction mechanisms of prooxidant xenobiotics by flavin-containing dehydrogenases – electrontransferases.
T. Penkauskas. Investigation of damage to the phospholipid membrane by pore forming toxins.
E. Polmickaitė-Smirnova. Antibacterial investigation of redox and photoactive compounds
A. Zentelytė. Molecular investigation of differentiation in amniotic fluid stem cells of healthy and fetus affected gestations.
E. Žalytė. Molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis resistance in pancreatic cancer cells.
DEPARTMENT OF BIOANALYSIS
Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257
Phone (+370 5) 223 4389
E-mail:
Head – Dr Marius Dagys
STAFF
Chief research associates: Dr J. Razumienė
Senior research associates: Dr M. Dagys, Dr G. Bagdžiūnas
Research associates: Dr L. Tetianec, Dr I. Šakinytė, Dr D. Ratautas, Dr A. Laurynėnas.
Junior research associates: I. Bratkovskaja, M. Butkevičius, E. Ramonas
Senior specialists: V. Gurevičienė.
Doctoral students: S. Serapinas, M. Katelynas, K. Ratkevičiūtė
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Investigation of charge and energy transfer in biomolecules, bioreactor design
• Creation and investigation of biosensors and bioanalytical systems
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Design and investigation of new systems for biocatalysis.
We specialise in application of the oxidoreductases for bioreactor applications and creation of mediatorless biofuel cells. The development of artificial nanocatalysts is a rapidly developing field in nanocatalysis and nanomaterials science. Our continuing research in this regard is the design of unique nanomaterials composed of several redox enzymes or nucleotides and nanoparticles. Properly wired biomolecules through the nanoparticle surface experience direct electrochemical “communication”, allowing electron transfer from one redox center to other.
Main publications:
1. Serapinas S., J. Gineitytė, M. Butkevičius, R. Danilevičius, M. Dagys, D. Ratautas. 2022. Biosensor prototype for rapid detection and quantification of DNase activity. Biosensors & Bioelectronics 213: 114475.
2. Shafaat A., R. Žalneravičius, D. Ratautas, M. Dagys, R. Meškys, R. Rutkienė, J.F. Gonzalez-Martinez, J. Neilands, S. Bjorklund, J. Sotres, T. Ruzgas. 2022. Glucose-to-resistor transduction integrated into a radio-frequency antenna for chip-less and battery-less wireless sensing. ACS Sensors 7(4): 1222-1234.
National Research Projects
Development of non-invasive method platform for early diagnostics and prognosis of acute pancreatitis. Research Council of Lithuania. (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-01-0025). Dr Julija Razumienė. Partner – Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos. 2018 – 2022.
Biocatalytic systems for conversion of non-starch poli- and oligosaccharides. Research Council of Lithuania. (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-01-0019). Dr Marius Dagys. 2018 – 2022.
Main publication:
1. Tetianec L., I. Bratkovskaja, V. Časaitė, V. Gurevičienė, J. Razumienė, J. Stankevičiūtė, R. Meškys, M. Dagys, A. Laurynėnas. 2022. Efficient bi-enzymatic synthesis of aldonic acids. Green Chemistry 24(12): 4902-4908.
Biosensor platform for fast, cheap and accurate quantification of amino acids in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy (DIALSENS) (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-01-0019). Research Council of Lithuania.Dr Dalius Ratautas. Partner – Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos. 2020 – 2024.
Main publication:
1. Miškinis J., E. Ramonas, V. Gurevičenė, J. Razumienė, M. Dagys, D. Ratautas. 2022. Capacitance-based biosensor for the measurement of total loss of l-amino acids in human serum during hemodialysis. ACS Sensors 7(11): 3352.
Supramolecular recognition-based sensors for electro- detection of biomolecules (No. P-MIP-20-329). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr Gintautas Bagdžiūnas. 2020 – 2022.
Main publications:
1. Dudkaitė V., G. Bagdžiūnas. 2022. Functionalization of glucose oxidase in organic solvent: towards direct electrical communication across enzyme-electrode interface. Biosensors-Basel 12(5): 335.
2. Radveikienė I., D. Palinauskas, E. Ragauskaitė, G. Bagdžiūnas. 2022. Self-assembled cyclodextrins-based nanostructures on indium-tin-oxide for a detection of catecholamine neurotransmitters. Applied Surface Science 600: 154170. I
Central project management angency. Development of biosensor research and engineering competence and technology transfer centre (BIOSENSE) (No. 01.2.2-CPVA-K-703-03-0010). Dr Marius Dagys. 2020 – 2023.
Main publication:
1. Ramonas E., M. Butkevičius, S. Shleev, M. Dagys, D. Ratautas. 2022. Mechanistic characterization of an oxygen reduction reaction-driven, fully enzymatic and self-calibrating pH biosensor based on wired bilirubin oxidase. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical 367: 132054. IF 9,221
International Research Projects
Unveiling the Role of Glutamate in dopaminE traNspoTer deficiency syndrome (URGENT). The European Joint Programme on Rare Diseases (EJP RD). Coordinator: Ris, Laurence (BE), LT partner – Dr Julija Razumiene. 2019 – 2022.
Contractual Research
Contractual R&D works ordered by UAB Bioanalizės sistemos
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INOVATION) PARTNERS
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (Lithuania)
Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos (Lithuania)
Malmo University (Sweeden)
Lund University (Sweden)
UAB Bioanalizės sistemos (Lithuania)
UAB Laboratorija 1 (Lithuania)
BEST REPORTS DELIVERED AT CONFERENCES ABROAD
1. M. Dagys, V. Gurevičienė, D. Ratautas, I. Šakinytė, J. Razumienė. Synthesis and design of amperometric biosensors for biomedical applications. 18th International Conference on Electroanalysis (ESEAC 2022). 2022 06 05 - 09, Vilnius, Lithuania.
2. E. Ramonas, M. Butkevičius, S. Shleev, M. Dagys, D. Ratautas. Oxygen reduction reaction catalyzed by wired bilirubin oxidase: fully enzymatic and self-calibrating pH biosensor. 2nd Edition of International Conference on
3. Analytical and Bioanalytical Techniques, 2022 09 05 – 06, Online event.
MOST IMPORTANT NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL AWARDS RECEIVED FOR R&D ACTIVITIES
1. Dalius Ratautas – Vilnius University Rector award for young scientist
MOST IMPORTANT RESEARCH DISSEMINATION ACTIVITIES
1. Organization of 18th International Conference on Electroanalysis ESEAC 2022, 5 - 9 June 2022, in Vilnius and Trakai, Lithuania
DEPARTMENT OF XENOBIOTICS BIOCHEMISTRY
Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius
Phone (+370 5) 223 4392
E-mail:
Head – Habil. Dr Narimantas Čėnas
STAFF
Chief research fellow: habil. Dr N. Čėnas.
Senior research fellows: Dr Ž. Anusevičius, Dr K. Krikštopaitis, Dr J. Šarlauskas.
Research fellows: Dr A. Marozienė, Dr L. Misevičienė, Dr B. Valiauga.
Junior research fellow: M. Lesanavičius.
Senior specialist: Dr L. Kosychova.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Investigations of the molecular mechanisms of the antitumour activity and cytotoxicity of quinones, in particular the impact of their redox activity on their cytotoxic action.
• Investigations of the molecular mechanisms of cytotoxicity of novel nitroaromatic compounds, aromatic N-oxides and related compounds, in particular the impact of their redox and/or photosencitizing activity and electronic properties on their cytotoxic, antibacterial and atiparasitic action.
• The studies of the catalytic mechanism of mamalian and bacterial quinone- and nitroreductases.
