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Grant Projects (ongoing in the year 2015)
View ongoing grants in the year: 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028.
Quality of life measurement and its influence to overall survival in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in CZ
IGA MZd NT 11299 [2010 – 2015]
prof. MUDr. Marek Trněný, CSc.
doc. MUDr. Veronika Válková, CSc.
The co-recipient from the transplant center of Institute of Hematology and Blood Transfusion is responsible for anonymous data of patients after autologous and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cells transplant to the database of EBMT (The European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation). This data will be used for characterization of the particular diagnostic groups within the project frame. The main aim of the presenting grant project is to analyze the quality of life (QOL) of the transplanted patients using standardized QOL surveys. The co-recipient´s team consists from a physician and datamanager, who will be responsible for the data collecting using the QOL surveys and their subsequent processing to the Principal investigators team. The main benefit is an expansion of the co-investigators view to the psycho-social perspective of the patients.
The next generation sequencing as a tool of personal medicine in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome and chronic myeloid leukemia
IGA MZd NT 13899-4 [2012 – 2015]
prof. MUDr. Jaroslav Čermák, CSc.
The proposed project applies Next-generation sequencing for ultra-deep mutation detection in genes involved in genome methylation processes (TET2, ASXL1, IDH1 / 2, TP53, EZH2) in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). We will determine the relationship between the success of therapy and the gene mutation status in patients receiving the demethylation treatment. In addition, we will study the relationship between quantity of TP53 mutations and treatment failure in patients treated with Lenalidomide. In chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) we would like to determine the predictive value of ultra-deep sequencing of BCR-ABL mutations for resistance development on tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We will also study the association between polymorphisms found in promoter regions of genes belonging to the superfamilies of membrane transporters (ABC and SLC) and response to treatment. This project introduces the possibility of using molecular high-technology as a tool for individualizing therapy of MDS and CML.
Diagnostic and prognostic relevance of selected microRNAs in myelodysplastic syndromes
IGA MZd NT 13847-4 [2012 – 2015]
Ing. Michaela Dostálová Merkerová, Ph.D.
Recently, analyses of gene expression identified several miRNAs (miR-34a, miR-224, miR-10a, miR-10b, miR-126, miR-181 family, miRNAs from commonly deleted region, miRNA cluster at 14q32, miR-29b) whose expression changes in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) during the course of the disease or in response to its treatment. We suppose that these molecules may be implicated in disease development or progression. In the project, we want to prove applicability of these miRNAs as molecular markers for monitoring of MDS patients (by quantification of miRNA transcription by qRT-PCR) and to study them using an in vitro system.
CMV specific mRNA vaccine for ex vivo stimulation of T cells in patiens after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
IGA MZd NT 13898-4 [2012 – 2015]
Here, we propose to prepare mRNA vaccine against a number of candidate immunogenic CMV proteins. The vaccine will include antigen presenting cells electroporated mRNA coding for viral protective antigens and immunostimulatory molecules known to enhance activation of T-cells directed to Th1. To evaluate the protective potential of each CMV vaccine component the magnitude of CMV T-cell response of seropositive donors or patients after HSCT to each individual protein will be monitored and analyzed in the context of CMV DNA levels of HSCT patient. Tcell response will be characterized phenotypicaly and functionally by multiparametric flow cytometry. The result of the study will enable to elaborate immunotherapy protocol under good manufacturing practise conditions. mRNA vaccine will be also used for monitoring in CMV-specific T cell response of patients after HSCT.
Utilization of centrosomal proteins for prognostication and vaccinotherapy of chronic myeloid leukemia
IGA MZd NT 13862-4 [2012 – 2015]
RNDr. Michal Šmahel, Ph.D.
Search for prognostic markers of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and development of DNA vaccines against this disease based on increased production of centrosomal proteins. Detection of HMMR/RHAMM, AURKA and ESPL1 mRNA level in blood cells and antibodies against the corresponding proteins in CML patients at disease diagnosis and during subsequent monitoring. Utilization of the obtained findings for optimization of therapy. Development of DNA vaccines against HMMR and AURKA that should be efficient against CML stem cells resistant to imatinib. Enhancement of vaccine immunogenicity by the addition of cell localization signals and sequences encoding strong helper epitopes. Analysis of the effect of xenogeneic origin of the genes on vaccine immunogenicity. Reduction of HMMR and AURKA potencial oncogenicity by the mutagenesis of functional domains and by the removal of their initiation codons in fusion genes. Observation of immune responses induced with the developed DNA vaccines in mouse models.
