Start-up grants are designed to support pilot projects for new research programmes. The aim is to obtain pilot data, to introduce and validate a new methodology, and to provide the basis for the development of a full-fledged project funded by an external grant agency. A necessary outcome of the project is the submission of a project application to an external grant agency with FM MU as the main beneficiary/applicant.
Internal Grant Agency FM MU
About InGA
The aim of the Internal Grant Agency of Faculty of Medicine of Masaryk University (InGA) is to enhance the quality and prestige of research at FM MU, to increase the success of FM MU in obtaining national and international prestigious grants, to increase the potential for practical application of research results, and to support internationalisation and sustainability of human resources in FM MU research. The support is intended for FM MU staff involved in research. Emphasis is placed on the research excellence of the applicants and the quality of the submitted project proposals and projects.
6
grant schemes
49
supported projects
24 mil. CZK
annual budget
Types of grants
InGA competitions are announced in the following categories:
Only the head of an already established research group of an FM MU department, or his/her immediate superior, can apply for "Sustainability Support", while the research group must be at least partially funded from external grant schemes. The aim is to be able to support the funding of personnel and other costs of the research group on the basis of an individual application (usually to bridge the period between individual grant schemes), for a maximum of 12 months. The outcome is the submission of a project application for funding to an external grant agency.
The main objective of the "Junior Research Group at FM MU" programme is to create conditions for new outstanding young scientists to establish their own research group at FM MU. This form of support is therefore primarily intended for junior scientists with significant international experience. The aim is also to strengthen cooperation with foreign research institutions.
The main goal of the "FM Award" grant is to bring new outstanding and successful scientists to the FM MU and to offer them such conditions that they will be motivated to stay working for the FM MU and to produce outstanding scientific results in the long term. This form of support is therefore primarily intended for senior level foreign scientists (i.e. at least after the postdoc fellowship), and alternatively also for senior level internal researchers with significant foreign experience.
The competition serves to attract experienced productive junior researchers with significant international experience and their integrate them into already established research groups at FM MU. The aim is also to strengthen the international character of the FM MU academic environment.
InGA Board
prof. MUDr. Tomáš Kašpárek, Ph.D.
Vice-Dean for Research, PhD. Studies and Institutional Development, Faculty of Medicine
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Chairman of the InGA Board
Members of InGA Board
prof. MUDr. Martin Repko, Ph.D.
Dean, Faculty of Medicine
prof. MUDr. Kateřina Kaňková, Ph.D.
Vice-Dean for Studies in General Medicine (Yrs 1 - 3) and Admission Procedure, Faculty of Medicine
Ing. Michal Sellner
Faculty Bursar, Faculty of Medicine
prof. MUDr. Martin Smrčka, Ph.D., MBA
Deputy for Science and Research at University Hospital Brno
prof. MUDr. Petr Štourač, Ph.D., MBA, FESAIC
Vice-Dean for Development and Studies in General Medicine (Yrs 4 - 6), Faculty of Medicine
prof. PhDr. Andrea Pokorná, Ph.D.
Vice-Dean for Healthcare Study Programmes and Information Technology, Faculty of Medicine
prof. MUDr. Jan Krejčí, Ph.D.
Deputy for Science and Research at St. Anne's University Hospital
doc. MUDr. Tomáš Kazda, Ph.D.
Director for Science and Research Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute
Calls
Calls for projects implemented in 2023
Junior Research Group
Call
29. 11. 2022
For the first time ever, the internal grant agency of FM MU announces the program "Junior Research Group at FM MU", which will fund 1 new group of junior researchers at FM MU for 3 years. Such a scientist has completed his/her Ph.D. max. 7 years ago, has been working outside the Czech Republic for at least 2 years in the last 3 years or has completed his/her Ph.D. studies abroad, has published at least 2 articles above the median WoS category in the last 3 years and is the main author of at least one article (first author, corresponding author). Do you know anyone? Do you know anyone? Never mind. We will post ads on international portals on your behalf and arrange interviews to select the best candidate. If you are interested, get in touch by December 2, 2022 at projekty@med.muni.cz.
