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Biotechnology of Pharmaceuticals
Doctoral Programme,
Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology
--- Careers--- Programme Details
Ph.D topics for previous study yearActivation of biosynthetic pathways in actinomycetes for new bioactive metabolite discoveries
AnnotationActinomycetes, known for their production of bioactive metabolites such as antibiotics, anticancer agents, and immunosuppressants, were thought to be an exhausted resource due to the frequent rediscovery of known compounds. That this is not the case has been revealed through advanced sequencing techniques that have identified the potential of actinomycetes for new compounds at the genome level. The challenge is that many compound-producing biosynthetic pathways in actinomycetes are inactive under standard lab conditions. In this project, we will focus on our unique collection of actinomycetes from different parts of the world. Through genome sequencing of these strains, we have identified gene clusters encoding biosynthesis of metabolites with unusual structural motifs. Our goal is to employ modern methods to activate these pathways and characterize the produced compounds structurally and functionally. Optionally, we will focus on how the compounds are formed by studying key enzymes involved their biosynthesis. To accomplish this, we will employ a multidisciplinary approach that includes culturing bacteria, DNA editing, heterologous expression, bioinformatics, LC-MS with state-of-the-art instrumentation, and bioactivity testing against a panel of clinically relevant pathogens. Biological activity of nanoparticles prepared by "green technologies"
AnnotationThe proven antimicrobial effects of metal nanoparticles as a result of their unique properties have ensured a rapid increase in commercial applications. Natural forms of nanoparticles are produced by many different biotic and abiotic mechanisms. Biotechnological approaches using microbial cells/lysates or plant tissues and extracts, among others, are currently of interest, especially given the fact that this approach allows modifications in the size and shape of the nanoparticles produced and provides opportunities for targeted surface modification (functionalization). An integral part of the work will be the characterization of the chemical and biochemical properties with emphasis on the biological activity of the prepared nanoparticles. Nanocomposites with high activity against pathogenic microorganisms
AnnotationNanoparticles and other nanostructures often have high biological activity. In this case, the biological activity is the result of a set of characteristic properties of these structures, such as their shape and size and their chemical composition. Initially, the predominant study of the biological activities of nanoparticles of metals and their oxides is shifting towards composite nanoparticles consisting of, for example, various polymers and metals. The spatial arrangement of these composites is often crucial. The topic of this dissertation is to find suitable procedures, with emphasis on "green synthesis", for the preparation of nanocomposites based on natural polymers such as chitosan and lignin in combination with various metals. The aim will be to obtain nanostructures with high antimicrobial activity, which are particularly useful in medicine and related fields. Symbiotic effects of bacteriophages and plant extracts for a healthy microbiome
AnnotationThe gut microbiome is crucial for maintaining human health, and its dysbiosis contributes to the onset of numerous diseases. Disruption of the natural intestinal microflora creates a conducive environment for the colonization of (potentially) pathogenic strains, such as Streptococcus, E. coli, Staphylococcus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella, Bacteroides, etc. These strains were identified by the World Health Organization in 2017 as priority pathogens, posing a significant threat to human health. The conventional approach to treating intestinal dysbiosis often involves the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, associated with various drawbacks. Viable alternatives include the utilization of bacteriophages or plant extracts with antimicrobial properties. Combining phages, known for their specific action, with plant extracts exhibiting antibacterial effects against yeast and certain bacteria, seems to be an optimal strategy. This project aims to assess the efficacy of phages targeting undesirable bacteria (e.g., genera Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, E. coli) and the effectiveness of antimicrobial extracts derived from plant waste. These extracts are expected to have a targeted impact on bacteria and yeasts contributing to intestinal dysbiosis. The outcome will be a combined preparation that not only supports the growth of natural intestinal microflora (via plant extract) but also inhibits the proliferation of unwanted yeast and bacteria. |
Updated: 20.1.2022 16:26, Author: Jan Kříž