Projects

International

AZCAI – Anti-amyloidná aktivita kompozitov na báze zeolitov a analýza so zobrazovaním vo vysokom rozlíšení a v reálnom čase
Anti-amyloid activity of zeolite-based composites and analysis with real-time 3d super-resolution imaging
Program: JRP
Project leader: RNDr., Ing. Šipošová Katarína, PhD.
Annotation: A common feature associated with most of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease is the formation of extended, β-sheet rich amyloid fibrils. Today, amyloid-related diseases are incurable and the treatment is only symptomatic without feasibility to stop or substantially delay the progressive consequences of the diseases. Magnetic nano/micro-particles based on clinoptilolite-type of natural zeolite (CZ) jointly developed are expected to serve synergistic therapy approaches act as carriers for controlled drug delivery/release, imaging and local heating in biological systems, that can effectively decompose the amyloid-like fibrillar structures. The micro and mesopores of the natural zeolite can serve as containers for delivering various drugs to the target site to release. Magnetic CZ (MCZs) will improve drug delivery process, real-time monitoring of drug distribution surrounding a targeting side of tissue, as well as the subsequent effects of the therapeutics on the progression of diseases. In addition, fluorescent MCZs in combination with ultrasonic, magnetic or laser irradiation effects will provide hyperthermia and photoreaction to achieve both diagnosis and therapy. The Taiwanese research team has been deeply cultivated in temporal focusing multiphoton microscopy (TFMPM), which imaging frame rate can achieve up to a hundred hertz. We will use the deep learning method to improve the imaging frame rate for real-time biomedical analysis. Within this project, animal models (including genetic rodent models) will be utilized to develop a theranostic system for for inhibition and destruction of amyloid aggregates and super-resolution imaging of MZC induced amyloid aggregate inhibition/destruction effects by state-of-art temporally and spatially super-resolution 3D imaging technology.
Duration: 1.1.2022 – 31.12.2024
FMF – Flexibilné magnetické vlákna: Vlastnosti a aplikácie
Flexible Magnetic Filaments: Properties and Applications
Program: ERANET
Project leader: doc. RNDr. Kopčanský Peter, CSc.
Annotation: Different technologies for synthesis of flexible magnetic filaments are developed. These include linking magnetic micro-particles by DNA, attaching magnetic nanoparticles to polyelectrolyte bundles, extraction of magnetosomes from magnetotactic bacteria and other. Flexible magnetic filaments are interesting for applications as self-propelling microdevices(for targeted transport), micro-mixers (for microfluidics), different sensors(micro rheology). Numerical algorithms for predicting their behavior in magnetic fields of different configurations will be developed, including algorithms based on curve dynamics, lattice Boltzmann method, Brownian dynamics. Obtained numerical results will be compared with experimental results of measurement of flows fields around magnetic filaments, their buckling instabilities. As a result new technology will be developed for DLS measurements giving access to characteristics of translation and rotational motion of string like magnetic micro-objects.
Duration: 1.9.2018 – 31.12.2022
MultiFunMag – Návrh a príprava multifunkčných magnetických nanočastíc na detekciu nádorových buniek
Design and preparation of multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles for the cancer cell detection
Program: Multilateral – other
Project leader: Ing. Závišová Vlasta, PhD.
Annotation: Cancer is the second leading cause of death after cardiovascular disease in almost all European countries. Over the past several decades, the principle types of cancer therapies have been chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. This project is focused on the development of biocompatible multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles and evaluation of their diagnostic andtherapeutic potential for the application in oncology. The first step to achieve the desired goals will be the synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles and the functionalization of their surface with a suitable biocompatible materials suitable for radiotracer binding. Several physicochemical methods will be used to optimize the preparation of biocompatible multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). At the same time, we will study the suitability of multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles for magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic hyperthermia application as well. Considering the application purposes of biocompatible multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles, biodistribution studies of radiotracer conjugated MNPs will be conducted. The prepared radiotracer conjugated MNPs will improve the efficacy of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, combination of MRI, hyperthermia and radiotherapy represents a significant advance in cancer diseases treatment and a substantial improvement in survival of oncological patients. The project is based on a complex multidisciplinary approach,ranging from physics, chemistry up to biochemistry and biomedicine. The involved partners possess key skills, infrastructure and are highly motivated to reach the project goals.
