BrainMap

Mrs. Gina Manda

CSI

CSI - INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES"

Researcher | Scientific reviewer | Manager

Web of Science ResearcherID: not public

Expertise & keywords

Bench to bedside transition for pharmacological regulation of NRF2 in noncommunicable diseases Call name:
CA20121 2021 - 2025

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES"

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" ()

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" ()

Project website: https://benbedphar.org/

Abstract:

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 77% of all deaths in Europe and remain the most prevalent and without effective therapy. Networking among multidisciplinary teams that explore disease from a perspective of causative pathomechanisms rather than clinical symptoms is the most appropriate approach to overcome this problem.

The transcription factor NRF2 is a master regulator of multiple cytoprotective responses and a key molecular link among many NCDs. It provides a unique strategy for drug development and repurposing that is now starting to be translated to the pharmacological and clinical arena.

The main aim and objective of the Action CA20121 is to share basic, pharmacological, and clinical knowledge about transcription factor NRF2, master regulator of multiple cytoprotective functions, and to integrate it into the stream of EU social, clinical and economic sectors with capacity to translate this knowledge into innovative therapeutics for several non-communicable diseases.

Metrology for Earth Biosphere: Cosmic rays, ultraviolet radiation and fragility of ozone shield Call name:
2022 - 2025

Role in this project: Partner team leader

Coordinating institution: Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt

Project partners: Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH ()

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH ()

Project website:

Abstract:

Customized photodynamic protocol with innovative porphyrins and redox modulators in premalignant cutaneous disorders - preclinical demonstration Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2021-0360 2022 - 2024

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES"

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE "CAROL DAVILA" (RO); BIOTEHNOS SA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO)

Project website: https://www.ivb.ro/porphyderm

Abstract:

Main objective: development at preclinical level of a customized photodynamic therapy (PDT) protocol using smartly formulated porphyrinic photosensitizers and redox modulators for the treatment of premalignant cuaneous disorders auch as actinic keratosis (AK). The project is in line with the call topic Bioeconomy - Biotehnology. The medical application will be demonstrated in cells and relevat mouse models by addressing both therapeutic efficacy and toxicological issues related to PDT on skin. We will start TLR 2 – technology/product concept formulated, with a portofolio of six patents and expertise in experimental PDT and in redox medicine. We will advance through TRL 3 – experimental proof of concept by performing in vitro and ex vivo studies using skin-relevant cells and animal skin explants. We expect to reach at the end of the project TRL 4 – technology/method validated in laboratory by testing in animal models a customized procedure of keratolytic PDT in AK, using innovative photosensitizers and redox modulators. The activities will be organized in 5 work packages. Expected results: 1) new formulated porphyrins for skin PDT in AK; 2) customized PDT protocol combined with redox co-therapy; 3) three patents requests; 4) at least two new/improved porphyrins registered at the European Chemicals Agency; 5) publications and communications; 6) new research services on preclinical testing of PDT strategies; 7) training and exchange of young scientists, with at least one PhD thesis ensuing from the project; 8) development and market strategy for advancing the results obtained in the current project (o be elaborated by the participating SME). The project is implemented by a multidisciplinary consortium with a long history of collaboration and expertise in the preclinical development of new porphyrins for PDT, and in redox medicine and therapeutics.

Advanced biological methods for investigating stress responses of normal and pre-leukemic cells under irradiation at ELI-NP – applications for astrobiology and FLASH radiotherapy Call name: P 5 - SP 5.1 - ELI-RO-2020
IFA-2020-ELI_09/01.10.2020 2020 - 2023

Role in this project: Project coordinator

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare in domeniul Patologiei si stiintelor Biomedicale "Victor Babes"

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare in domeniul Patologiei si stiintelor Biomedicale "Victor Babes" (RO); Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare pentru Fizica si Inginerie Nucleara „Horia Hulubei” (RO)

Affiliation: Institutul National de Cercetare Dezvoltare in domeniul Patologiei si stiintelor Biomedicale "Victor Babes" (RO)

Project website:

Abstract:

