Second Congress of Molecular Biologists of Serbia - CoMBoS2

Europe/Belgrade
Hall of Heroes, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Philology

Hall of Heroes, University of Belgrade - Faculty of Philology

Studentski trg 3, 11000 Beograd
    • 8:00 AM 8:30 AM
      Registration 30m
    • 8:30 AM 1:00 PM
      Student Section MolBioS
      Conveners: Svetlana Dinić, Natalija Miladinović
      • 8:30 AM
        Opening Remarks 20m
        Speakers: Milena Stepić, Natalija Miladinović, Natalija Miškov, Nemanja Kutlešić, Todor Cvetanović
      • 8:50 AM
        Liver regeneration and the use of organoids in regenerative biology 20m

        Liver disease is a leading cause of death worldwide with increasing morbidity and mortality and limited therapeutic options. The only curative treatment for end-stage liver disease is liver transplantation, restricted by the shortage of available organs, graft rejection and failure. One of the most common causes of graft loss after liver transplantation is biliary damage. There is an urgent clinical need for treatments that could prevent or repair bile ducts, increasing the availability of organs for transplantation and reducing the ever-increasing demand for organ transplantation.
        Regenerative biology could address this pressing need by using cells or artificial tissue grown in the lab to regenerate or replace damaged ducts, and the Sampaziotis lab has shown proof-of-principle for the feasibility of this approach. The lab developed a method to grow primary biliary epithelial cells (cholangiocytes) as organoids, which resemble their native counterparts and maintain genetic stability in culture. These characteristics make cholangiocyte organoids a valuable tool for investigating the molecular and cellular events involved in liver regeneration, as well as for cell-based therapy and tissue engineering. The group transplanted cholangiocyte organoids in human livers perfused ex-situ and repaired damaged bile ducts. These results show great promise for the application of regenerative biology in hepatobiliary disorders; however, some challenges remain prior to tangible clinical translation of this technology.

        Key words: liver regeneration, cholangiocytes; organoids

        Acknowledgements: Our research is supported by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Future Leaders Fellowship, Wellcome Trust, Evelyn Trust, Clare Hall Ivan D Jankovic Scholarship, and Trinity Henry-Barlow Scholarship.

        Speaker: Emilija Jovanović (Alumnus of the MolBioS Student Section (University of Cambridge, UK))
      • 9:10 AM
        Oral presentations of student research in the fields of Molecular Biology and Biomedicine 1h 20m
        Speaker: Selected speakers from the Faculties of Chemistry, Pharmacy and Medicine
      • 10:40 AM
        Student Poster Session with refreshments 2h 5m
      • 12:45 PM
        Closing remarks 15m
    • 9:00 AM 1:00 PM
      Workshops 4h
    • 12:00 PM 1:45 PM
      Registration 1h 45m
    • 2:00 PM 3:10 PM
      Opening Ceremony
      Conveners: Prof. Dušanka Savić-Pavićević (University of Belgrade-Faculty of Biology), Dr Melita Vidaković (University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research Siniša Stanković - National Institute of Republic of Serbia)
      • 2:00 PM
        Welcome Speeches 30m
      • 2:30 PM
        Homage to Professor Ana Savić 20m
        Speakers: Dr Snežana Kojić (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia), Prof. Gordana Matić (retired Professor)
      • 2:50 PM
        Homage to Professor Vladimir Glišin 20m
        Speakers: Dr Branka Vasiljević (retired Principal Research Fellow), Prof. Ljubiša Topisirović (retired Professor)
    • 3:30 PM 7:00 PM
      Opening lectures
      Conveners: Prof. Goran Brajušković (University of Belgrade-Faculty of Biology), Prof. Gordana Matić (retired Professor)
      • 3:30 PM
        miRNA regulation of the neurodevelopment of human iPSC, and what this may mean for neuropsychiatric disorders 30m
        Speaker: Dr Adrian Harwood (Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom)
      • 4:00 PM
        MolBioS award Ceremony 15m
        Speaker: Prof. Goran Brajušković (University of Belgrade-Faculty of Biology)
      • 4:15 PM
        MolBioS award lecture: The story of the SOX genes: for better or for worse… 30m
        Speaker: Prof. Milena Stevanović (Serbian Academy of Sciences, University of Belgrade, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Biology)
      • 5:00 PM
        Group Photo Session 15m
      • 5:30 PM
        Student Poster Session and Project Corner 1h
    • 6:30 PM 8:30 PM
      WELCOME COCKTAIL WITH MUSIC PROGRAM 2h Hotel Palace