Duration: 1.3.2020 – 31.12.2022
NANOConVEX CIG – – Nanokvapaliny pre zariadenia na prenos tepla prúdením NANOConVEX CIG
Nanofluids for convective heat transfer devices NANOConVEX CIG
Program: COST
Project leader: RNDr. Timko Milan, CSc.
Annotation: In this project we would like to use the obtained results and experiences in application magnetic nanofluids prepared by our group in high power transformers with the intention of lowering of working temperature, increasing of heat dissipation from the transformer core at preservation its insulation characteristics. This fact will have the influence on the lifetime and lowering the cost reduction during the operation.
Duration: 1.5.2020 – 30.4.2021
AMAZON – Dynamické štúdium amyloidnej agregácie proteínov pomocou magnetických zeolitových nanočastíc
Dynamical study of formation/destruction of protein amyloid aggregatess targeted by magnetic zeolite nanocomposites
Program: JRP
Project leader: doc. RNDr. Kopčanský Peter, CSc.
Annotation: Abnormal protein aggregation and accumulation of formed fibrils are characteristic features for a range of, if not all, neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s, as well as non-neuropathic amyloidosis. Nanoparticles (NPs), attributed to its particularities in sizes, chemical composition and surface properties, have already been found effective in influencing amyloid fibrils. Our preliminary results acquired on amyloid fibrils incubated with in-laboratory synthesized Fe3O4 nanoparticles (MNPs) indicated reductive potential of MNPs on formation of amyloid fibrils, and also suggested facilitation of inhibiting preformation and eradication of amyloid fibrils may be plausible when the fibrils are exposed to external radiation in presence of MNPs. Also, with our previously reported photoluminescence properties of natural zeolite (CZ) which is a promising material for biomedicine and pharmaceutics due to its non-toxicity, thermal stability, expanded surface area, and exceptional ability to adsorb various atoms, organic molecules and nanoparticles into micro- and mesopores, we plan to apply the MNPs with CZ, developing multiphoton excitation microscopy (MPEM), and other appropriate instruments to establish the dynamical investigation of amyloid fibril formation and remodeling in real time. Prior to in vivo experiment, cytotoxicity in different type of cells and animal models such as zebrafish and mice will be evaluated.
Duration: 1.1.2018 – 31.12.2020
NANOUPTAKE – Prekonanie bariiér pre komerčné využitie nanokvapalín (NANOUPTAKE)
Overcoming Barriers to Nanofluids Market Uptake ( NANOUPTAKE)
Program: COST
Project leader: RNDr. Timko Milan, CSc.
Annotation: Nanofluids are defined as fluids that contain nanometre-sized particles with enhanced heat transfer properties. Nanofluids improve the efficiency of heat exchange and thermal energy storage. In addition, nanofluids fall within one of the Key Enabling Technologies (KET) supported by the European Commission. Although some nanofluid commercial applications currently exist, most of the current nanofluids are at Technological Readiness Levels (TRL) 1 to 3. Most of the nanofluids research in COST countries has been conducted by Research, Development and Innovation (R+D+i) centres through national funding. Additional coordinated research and development efforts are required to develop nanofluids up to higher TRL levels and to overcome commercial application barriers. If these barriers are overcome, nanofluids will be an important player in the Value Added Materials (VAM) for the energy sector.The objective of the NANOUPTAKE COST Action is to create a Europe-wide network of leading R+D+i institutions, and of key industries, to develop and foster the use of nanofluids as advanced heat transfer/thermal storage materials to increase the efficiency of heat exchange and storage systems.
Project webpage: http://www.cost.eu/COST_Actions/ca/CA15119
Duration: 19.4.2016 – 18.4.2020
RADIOMAG – Multifunkcionalizované nanočastice pre magnetickú hypertermiu a nepriamu radiačnú
Multifunctional Nanoparticles for Magnetic Hyperthermia and Indirect Radiation Therapy
Program: COST
Project leader: doc. RNDr. Kopčanský Peter, CSc.