Postdoc
Call
29. 11. 2022
The internal grant agency of FM MU offers funding for 2 postdoctoral positions for 2 years. Do you know of anyone who completed their Ph.D. max. 7 years ago, has worked outside the Czech Republic for at least 2 years in the last 3 years, or completed their Ph.D. studies abroad, and has published at least 3 articles in the last 3 years, at least 2 of which are in Q1? Do you know? Never mind. We will publish advertisements on international portals on your behalf and organize interviews, during which the two best candidates will be selected. If you are interested, get in touch by December 2, 2022 at projekty@med.muni.cz.
Supported projects
Projects supported in 2024
FM Accelerate
CELL-MECHANIQ: A rapid robust technique to quantify the invasiveness of cancer cells based on their physical properties
Principal investigator: Mgr. Stjepan Uldrijan, CSc., Department of Biology FM MU
Resistance of malignant melanoma to drugs targeting BRAF and MEK kinases is an important clinical problem. However, research results suggest that inhibitors of the eIF4F protein complex could suppress resistant cancer cells. Using a newly developed unique screening platform to identify eIF4F inhibitors, we successfully tested chemical libraries containing more than 85,000 low molecular weight compounds. We identified more than 200 candidate molecules potentially targeting eIF4F. In this project, the biological activity of the selected compounds will be validated in detail and further optimized in the "hit-to-lead" phase of new anticancer drug development.
RamanSound: Acoustic sorting for Raman tweezers
Principal investigator: Mgr. Katarína Rebrošová, Department of Microbiology FM MU and SAUH
The aim of the project "Acoustic sorting device for non-contact presorting and sample enrichment before rapid identification and characterization of pathogens directly from human body fluids using a compact Raman spectroscopy-based device progenitors" is to develop an acoustic sorting device that increases the efficiency of a previously built compact device. This device, in conjunction with a Raman microspectrometer, is used to identify pathogens in human body fluids and at the same time to characterize their antimicrobial resistance. This would contribute to the early detection, treatment, and containment of antimicrobial resistance.
Start-up grants
Analysis of cortical processing of spatial auditory stimuli using High-Density Electroencephalography (HD-EEG) in young adults with autism spectrum disorder
Principal investigator: doc. MUDr. Pavlína Danhofer, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is to analyze the cortical processing of spatial auditory stimuli in young adults with PAS using HD-EEG and to identify differences in the topographic arrangement in the primary auditory cortex between the PAS group and the control group.
Involvement of the cannabinoid system in the regulation of cytochrome P450 enzymes in a preclinical model
Principal investigator: doc. PharmDr. Jan Juřica, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is a comprehensive description of the effect of the CB1 cannabinergic antagonist AM251 on the metabolic activity of clinically relevant cytochromes P450 in preclinical models.
Impact of FGF10 stable form in ARDS prevention and treatment on mice model
Principal investigator: prof. MUDr. Břetislav Lipový, Ph.D., MBA, LL.M.
The project aims to obtain pilot data (histological and immunohistochemical examination of lung tissue) in a small animal model (mouse) with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, E.coli O26:B6) induced ARDS confirming promising in-vitro experimental results from the application of thermostable fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10-STAB, Enantis s.r.o., Brno, Czech Republic).
Measurement of ultra-high-frequency oscillation in mice model of epeilepsy
Principal investigator: Petr Nejedlý, M.Sc.
The ultimate goal of the experimental work is to acquire pilot data to quantify the occurrence of UHFO in an animal model of temporal lobe epilepsy and in a control group of animals.
Exploring Pentamethinium Salts for Antimetastatic Efficacy in Melanoma Model: Intratumoral vs. Systemic Delivery Strategies in Neoadjuvant Approach
rincipal investigator: Ing. Kateřina Petrláková
The aim of the project is to establish a melanoma model and to optimize this model in vivo for research purposes, allowing for a more comprehensive study of melanoma and migration therapy.