• The studies of redox reactions of flavo-heme, flavo-sulfo, and flavo-sulfo-selenium enzymes possibly participating in the bioreductive activation of quinones and aromatic nitrocompounds and N-oxides.
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Project Supported by the University Budget
Molecular Mechanisms of Enzymatic Activation, Detoxification, Biodegradation, and Cytotoxicity of Redox Active Xenobiotics. Habil. Dr N. Čėnas. 2017–2022.
Our main emphasis this year was the synthesis of the new groups of high energy nitroaromatic compounds designed for futher enzymatic and cytotoxicity studies. The synthesis of some 5-amino-3-[(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)amino]-1H-1,2,4-triazole (APATO) cationic salts were performed and a number of their physicochemical parameters were determined. Another group of relevant compounds was the series of 1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one nitro and nitramine derivatives. In particular, the crystal structure of 4,5,6-trinitro-1,3-dihydro-2H-benzimidazol-2-one (TriNBO) and its derivative Me-TriNBO were characterized. The activated 5-th nitrogroup of TriNBO was used for further compound derivatization employing the aminolysis reactions with monoalkylamines, which were further nitrated giving a series of nitramines. The new compounds possess a high melting point and thermal stability and can find a potential application as new thermostable energetic materials.
The enzymologic studies were confined to the determination of redox potentials (E07) of cytosolic (TrxR1) and mitochondrial (TrxR2) isoforms of human flavosulfoselenoenzyme NADPH:thioredoxin reductase. The more positive value of E07 of TrxR2, -0.270 V, may be attributed to the presence of His-125 at the vicinity of catalytic disulfide and selenylsulfide, instead of Tyr-116 in TrxR1 (E07 = -0.294 V). For the first time we found that the TrxR1-catalysed reduction of a series of aromatic N-oxides proceeds in in a mixed single- and two-electron way.
In the parallel research direction, the studies of the antibacterial agent 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) used in photodynamic treatment (PDT) against Gram-positive bacteria has shown that increasing the amount of endogenously produced porphyrins does not result in a corresponding decrease in bacteria viability.
Main publications:
1. Polmickaitė-Smirnova, E., Buchovec, I., Bagdonas, S., Sužiedėlienė, E., Ramanavičius, A., Anusevičius, Ž. Photoinactivation of Salmonella enterica exposed to 5-aminolevulinic acid: Impact of sensitization conditions and irradiation time. Journal of Photochemistry & Photobiology, B: Biology, 2022. 231:112446-112453.
2. Šarlauskas J., Tamulienė, J. Preparation and characterization of cationic energetic salts of 5-amino-3-[(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)amino]-1H-1,2,4-triazole (APATO). Central European Journal of Energetic Materials. 2022. 19:311-325
3. Misevičienė, L., Krikštopaitis, K., Čėnas, N. The comparative study of redox properties of recombinant human cytosolic and mitochondrial NADPH:thioredoxi reductases. Chemija. 2022. 33:40-45.
National Research Projects
Redox chemistry, biochemistry and cytotoxicity of aromatic nitrocompounds and N-oxides: new insighths. (No. DOTSUT-34/09.33-LMT-K712-01-0058). Research Council of Lithuania. Habil. Dr N. Čėnas. 2018-2022.
The aim of this project is to provide new insights on redox processes and cytotoxicity of aromatic nitrocompounds and N-oxides. This year we finalized the studies of their reactions with various ferredoxin:NADP+ oxidoreductases and mammalian NO synthase. In parallel, the quantum mechanical calculations of E17 of nitroaromatic compounds in aqueous media were performd, using an implicit (dielectric continuum) solvation model and several H2O molecules entrapped at the vicinity of nitro group(s).
Main publications:
1. Lesanavičius, M., Seo, D., Čėnas, N. Thioredoxin reductase-type ferredoxin:NADP+ oxidoreductase of Rhodopseudomonas palustris: potentiometric characteristics and reactions with nonphysiological oxidants. Antioxidants. 2022. 11:1000.
2. Lesanavičius, M., Boucher, J.-L., Čėnas, N. Reactions of recombinant neuronal nitric oxide synthase with redox cycling xenobiotics: a mechanistic study. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2022. 23:980.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INOVATION) PARTNERS
Universita degli Studi di Milano (Italy)
Universite de Paris Sud (Orsay) (France)
Universite de Strasbourg (France)
Universite de Lorraine, Nancy (France)
Victoria University of Wellington (New Zealand)
OTHER SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES
Habil.Dr N. Čėnas:
• Member of Editorial Board of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (section Biochemistry);
• Membership in Society for Redox Biology and Medicine.
Dr J. Šarlauskas:
• Nominated foreign member of Sweden Detonation Society.
DEPARTMENT OF BIOELECTROCHEMISTRY AND BIOSPECTROSCOPY
Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius
Phone (+370 5) 223 4394
E-mail:
Head – Dr Gintaras Valinčius
STAFF
Chief research fellows: Dr G. Valinčius and habil.Dr G. Niaura (part time).
Senior research fellow: Dr G. Preta.
Research fellows: Dr R. Budvytytė, Dr M. Jankunec, Dr B. Pavliukevičienė, Dr T. Ragaliauskas, Dr T. Sabirovas, Dr M. Talaikis, Dr I. Aleknavičienė, Dr T. Penkauskas.
Senior specialists: Dr A. Bulovas.
Doctoral students: F. Ambrulevičius, S. Ganpule, S. P. Arun, E. Jankaitytė, R. Tamulytė, R. Bagdonaitė, A. Polita, A. Katkauskaitė.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Spectroelectrochemistry of proteins and biologically relevant redox species;
• Self-organization in lipid systems;
• Membranes/protein (peptide) interactions;
• Measurement techniques and experimenta data analysis.
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Project Supported by the University Budget
Spectroelectrochemical Studies of Biological Systems and their Models. Dr G. Valinčius. 2019-2022.
Novel Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Substrates for Bioanalysis. In this work, we aimed at fast and scalable manufacturing of low- cost SERS substrates for the spectroscopic analysis of biomolecules. Using ultrashort-pulse laser-induced plasma-assisted ablation (LIPAA) of soda-lime glass we accomplished the task of developing homogenous SERS-active substrates covered with nanostructures of around 100 nm in diameter on 1–3 μm size dendrimers.
Main publication:
1. Aleknavičienė I., E. Pabrėža, M. Talaikis, M. Jankunec, G. Račiukaitis. 2022. Low-cost SERS substrate featuring laser-ablated amorphous nanostructure. Applied Surface Science 571: 151248.
Molecular anchors for tethered bilayer membranes on metaloxide surfaces. New metal-oxide molecular anchors and possibilities to assemble phospholipid bilayer on metal oxide substrates were demonstrated. Two component silane-based self-assembled monolayrs were formed on fluorine doped tin oxide surface. Both surfaces triggered vesicle fusion and formation of tethered lipid bilayers, yielding biomimetic, regenable electrodes suitable for probing protein/phospholipid interactions. These finding may be of use in design of advanced in vitro bio-sensing devices.
Main publications:
1. Gabriūnaitė I., G. Valinčius, A. Žilinskas, A. Valiūnienė, 2022. Tethered bilayer membrane formation on silanized fluorine doped tin oxide surface. Journal of the Electrochemical Society 169 (3): 037515
Properties and Function of self assembled model systems. Properties and function of tethered bilayer membranes (tBLM), a biomimetic model of phospholipid membrane, depend on the structure of the self-assembled lipid-like monolayer that anchors tBLM to the surface. Cluster formation and defect (pore) distribution is a widely-observed phenomenon in biological membranes, which results in unique sets of properties both in physical, chemical. Because of a specific structure and dielectric properties of tethered bilayers, they can be characterized by an alternating current technique, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). EIS measures macroscopic parameters of systems, and it is not a structural technique however, we found the EIS spectra-derived quantitative metric that allows assessment of the distribution type (homogeneous, random or clustered) of defects at nanometre level.