Background: An important objective of ELI-NP is to demonstrate the biological effects of the laser-generated pulsed multi-energetic ionizing radiations using cells under irradiation (LGE/III.5, TDR4). The proposed radiobiology experiments are designed to bring original contributions in the field of astrobiology and radiotherapy. Astrobiology investigations in the context of ELI-NP were initiated by the coordinator of the present project (IVB) in the previous ELI-RO project (13-ELI/2016) through which a dedicated biomedical platform was built, as well as the prototype of the irradiation cassette for exposing cells in the E5 area at ELI-NP. Moreover, preliminary results were obtained to demonstrate our innovative biomedical strategy for investigating proliferating monocytes under irradiation using available continuous radiations. The study was mainly financed by ELI-RO and had the logistic support of European Space Agency (ESA) and GSI Center for Heavy Ion Research (Germany) through the AO-2017-IBER program financed by ESA.
Main project objective: to enlarge the portfolio of advanced biological investigations addressing the interaction of cells with radiation, relevant for astrobiology and FLASH radiotherapy studies at ELI-NP.
Scientific objectives: (1) To implement the concept of “network medicine” at ELI-NP for understanding the mechanisms underlying the response of normal and pre-leukemic cells exposed to pulsed, multi-energetic radiations produced at ELI-NP, as compared to conventional continuous radiations; (2) To sustain this network approach by advanced biomedical in vitro methods that will be used for preliminary experiments at ELI-NP: metabolomic investigations using hyperpolarized nuclear magnetic resonance; reactive oxygen species measurements using electron paramegnetic resonance; functional and transcriptomic investigations using multi-color flow cytometry and pathway-focused PCR arrays; (3) Integration of data in biologic networks for highlighting the potentially unique biological effects of the radiations generated at ELI-NP.
Technologic objectives: (1) Design of experiments regarding the interaction of cells with radiation generated by high-power lasers; (2) Design and fabrication of cells holders and their integration into the irradiation installations at ELI-NP and IFIN-HH; (3) Development of the biology laboratory built at ELI-NP; (4) Setup of a project-dedicated biobank at ELI-NP; (5) First biologic experiments at ELI-NP using electron and proton beams; (6) knowledge and technology transfer to ELI-NP.
Secondary objectives: (1) Strengthening of the multi-disciplinary consortium built in the 13-ELI project, by increasing its competence and by recruiting young researchers; (2) Generation of scientific and technical knowledge within the consortium regarding the investigation of cells under irradiation; (3) Increase of the international visibility of ELI-NP and its partners by publications and communications in highly ranked journals and conferences; (4) development of international collaborations for submitting large-scale projects.
Multi-disciplinary consortium: ”Victor Babes” National Institute of Pathology (coordinator, IVB) and „Horia Hulubei” National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering (partner, IFIN-HH), which has as its main core a team from ELI-NP. The consortium joins expertise in the fields of physics, biophysics, biology, biochemistry and radiochemistry. Most of the team members have collaborated since 2014 for elaborating TDR4 and thereafter in the frame of the 13-ELI project (ELI-RO).
Expected results: (1) Customized cells holders for irradiation at ELI-NP; (2) Tritium-labelled biomolecules (≥3); (3) panel of biomarkers specific for cellular responses to radiation; (4) Technology transfer protocol towards ELI-NP, including operational procedures and technical reports; (5) Biobank at ELI-NP; (6) Publications (≥4) and communications (≥8); (7) Workshops (2); (8) Summer school; (9) Astrobiology project proposal to the AO-IBER program for continuing the collaboration with ESA and GSI; (10) PhD thesis (synchronisation and coherent combination at lasers with ultrashort pulses

Knowledge transfer in redox biology for developing advanced molecular tools in neurodegenerative diseases - focus on the signature of Nrf2 transcription factor in diagnosis and therapy Call name:
Cod SMIS 104294 2016 - 2022

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES"

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" ()

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" ()

Project website: https://www.redbrain.ro/en/

Abstract:

Obiectivul proiectului este de a dezvolta și consolida competitivitatea C&D a Institutului "Victor Babes" prin dobândirea de noi competențe și transfer de cunoștințe, în scopul de a crea o echipă ştiinţifică competitivă, capabilă să efectueze cercetare de înaltă clasă în neuroştiinţe, abordând boli neurodegenerative și neuroinflamatorii.