Impact of cryopreservation on the stability of key maternal factors for early embryo development and tools to prevent developmental arrest
Principal investigator: MUDr. Volodymyr Porokh
This project aims to increase knowledge of the causes of embryonic developmental failure by systematically studying the stability of mRNA and corresponding proteins in oocytes before and after vitrification.
Contribution of antipsychotics to ageing of liver and loss of nanopores (fenestrations) on liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC)
Principal investigator: doc. PharmDr. Jana Rudá, Ph.D.
The project is based on a close collaboration with the University of Bergen and the Arctic University of Tromso (Norway). The aim of the project is to evaluate the in vivo effect in rat models of antipsychotic-induced metabolic phenotype.
Undiscovered mutations and pathogenic retrotransposon insertions in familial hypercholesterolemia
Principal investigator: Szilvia Sólyom, Ph.D.
Ten high priority DNA samples will be selected from 2-3 families with FH. The DNA of these patients will be subjected to WGS with long-read Nanopore. Thus, our goal is to identify the pathological cause of these families with FH.
Use of ICG Dye Dilution Curve in Vascular Surgery
Principal investigator: MUDr. Vítězslav Vaverka
An attempt to quantify ICG angiography using ICG dilution curves, primarily in our case in vascular surgery. To demonstrate qualitative and quantitative changes in the ICG dilation curve in ischemic and non-ischemic patients (ICHDKK), or changes in its parameters (morphology, dynamics) over time.
Selective plane illumination-based device for cancer cell mechanics measurement in 2D and 3D cultures
Principal investigator: Ing. Tomáš Vičar, Ph.D.
The PI and his team have set the following sub-objectives for this project:
1. To develop a system integrating SPIM with flow stress induction and mechanical
compression.
2. To analyze the viscoelastic properties of cells and subcellular structures in 2D and 3D
cultures.
3. Enrich phenotypic screening methodologies.
4. To extend the use of the proposed system beyond cancer research and explore its potential
in other areas.
Prognostic significance of new biomarkers identified by analysis of extracellular vesicles isolated from ascites in patients with ovarian cance
Principal investigator: doc. MUDr. Vít Weinberger, Ph.D.
The project is designed as a pilot retrospective study and has 2 main objectives:
1. to validate the prognostic potential of a panel of 10 biomarkers identified during a proof-of-
principle study, based on their correlation with disease prognosis, as assessed by the
parameters.
2. Identification of novel predictive markers by proteomic profiling of EVs from ascites.
Postdoc
InGA Postdoc in Primary Cilia
Group leader: Mgr. Lukáš Čajánek, Ph.D.
Postdoc: Dr. Annette Jacobsen, a successful candidate from the University of Melbourne, will focus on the mechanisms and functions of primary cilia.
InGa Postdoc in Cardiomyocytes
Group leader: Mgr. Vladimír Rotrekl, Ph.D.
Postdoc: Dr. Michelle Geryk from Nantes University will work on the study of the cardiomyocytes differentiated from patients harbouring cardiac mutations resulting in arrhythmia and/or cardiomyopathy.
Junior research group
Zdenek Andrysik Research Group: Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer
Junior group leader: Zdenek Andrysik, Ph.D.
The scientific program of Dr. Andrysik´s research group is designed to accomplish the mission of the laboratory: to save lives through research of transcription factors (TFs) involved in carcinogenesis and identification of the treatment opportunities represented by targeting TFs. Cancer occurs from genetic and epigenetic alterations resulting in deregulated transcriptional programs, which are associated with virtually all hallmarks of cancer. Aberrant activity of TFs constitutes cancer dependency and earmarks TFs as targets in the treatment of particular malignancies, such as cancers dependent on nuclear hormone receptors. Acting both as oncogenes and tumor suppressors, TFs are no longer considered as “undruggable” as ever-increasing portfolio of compounds is available for research and treatment applications while novel technologies increase drug specificity. Taken together, TFs represent a prime target for designing innovative treatment strategies and facilitating personalized medicine.