The study of the myelodysplastic syndrome pathogenesis in patients with isolated del(5q) abnormality and the analysis of the effect of lenalidomide
IGA MZd NT 13836-4 [2012 – 2015]
Ing. Ota Fuchs, CSc.
MUDr. Anna Jonášová, M.D., dolezalova
We want to contribute to further understanding of the 5q- syndrome pathogenesis mechanism by the study of the important transcription factors, EKLF (erythroid Krüppel like factor, also called KLF1), Fli1 (Friend leukemia virus integration 1) and GATA1, which take part together with other factors on the differentiation of common MEP progenitor cell into erythroid or megakaryocytic line. The expression of these and other important genes in this mechanism will be analysed in separated bone marrow and blood cells of patients MDS with 5q- syndrom in comparison with low-risk MDS with normal chromosome 5 and with healthy controls by TaqMan real-time PCR. Our second aim is to contribute to the understanding of the mechanism of the effective agent lenalidomide in patients with 5q- syndrome in comparison with low-risk MDS with normal chromosome 5. Mutations of EKLF, which can significantly affect lenalidomide treatment, will be also detected.
Prediction of the response to demethylation treatment in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes using integrative genomics
IGA MZd NT 14377-3 [2013 – 2015]
RNDr. Monika Beličková, Ph.D.
Ing. Jiří Kléma, Ph.D.
Patients with MDS are treated by hypomethylating agents, of which they benefit significantly. However, only half of the patients respond positively to the treatment. Using RNA and DNA microarrays, we will attempt to define a gene profile, which will predict which patients will likely respond to treatment with demethylation agents. We plan to analyze CD34 + cells before and during treatment with azacitidine. We will characterize expression (mRNA and microRNA) and DNA methylation profiles of the cells from patients who respond or do not respond to the treatment. We will integrate all the observed experimental data and correlate with clinical responses to demethylation treatment. In data analysis, we will use the standard statistical methods and predictive classifiers expressing a causal association between the measured variables and diagnosis and clinical symptoms. In this study, we will apply modern methods of molecular genetics as a tool for personalizing treatment for patients with MDS.
The role of microRNA expression in HPV-associated and HPV-independent head and neck tumors
GA ČR P304/12/2244 [2012 – 2015]
RNDr. Ruth Tachezy, Ph.D.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) participate in the regulation of gene expression. miRNA genes are frequently located in cancer-associated genomic regions, suggesting their role in the development of malignant tumors. Levels of expression of some miRNAs are diferent in tumors and in normal tissues and miRNA expression profiles are specific for different tumors. Studies on head and neck tumors (HNC) confirmed the difference in the level of expression of some miRNAs in the tumor and normal tissue but the results have not been conclusive. Sources of the variability of the data have been the heterogeneity of the studied cohorts in terms of the anatomic localization and etiology of tumors. The study of miRNA expression in a matched set of HPV- dependent and independent HNCs will allow us to characterize the di_erences in miRNA expression in tumors of di_erent etiology. The comparison of miRNA expression profiles in tumor tissues and in isogenic primary human keratinocyte clones immortalized by HPV will provide information about pathways involved in the development of tumors of different etiology.
Genital warts, premalignant lesions and vulvar carcinoma diagnostic and therapeutical management optimalisation
IGA MZd NT 13167-4 [2012 – 2015]
Doc. MUDr. Helena Robová, Ph.D., 2. LF UK Praha
RNDr. Ruth Tachezy, Ph.D.
Current knowledge about pathogenesis of vulvar lesions including genital warts, precancerous lesions, vulvar cancer has led to an update of classification of precancerous lesions. The aim is to find optimal algorithms for each entity and to enhance our knowledge on predictive factors which can be used for clinical praxis. In this project we plan to correlate HPV profiles of lesions with histopathological characteristics especially morphological diagnostic sings of HPV positive and HPV negative lesions. HPV profiles will be correlated with expression of immunohistochemical markers, mainly p161NK4a(p16). Another predictive factors will be assessed including minichromosome maintenance protein 2 (MCM2), DNA topoisomerase II Alfa (TOP IIA), cycline E and ProExC (mixture of antibodies against MCM2 and TOP IIA). When combined the predictive factors could improve sensitivity and specificity of histopathological examination. Diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms should be clinical outcome of the project.