Annotation: The Action aims to bring together and to organise the research outcomes from the different participating network members in a practical way to provide clinicians with the necessary input to trial a novel anti-cancer treatment combining magnetic hyperthermia and radiotherapy, also identifying future research objectives upon appraisal of the obtained results. Feedback between the different working groups here is essential, and is expected that the lifetime of this Action proposal will eventually result in a compendium of best practices for magnetic hyperthermia.RADIOMAG will generate new and strengthen the existing synergies between technical advances (thermal imaging / MH), new treatment concepts (combined targeting radiosensitisation and magnetic thermotherapy) and biocompatible coating in order to achieve a breakthrough in the clinical application of magnetic hyperthermia. Due to the complexity of this aim, synergies can only be achieved on a longer time frame, by means of workshops, STSMs, joint publications, common Horizon 2020 research proposals and exchange with other COST Actions (e.g. TD1004, TD1205).
Project webpage: http://www.cost-radiomag.eu/
Duration: 13.11.2014 – 12.11.2018

National

NANOFLIT – Nano-funkcionalizácia kvapalín pre olejové transformátory
Nano-functionalization of liquids for liquid-immersed transformers
Program: SRDA
Project leader: RNDr. Rajňák Michal, PhD.
Annotation: The current increase in electricity consumption and the greening of its distribution, together with the increase in the price of materials for the production of distribution transformers, represent a challenge for applied research in electric power engineering. The intention of the presented project is to respond to this challenge by functionalizing the current liquids used in electrical transformers in order to increase their cooling efficiency while maintaining or improving their dielectric and insulating properties. For this project, the liquids used in the distribution transformers of the manufacturer interested in this research will be selected. These are commercial liquids primarily based on liquefied natural gas, synthetic and natural esters. Based on current state of the art, the liquids will be functionalized by means of nanotechnologies and nanomaterials, which can significantly improve thermal conductivity, natural and thermomagnetic convection, and thus make the overall heat transport in the liquids more efficient. The functionalizing nanoadditives will be mainly made from carbon (fullerene, nanodiamond) and iron oxides or other ferromagnetic elements. The functionalized liquids will undergo laboratory measurements of physico-chemical, electrical, magnetic and thermal properties. Based on the analyzes of laboratory experiments and numerical simulations, nanofluids with the greatest potential for improving the thermal and insulating properties of the transformer will be selected. The selected nanofluids will be tested by the industrial partner (the customer of the research results) and applied in the selected distribution transformer. The transformer will be subjected to electrical and temperature rise tests. One can expect that the nanofunctionalization of the liquids will result in a lower operating temperature of the transformer, which can lead to an extension of the transformer service life and to the production of smaller transformers.
Duration: 1.7.2023 – 30.6.2027
Procesy samousporiadania v mäkkých hybridných zmesiach kvapalných kryštálov a nanočastíc
Self-organization processes in soft hybrid mixtures of liquid crystals and nanoparticles
Program: VEGA
Project leader: RNDr. Tomašovičová Natália, CSc.
Annotation: The proposal aims to approach the research of liquid crystals doped with nanoparticles of different kind from anovel perspective of the self-organization that has an indisputable importance covering all fields of naturalsciences, and has also a deep impact in social sciences. In such composite systems a subtle interplay amongthe nanoparticles, the self-assembling matrix and the topological defects commands the self-organizationprocess. We will focus on the electric/magnetic field induced self-organization in such systems experimentally on different length scales by investigating the processes in different phases, isotropic, nematic, cholesteric with the anticipation that our results can be exploited in applications such as guided material transport, magnetic/electric switches/sensors, chemical/biosensors, in microfluidic/lab-on-a-chip devices, etc. We are convinced that systematic studies in this topic may change fundamentally current knowledge.
Duration: 1.1.2021 – 31.12.2024
Malá projektová schéma
Program: Other projects
Project leader: Ing. Molčan Matúš, PhD.