Projects supported in 2023
FM Accelerate
CLOSED: MUNIMILK 2: Biotechnology for human milk production
Principal Investigator: Mgr. Zuzana Sumbalová Koledová, Ph.D., Department of Histology and Embryology, FM MU
This project aims to further develop the unique biotechnology for milk production in the laboratory towards production of human breast milk.
A rapid robust technique to quantify the invasiveness of cancer cells based on their physical properties
Principal investigator: MUDr. Jaromír Gumulec, Ph.D.
Cell deformability is potential important diagnostic predictor of tumor aggressiveness. The aim of this project is to test the practical aspects of quantitative phase imaging (QPI) in this context.
Surface modifications of three-dimensional titanium material used for implants in medicine
Principal Investigator: prof. RNDr. Monika Pávková Goldbergová, Ph.D., Department of Pathophysiology, FM MU
The aim of the project is development and characterisation of the advanced implants to significantly improve osseointegration and eliminate bacterial proliferation and biofilm production.
Start-up grants
Analysis of bacterial agents of acute otitis media using modern techniques
Principal investigator: doc. MUDr. Milan Urík, Ph.D.
The aim of this project is to collect data and gain new insight into the pathogenesis of acute otitis media and to significantly modify preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations.
Protective potential of sigma ligands and antihypertensives in doxorubicin cardiotoxicity: a comprehensive experimental approach
Principal investigator: prof. MUDr. Marie Nováková, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is to establish and validate a model of doxorubicin cardiotoxicity and to study the effect of an antihypertensive agent and a sigma 1 ligand with a predicted cardioprotective potential.
WNT signalling in mammary fibroblasts
Principal investigator: Mgr. Zuzana Sumbalová Koledová, Ph.D.
In this project, we aim to develop a toolkit to investigate WNT signaling in mammary fibroblasts in vivo and to obtain conclusive preliminary data on the role of WNT signaling in mammary fibroblasts in epithelial morphogenesis.
Monitoring the effects of alternative treatments on microbes by Raman spectroscopy
Principal investigator: Mgr. Mgr. Katarína Rebrošová
The project focuses on the effects of essential oils in sub-inhibitory concentrations and in plasma on growing bacteria using Raman spectroscopy - a powerful tool that can mirror chemical bonds present in various samples, including bacterial cells or colonies.
Role of Caveolin-1 in the biogenesis of phosphatidylserine-positive extracellular vesicles
Principal investigator: Mgr. Květa Pilařová, Ph.D.
This project focuses on novel functions of Caveolin-1 (Cav-1) and their possible oncogenic properties.
Introduction of a clinically relevant avian chorioallantoic membrane model in cancer research with a focus on migration and metastatic potential of tumor cells and tumor angiogenesis
Principal investigator: Ing. Hana Holcová Polanská, Ph.D.
Assessment of response to treatment in the chick chorionic allantoic membrane (CAM) model may represent a useful screening tool for personalized medicine with the potential to improve patient treatment and outcomes.
Pentamethinium salts, new potential inhibitors of cancer cell migration
Principal investigator: Ing. Kateřina Petrláková
The main goal of this project is to find PMS with high migration and antiproliferative potential against cancer cells.
Proteomic composition of phosphatidylserine-positive extracellular vesicles released during cell death as a marker for personalized medicine.
Principal Investigator: RNDr. Jan Balvan, Ph.D.
Jan Jan Balvan, Ph.D. The aim of the project is to investigate the specific and sensitive detection of different types of cell death in vivo to monitor the response of cell population to therapy with specific molecules.
Possibilities of using specific nanofibers for application to visceral serosa
Principal investigator: doc. MUDr. Igor Penka, CSc.