The development in oncology of novel radiopharmaceuticals and nuclear techniques for diagnostic imaging and personalized treatment at molecular level Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0769 2018 - 2021

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH (RO); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE MEDICO-MILITARA „CANTACUZINO” (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU TEHNOLOGII IZOTOPICE SI MOLECULARE I N C D T I M (RO); UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE "CAROL DAVILA" (RO); INSTITUTUL CLINIC FUNDENI (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO)

Project website: https://www.nipne.ro/proiecte/pn3/9-proiecte.html

Abstract:

The ONCORAD project and the associated technological platform in Radiobiology, is built on the concepts of translational medicine and has as main objective the development of innovative targeted radiopharmaceuticals and nuclear medicine techniques for diagnostic imaging and improved radiotherapy in cancer. ONCORAD is based on the unique expertise of the coordinator (IFIN Horia Hulubei, Magurele) ) in the field of radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals, complemented by the exquisite know how of partner institutions in the field of biomedical research (INCD Victor Babes, Cantacuzino National Research Institute and Biochemistry Institute, Bucharest) and clinics (Fundeni Clinical Institute and Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest), along with the expertise of INCD for Isotopic and molecular Techniques, Cluj-Napoca in nanotechnologies/nanomedicine. The multidisciplinary effort is focused in 4 interconnected research projects in the field of oncology and nuclear medicine. Additionally, the ONCORAD project will sustain the development of the partner institutions by supporting new jobs for young researchers and their extensive training, infrastructure development, and transfer of knowhow, technologies and good laboratory practices among partners and towards interested third parties. ONCORAD will build an organizational structure for enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration in the field of radiobiology, in the benefit of research, patients and oncologists. The project is a premise for future participation of the consortium in large-scale projects and in European networks/platforms in the field of nuclear medicine and nanomedicine, enlarge the research services and technological transfer for clinical applications.

Genomic mapping of population from polluted area with radioactivity and heavy metals to increase national security Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0737 2018 - 2021

Role in this project: Partner team leader

Coordinating institution: UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE "IULIU HATIEGANU"

Project partners: UNIVERSITATEA DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE "IULIU HATIEGANU" (RO); INSTITUTUL ONCOLOGIC PROF.DR.I.CHIRICUTA CLUJ-NAPOCA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE MEDICO-MILITARA „CANTACUZINO” (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO)

Project website: http://www.umfcluj.ro/component/content/article/8-ro/532-genomic-mapping-of-population-from-polluted-area-with-radioactivity-and-heavy-metals-to-increase-national-security-artemis?Itemid=216

Abstract:

The ARTEMIS project represents a complex approach to major environmental issues.ARTEMIS aims to follow new ways of controlling the population exposure to polluting agents(presents in water and soil),with a major role in cancer occurrence,following the evolution of genomic alterations,in the population that inhabits the NW of ROMANIA.The proposed consortium is composed of 5 well-known members of Romania’s research community,which are planning to develop innovative technologies for the prevention of oncological pathologies,following environmental pollution.The consortium,by being balanced between National Research and Development Institutes, Research Institutes belonging to the Academy of Medical Science and Universities create collaboration at national level in the study of molecular profiles among the affected population versus the cancer incidence from areas with clean environment.The consequence of a clean environment is followed by an improved quality of life of the population from decontaminated areas and a greater national security.The disease occurrences due to the contamination of the main natural resources with I-131 and heavy metals, with direct effects on the accumulation of mutations at the genomic level,could be limited through ARTEMIS.Chernobyl or the mine exploitation are in close connection with the reported higher incidence of cancer.The main objective is the identification of genome alterations and evaluation of the cancer tendency to be more frequent in the analyzed population.The consortium proposes 5 ARTEMIS projects,which approach a new and complex perspective of environmental resources pollution,considering the development of a regional strategy for reducing pollution.The final results are:the initiation of an inter-institutional collaboration with a common agenda and research interests,creating new jobs for the young researchers at the early stage of their career,at European standards,and the creation of a population genomic map of NW Romania.