Main publications:
1. Ambrulevičius F., G. Valinčius. 2022. Electrochemical impedance spectrum reveals structural details of distribution of pores and defects in supported phospholipid bilayers. Bioelectrochemistry 146: 108092.
2. Raila T., T. Penkauskas, F. Ambrulevičius, M. Jankunec, T. Meškauskas, G. Valinčius.2022. AI-based atomic force microscopy image analysis allows to predict electrochemical impedance spectra of defects in tethered bilayer membranes. Scientific Reports 12(1): 1127.
3. Zdaniauskienė A., M. Talaikis, T. Charkova. R. Sadzevičienė, L. Labanauskas, G. Niaura. 2022. Electrochemical shell-isolated nanoparticle-enhanced RAMAN spectroscopy of imidazole ring functionalized monolayer on smooth gold electrode. Molecules 27(19): 6531.
Statins and pleiotropic effects: interactions with lipid plasma membranes, Dr Giulio Preta. Doctoral candidate: S. Ganpule. 2019–2022.
Statins are selective inhibitors of cholesterol biosynthesis, used worldwide for cholesterol lowering in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Clinical trial studies indicated that the observed general benefits of statins appear to be greater than what might be expected from changes just in lipid levels, suggesting effects beyond cholesterol lowering (i.e. pleiotropic effects). Using a combined approach based on biophysical and biological methods, we demonstrate that lipophilic, but not hydrophilic statins are capable of reducing the damage caused by pneumolysin, a toxin of the cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs) family. Evaluation of the capacity of statins to modulate membrane properties is an essential step for developing a correct therapeutic approach for cardiovascular diseases as well as for understanding the potential of this class of drugs in cancer therapy to increase tumour response to cytotoxic agents.
Main publication:
1. Ganpule S., A. K. Vijaya, A. Sukova, G. Preta. 2022. Membrane cholesterol content and lipid organization influence melittin and pneumolysin pore-forming activity. Toxins 14(5): 346. IF 5.075.
2. Preta G. 2022. Role of lactone and acid forms in the pleiotropic effects of statins. Pharmaceutics 14(9): 1899. IF 6.525.
Other topics. We also contributed through the collaborative initiatives to the research projects done at other departments of VU Life Sciences Center, VU Faculty of Chemistry and groups at the National Institute of Cancer, Center for Physical Science and Technology as well Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Members of our group provide access to the unique scientific instruments and share their expertise in the areas of surface characterization (morphology and spectroscopy), material characterization (chromatography and spectroscopy) and data analysis.
Main publications:
1. Kupčinskaitė E., M. Tutkus, A. Kopūstas, S. Ašmontas, M. Jankunec, M. Zaremba, G. Tamulaitienė, T. Šinkūnas. 2022. Disarming of type I-F CRISPR-Cas surveillance complex by anti-CRISPR proteins AcrIF6 and AcrIF9. Scientific Reports 12(1): 15548. IF 4.997.
2. Murauskas T., V. Kubilius, M. Talaikis, A. Abrutis, R. Raudonis, G. Niaura, V. Plaušinaitienė. 2022. Precise composition control and cation nonstoichiometry in La-doped BaSnO3 thin films grown by MOCVD. Journal of Alloys and Compounds 898: 162843. IF 6,371.
3. Pakalniškis A., R. Skaudžius, D.V. Zhaludkevich, S. Latushka, V. Sikolenko, A.V. Sysa, M. Silibin, K. Mažeika, D. Baltrūnas, G. Niaura, M. Talaikis, D. V. Karpinsky, A. Kareiva. 2022. Pressure induced phase transitions in Sm-doped BiFeO3 in the morphotropic phase boundary. Materials Chemistry and Physics 277: 125458. IF 4.778.
National Research Projects
Interactions of misfolded proteins and phospholipid membranes: possible key in neurodegeration (NeuroMisFolDe). Research Council of Lithuania. Improvement of scientific qualification through individual Horizon 2020 MTEP projects No. 09.3.3-LMT-K-712-18-0003. Dr Rima Budvytytė. 2020-2022.
We are focusing on one of the important group of events promoting neurodegenerative diseases: the interaction between the misfolded aggregates (Aß1-42, Tau, S100A9) of proteins implicated in neurodegeneration and the phospholipid membrane. Tethered lipid membranes (tBLMs) of different compositions were used as models for biological membranes. Dielectric damage of tBLMs by Aβ1-42 oligomers was monitored by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), which provides additional information on the lateral distribution of Aβ1-42 species across the surface of tBLMs. Membranes containing sphingomyelin exhibited the highest susceptibility to Aβ1-42 oligomers when assembled in the absence of an inhibitor. The inhibitor-free Aβ1-42 oligomers tended to cover the surface in a random heterogeneous manner, whereas the HFIP-generated Aβ1-42 oligomers were distributed in a cluster-like manner and exhibit coexistence of surface areas with markedly different densities of Aβ1-42 associated defects.
Main publication:
1. Budvytytė R., F. Ambrulevičius, E. Jankaitytė, G. Valinčius. 2022. Electrochemical assessment of dielectric damage to phospholipid bilayers by amyloid beta-oligomers. Bioelectrochemistry 145: 108091. IF 5.76.
Development of Non-invasive method platform for early diagnostics and prognosis of acute pancreatitis (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-01-0025). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr Julija Razumienė. Partner – Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos. 2018 – 2022. Participants: R. Budvytytė, M. Jankunec, T. Ragaliauskas.
When cells undergo stress in Acute Pancreatitis (AP), heat shock proteins (HSPs) response is activated. Our multidisciplinary study shows that the heat shock proteins HSP90 and HSP70 are expressed during the development of AP, which affects the course of AP. The understanding the disease development mechanisms involving HSPs interaction with cell membranes may provide new clues for the clinical prevention and therapy solutions in AP. This project is a part of collaboration with Dr Julija Razumiene group from the Institute of Biochemistry at Life Science Center.
Main publication:
1. Budvytyte, R.; Milasiute, A.; Vitkus, D.; Strupas, K.; Gulla, A.; Sakinyte, I.; Razumiene, J. Tethered Lipid Membranes as a Nanoscale Arrangement towards Non-Invasive Analysis of Acute Pancreatitis. Biomedicines 2021, 9, 755.
Application of tethered bilayer lipid membranes for biofuel cells MSF-JM-2/2022. Project leader: Dr Tomas Sabirovas
Development of drug candidate compounds that inhibit BACE1 enzymatic activity and Aβ peptide aggregation for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-03-0003. Project leader: Dr Daumantas Matulis. Project implementer: Dr Rima Budvytyte and Evelina Jankaityte.
Creation of a competence and technology transfer center for biosensor research and engineering” (BIOSENSE) 01.2.2-CPVA-K-703 Project leader: Dr Marius Dagys. Project implementer: Dr Rima Budvytyte, Dr Tadas Ragaliauskas, Dr Marija Jankunec, Dr Tomas Sabirovas.