The aim of the project is the possibility of application of nanomaterials on visceral peritoneum, investigation of adhesiveness of specific nanomaterials on this surface, its degradability and at the same time promotion of healing.
Retinal organoids as a tool for the study of embryonic diabetic retinopathy
Principal Investigator: Mgr. Tomáš Bárta, Ph.D.
In this project, we will use retinal organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPS) as a model to further investigate the effects of hyperglycemia on human retinal development.
Studying the early development of Alzheimer's disease pathology using brain organoids
Principal investigator: Mgr. Dáša Bohačiaková, Ph.D.
The aim of this project is to discover the mechanisms that lead to the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Possible influence of non-biomechanical factors on the development of adjacent segment disease in patients undergoing single-segment stabilization surgery for degenerative lumbar spine disease
Principal investigator: Mgr. Júlia Bohošová, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is to investigate microRNAs in perioperative tissue samples and blood plasma as potential factors involved in the development of ASD in patients operated for DDD or degenerative spondylolisthesis with single-segment stabilization, and subsequent possibilities of its prevention or slowing down.
Postdoc
InGA Postdoc in Stem Cell and Developmental Biology Research
Investigator: doc. Mgr. Jan Křivánek, Ph.D.
Dr. Maryam Azam, the successful candidate, will focus on fundamental aspects of developmental biology and its connection to regenerative medicine, helping the group to unravel the mechanisms involved in maintaining stem cell niche homeostasis, stem cell activation after injury, and the processes controlling cell differentiation at the molecular level.
InGa Postdoc in Metals in Implantology
Principal investigator: prof. RNDr. Monika Pávková Goldbergová, Ph.D.
Dr. Daniel Wojtas will be responsible for the analysis and interpretation of data from various assays, including genomics, methylomics, proteomics and toxicity data. The overarching goal is to elucidate the biological mechanisms controlling healing and immune processes to improve metal incorporation.
Junior research group
Alemeh Zamani Research Group: Choroid Plexus in Diseases
Junior group leader: Alemeh Zamani, Ph.D.
Dr. Zamani's junior research group will focus on dysfunctions of the choroid plexus associated with various neurological disorders, including neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. They will strive to expand knowledge about its pathophysiological mechanisms, particularly in Alzheimer's disease and chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.
Projects supported in 2022
FM Accelerate
CLOSED: A compact device for rapid identification of pathogens from human body fluids
Principal researcher: Mgr. Katarína Rebrošová, Department of Microbiology FM MU and SAUH
The project aims to prepare a compact device to detect and characterize microbes directly from human body fluids. Early identification of agents and their antimicrobial resistance profile can significantly improve the treatment of infection, reduce healthcare costs, alleviate the growing antimicrobial resistance and save lives.
Bioanalytical quality control of cGMP/ATMP-grade stem cells and progenitors
Main researcher: doc. RNDR Petr Vaňhara, Ph.D., Department of Histology and Embryology FM MU
Stem cells and progenitors are an essential resource for the development of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP) drugs for advanced therapy and tissue engineering. The aim of the project is to translate new experimental quality control (QC) procedures into standard operational protocols.
A high-throughput screening system for the identification of novel inhibitors against melanoma
Main researcher: Mgr. Stjepan Uldrijan, CSc., Department of Biology FM MU
High-throughput drug screening platforms are used to identify compounds with the desired biological activity that could lead to new therapies. The aim of the project is to develop a new cellular system for more efficient high-throughput screening of chemical libraries of compounds.
Start-up grants
Role of miRNAs in the spread of Glioblastoma multiforme through brain tissue in vitro
Principal investigator: Mgr. Dáša Bohačiaková, Ph.D.
The aim of this project is to use a newly developed model of Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cultured using human brain organoids and to identify the molecular mechanisms that are activated after GBM interaction with healthy brain tissue.