      Hotel Palace

      Topličin venac 23, Belgrade
    • 8:00 AM 8:30 AM
      Registration 30m
    • 8:30 AM 11:30 AM
      Molecular Biomedicine
      Conveners: Dr Aleksandra Stanković (University of Belgrade - Institute for Nuclear Sciences “Vinča”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia), Dr Jovan Pešović (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology), Prof. Milena Stevanović (University of Belgrade, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering)
    • 11:30 AM 1:25 PM
      Molecular Biomedicine
      Conveners: Prof. Dušan Keckarević (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology), Dr Gabriele Stocco (University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy), Dr Sonja Pavlović (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia)
    • 1:00 PM 2:30 PM
      Lunch 1h 30m Hotel "Palace”, Topličin venac 23, Belgrade

      Hotel "Palace”, Topličin venac 23, Belgrade

    • 2:30 PM 5:30 PM
      Molecular Biotechnology: Session dedicated to the memory of Professor Đorđe Fira (Full Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Belgrade-Faculty of Biology)
      Conveners: Prof. Branko Jovčić (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology), Prof. Jelena Lozo (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology), Dr Nemanja Mirković (University of Belgrade-Faculty of Agriculture, Belgrade Serbia)
      • 2:30 PM
        Bacteriophage-based technology: back to the past to move forward into the future 20m
        Speaker: Dr Mariagrazia Di Luca (Pisa University, Department of Biology, Pisa, Italy)
      • 2:50 PM
        Development of biosimilars and transfer of know-how to industry: opportunities and challenges 20m
        Speaker: Dr Nataša Skoko (International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Trieste, Italy)
      • 3:30 PM
        Discussion 10m
      • 3:40 PM
        Bacterial nanocellulose - new beginning for end-of-life plastics 10m
        Speaker: Dr Sanja Jeremić (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia)
      • 3:50 PM
        The role of the gut bacteria during host aging 10m
        Speaker: Dr Miroslav Dinić (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia)
      • 4:00 PM
        Repertoire and abundance of type III secretion system effectors shape the virulence capacity of Pseudomonas syringae pathogenic on sugar beet 10m
        Speaker: Dr Ivan Nikolić (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology)
      • 4:10 PM
        Discussion 10m
      • 4:20 PM
        Coffee Break with Poster Session 2 and Project corner 1h 10m
    • 5:30 PM 8:30 PM
      Molecular Biotechnology: Session dedicated to the memory of Professor Đorđe Fira (Full Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Belgrade-Faculty of Biology)
      Conveners: Dr Goran Vukotić (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology), Ivica Dimkić (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology), Sanja Jeremić (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia)
      • 5:30 PM
        Antimicrobial peptides as promising alternative for treatment of pathogens 20m
        Speaker: Dr Nemanja Mirković (University of Belgrade-Faculty of Agriculture, Belgrade Serbia)
      • 5:50 PM
        Bacteria - plant interplay enables different responses to complex environmental conditions 20m
        Speaker: Prof. Jelena Lozo (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology)
      • 6:10 PM
        Microbes and microbial enzymes for degradation of (bio)plastics 20m

        Introduction: Plastic films, containers, and fibers are almost ubiquitous, making our life better, easier, and safer. However, the uncontrollable disposal of plastic waste has raised global concern. Plastic pollution is not a recent issue; it originated decades ago with the advent of industrial plastic production. While recycling, incineration, and other methods exist for managing plastic waste, unfortunately, landfilling remains the most prevalent "solution" adopted by many countries.
        In response to the pressing issue of plastic pollution, a new scientific field has emerged, dedicated to employing innovative green methodologies inspired by nature's mechanisms. This approach centers around the discovery and identification of microorganisms with the ability to harness the carbon derived from plastic waste for their growth and survival. In the context of this research, we aim to accomplish two main objectives: isolating enzymes expressed by diverse microbial strains and exploring the potential of well-known hydrolytic enzymes in breaking down synthetic and biosourced polymers.
        Methods: To optimize and improve biodegradation yields, our approach combines enzymatic and microbial plastic degradation with polymer treatment techniques. These techniques are designed to modify the structure of polymers, making them more accessible for hydrolysis and assimilation by microorganisms. After polymer hydrolysis, our concept emphasizes the recovery and utilization of the released compounds, which can be further converted into valuable bio-products through fermentation.
        Results: Number of new enzymes, microorganisms and microbial communities has been isolated and characterized with the potential to degrade both single and mixed plastic substrates.
        Conclusion: By adopting this multidisciplinary approach, we aim to establish a sustainable pathway for the efficient management of plastic waste. Through the transformation of polymers into high-added value products such as bioplastics, biopigments and biosurfactants, we contribute to a circular economy plan and mitigate the environmental impact associated with plastic waste.
        Acknowledgements: This study was supported by the EC within Horizon 2020 program - BioICEP project (Agreement no. 870292) and Horizon Europe program - EcoPlastiC project (Agreement no. 101046758).

