The fourth ranking as part of the MINIATURA 9 call for proposals included 92 researchers, both men and women. They will receive between PLN 5k and 50k for research on topics within the area of fundamental research.
What our scientists investigate
The significance of inflammatory factors in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease and its atypical Parkinsonian disorders
The project conducted by Piotr Alster, PhD Hab., from the Department of Neurology, involves an in-depth analysis of factors that may be relevant in the diagnostics of neurodegenerative diseases, based on an extended comparative analysis and control studies. The project has received a grant of PLN 47,520 from the National Science Centre.
The role of inflammatory factors in the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease and atypical Parkinsonian disorders has not been explored yet. There are multiple differing interpretations regarding that issue. Neurodegenerative mechanisms are said to involve factors such as oxidative stress, disrupted mitophagy, or environmental factors. Another approach indicates inflammation as both a potential consequence and a cause of neurodegenerative processes.
The results of the analysis will help compare the levels of inflammatory parameters in Parkinson’s disease and diagnose Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (the Richardson and Parkinsonism subtypes) – disorders with different pathology. Possibly, a factor that differentiates them could emerge. Potential changes in the levels of those parameters may lead to further analysis in search of potential targets for modifying the course of the disease. The analysis of changes in those parameters may point to the potential connection with clinical deterioration.
Cardiac sarcoidosis – evaluation of the diagnostic and prognostic value of biomarkers – CRESCENDO study
The project conducted by Cezary Maciejewski, MD PhD, from the 1st Chair and Department of Cardiology, is an exploratory, prospective, double-blind cohort study to assess the diagnostic and prognostic value of laboratory biomarkers of myocardial involvement in sarcoidosis. The project has received a grant of PLN 49,548 from the National Science Centre.
The involvement of the myocardium in sarcoidosis remains underappreciated in clinical practice, which increases the risk of severe cardiological complications. Advanced cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) may lead to life-threatening conditions such as ventricular arrythmias and progressive heart failure, which requires intensive treatment and implanting devices. This in turn comes as a significant burden for healthcare systems.
Identifying CS early using biomarker-based methods may potentially enhance diagnostic accuracy and risk stratification, thus improving treatment outcomes for patients and lowering the costs of healthcare.