Transfer de cunoștințe în domeniul biologiei redox pentru dezvoltarea de instrumente moleculare avansate în boli neurodegenerative – semnătura factorului de transcripție Nr2 pentru diagnostic și terapie Call name: Atragerea de personal cu competențe avansate din străinătate pentru consolidarea capacității de cercetare-dezvoltare (Apel reconstiuit pentru păstrarea pistei de audit - Anul 2015)
104294 2016 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES"

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO)

Project website:

Abstract:

The development in oncology of novel radiopharmaceuticals and nuclear techniques for diagnostic imaging and personalized treatment at molecular level PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0769 Call name:
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0769 2018 - 2020

Role in this project: Partner team leader

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA SI INGINERIE NUCLEARA " HORIA HULUBEI " - IFIN - HH (RO)

Project website:

Abstract:

Advanced theranostic approach in cancer combining photodynamic therapy and NPs Call name: P 3 - SP 3.2 - Proiecte ERA.NET
M.ERANET-3055-NANOTHER-1 2016 - 2019

Role in this project: Partner team leader

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES"

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" (RO)

Project website: https://www.ivb.ro/v3/ro/nanother/

Abstract:

Theranostic is an emerging medical concept, combining imagistic diagnosis and therapy for personalized medicine. Considering the need for highly targeted therapy in cancer, the main objectives of the project are: 1) to develop new tools for one step imaging and therapy directed towards tumors (theranostic approach). Taking advantage of the huge biomedical potential and versatility of nanoparticles (NPs) and of fluorescent porphyrins as photosensitizers (PSs), we will bring improved joint power by designing, producing and characterizing porphyrin/biopolymer-coated iron oxide NPs, exhibiting superior imaging and photodynamic properties in solid tumors; 2) to test the hypothesis that inhibition of the antioxidant response of targeted tumors for developing a co-therapy can increases the efficacy of nanoPDT. Secondary objectives: 1) to build a multidisciplinary network in the field of nanotheranostics; 2) to train and sustain career development for young researchers; 3) obtain scientific and economic advantages for partner institutions, both academia and SMEs. The project is in line with the M-era.Net topic “Tailoring of bioactive material surfaces for health applications” by developing a new/improved (nano)solution with multi-functional properties for theranostics in cancer. It will be demonstrated at preclinical level (in vitro and in animal models), addressing both therapeutic efficacy and toxicological issues. We will start the project at TLR 1 – basic principles observed, advancing through TRL 2 – technology concept formulated, and TRL 3 – experimental proof of concept, towards TRL 4 – technology validated in lab, at the end of the project. The project is proposed by a multidisciplinary consortium composed of 3 universities, 2 research institutes and 2 SMEs from Portugal, Spain, Turkey and Romania. Partners will benefit from high level joint research and will share state-of-the-art technologies and know-how. Activities will be organized in 8 WPs: WP1-Porphyrins, WP2-Nanoparticles and nanosystems, WP3Structural characterization of nanosystems, WP4 Photochemical characterization of nanosystems, WP5Preclinical study, WP6-Mechanistic study, WP7-Dissemination and technology transfer, WP8Management. Main deliverables: 1) Porphyrinic compounds and biocompatible functionalized nanosystems with antitumor activity and acceptable side-effects, comprehensively characterized from the physicochemical, photophysical and preclinical points of view; 2) therapeutic targets for improving photodynamic therapy by modulating the antioxidant response; 3) technical specifications and procedures for all the investigated compounds / nanostructures; 4) study-specific biobank, that will further allow the consortium to continue research beyond the project’s frame; 5) improved protocols for preclinical investigation of nanostructures; 6) patent request documentation; 7) documentation for pre-registering of at least 2 porphyrinic compounds at the European Chemicals Agency; 8) publications in high impact journals (at least 6) and result communication at relevant international congresses (at least 10); 9) training and exchange of young scientists in the field of nanotechnology and experimental medicine (at least 8); 10) organization of at least 2 workshops (industry showcase). The market strategy is to patent at least 1 nanosystem and to promote the patent to the pharmaceutical/nanotechnology industries after project completion. The new nanosystems and technologies which will be generated represent the premise for a future large scale project joining industry and academic research. Additionally, this project represents a good opportunity for young researchers to get specialized and to grow in a competitive research area. The success of the project is supported by the recognized expertise of the participating scientists, their previous fruitful cooperation and the commitment to apply material science for developing biomedical applications.