International Research Projects
European Research Network on Signal Transduction – ERNEST. COST Action CA18133 Action. Management committe member – Rima Budvytyte.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INOVATION) PARTNERS
Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, Vilnius University (Lithuania)
Institute of Neurosciences, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (Lithuania)
Center for Physical Sciences and Technology (Lithuania)
Institute for Biosciences and Biotechnology Research, University of Maryland, Rockville, MD (USA)
NIST Center for Neutron Research, Gaithersburg, MD (USA)
Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, Malmö (Sweden)
Institute of Life science, Swansea University (United Kingdom)
OTHER SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES
Dr G. Valinčius
• Member of the editorial Board of Scientific journal „Chemija “
• Member of the Lithuanina Biophysical society
• Member of the Lithuanian Biochemical Society
• Member of International Society of Electrochemistry
Habil.Dr G. Niaura
• Member of the Lithuanian Academy of Sciences
• Member of the editorial Board of the scientific journal „Chemija“
• Member of the International Society of Electrochemistry
Dr R. Budvytytė
• VU MBA study committee member
• VU Intellectual property management and investment committee member
• Member of the American Biophysical Society
• Member of the Lithuanian Biophysical Society
BEST REPORTS DELIVERED AT CONFERENCES ABROAD
1. 2022 XXVIITH International Symposium on Bioelectrochemistry and Bioenergetics – BES2022, Antwerp, Belgium, „Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy: A Tool for Structure and Function Studies of Bilayers“ Key-note lecture: Dr Gintaras Valincius
2. 2022 BioInspireSensing - Summer School, warsaw, Poland. Eletrochemical impedance of supported lipid membranes. Invited lecture: Dr Gintaras Valincius.
3. 2022 December 6-7th. CNRS Health Sciences: Inaugural Symposium of CNRS (France) and Lithuanian scientists, Online/FRANCE. TITLE: “The Interaction of Amyloid 𝛽-Oligomers with Lipid Membranes: Implications for neurodegeneration”. Invited lecture: Dr Rima Budvytytė
4. 2022 August 24-26th, The CurvoBio2022 Workshop, Berlin, Germany. Title: „Tethered bilayer lipid membranes: a versatile platform for protein-lipid interactions“. Oral presentation: Dr Marija Jankunec
5. 2022 March 1-2nd. Biophysics of the Brain. Online meeting. Title: „Interactions of misfolded proteins with lipid membranes: Implications for neurodegeneration“ Oral presentation:Dr Rima Budvytytė
MOST IMPORTANT PARTICIPATION CASES OF RESEARCHERS IN WORKING GROUPS OR COMMISSIONS SET UP BY STATE AUTHORITIES, STATE AND MUNICIPAL INSTITUTIONS, ORGANISATIONS, BUSINESS ENTITIES
Prof. Gintaras Valincius
• 2022-2024 The Member of NATO Secretary General’s Advisory Group on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies
• 2020-2022 Association of Vilniaus slėniai. Chairman of the Board.
• 2022 Ministry of Education, Science and Sport, Lithuanian representative in the INSTRUCT organization.
• 2022 Study Quality Evaluation Center, Evaluation of biotechnology programs at VDU, KTU and VGTU.
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL MODELS
Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius
Phone (+370 5) 223 4408
E-mail:
Head – Dr Virginija Bukelskiene
STAFF
Chief researcher: Dr A. Burokas
Senior research fellows: Dr V. Bukelskienė, Dr D. Baltriukienė
Research fellow: Dr M. Alksnė, Dr E. Šimoliūnas
Junior research fellow: I. Rinkūnaitė
Doctoral students: E. Baltrukonytė, V. Baranauskas, P. Barasa, M. Iešmantaitė, M. Grubliauskaitė, A. Kunevičius, A. Megur, E. M. Meškytė, J. Mingaila, S. Samulėnaitė, A. K. Vijaya
Veterinary doctor: A. Ščerbavičienė
Assistants: J. Kernagytė, R. Balsienė, S. Razmus
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Laboratory animals, cell culture, stem cells, tissues engineering, microbiota-gut-brain axis.
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Project Supported by the University Budget
Development of the cell technologies for regenerative medicine and their evaluation on biological models. Vad. Dr V. Bukelskienė
3D printed PLA + BG composite scaffolds - a perspective component for patient-specific artificial bone tissue production. 3D printing of polylactic acid (PLA) and hydroxyapatite (HA) or bioglass (BG) bioceramics composites is the most promising technique for artificial bone construction. In this study, we analysed porous PLA + HA (10%) and PLA + BG (10%) composites’ effect on rat’s dental pulp stem cells fate in vitro. The results showed a strong advantage of bioceramic BG against HA, thus, 3D printed PLA + BG composite scaffolds could be a perspective component for patient-specific, cheaper and faster artificial bone tissue production.
Main publication:
1. Alksnė M., M. Kalvaitytė, E. Šimoliūnas, I. Gendvilienė, P. Barasa, I. Rinkūnaitė, A. Kaupinis, D. Seinin, V. Rutkūnas, V. Bukelskienė. Dental pulp stem cell-derived extracellular matrix: autologous tool boosting bone regeneration. Cytotherapy. 2022, 24(6):597-607.
The impact of UV photofunctionalization of ZrO2-based materials. UV photofunctionalization of Zirconia-based materials for abutment fabrication is a promising approach that might influence the formation of a sound peri-implant seal, thus promoting long-term soft and hard tissue implant integration. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of UV treatment of test specimens made by two different ZrO2-based ceramic materials on the human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). We found that UV surface photofunctionalization of ZrO2-based materials alters the human gingival fibroblast cell viability, which might produce favourable results for cell proliferation.
Main publication:
1. Rutkūnas V., R. Borusevičius, E. Balčiūnas, U. Jasinskytė, M. Alksnė, E. Šimoliūnas, S. Zlatev, V. Ivanova, V. Bukelskienė, E. Mijiritsky. The effect of UV treatment on surface contact angle, fibroblast cytotoxicity, and proliferation with two types of zirconia-based ceramics. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2022, 19(17): 11113.
Role of ANKRD1 in heart disease. Myocarditis (MC) is an inflammatory disease of the myocardium that can cause sudden death in the acute phase, and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with chronic heart failure as its major long-term outcome. The ankyrin repeat domain 1 (ANKRD1) is a functionally pleiotropic stress/stretch-inducible protein, which can modulate cardiac stress response during various forms of pathological stimuli. We demonstrated that ANKRD1 does not significantly modulate heart failure; nevertheless, the genetic ablation of Ankrd1 blunted the cardiac damage/remodeling and preserved heart function during post-MC DCM.
Main publication:
1. Rinkūnaitė I., Eg. Šimoliūnas, M. Alksnė, G. Bartkutė, S. Labeit, V. Bukelskienė, J. Bogomolovas. Genetic ablation of Ankrd1 mitigates cardiac damage during experimental autoimmune myocarditis in mice. Biomolecules. 2022, 12 (12): 1898.
National Research Council Projects
Targeting the microbiota-gut-brain axis in Alzheimer’s disease: the role of the endocannabinoid system (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-02-0014). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr A. Burokas. 2019-2023
Recently, the growing number of facts about the role of the gut microbiota in neurodegenerative disorders led us to focus on exploration of the microbiota and the mechanism of progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The gut microbiota can trigger the immune cells residing in the brain and can activate the immune response leading to neuroinflammation. The project has identified possible biomarkers of the gut microbiota that are under the validation process.
Main publications:
1. Mayneris-Perxachs J., Castells-Nobau A., Arnoriaga-Rodríguez M., Martin M., de la Vega-Correa L., Zapata C., Burokas A., Blasco G., Coll C., Escrichs A., Biarnés C., Moreno-Navarrete J.M., Puig J., Garre-Olmo J., Ramos R., Pedraza S., Brugada R., Vilanova J.C., Serena .J, Gich J., Ramió-Torrentà L., Pérez-Brocal V., Moya A., Pamplona R., Sol J., Jové M., Ricart W., Portero-Otin M., Deco G., Maldonado R., Fernández-Real J.M. (2022) Microbiota alterations in proline metabolism impact depression. Cell Metabolism 3;34(5):681-701.e10.