The role of hepcidin in regulation of systemic and myocardial iron metabolism in heart failure (2015-2017, GA0/GA)
GA ČR 15-14200S [2015 – 2017]
RNDr. Jiří Petrák, Ph.D., 1. LF UK Praha
doc.MUDr. Daniel Vyoral, CSc.
Iron deficiency is observed in 50 percent of patients with heart failure. The deficiency is not only implicated in development of anemia in heart failure, but also in the depletion of iron in myocardial tissue. Depletion of cardiac iron can contribute to the disease progression. However, causes and molecular mechanisms involved in the systemic and cardiac iron deficiency in heart failure are unknown. Tissue and body iron regulation is orchestrated by the peptide hormone hepcidin which is therefore central to this project. In addition to the effect of circulating hepcidin, autocrine/paracrine effect of cardiac hepcidin expression may play an important role in the iron homeostasis of cardiac muscle. Our aim therefore to elucidate the function of systemic and cardiac hepcidin in local iron homeostasis in heart failure. Combined study of cultured rat cardiomyocytes, rat model of heart failure and explanted human hearts should provide complex insight into the processes.
Nanobiophotonics for future health care (2012-2018, GA0/GB)
GA ČR P205/12/G118 [2012 – 2018]
doc. Ing. Jiří Homola, CSc., DSc., Ústav fotoniky a elektroniky AV ČR
Prof. Ing. Jan Dyr, DrSc.
As modern medicine evolves towards quantitative and molecular based science, biophotonics is envisioned to play an increasingly important role in multiple areas of medicine, contributing to quality of health care, reduction of health care costs, and sustainability of the medical care in the ageing society. The proposed project aims to advance research in selected areas of nanobiophotonics with focus on photonic molecular biosensors based on plasmonic nanostructures. The main areas of research in this project include research into plasmonic phenomena on metallic nanostructures, development of novel tools for analysis and design of plasmonic nanostructures, fabrication and experimental characterization of plasmonic nanostructures with potential for surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensing, interfacing biomolecules with inorganic nanostructures and investigation of interactions between such biophotonic structures and biological samples, and realization of SPR and SERS biosensors for detection of biomarkers of onco-hematological diseases.
The development of chimeric antigen receptors for the immunotherapy of lymphoma
IGA MZd NT 14030-3 [2013 – 2015]
MUDr. Pavel Otáhal, PhD., 1. LF UK Praha
MUDr. Jan Vydra, Ph.D.
The primary aim of the project is to carry out a preclinical phase of immunotherapy of mature B-cell malignancies, mainly B-cell Non-Hodgkin lymphomas using genetically modified autologous T cells which have been transduced with lentivirus to express Chimeric Antigen Receptor specific for antigen CD20 (CD20 CAR T cells). We will perform a preclinical testing to fulfill requirements of the SUKL (Czech Institute for Drug Control) to obtain a permission for the use of CD20 CAR T cells in human settings (cell culture and lentiviral transduction in GMP quality, proof of concept study, monitoring of phenotype of cells, safety tests in vitro and in mice). We will prepare documents for evaluation by SUKL in the category "Products for Modern Therapy", obtaining of such permission is a main aim of the proposed project. Second important aim is the development and testing of new CAR's specific for other surface antigens expressed by B-NHL cells. Additional outputs of the project are publications in peer-reviewed journals or patent applications. The project meets the goals of Resort Program of Research and Development of Ministry of Public Health III "Modulation of cancer development by targeting the immune system" and "Creation of prerequisites for the development of new therapeutic and preventive methods such as tumor vaccines.
XGENE.ORG - A public tool for integrated analysis of microarray, microRNA and methylation data
IGA MZd NT 14539-3 [2013 – 2015]
Ing. Jiří Kléma, PhD., FEL, ČVUT Praha
RNDr. Monika Beličková, Ph.D.
This project significantly extends the current public XGENE.ORG web tool in order to facilitate integrated knowledge discovery from raw mRNA, miRNA and methylation data with concurrent utilization of the structured genomic background knowledge. There are two main project outputs: the tool (and the methodology behind it) itself and the particular results reached in cooperation with clinical and biological departments working in the fields of myelodysplastic syndrome and germ cell tumors. The solution is based on relational learning algorithms, stochastic optimization, statistics and development of web applications. The tool outputs namely 1) biologically understandable patterns having a form of sets or annotated networks of specific related elements such as genes, proteins, miRNA sequences or methylation islands interconnected with particular subsets of biological samples under study and 2) predictive models classifying samples characterized by measurable molecular markers with unknown phenotypes.
