Latest Academic Works
Genetic variability and lead exposure biomarkers
The thesis investigates associations between the biomarkers of lead (Pb) exposure (and mercury (Hg), where applicable) and genetic variability in in vulnerable populations, including pregnant women and their newborns from Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia, as well as Slovenian men of reproductive age. The research utilizes data from the Public Health …
Computational investigation of protein-RNA interactions detected by CLIP, their specificity and dynamics in embryonic development
RNA molecules dynamically interact with RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which control various aspects of RNA fate, such as its processing, localisation, and stability. Intricate networks of protein-RNA interactions thereby regulate gene expression and have a profound effect on downstream cellular processes. Most RBPs recognise specific motifs on their bound RNAs, characterised …
Cathepsin cleavage of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) affects signaling pathways of cancer cells
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) belongs to the ErbB family of receptor tyrosine kinases and plays an essential role in cell differentiation, migration, proliferation, and metabolism. Alterations in EGFR signalling were found in a number of cancers like lung, breast, colorectal cancer and gliomas, shown to be more aggressive and …
Characterization of Spirulina microalgae as a new alternative food source
A reduction in agricultural productivity associated with water scarcity and land degradation, combined with the growing world population and malnutrition highlights the need for new alternative food sources. In this challenging field, Spirulina microalgae emerges as a promising candidate thanks to its high nutritional value and beneficial effect on human …
Validation of peptides as protein substrate models for specificity studies of cysteine cathepsins
Cysteine cathepsins are endosomal proteases that are involved in lysosomal protein degradation. Additionally, they engage in specific biological processes, like bone degradation (CatK), antigen presentation (CatS) and pro-hormone processing (CatV and CatL). Their enhanced activity was described in numerous pathological states, like cancer and viral activation, which made them promising …
Unravelling the molecular mechanisms of plant-pathogen interactions in grapevine and potato through functional analysis
Plants are constantly exposed to various environmental stressors. Pathogen infections causing disease can affect economically important crops and impact global food production. To counter disease development and spread, it is imperative that we acquire a thorough knowledge of its pathogenesis, as well as of the mechanisms underlying plant immune response. …
Quantitative imaging of cisplatin in tumour samples by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Medicine relies on imaging techniques such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance, computed tomography and histopathological image analysis because they provide valuable data needed for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is often used in research and for the advanced diagnosis and …
Speciation of ruthenium-based candidate drugs for cancer treatment and copper as a potential biomarker for cancer diagnosis in human serum
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer represents the second leading cause of mortality, with almost 10 million deaths in 2020. A broad spectra of cancer treatments are being developed, among them are metal-based drugs. Consistent with the available data, platinum (Pt)-based chemotherapeutics are still widely used to treat …
The role of cystatin C in inflammatory response
Innate immune system acts as the first line of defence to protect the host against pathogens. The regulation of immune system and inflammatory response is crucial since dysregulated or sustained inflammation leads to pathological conditions, septic shock and tissue damage. Macrophages are innate immune cells that sense pathogens with pattern …
Inactivation of viruses in water by cold atmospheric plasma
Access to clean water is a key requirement for a good quality of life. However, due to climate change, population growth and lack of proper water treatment, the availability of clean water is in constant decline. Among the many waterborne contaminants, viruses present an increasing concern. Human waterborne viruses infect …