2. Mayneris-Perxachs J., Castells-Nobau A., Arnoriaga-Rodríguez M., Garre-Olmo J., Puig J., Ramos R., Martínez-Hernández F., Burokas A., Coll C., Moreno-Navarrete J.M., Zapata-Tona C., Pedraza S., Pérez-Brocal V., Ramió-Torrentà L., Ricart W., Moya A., Martínez-García M., Maldonado R., Fernández-Real J.M. (2022) Caudovirales bacteriophages are associated with improved executive function and memory in flies, mice, and humans. Cell Host & Microbe 9;30(3):340-356.e8.
3. Megur A., Daliri E.B, Baltriukienė D., Burokas A. (2022) The Prebiotics as a Tool for the Prevention and Treatment of Obesity and Diabetes: Classification and Ability to Modulate the Gut Microbiota International Journal of Molecular Sciences 23(11):6097.
Biomarkers of the gut microbiota in autistic spectrum disorders (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-01-0099). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr A. Burokas. Partner – Center for physical sciences and technology, 2020-2023.
Our project aims to investigate the faecal microbiota transfer therapy in children with autism spectrum disorder and to identify possible biomarkers-targets of the gut microbiota in this pathology in order to create a system allowing to regulate biomarkers-those targets. As a result, that would be a big breakthrough in a development of therapy for symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. The developed electronic nose for detection of the changes in the microbiota will be a useful device for all microbiota research field.
Main publication:
1. García-Blanco A., Domingo-Rodriguez L., Cabana-Domínguez J., Fernández N., Pineda-Cirera L., Mayneris-Perxachs J., Burokas A., Espinosa J.,Arboleya A., Stanton C., Cormand B., Fernández-Real J.M., Martín-García E., Maldonado R. (2022) miRNA signatures associated with vulnerability to food addiction in mice and humans. The journal of clinical investigation 132(10): e156281.
Artificial urethra for the treatment of hypospadias and urethral strictures. (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-01-0087). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr Virginija Bukelskienė. Partner – Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos. 2020 – 2023.
The aim of the project is to eliminate urethral stricture defects using artificial tissue. For that purpose, a construct with appropriate physical properties and antifibrotic activity has been prepared using 3D bioprinting. The developed hydrogel structures were verified using a rabbit model. The next step will be to find a suitable source of stem cells to supplement the hydrogel for tissue formation.
Healthy microbiota - healthy brain aging (No. SEN-S-20-9). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr A. Burokas. 2020-2021.
Neuroinflammation characterized by activation of microglia cells is involved in various brain disorders and could be one of main target of treating them. Meanwhile, ageing increases neuroinflammation while some microbiota-derived metabolites can reduce it. Therefore, the microbiota-gut-brain axis seems an interesting candidate for modulation of neuroinflammation and diminish negative ageing related consequence. The obtained data confirmed that microglia showed a decline in functionality and increase of ROS in aged animals when compared to young animals whereas the prebiotic administration in mice attenuated these effects.
Main publication:
1. Vijaya A.K., Iešmantaitė M., Mela V., Baltriukienė D., Burokas A. (2023) Microglia isolation from aging mice for cell culture: a beginner’s guide. Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience 17:1082180.
Development of a functional food with antidiabetic properties for the modulation of gut microbiota (No. 09.3.3-LMT-K-712-23-0117). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr A. Burokas. 2021-2023.
The study aims to develop an antidiabetic beetroot product that can modulate the gut microbiota. To do this, lactic acid bacteria isolated from Lithuanian traditionally fermented foods were screened for their ability to improve the in-vitro antidiabetic potentials of beetroot. Fermented products with strong in-vitro effects were analyzed for antidiabetic compounds. The fermented product will be administered to diet-induced diabetic C57BL/6J mice and the antidiabetic as well as gut microbial modulatory abilities of the products will be ascertaine
Center for Genetic Modeling of Animals (No. 01.2.2-CPVA-K-703-03-0032). Central project management angency. Dr Daiva Baltriukienė. 2020 – 2023
Since small rodents used in biomedical studies do not fully mimic various human pathologies, the focus is given to genetically modified animal models that can provide insights into the mechanisms of origin of many diseases and the development of new innovative treatment strategies. Therefore, the current project aims to develop molecular tools to generate genetically modified rodent models to study the mechanisms of cardiomyopathy, neuroinflammation, and oncogenesis.
International Research Projects
A liquid corneal glue-filler as an alternative to transplantation in high-risk patients. (No. S-Euronanomed-19-1). Platform “European Innovative Research & Technological Development Projects in Nanomedicine (EuroNanoMed3). The Coordinator - Université de Montréal, Centre de recherche Maisonneuve Rosemont (Canada), May Griffith; Partner 1 - Estonian University of Life Sciences (Estonia), Illimar Altosaar; Partner 2 - OZ Biosciences SAS (France), Olivier Zelphati; Partner 3 - Vilnius University, Life Sciences center, Institute of Biochemistry (funded by Research Council of Lithuania), Virginija Bukelskiene. 2019-2022.
The aim of this project was to confirm feasibility of the concept of patching corneal defects to avoid the need for transplantation. In this project, we used the high-risk pathology, Herpes Simplex Keratitis, caused by Herpes simplex virus serotype I (HSV-1) infection12. The efficacy of 3 composites consisting of (1) CLP-PEG-fibrin (liquid filler, which is hereinafter referred to as LiQD Cornea), (2) LiQD Cornea enriched with silicon nanoparticles coated with antiviral peptide GF19 (hereinafter referred to as SiNP-GF19) and (3) LiQD Cornea + SiNP-GF19 plus SiNPs with GF19 in an ointment to treat HSV-1 infection with inflammation has been conducted.
Multicellular organoids: modelling, mechanisms and therapy development for C9ORF72-associatedd neurodegeneration. The EU Joint Programme – Neurodegenerative Disease Research (JPND). The coordinator – the University of Sheffield; Partner - Vilnius University, Life Sciences center, Institute of Biochemistry; Dr D. Baltriukienė. 2020-2023.
The goal of the JPND project is to create a 3D-bioprintable, neural cell-laden microfluidic system for studying neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia. Using gelatin-based bioink loaded with iPSC-derived motor neurons and astrocytes, the team was able to produce 3D printed neural organoids for use in microfluidic devices. The application of such organoids within a microfluidic system for neurodegenerative disease research & treatment is currently being evaluated.
Main publication:
1. Han Y., M. King., E. Tikhomirov, P. Barasa, C.D.S. Souza, J. Lindh, D. Baltriukienė, L. Ferraiuolo, M. Azzouz, M.R. Gullo, E. Kozlova. 2022. Towards 3D bioprinted spinal cord organoids. International Journal of Molecular Sciences 23(10): 5788. IF 6.208
Contractual Research
DYRK1 and ROCK kinases inhibitors efficiency in the treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in mice. DolceRx Baltika, UAB. Dr A. Burokas
DYRK1 kinase inhibitor for the treatment of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. DolceRx Baltika, UAB. Dr A. Burokas
Pharmacokinetic and Maximal Dose Assessment for FX Series Compound. DolceRx Baltika, UAB. Dr A. Burokas
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INOVATION) PARTNERS
Uppsala University, Sweden
Center for physical sciences and technology (FTMC), Vilnius, Lithuania
The Dairy Research Institute of Asturias (IPLA-CSIC), Asturias, Spain
University Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
Vilnius University, Faculty of Physics, Laser Research Centre
Vilnius University, Faculty of Medicine
Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos,
Vilnius University Children‘s Hospital
UAB „Prodentum“
UAB „Experimentica“
OTHER SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES
Dr A. Burokas
• Board member of Baltic Laboratory Animal Science Association (Balt-LASA).