        Speaker: Dr Jasmina Nikodinovic-Runic (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia)
      • 6:30 PM
        Discussion 10m
      • 6:40 PM
        Drying without dying: Revealing the role of late embryogenesis abundant proteins during desiccation in Ramonda serbica 10m
        Speaker: Dr Marija Vidovic (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia)
      • 6:50 PM
        BIOCTA: Novel approach to biocontrol of recently described plant tumorogenic Rhizobiumspp. using autochthonous microbial solutions 10m
        Speaker: Dr Aleksandra Jelušić (University of Belgrade - Institute for Multidisciplinary Research, Belgrade, Serbia)
      • 7:00 PM
        Discussion 10m
      • 7:10 PM
        Flash presentations (3 x 5 min) 15m
      • 7:25 PM
        Poster Sessions 1 and 2, Project Corner 1h 5m
    • 8:00 AM 8:30 AM
      Registration 30m
    • 8:30 AM 11:30 AM
      Molecular Mechanisms of Cell Functions
      Conveners: Dr Ana Đorđević (University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia), Dr Melita Vidaković (University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia), Prof. Silvana Andrić (University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Sciences, Department of Biology and Ecology)
      • 8:30 AM
        Pronounced sequence preference of mammalian TET enzymes directs DNA demethylation 20m
        Speaker: Dr Tomasz Jurkowski (Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom)
      • 8:50 AM
        The circadian system - Coordinating physiology and behavior 20m
        Speaker: Dr Urs Albrecht (University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland)
      • 9:10 AM
        Gut microbiome as mediator of chemical exposome - host metabolism crosstalk 20m
        Speaker: Dr Matej Orešič (School of Medical Sciences, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden)
      • 9:30 AM
        Discussion 10m
      • 9:40 AM
        Activation of coagulation factors and prothrombotic properties of endothelium in hematological malignancies 10m

        Introduction: Patients with hematological malignancies have an increased risk of thrombotic complications, ranging from 3-5% in patients with lymphoma and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The presented study observed the onset of thrombus formation to predict risk factors for thrombosis in lymphoid and myeloid malignancies. Methods: Coagulation factors, inflammatory signaling pathways and adhesion molecules have been observed in patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma (FL) and AML. Their mononuclear cells (MNC) trans-endothelial migration through human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) monolayer is observed by Boyden chamber. Results: Thrombin was in positive correlation with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in HL, while with P-selectin (p<0.001), tumor growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and factor VIII (p<0.05) in DLBCL and AML. Trans-endothelial migration of MNC was increased by TNF-α (p<0.001) in DLBCL regardless of previous thrombosis. Regarding coagulation, factor VIII was increased in HL and AML (p<0.05), while tissue factor in non-Hodgkin lymphomas (DLBCL and FL, p<0.05). Tissue factor was in positive correlation with adhesion molecule P-selectin and factor VIII (p<0.05). P-selectin was increased in non-Hodgkin lymphomas (p<0.0001), while TGF-β only in FL (p<0.001). Fibrinolytic activity was decreased in plasma of patients with HL, DLBCL, and FL (p<0.05), but largely in AML (p<0.01) as measured by tissue-type plasminogen activator. Inflammatory NF-κB signaling has been activated in HL and DLBCL, while p38 signaling only in HL. Conclusion: Coagulation factors and inflammation are increased in hematological malignancies along with the interaction of the endothelium and circulating cells that predispose to thrombus formation.

        Speaker: Dr Vladan Čokić (Institute for Medical Research - National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia)
      • 9:50 AM
        DNA methylation in age prediction: a forensic perspective of epigenetic clock 10m

        Aging is a universal process associated with impaired functioning, leading to increased morbidity and mortality rate. Various hallmarks of aging were defined, with epigenetic alterations among them. It is well-known that DNA methylation (DNAm) changes correlate with age, in general, leading to global hypomethylation, but also local hypermethylation of cytosine in the CpG-rich regions. Genome-wide studies revealed a high number of age-dependent DNAm positions, and various mathematical models, using, mostly, selected age-dependent DNAm markers, were created for DNAm-based age prediction. Those models, used for „epigenetic age“ estimation, were named „epigenetic clocks“.
        The purpose of the „epigenetic clock“ depends on the selection of age-related DNAm markers. „Biological epigenetic cloks“ developed for the estimation of „biological age“ compare the difference between calculated „epigenetic age“ and real „chronological age“, actually measuring alterations in functionally important DNA methylation patterns resulting in acceleration or deceleration of aging. On the other hand, the aim of the „forensic epigenetic clock“ is to predict the „chronological age“ with maximal accuracy, so age-dependent DNAm markers are selected to be the least sensitive to genetic and environmental factors, but associated with the age itself.
        Forensic analyses are generally constrained with low quality and quantity, and often the unknown origin of available biological material, mixtures of different cell types and tissues, and material of individuals of varying age and gender, pointing out the factors that should be considered when creating „forensic epigenetic clock“, both for marker selection and methodology used, which makes its creation rather challenging.