The Th17 network - predictor of response to anti-TNFα therapy in rheumatoid arthritits Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-0827 2014 - 2017

Role in this project: Partner team leader

Coordinating institution: CENTRUL CLINIC DE BOLI REUMATISMALE "DR.ION STOIA" BUCURESTI

Project partners: CENTRUL CLINIC DE BOLI REUMATISMALE "DR.ION STOIA" BUCURESTI (RO); SPITALUL CLINIC "SFANTA MARIA" (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" RA (RO); LOTUS - MED S.R.L. (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.ivb.ro/v3/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/TH17NET-RO-2017.pdf

Abstract:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) variants and unpredictable responses of patients to therapy (innate or acquired resistance of individual patients) raise important issues in disease management. The detrimental effect of inefficacious therapy in terms of progressive joint destruction and harmful side-effects, along with high healthcare costs, drive the research effort to identify biomarkers for predicting response to therapy. Aim of the project: to create and implement innovative medical services based on a proof-of-concept pilot study for clinical research, having as goal to demonstrate that the peripheral Th17 network can predict the response of RA patients to a particular anti-TNF therapy. The project is in line with the «Health» topic 4.1.3 «Investigation and interventional methods based on cellular and molecular medicine, genomics and proteomics». Consortium: 2 clinics (the Clinical Center of Rheumatic Diseases “Dr. Ion Stoia” and “Sf. Maria” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest), 1 national R&D institute (“Victor Babes” National Institute of Pathology, Bucharest) and 1 SME (the medical center Lotus Med SRL). The consortium structure responds to the objectives and tasks of the project (development of a pilot clinical study, transfer of results/technology towards the participating SME), and is based on the expertise of the partner institutions. The project is coordinated by the Clinical Center of Rheumatic Diseases “Dr. Ion Stoia” which has the scientific, logistic and managerial capability to implement the project. Originality: 1) The network-type approach for biomarker discovery in RA; 2) Integrated cellulomic, proteomic and genomic methodology; 3) Bringing into light granulocytes in RA, as sensitive sensors of inflammatory status changes and active players in the Th17 network. Main outcomes: 1) A panel of Th17 pathway-focused markers and associated laboratory tests for assessing the response of RA patients to anti-TNF therapies, to be initially implemented in the diagnosis centers of the participating SME and national R&D institute; 2) database and biobank with relevant information and biologic samples, for further study development (biomarkers validation in a larger clinical study, search for additional biomarkers to predict the response of individual RA patients to a particular therapy); 3) biochemical pathways related to the Th17 network, which may represent targets for new therapeutic intervention in RA; 4) publications, communications and a project-dedicated workshop. Benefits - the study represents a step forward in improving the management of rheumatoid arthritis, in the benefit of a) patients and rheumatologists – a better control of disease and therapy by a personalized approach; b) the Healthcare System – delivery of more cost-effective therapies. Added value for the SME: to achieve economic growth and to gain competitive advantage by developing research-driven medical activities, in collaboration with research institutes and rheumatology clinics.