Development of methods for cellular and gene therapy of hematological malignancies
AZV 15-34498A [2015 – 2019]
MUDr. Pavel Otáhal, Ph.D., VFN Praha
RNDr. Šárka Němečková, DrSc.
Significant progress in the field of tumor immunotherapy has been recently shown to complement available treatment modalities of hematological malignancies. This novel treatment method is based on the use of adoptively tranferred T lymphocytes which were modified in vitro prior to transfer to express artificial signaling molecule designated Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) which redirects the specificity of modified lymphocytes to surface antigens expressed by malignant cells. In this project we propose to develop methods for CAR-based therapy of lymphomas and leukemia. Next, we propose to develop methods for selective expansion of T cells specific for EBV, HCMV or adenovirus from donor lymphocytes for the use in patients who received allogeneic stem cell transplantation and as a result of immunosupresion developed acute viral infection. The goal of the project is the manufacture of GMP-grade cells and their pre-clinical testing.
National study of leukemia cell mutations and clonality in patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia
AZV 15-25809A [2015 – 2018]
Doc. MUDr. Zdeněk Ráčil, Ph.D., FN Brno
prof. MUDr. Petr Cetkovský, Ph.D., MBA
Molecural analysis at diagnosis and following monitoring of specific gene aberrations represent a standard part of a diagnostic-therapeutic process, especially in cytogenetically normal acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. Besides the routinely tested markers with clear prognostic importance, other gene mutations were recently identified. The new generation sequencing allow us to uncover the frequency of these recently described mutations in a very large cohort of AML patients from all major hematological centres in the Czech Republic, and to find coexisting mutations with high benefits of such testing in patients. The possibility to define separate leukemic clones in individual patients will further enable the monitoring of their status in the course of the disease and to elucidate the disease clonality. The study of these effects will be supported by xenotransplantation experiments analyzing engraftment of the samples with known clonality. AML patients bearing mutations in the DNA methylation regulators will be examined for subsequent DNA methylation and gene expression analysis.
Molecular detection of chronic myeloid leukemia using patient-specific BCR-ABL1 genomic fusions: impact on effectiveness of treatment management
AZV 15-31540A [2015 – 2018]
doc. Mgr. Kateřina Machová Poláková, Ph.D.
Doc. MUDr. Jan Zuna, Ph.D., 2.LF UK Praha, Mgr. Tomáš Jurček, FN Brno
DNA level with the aim to obtain more precise information on the course of CML at the molecular level in particular stages of the treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) than standard monitoring of BCR-ABL1 transcript level. We will study the hypothesis that the level of BCR-ABL1-positive cells at the time of diagnosis and early after treatment initiation stratifies patients who achieve stable deep molecular response, and patients who are at risk of treatment failure and who may benefit from an early treatment switch. We suppose that the quantification of BCR-ABL1 at the DNA level plays a crucial role in the TKI therapy discontinuation in patients in deep molecular response. The outputs of the project will contribute to the personalization of therapy using patient-specific molecular diagnostics having positive socioeconomic impact on the CML treatment. The aim of this project is to establish patient-specific assays for BCR-ABL1 quantification on DNA level and to determine at which phases of CML treatment the quantification of BCR-ABL1 genomic fusion provides valuable data improving individualized management of the therapy.
Effect of vaccination in patients with recurrent respirátory papillomatosis – can we improve the quality of life of these patients?
Merc & Dohme s.r.o. IIS ID 37651 [2011 – 2016]
RNDr. Ruth Tachezy, Ph.D.
MUDr. Jitka Vydrová – Medical Healthcom., s.r.o., Hlasové centrum, Praha
Phase III b clinical study. The main objective of the study will be to evaluate the impact of the tetravalent HPV vaccine on the occurrence of recurrent papillomatous lesions and remission duration in patients with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). Secondary objectives will be to determine the HPV type involved in a RRP lesion and to monitor the levels of antibodies against the vaccine antigens or immune system components in the blood serum.