        Speaker: Prof. Milica Keckarević Marković (University of Belgrade - Faculty of Biology)
      • 10:00 AM
        Understanding molecular pathways of adipocyte differentiation: closer insight into lipoma story 10m
        Speaker: Dr Sanja Stojanović (Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Nis, Serbia)
      • 10:10 AM
        Discussion 10m
      • 10:20 AM
        Coffee Break with Poster Session 3 and Project corner 1h 10m
    • 11:30 AM 1:25 PM
      Molecular Mechanisms of Cell Functions
      Conveners: Prof. Gordana Matić (retired), Dr Maja Milošević, Prof. Milena Milutinović (University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology and Ecology)
      • 11:30 AM
        The cost of circadian clock disorder on testicular function 15m

        A circadian clock is an internalized timing system that synchronizes all physiological processes with the 24-hour changes in the environment. As physiological activities occur at specific times, circadian rhythm disturbances can harm overall health, with testicular function being particularly vulnerable. The increasing prevalence of lifestyles that disrupt circadian rhythms, coupled with the rise in male idiopathic infertility, highlights the need for a comprehensive understanding of the impact of circadian rhythm disruption on fertility regulation.
        Recently, our animal model studies have provided insights into the consequences of circadian disturbances on testicular function. These disturbances lead to desynchronization between the central brain circadian pacemaker and peripheral clocks within the reproductive axis including testicular somatic and germ cells, impacting hormonal signaling pathways and impairing Leydig cell steroidogenesis. This results in reduced testosterone production and compromised testosterone-dependent functions, including spermatogenesis. Moreover, circadian disruptions negatively affect spermatozoa motility and impair the acrosome reaction.
        The underlying mechanisms connecting circadian clock disruption to testicular dysfunction involve dysregulation in the expression of key clock genes and genes involved in steroidogenesis, mitochondrial network control, and biogenesis. These changes disrupt energetic homeostasis in testosterone-producing Leydig cells and germ cells, contributing to testicular function deterioration and ultimately compromising male fertility.
        However, there are still numerous gaps in understanding the mechanisms through which the circadian system impacts testicular physiology. The need to expand knowledge in this area is particularly urgent, given the ever-evolving work schedules and lifestyle choices individuals face.

        Speaker: Dr Tatjana Kostić (Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia)
      • 11:45 AM
        Molecular mechanisms of free fatty acid receptor 2-mediated effects on gut innate lymphoid cells 15m
        Speaker: Dr Đorđe Miljković (University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia)
      • 12:00 PM
        Venoms - the source of drugs with anticancer potential 10m
        Speaker: Dr Danijela Nikodijević (Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia)
      • 12:10 PM
        Discussion 10m
      • 12:20 PM
        Epigenetic editing as a potential therapeutic tool for the treatment of noncommunicable diseases 15m
        Speaker: Dr Aleksandra Uskoković (University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia)
      • 12:35 PM
        Integration of Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Data Reveal the Molecular Background of the Iridoid Diversity within the Genus Nepeta (fam. Lamiaceae) 15m
        Speaker: Dr Danijela Mišić (University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia)
      • 12:50 PM
        Purinergic signaling in the central nervous system in health and disease: focus on ectonucleotidases 10m
        Speaker: Dr Ivana Grković (University of Belgrade - Institute for Nuclear Sciences “Vinča”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia)
      • 1:00 PM
        Discussion 10m
      • 1:10 PM
        Flash presentations (3 x 5 min) 15m
    • 1:00 PM 2:30 PM
      Lunch 1h 30m Hotel “Palace”, Topličin venac 23, Belgrade

      Hotel “Palace”, Topličin venac 23, Belgrade

    • 3:00 PM 4:00 PM
      SPONSOR’S HOUR
    • 4:00 PM 6:00 PM
      Closing Lectures
      Conveners: Prof. Milena Stevanović (Serbian Academy of Sciences, University of Belgrade, Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Biology), Prof. Tatjana Kostić (Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Science, University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia)
    • 6:00 PM 7:00 PM
      ROUND TABLE: How to spin research into societally effective innovations?
      Convener: Dr Ivana Strahinić (Institute of Molecular Genetics and Genetic Engineering University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia)
    • 7:00 PM 8:00 PM
      Closing ceremony
      Conveners: Dr Ana Đorđević (University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia), Dr Svetlana Dinić (University of Belgrade, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”, National Institute of Republic of Serbia)
      • 7:00 PM
        Best poster Awards 15m
      • 7:15 PM
        Awarding of appreciation certificates 15m
      • 7:30 PM
        Closing Remarks 30m