Duration: 1.1.2023 – 31.12.2023
NANOELEN – Nanokvapaliny v elektrotechnike
Nanofluids in Electrical Engineering
Program: SRDA
Project leader: RNDr. Rajňák Michal, PhD.
Annotation: The submitted project is oriented on research into nanofluids based on alternative cooling and insulating liquidmedia such as oils based on liquefied natural gas, natural esters and new types of transformer oils. We willprepare novel nanofluids based on these oils by dispersing magnetic nanoparticles, fullerenes, graphenenanoplatelets or carbon nanotubes. The purpose of the nanofluids preparation is to enhance the coolingeffectiveness of the liquid media. The nanofluids will be investigated from dielectric, insulating, magnetic andheat transfer properties point of view. Finally, their cooling effectiveness will be tested in loaded powertransformers. Therefore, the aim of this project is the development of advanced liquid media for cooling andinsulating in electrical engineering, the application of which will have a potential impact on electric power saving,electrical equipment service life and protection of the environment.
Duration: 1.7.2019 – 30.6.2023
Makroskopicky anizotrópne kompozity na báze kvapalnych kryštálov a magnetických nanočastíc
Macroscopic anisotropic composites based on liquid crystals and magnetic nanoparticles
Program: VEGA
Project leader: RNDr. Tomašovičová Natália, CSc.
Annotation: The proposal targets basic research on composite materials consisting of liquid crystals and various magnetic nanoparticles. Combination of the anisotropic properties of liquid crystals with the magnetic properties of the nanoparticles results in composites with unique magnetic and optical properties that the component materials themselves do not possess. The proposed studies concentrate on the increase of the sensitivity of our composite soft matter materials (liquid state) to magnetic fields and prepare new materials having unique dielectric, magnetic and optical properties. The main goal of the proposal is to influence the sensitivity of these anisotropicsystems to external magnetic field by adding suitable magnetic nanoparticles and by this way make a step forward towards potential applications in various magneto-optical or dielectric devices as for example sensors of low magnetic fields or light shutter.
Duration: 1.1.2017 – 31.12.2020
MVISION – Nanočastice v anizotrópnych systémoch
Nanoparticles in anisotropic systems
Program: SRDA
Project leader: doc. RNDr. Kopčanský Peter, CSc.
Annotation: The proposal is devoted to study complex anisotropic systems based on thermotropic as well as lyotropic(biological) liquid crystals. Liquid crystals represents the uniq state of matter, which is liquid but posses theanisotropic properties. The structuralization phenomena in such systems play key role in fundamental as well asin applied research. The main aim is to s influence the sensitivity of these anisotropic systems to externalmagnetic field, what will be done by adding suitable magnetic nanoparticles and open the way for theirapplications in magneto-optical devices.
Duration: 1.7.2016 – 31.12.2020
Interakcia magnetických kvapalín s elektromagnetickým poľom
Interaction of magnetic fluids with electromagnetic field
Program: VEGA
Project leader: RNDr. Timko Milan, CSc.
Annotation: The proposed project will be devoted to the study magnetic principle of heating mechanism – hyperthermia in magnetic nanoparticles systems in dependence on preparation process, size and size distribution and magnetic properties. Besides usually used biocompatible spherical anoparticles as a subjects of this proposal will be special prepared magnetosome and magnetoferritin containing spherical magnetite nanoparticles. The obtainedexperiences for achievement high specific heat power will enable the application magnetic nanoparticles at cancer treatment in biomedicine.We aim to investigate the shielding (absorption and reflection) effects of transformer oil based magnetic fluid.Besides the unique cooling and isolating properties, these magnetic fluids can be reliable shielding medium in electromagnetic devices as well. The research on radiation stability of MFs will address electromagnetic fields and another type radiation.
Duration: 1.1.2016 – 31.12.2019
Aplikácia magnetických kvapalín v elektrotechnike
Application of magnetic fluids in electrical engineering
Program: VEGA
Project leader: RNDr. Timko Milan, CSc.
Duration: 1.1.2012 – 31.12.2015