Establishment of embryoid/gastruloid technology for the study of primary cilium signalling
Principal investigator: Mgr. Michaela Bosáková, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is to establish a gastruloid/embryoid methodology for the study of receptor tyrosine kinase signalling in the primary cilia and to determine the relevance of this type of signalling for early embryonic development.
Modelling loss of ciliary function using human pluripotent cells
Principal Investigator: Mgr. Lukáš Čajánek, PhD.
The aim of the project is to study causality between defective cilia and key processes of embryonic development (proliferation, differentiation). A key attribute of the project is the use of human pluripotent stem cell lines to model these processes in a controlled tissue culture environment.
Continuous xenotransplantation model of acute myeloid leukemia
Principal Investigator: PharmDr. Martin Čulen, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is to extend the experimental capabilities for in vivo models of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and to test the continuous passaging of primary samples from AML patients in the mouse. The established in vivo AML collection will enable reproducible and nearly unlimited in vivo treatment testing and expansion of primary cells for other purposes that would not be capaciously possible using only vitally frozen samples.
Liquid kidney biopsy: isolation and expansion of proximal tubular cells from urine as a crucial step for the study of pathophysiology and eventual diagnosis of diabetic kidney disease
Principal investigator: Mgr. Katarína Chalásová, Ph.D.
The project aims to introduce and optimize for routine use the method of isolation of proximal tubular cells (PTEC) from human urine as (A) a potential diagnostic method ("liquid kidney biopsy") and (B) to obtain pathophysiologically relevant experimental material for the study of diabetic kidney disease.
Methods for measurement of mechanical forces on cell and tissue scale in organoids
Principal investigator: Mgr. Zuzana Sumbalová Koledová, Ph.D.
This project develops protocols for quantifying mechanical force in organoid cultures, including micropipette aspiration and laser ablation.
Characterization of a newly identified stem cell niche in continuously growing teeth
Principal investigator: doc. Mgr. Jan Křivánek, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is to reveal a previously unknown function of an uncharacterized type of mesenchymal stem cells in a continuously growing tooth.
Optimization of longitudinal hair cortisol determination for clinical applications
Principal investigator: doc. Mgr. Ondřej Peš, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is longitudinal monitoring of hair cortisol using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry for determination and comparison of hair cortisol levels in healthy volunteers as well as in indicated patient groups.
Effect of social isolation on myocardial remodeling - role of sigma 1 receptors
Principal Investigator: MUDr. Tibor Stračina, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is to establish and validate a new model of myocardial remodelling induced by aortic ligation in the rat and to determine the effect of social isolation of rats on sigma 1 receptor expression and progression of myocardial remodelling.
Evaluation of cartilage cell parameters isolated from arthritic patient tissue in the context of the influence of the most commonly used intra-articular chondroprotective agents
Hlavní řešitel: Mgr. Lucie Válková, Ph.D.
Cílem projektu je komplexní hodnocení zánětlivého postižení chrupavky z pohledu metabolických dějů, ovlivnění zánětlivé reakce chondrocytů a redoxních dějů v kontextu vlivu nejběžněji klinicky používaných chondroprotektiv.
From dysfunction of the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier to neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's disease
Principal Investigator: Mgr. Lucie Válková, Ph.D.
The aim of the project is a comprehensive evaluation of inflammatory cartilage damage in terms of metabolic processes, influence of inflammatory response of chondrocytes and redox processes in the context of the influence of the most commonly used clinical chondroprotective agents.
Postdoc
Regulation of cartilage by phosphodiesterases
Principal Investigator: Pavel Krejčí, Ph.D.
The aim of the project of Gustavo Rico, Ph.D. from the University of Malaga, is to determine the expression and role of PDEs in the regulation of disc growth and articular cartilage.
Success stories
Success stories
Contacts
Start-up, Postdoc, Junior research group
Ing. Daniela Podzemná
Technology transfer assistant, Office for Research and Quality
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