PhD in Biotechnology Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra

Table of Contents

A fully funded PhD on the topic of “the use of cellular models in the prediction of the role of rose hip phytonutrients in the regulation of female reproductive functions” is open at the Department of Biotechnology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra.

Project Abstract

Environmental factors and food chain risk factors increase reproductive disease risk, including infertility, fibroids, cervical carcinomas, ovarian tumors, endometriosis, endocrine disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome, and premature ovarian failure. Natural substances can modulate these pathways and eliminate environmental factors. The targeted combination of photos-substances verified using cell models (human ovarian cell lines, cervix) is a promising source for supporting hormonal regulation, improving reproductive functions, as well as preventing reproductive alterations in females.

The scientific focus of the proposed project is divided into 3 stages:

Stage 1 will be focused on experimental testing of the in vitro effects of natural substances from rowan (bird rowan/rowan) on model cells of the female reproductive system (ovarian granulosa cell line HGL5, ovarian tumor cells OVCAR-3 and COV434, cervical tumor cells HeLa and i .) to determine viability and secretory activity (growth factors, steroid hormones, etc.).

Stage 2, based on the results of Stage 1, will be aimed at determining the mechanisms of action of the rose hip phytonutrients on cell models of the female reproductive system through signaling pathways interfering with the processes of proliferation and apoptosis (receptors, markers of proliferation and apoptosis).

Stage 3 will be focused on the determination and selection of experimentally tested rose-hip phytonutrients and their combinations with high cytotoxic activity on tumor cells to induce programmed cell death – apoptosis and elimination of cell growth, proliferation, and metabolism without negative impact on healthy cells.

Scientific hypothesis: The targeted combination of rose-hip phytonutrients verified by the use of cell models are promising sources for the support of hormonal regulation, improvement of reproductive functions, as well as prevention of reproductive alterations in females.