Origin of childhood leukaemias
IGA MZd NT 12328-5 [2011 – 2015]
doc. MUDr. Jan Zuna, Ph.D., 2. LF UK Praha
MUDr. Ivan Fales
Dr Ivan Fales and Dr Šárka Rahmatová are working in the Cord Blood Bank Czech Republic (CBB) as medical doctors and coordinators. They are responsible for related and unrelated part of CBB, for selection of mother-donors, for processing, cryopreservation and long-term storage of the cord blood grafts. Further more, they are responsible for the control of the processed grafts and for submission of the completely tested grafts to the Czech Stem Cells Registry (CSCR). The cord blood grafts are offered through CSCR for searches and transplantations. CBB Czech Republic closely cooperates with CSCR on selection and shipment of cord blood grafts for transplantation and also for elimination of the grafts in case of the child's (donor's) illness. In this project CBB will be responsible for the collection of cord blood samples of donors (mothers) with signed informed consent and for elimination of the cord blood grafts from the CSCR including the cases of haematological malignancy of the donor child. In these cases the cord blood samples and the grafts will be handed over to the CLIP laboratories for research purposes.
Risk factors for development of CMV virostatic resistance in the patients after allogeneic stem cell transplantation
IGA MZd NT 13691-4 [2012 – 2015]
MUDr. Petr Hubáček, PhD., 2. LF UK Praha
prof. MUDr. Petr Cetkovský, Ph.D., MBA
CMV resistance of virostatic treatment is severe complication of the CMV therapy in patients after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Therefore, we plan to clarify risk factors for development of CMV resistance associated with clinical symptoms, immunosuppressive therapy etc., genetic CMV variability of glycoprotein B, glycoprotein H and UL144. Efficacy of therapy will be monitored by measuring of the blood levels of ganciclovir/valganciclovir and length of the virostatic treatment too. Retrospectively, CMV genotypes and presence of CMV resistance strains in the patients after HSCT in the Institute of Haematology and Blood Transfusion and Dept. of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology of Motol University Hospital between the years 2002-2011. For statistical analysis of the risk factors, we'll collect the clinical data from tested patients. Prospective testing will be performed also in the centres with different historical frequency of this complication.
Human mesenchymal stromal cells for therapeutic purposes. Preclinical and pharmacological testing and approval of the cellular product for clinical use.
IGA MZd NT 13531-4 [2012 – 2015]
MUDr. Robert Pytlík 1. LF UK Praha
MUDr. Ivan Fales
Human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSC) will be prepared form bone blood of patients undergoing bone marrow examination for diagnostic purposes and will be expanded by patented method developed by submitters of the grant project proposal. Previously obtained knowledge of pharmacodynamics will be completed with studies performed to proof the concept, to characterize the cells and to test safety of the cellular product in vitro and in vivo. Patented method of cultivation will be transferred to conditions of good manufacturing practice (GMP). Preclinical documentation concerning components used for preparation of the cellular product will be compiled and request for approval of the product for clinical use will be submitted to the Czech State Institute for Drug Control (SÚKL) to obtain approval for clinical use. If necessary, documentation will be completed to conform with SUKL requirements.
Study of epigenetic factors and tumor-suppressor genes regulating oncogene signaling pathways in models of leukemic hematopoiesis
LH15104 [2015 – 2017]
doc. Mgr. Kateřina Machová Poláková, Ph.D.
The aim of the proposed project is a bilateral collaboration of the Czech and American research institutes on basic research study of hypothetical signaling pathways that are deregulated in leukemic stem and progenitor cells on model cell lines and primary cells of patients. This project is specifically aimed to elucidate molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways used by BCR-ABL positive leukemic hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells for their survival, self-renewal, proliferation and resistance to current therapy, causing transformation to deadly blast crisis. This is essential for understanding leukemic cell behavior and identifying proper molecular targets for new therapeutic agents targeting leukemic stem cells and with a potential to cure disease.
Očkování proti HPV u pacientů s rekurentní laryngální papillomatózou – je možné zlepšit kvalitu jejich života?
Merck & Dohme s.r.o. IIS ID 37651 [2011 – 2021]
RNDr. Ruth Tachezy, Ph.D.
MUDr. Jitka Vydrová – Medical Healthcom., s.r.o.,, Hlasové centrum, Praha
Klinická studie fáze III b. Hlavním cílem studie bude ověřit vliv očkování tetravalentní HPV vakcínou na vznik rekurentních papillomatozních lézi a interval remisí u pacientů s RRP. Vedlejšími cíli bude zjištění typu HPV v lézi RRP, sledování hladin protilátek proti HPV antigenům obsaženým ve vakcíně, případně složkám imunitního systému v odebraném s