Impact of feed co-contamination and mitigating solutions to increase feed safety, animal health and food quality. Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA-2011 call, Type 1
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2011-3.1-0616 2012 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU BIOLOGIE SI NUTRITIE ANIMALA - IBNA BALOTESTI

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE PENTRU BIOLOGIE SI NUTRITIE ANIMALA - IBNA BALOTESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL ONCOLOGIC PROF.DR.I.CHIRICUTA CLUJ-NAPOCA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" RA (RO); ASOCIATIA CENTRU DE CERCETARE STIINTIFICA IN DOMENIUL BIOCHIMIEI APLICATE SI BIOTEHNOLOGIEI (BIOTEHNOL) (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE IN DOMENIUL PATOLOGIEI SI STIINTELOR BIOMEDICALE "VICTOR BABES" RA (RO)

Project website: http://www.ibna.ro/activitate/proiecte/PN2-parteneriate.php

Abstract:

The extent and impact of the situations when animals are exposed to more than one contaminant remain to be analysed and quantified and this is the major objective of this research project. That is why, the present project will develop a comprehensive approach to reach a better understanding of the interaction between different contaminants of feed and food: co-contaminants and propose mitigating solutions in case of feed co-contaminations. One of the most often reported co-contamination in the field includes microorganisms (Echerichia coli, Salmonella etc, the main food borne human pathogens originated from the animal gut) and natural toxins such as mycotoxins, which are the most frequent natural contaminants of cereals. For many contaminants of the agro-food chain there is no regulations/legal limits of tolerance issued by the European Commission, the National Ministries of Agriculture or by the National Sanitary Veterinary Agencies. The elaboration of some regulations and its enactment is imperiously necessary. More recently, EFSA (EFSA Journal, 2010) recommends conducting in-depth studies to document that the doses accepted as maximal limits have no genotoxic effects. Using new tools of genomics and proteomics (PCR microarrays, real time PCR, western blot, xMAP array), the present project will give a better insight in the mechanisms of action of co-contamination and based on the data supplied by these new tools it want to determine the maximal tolerance levels (norms) for some contaminants commonly present in the growing pigs (10-30 kg) diet. The project also, propose mitigating solutions in case of feed co-contaminations In this regard a probiotic bacterial product is currently under development in IBNA laboratory which has proved healthy benefits and excellent efficacy in reducing the gastrointestinal infections in pig as well as in other farm animals either in experimental trails or in commercial farms. The project focuses on the pig. The pig is a great cons

Mobilization of endothelial progenitor cells following anesthetic preconditioning reduces in-stent restenosis by early endothelial regeneration Call name: Projects for Young Research Teams - TE-2012 call
PN-II-RU-TE-2012-3-0463 2013 - 2016

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: UNIV.DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE - CAROL DAVILA

Project partners: UNIV.DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE - CAROL DAVILA (RO)

Affiliation: UNIV.DE MEDICINA SI FARMACIE - CAROL DAVILA (RO)

Project website: http://ucd.ro/index.php/activitatea-stiintifica/programe-pnii/800-mobilization-of-endothelial-progenitor-cells-following-anesthetic-preconditioning-reduces-in-stent-restenosis-by-early-endothelial-regeneration

Abstract:

In-stent restenosis, even in the modern era of drug eluting stents, is an important medical problem because of the large volume of coronary interventions and their increasing indications. Neointimal hyperplasia appears to be the main cause of in-stent restenosis, and a rapid healing of damaged endothelium that would preserve its homeostasis is considered a salutary and feasible solution. The purpose of our proposal is to demonstrate that anesthetic preconditioning with sevoflurane increases the levels of circulating EPCs and reduces in-stent restenosis in patients with bare metal stent deployment by improving endothelization. Our pursuit will begin with in vitro preconditioning studies meant to provide evidence of the APC influence on properties that increase the chances of circulating EPCs to rapidly repair damaged coronary endothelium, such as growth, proliferation, adhesion and incorporation into tube-like structures. Further on, a prospective, randomised clinical study enrolling patients scheduled for coronary angiography and with ad-hoc bare metal stenting will investigate the effects of late preconditioning with sevoflurane on the incidence of in-stent restenosis and on the levels of circulating EPCs in the periprocedural period.

FILE DESCRIPTION	DOCUMENT
List of research grants as project coordinator
List of research grants as partner team leader
List of research grants as project coordinator or partner team leader
Significant R&D projects for enterprises, as project manager
R&D activities in enterprises
Peer-review activity for international programs/projects