• Member of the Lithuanian Microbiology Society (LMD).
• Member of the Lithuanian Neuroscience Association (LNA).
Dr D. Baltriukienė
• President of Baltic Laboratory Animal Science Association, http://www.baltlasa.gf.vu.lt
• Board member of the FELASA (Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations), http://www.felasa.eu/
• Board member of the Lithuanian stem cell researchers association, http://www.stemcell.lt/
• Member of the Lithuanian Biochemical Society
• Scientific supervisor of the section of Bioshemistry and Biology at the National Academy of Schoolchildren, https://nmakademija.lt/mokomieji-dalykai/
Dr V. Bukelskienė
• Board member of Baltic Laboratory Animal Sciensce Association (http://www.baltlasa.gf.vu.lt)
• Board member of FELASA (Federation of European Laboratory Animal Science Associations), http://www.felasa.eu/
DEPARTMENT OF MOLECULAR MICROBIOLOGY AND BIOTECHNOLOGY
Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius
Phone (+370 5) 223 4386
E-mail:
Head – Dr Rolandas Meškys
STAFF
Chief research fellow: Dr R. Meškys.
Senior research fellows: Dr V. Časaitė, Dr L. Kalinienė, Dr L. Truncaitė, Dr J. Stankevičiūtė
Research fellows: Dr A. Aučynaitė, Dr R. Gasparavičiūtė, Dr V. Petkevičius, Dr S. Povilonienė, Dr R. Rutkienė, Dr M. Sadauskas, Dr R. Stanislauskienė, Dr E. Šimoliūnas, Dr N. Urbelienė, Dr A. Zajančkauskaitė.,
Junior research fellows: J. Vaitekūnas, A. Noreika
Doctoral students: M. Šimoliūnienė, V. Preitakaitė, R. Jamontas, A. Krupeckaitė, E. Žukauskienė, M. Koplūnaitė, G. Plakys, R. Statkevičiūtė.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Molecular biology and genetics of bacteria and bacteriophages
• Genetic and biochemical diversity of microorganisms, enzyme biotechnology
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Project Supported by the University Budget
Investigation of genetic and biochemical diversity of bacteriophages and microorganisms. Dr R. Meškys.
Both genetic and biochemical microbial diversity is an immense source of different proteins and biocatalysts. The analysis and exploration of said diversity is one of the main aims of our group. Unique oxidoreductases active towards double bounds and heterocycles as a primary substrate have been characterized and applied for synthesis of N-oxides, sulfoxides, phenols or epoxides. Screening for novel enzymes is also carried out by applying metagenomic techniques – effective selection systems combined with tailored substrates. In addition, a novel industrially-relevant biocatalytic conversion system for synthesis of aldonic acids has been developed.
Lytic viruses of bacteria are intracellular parasites that take over hosts’ biosynthetic processes for their propagation. Most of the knowledge on the host hijacking mechanisms has come from the studies of the lytic phage T4, which infects Escherichia coli. The integrity of T4 development is achieved by strict control over the host and phage processes and by adjusting them to the changing infection conditions. Using in vitro and in vivo biochemical methods, it has been detected that the direct interaction between the T4 protein RIII and ribosomal protein S1 of the host is important for the whole infection process. Protein RIII is known as a cytoplasmic antiholin, which plays a role in the lysis inhibition function of T4. However, our results show that RIII also acts as a viral effector protein mainly targeting S1 RNA-binding domains that are central for all the activities of this multifunctional protein. Hence, the S1–RIII interaction prevents the S1-dependent activation of endoribonuclease RegB. In addition, it has been proposed that RIII can act as a regulator of all stages of T4 infection including the lysis inhibition state.
Main publications:
1. Tetianec, L., Bratkovskaja, I., Časaitė, V., Gurevičienė, V., Razumienė, J., Stankevičiūtė, J., Meškys, R., Dagys, M., Laurynėnas, A. Efficient Bi-enzymatic synthesis of aldonic acids Green Chem. 2022 24: 4902-4908. http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/D2GC00823H
2. Juškauskas, A.; Zajančkauskaitė, A.; Meškys, R.; Ger, M.; Kaupinis, A.; Valius, M.; Truncaitė, L. Interaction between Phage T4 Protein RIII and Host Ribosomal Protein S1 Inhibits Endoribonuclease RegB Activation. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23, 9483. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23169483
3. Petkevičius, V., Vaitekūnas, J., Sadauskas, M., Schultes, F. P. J., Tischler, D., Meškys, R. The versatility of non-heme diiron monooxygenase PmlABCDEF: a single biocatalyst for a plethora of oxygenation reactions. Catal. Sci. Technol. 2022 12: 7293-7307. http://dx.doi.org/10.1039/D2CY01167K
National Research Projects
Molecular mechanisms of adaptation of low-temperature phages to the mesophilic host (No. S-MIP-19-58). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr L. Kalinienė, 2019–2022.
By using proteomic analysis and genetic methods, we aim to determine which functions encoded by both the host cells and the virus ensure the ability of selected phages to multiply in mesophilic cells at low temperatures and in the non-dividing cells. The results obtained during this study are important not only in terms of fundamental virology but also can be useful for the development of novel antibacterial systems that would function at low-temperature (food storage, disinfectants) and would allow elimination of stationary-phase cells as well (destruction of biofilms on medical equipment).
Enzyme Toolkit for the Synthesis of Fucosylated Oligosaccharides (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-03-0045). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr J. Stankevičiūtė, 2020–2023.
The aim of this world-class R&D project is development of the enzyme toolkit for the synthesis of high-value fucosylated oligosaccharides. To achieve this aim, a high-throughput regioselective fucosidase selection method will be established, unique fucosidases suitable for the synthesis of modified oligosaccharides will be selected, and a model of bioconversion system for high-value fucosylated oligosaccharide synthesis will be constructed. The efficient fucosylation method created in this project will scale up the production of available human milk oligosaccharides and related functional food components.
Diversity and distribution of viruses infecting sulfur metabolising bacteria (No. S-MIP-20-38). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr E. Šimoliūnas, 2020–2022.
In this project, we investigate the diversity, taxonomic composition and dynamics of viruses infecting sulfur metabolizing bacteria from the unique gypsum karst lake ecosystems in Lithuania. The objective of this study is to better understand the role of viruses in biological cycling of sulfur, and, therefore, the functioning of microbial food web in sulfidic oxygen minimum habitats. By using standard molecular biology and microbial cultivation methods in combination with modern cultivation-independent (metagenomics, metatranscriptomics, single cell genomics) approaches supported by sequence-based computational tools, we aim to better understanding of how viral infections and lysis affects the dynamics and fate of sulfur in the aquatic environments.
Selective enzymatic system for prodrug activation (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-03-0082). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr R. Meškys, 2020–2023.
A prodrug is a modified form of the active drug, designed specifically to improve its pharmacokinetic profile: the drug's activity is “locked” and can only be restored by bioconversion which occurs in the human body. Although very promising, the development of enzyme-targeted drugs faces several limitations, such as the lack of appropriate enzyme variants or the limited choice of chemical bonds to be activated. One possible solution to this problem would be to develop a prodrug that, ideally, would not be activated by human or its microbiota enzymes, and only be targeted by the specifically engineered variants of recombinant enzymes. To reach the main goal of this project, an enzymatic toolkit for the selective activation of the prodrugs needs to be developed. The enzyme toolkit will consist of a set of enzyme variants that de-modify modified cytidines and cytosines. Together, the enzyme toolkit and the modified nucleosides or heterocyclic bases can be used to develop a prototype of the selective enzymatic prodrug activation system.
