Strengthening Research Capacity through Partnership
The goal of our project is to strengthen research capacity in low- and middle-income countries by leveraging the expertise of native-speaking scientists and fostering meaningful collaborations with professionals from industrialized nations. Through this inclusive and cooperative approach, we aim to reverse brain drain and promote brain gain – by highlighting local success stories that empower researchers, drive scientific innovation, and support sustainable development in their home countries. As part of this mission, we have initiated several collaborative projects involving Azerbaijani universities and scientific hospitals, in partnership with research laboratories and clinics affiliated with Heidelberg University. These partnerships primarily focus on: Investigating the genetic factors of cancer; Exploring preventive (prophylactic) strategies for cancer; Developing modern treatment approaches, including advanced nanomedical drug carriers designed to deliver therapies more effectively. These collaborations represent a vital step toward integrating global scientific expertise to address local health challenges and contribute to the global body of knowledge in medical science.
Surface Modification Strategies for Chrysin-Loaded Iron Oxide Nanoparticles to Boost Their Anti-Tumor Efficacy in Human Colon Carcinoma Cells
This study explores innovative surface modification techniques for iron oxide nanoparticles loaded with chrysin, a natural flavonoid known for its anticancer properties. The aim was to enhance the delivery and therapeutic effectiveness of these nanoparticles against human colon carcinoma cells. By optimizing the nanoparticle surface, the researchers improved stability, cellular uptake, and targeted anti-tumor activity. The study successfully demonstrated that surface-modified, chrysin-loaded iron oxide nanoparticles exhibit enhanced anti-tumor effects in colon cancer cells compared to unmodified formulations. This promising result paves the way for future nanomedicine applications in oncology, potentially leading to more effective and safer cancer therapies.
Importantly, this was the first successful work resulting from a collaborative project between the Nanoresearch Laboratory at Baku State University and the Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, marking the beginning of a long-term cooperation between these institutions.
Why This Study Is Important:
Improved Drug Delivery: Surface modifications allow for better targeting and absorption of nanoparticles by cancer cells, increasing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing side effects.
Enhanced Anti-Cancer Effects: The natural anticancer activity of chrysin is significantly boosted through effective nanoparticle delivery.
Advancing Nanomedicine: This research contributes to the development of precise, nanotechnology-based treatments for colon cancer.
For more detailed information, please visit:
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/11/9/2341
Association of miR-149 T>C and miR-196a2 C>T Polymorphisms with Colorectal Cancer Susceptibility: A Case-Control Study
This study investigates the relationship between two specific genetic variations of miR-149 T>C and miR-196a2 C>T and the risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC). These variations are located in microRNAs (miRNAs), which are small, non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression. The case-control design compared the frequency of these polymorphisms in CRC patients versus healthy individuals. Our study suggests that the miR-149 T>C (rs2292832) heterozygous TC genotype may reduce colorectal cancer (CRC) risk in Azerbaijani women, while the miR-196a2 C>T (rs11614913) heterozygous CT genotype appears to increase CRC risk in this group. These findings highlight a clear gender dimorphism in genetic susceptibility to CRC, emphasizing that the impact of these polymorphisms may differ between males and females. This gender-specific effect underlines the importance of considering sex as a critical factor in genetic and clinical cancer research. This is the first report identifying these polymorphisms as potential genetic risk factors for CRC in the Azerbaijani population. Although our findings provide preliminary evidence supporting the use of miR-149 and miR-196a2 genotyping in predicting CRC susceptibility, further research with larger, more diverse cohorts and functional studies are needed to validate and clarify these associations.
This work was a collaborative effort between the Laboratory of Human Genetics at the Genetic Resources Institute of the Ministry of Science and Education, the Department of Surgery at Azerbaijan Medical University, the Department of Surgery at the Scientific Center of Surgery, and the Mannheim Medical Faculty of Heidelberg University.
Why This Study Is Important:
Early Detection & Risk Prediction: Identifying genetic risk factors can help in predicting individual susceptibility to colorectal cancer, enabling earlier intervention and personalized screening.
Understanding Mechanisms: It enhances our understanding of how miRNA polymorphisms contribute to cancer development, offering insight into the genetic regulation of tumorigenesis.
Potential Biomarkers: These polymorphisms may serve as biomarkers for CRC risk, aiding in the development of non-invasive diagnostic tools.
Conclusion:
This research highlights the potential of miRNA polymorphisms as genetic markers for colorectal cancer susceptibility. It contributes to the growing field of cancer genetics and supports the development of personalized medicine approaches in oncology.
For more detailed information, please visit:
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/11/9/2341