Main publications:
1. Statkevičiūtė, R.; Sadauskas, M.; Rainytė, J.; Kavaliauskaitė, K.; Meškys, R. Comparative Analysis of Mesophilic YqfB-Type Amidohydrolases. Biomolecules 2022, 12, 1492. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom12101492
2. Meškys, R., Urbelienė, N., Tiškus, M., Preitakaitė, V., Tauraitė D. Hydrolases and uses thereof. Patent application LT2022 514.
Center for engineering of the next-generation enzymes (No. 01.2.2-CPVA-K-703-03-0023). Central Project Management Agency. Dr R. Meškys, 2020–2023.
The main goal of the project is to develop an integrated system for the selection of high-performance stable proteins. This integrated system consists of three complementary parts: 1) selection of stable proteins based on auxotrophic microorganisms, 2) selection of thermostable proteins by emulsion polymerase chain reaction (ePGR), and 3) selection of stable proteins based on microencapsulation. The main advantage of a composite, integrated system is the wide range of enzyme classes to be covered.
Main publications:
1. Plakys, G.; Gasparavičiūtė, R.; Vaitekūnas, J.; Rutkienė, R.; Meškys, R. Characterization of Paenibacillus sp. GKG Endo-β-1, 3-Glucanase, a Member of Family 81 Glycoside Hydrolases. Microorganisms 2022, 10, 1930. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms10101930
Contractual Research
Identification of biocatalysts using in vivo and in vitro screening systems. UAB Biomatter Designs, Lithuania, Dr R. Meškys.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INOVATION) PARTNERS
Centre for Physical Sciences and Technology (Lithuania);
Nature Research Centre (Lithuania);
Biomatter Design (Lithuania).
DEPARTMENT OF MOLECULAR CELL BIOLOGY
Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius
Phone (+370 5) 223 4409
E-mail:
Head – Prof. Dr Rūta Navakauskienė
STAFF
Chief research associate: prof. Dr R. Navakauskienė
Senior research fellow: Dr V. V. Borutinskaitė, Dr A. Kalvelytė
Research fellows: Dr A. Zentelytė, Dr N. Krestnikova, Dr G. Valiulienė, Dr A. Imbrasaitė
Junior research fellows: A. Stulpinas, E. Valatkaitė
Doctoral students: R. Baušytė, G. Skliutė, A. Stulpinas, B. Vaigauskaitė, D. Žukauskaitė
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Evaluation of proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis signaling in human cancer and stem cells ex vivo, in vitro and in vivo
• Determination of epigenetic regulation in stem cells during self-renewing and differentiation.
• Manipulation of signaling molecules in chemotherapeutic drugs-induced pathway for establishment of new strategies for targeted anti-cancer treatment of many tumors.
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Search for markers of implantation potential in culture medium of human blastocysts (project number: MSFJM-10/2022). Dr Aistė Zentelytė. 2022-2023.
Assisted reproductive technology procedures are performed more regularly, however successful embryo development and implantation rates are still problematic, since the standard methods of embryo evaluation rely on microscopic evaluation, which is subjective and depends on the experience of the embryologist. Thus, we analyzed the expression of certain microRNAs, such as miR-142-3p, miR-373-3p, miR-519d-3p, miR-378a-3p, miR-20a-5p, miR-30c-5p, that could be associated with embryo quality and act as potential biomarkers, in blastocyst growth medias when only one embryo was transferred and compared between implanted and non-implanted groups.
National Research Projects
Targeted Research in Smart Specialization Areas. Project Designing of the patient-specific, heterogeneous lung cell ex vivo model system for drug efficiency prediction in personalized oncotherapy (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-01-0072). Research Council of Lithuania. Dr A. Kalvelytė. 2018-2022.
Cell signaling manipulation is a key strategy for anticancer therapy. Using a panel of patients lung tumor-derived cell lines with various stemness- and EMT-related markers, varying degrees of ERK1/2 and AKT phosphorylation, and response to anticancer treatment, we demonstrated negative feedback loops between MEK/ERK and PI3K/AKT kinases signaling pathways in all cell lines studied, regardless of genotype and phenotype differences, and determined its possible dependence on extracellular contacts and the extent of treatment (drug dosing).
Main publication:
1. Stulpinas A, Sereika M, Vitkeviciene A, Imbrasaite A, Krestnikova N and Kalvelyte AV. Crosstalk between protein kinases AKT and ERK1/2 in human lung tumor-derived cell models. Frontiers in. Oncology. 2023, 12:1045521.
International Research Project
Advanced technologies for innovative infertility treatment No. 01.2.2-MITA-K-702-12-0004. The EUREKA Network Application E!13638 Innova-Fertility project. Prof. Rūta Navakauskienė. 2021-2023.
Project is aimed to stimulate international collaborative research between academic institution (Vilnius University, Life Sciences Center, Institute of Biochemistry, Dept. of Molecular Cell Biology) and two SMEs - an international partner LLC “Institute of Cell Therapy" in Ukraine and Nanodiagnostika, Ltd., in Lithuania that will be directed to the development of an innovative technology for infertility treatment.
Main publications:
1. Skliutė G, Baušytė R, Ramašauskaitė D, Navakauskienė R. Characterization of Epigenetic and Molecular Factors in Endometrium of Females with Infertility. Biomedicines. 2022 Jun 4;10(6):1324. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines10061324.
2. Navakauskienė R, Baronaitė S, Matuzevičius D, Krasovskaja N, Treigytė G, Arlauskienė A, Navakauskas D. Comparative Proteomic Assessment of Normal vs. Polyhydramnios Amniotic Fluid Based on Computational Analysis. Biomedicines. 2022 Jul 28;10(8):1821. doi: 10.3390/biomedicines10081821.
3. Gindraux F, Hofmann N, Agudo-Barriuso M, Antica M, Couto PS, Dubus M, Forostyak S, Girandon L, Gramignoli R, Jurga M, Liarte S, Navakauskienė R, Shablii V, Lafarge X, Nicolás FJ. Perinatal derivatives application: Identifying possibilities for clinical use. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology - Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 2022 doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.977590.
International Network for Translating Research on Perinatal Derivatives into into Therapeutic Approaches (SPRINT). COST Action CA17116. Prof. R. Navakauskienė & Dr Veronika Borutinskaitė. 2018-2022.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION) PARTNERS
Linkoping University (Sweden)
Nice University (France)
Milan University (Italy)
Malta University (Malta)
Northwestern University (USA)
BEST REPORTS DELIVERED AT CONFERENCES ABROAD
1. D.Žukauskaitė, R. Navakauskienė. The impact of different inducers for endometrial stromal cells in vitro decidualization. FEBS3+ Conference of Estonian, Latvian and Lithuaniaia Biochemical Society. 15-17 June, 2022 Tallinn, Estonia.
2. Giedrė Skliutė, Rūta Navakauskienė. Changes of immune response related genes expression profile in endometrium tissue of females with reproductive disorders. FEBS3+ Conference of Estonian, Latvian and Lithuaniaia Biochemical Society. 15-17 June, 2022 Tallinn, Estonia.
OTHER RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
Prof. Rūta Navakauskienė
• Member of American Society for Cell Biology
• Member of Lithuanian Stem Cell Researchers Association
• Member of Federation of European Biochemical Society
• Member of International Perinatal Stem Cell Society
Dr Audronė Valerija Kalvelytė
• Member of Lithuanian Stem Cell Researchers Association
• Member of Federation of European Biochemical Society
Dr Veronika Borutinskaitė
• Member of Lithuanian Stem Cell Researchers Association
• Member of Federation of European Biochemical Society
LABORATORY OF BIOORGANIC COMPOUNDS CHEMISTRY
Mokslininku str. 12A, LT-08412 Vilnius
Phone (+370 5) 2729058
E-mail:
Head – Dr Regina Jančienė
STAFF
Senior research fellows: Dr R. Jančienė
Research fellows: Dr M. Jonušis
Researchers and specialists: Dr A. Klimavičius, J. Meškauskas, R. Rozenbergas, S. Palaikienė, D. Podėnienė, Dr R. Sirutkaitis, Dr Z. Staniulytė
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Synthesis of heterocyclic, carbocyclic, amino acid and polyether derivatives, design and development of chemical process technology, custom synthesis, green chemistry
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Investigation of the synthesis and structure of modulators and catalysts of biological processes. Dr R. Jančienė. 2017-2022.
Study on the synthesis of polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivatives bearing different substituents
Synthesis and investigation of substituted tetrazine derivatives.
Investigation and optimization of synthesis methods of indole derivatives.
Tetrazines are a class of heterocyclic compounds that have attracted considerable attention due to their unique reactivity towards strained alkenes. However, poor water solubility limits their biological use. To solve this problem, we investigated the reaction of 3,6-dichloro-s-tetrazine with monodisperse PEGs (n = 4,7,9) and monoamino substituted PEG (n = 3,4) derivatives. Based on these studies, the optimal interaction conditions (solvent, temperature, alkaline agent) were established, and mono- and di-PEG-substituted tetrazine derivatives were obtained.
1,5-Benzodiazepines are another class of heterocyclic compounds that have received considerable attention due to their broad spectrum of biological activity. In order to obtain water-soluble derivatives, 1,5-benzodiazepines containing 2-amino-PEGs (n = 4,7,9) substituents in the hetero ring were synthesized for the first time. 1,5-Benzodiazepin-2-thiones were treated with the corresponding monoamino-PEG derivatives in the presence of a catalyst (HgCl2).
Main publications:
1. G. Zaleskis, D. Characiejus, J. Jursenaite, L. Zibutyte, K. Kriauciunaite, M. Vanagaite-Zickiene, A. Darinskas, M. Jonušis, V. Pasukoniene. Thymus Subset Alterations Accompanying Concomitant Tumor Immunity Mimics Phenotypic Patterns of Cytotoxic Drug Doxorubicin. In Vivo. 2022, 36, 1106-1113.
2. M. Jonušis; J. Tamulienė; J.Šarlauskas. Preparation and properties of some polynitrocompounds containing nitro and nitroamino groups. New trends in research of energetic materials: proceedings of the 24th seminar, Pardubice, Czech Republic, 2022.
3. G. Vektaris; A. Vektarienė; E. Voitechovič; R. Jančienė; M. Jonušis; J. Razumienė. Redox properties of 2-arylamino-1,4- benzoquinones. Theoretical study of redox potential. ECAMP14: 14th European conference on atoms molecules and photons, 2022.
Contractual Research
Efficacy study of immobilized lipases. Contract with UAB Ekorama. Dr R. Jančienė.
Investigation of the functionalization of cyano groups of 2-(p-cyanphenyl)-6-cyanindole by optimizing the DAPI synthesis scheme and the synthesis of experimantal samples of DAPI dihydrochloride. Contract with UAB Elymus. Dr R. Jančienė.
Investigation of Regeneration Conditions of Butylacetate and Negative Developer and Manufacturing of their Experimental Batches. Contract with UAB Vilniaus Ventos puslaidininkiai. Dr A. Klimavičius.
Optimization of synthesis technology of 3,6 -dichlorotetrazine. Contract with UAB Sanobiotech Novus. Dr R. Jančienė.
Synthesis of pantetine-4‘,4‘‘-diphosphate. Contract with UAB „Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics“. Dr M.Jonušis.
Investigation of the synthesis of barium 2-cyanoethyl phosphate (BaCEP), development of experimental technology and synthesis of experimental batch of pantethine-4',4"-diphosphate. Contract with UAB „Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics“. Dr M. Jonušis.
Hydrogenation of N,N-bis(cyanoethyl)ornithine. Contract with UAB „Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics “. Dr M.Jonušis.
Large-scale fusion conditions research service. Contract with UAB Sanobiotech Novus. Dr M Jonušis.
Development of viable methods for the synthesis of various organic compounds and preparation of their experimental batches. Contract with Synthon Chemicals GmbH (Germany). Dr M. Jonušis.
Research and development of new methods for 1,4-disubstituted piperazine derivatives. Contract with Ramidus AB (Sweden). Dr M. Jonušis.
Synthesis of cis-1,2-Cyclohexanediol. Contract with Frinton Laboratories Inc. (USA). Dr R. Jančienė.
Synthesis of 1,3-Dithiane. Contract with Admiral Chemicals LLC(USA). Dr M. Jonušis.
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INOVATION) PARTNERS
Center of Physical Sciences and Technology (Lithuania)
UAB „Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics “(Lithuania)
Polypure AS (Norway)
Ramidus AB (Sweden)
Synthon Chemicals GmbH & Co.KG (Germany)
UAB Sanobiotech Novus (Lithuania)
UAB Elymus (Lithuania)
Admiral Chemicals LLC(USA)
Frinton Laboratories Inc. (USA)
UAB Vilniaus Ventos puslaidininkiai (Lietuva)
UAB Ekorama (Lietuva)
Sauletekio av. 7, LT-10257, Vilnius
Phone (+370-5) 223 4410
E-mail:
Head – Dr Mindaugas Valius
STAFF
Chief research associate: Dr M. Valius
Senior research fellow: Dr J. Cicėnas
Research fellows: Dr A. Kaupinis, Dr M. Ger, Dr N. Dreižė, S. Urnikytė,
Doctoral students: J. Žukas
RESEARCH INTERESTS
• Eukaryotic cell regulation mechanisms (signalomics)
• Mechanisms of anticancer drug resistance
• Drug repurposing to treat cancer
• Nanomaterials for therapy
• Cancer protein markers
• Proteomics, kinome, phosphoproteomics
RESEARCH PROJECTS CARRIED OUT IN 2022
Projects Supported by the University Budget
Proteomic analysis of genome engineered therapeutic cells – CAR-NK, Associated Research Fellowship with VU LSC-EMBL Partnership Institute. 2022–2023.
National Research Projects
Center for genetical modelling of laboratory animals (01.2.2-CPVA-K-703-03-0032); Central Project Management Agency. work package Dr M. Valius, 2020–2023.
Research Council of Lithuania. “Designing of the patient-specific, heterogeneous lung cancer cell ex vivo model system for drug efficiency prediction in personalized oncotherapy” (Nr. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-01-0072); work package Dr M. Valius, 2018–2022
Screening for new methods for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders (No. 01.2.2-LMT-K-718-03-0021). Research Council of Lithuania. work package Dr M. Valius, 2020–2023
MAIN R&D&I (RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INOVATION) PARTNERS
National Cancer Institute (Lithuania)
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (USA)
UAB “Baltymas”
UAB „CMB medicina“
OTHER SCIENTIFIC ACTIVITIES
Dr Jonas Cicėnas
• journal “MAP kinase“ (https://www.pagepressjournals.org/index.php/mk), chief editor
• journal of Tumor (http://ghrnet.org/index.php/JT/), member of editorial board
BEST REPORTS DELIVERED AT CONFERENCES ABROAD
1. "Proteomics for the elucidation of anticancer drug resistance and drug repurposing", Dr Mindaugas Valius, oral presentation, Inaugural Symposium of CNRS (FR) and LT Scientists, 2022-12-06 - 2022-12-07 https://premc.org/cnrsandlt/