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Glatiramer Acetate Modifies the Immune Profiles of Monocyte-Derived Dendritic Cells In Vitro Without Affecting Their Generation
No full textGlatiramer acetate (GA) is the first-line therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS) and is increasingly demonstrating promising therapeutic benefits in a range of other conditions. Despite its extensive use, the precise pharmacological mechanism of GA remains unclear. In addition to T and B cells, dendritic cells (DCs) and monocytes play significant roles in the neuroinflammation associated with MS, positioning them as potential initial targets for GA. Here, we investigated GA's influence on the differentiation of human monocytes from healthy donors into monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs) and assessed their activation status. Our results indicate that GA treatment does not hinder the differentiation of monocytes into moDCs or macrophages. Notably, we observed a significant increase in the expression of molecules required for antigen recognition, presentation, and co-stimulation in GA-treated moDCs. Conversely, there was a significant downregulation of CD1a, which is crucial for activating auto-aggressive T cells that respond to the lipid components of myelin. Furthermore, GA treatment resulted in an increased expression of CD68 on both CD14+CD16+ and CD14+CD16- monocyte subsets. These in vitro findings suggest that GA treatment does not impede the generation of moDCs under inflammatory conditions; however, it may modify their functional characteristics in potentially beneficial ways. This provides a basis for future clinical studies in MS patients to elucidate its precise mode of action
Palynomorphology of Cerastium decalvans Schloss. & Vuk. (Caryophyllaceae)
No full textThe pollen morphology of Balkan endemic species Cerastium decalvans
Schloss. & Vuk. belonging to the South European mountainous chorological group
and the chamaephyte life form, was examined using scanning electron microscopy
(SEM), as a contribution to the floristic research of the Đetinja River Gorge in
Serbia. The pollen grains of C. decalvans are radially symmetrical, apolar and
spheroidal in shape. Grains are medium-sized, being on average 39.3±1.7 μm in
diameter. The exine ornamentation is microechinate, with minute echini of 0.3±0.05
μm length, whose average number per sample area of 5 x 5 μm ranges from 8 to 17.
Tectum is microperforate (punctate), and an average of 25.6±6.7 perforations of
variable size were found on the area of 25 μm2. Pollen grains are polypantoporate,
with about 18-20 circular operculate pores 6.9±0.6 μm in diameter. The mean
interpore distance is 8.8±1.2 μm. The membrane of each operculum covering
aperture is ornamented, with 10-18 irregularly arranged granules of variable size
averaging 0.9±0.2 μm. Each granule is covered with 1-4 minute echini less than 0.2
μm long. The height of the operculum including the granules amounts to 3.3±1.1.Nikolić D, Stojanović-Radić Z, Jenačković Gocić D, editors. Abstracts: 15th Symposium on the Flora of Southeastern Serbia and Neighboring Regions; 2025 May 23-25; Niš, Serbia. Niš: Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University; 2025. p. 29
Protected areas in Belgrade - their susceptibility to allochthonous invasive species
No full textThe presence of invasive allochthonous species in urban environments is
most often the result of constant and intense anthropogenic impacts that facilitate
their entry, enable the establishment of sustainable populations, and accelerate their
evolution. The main research objective was to determine the presence of invasive
plants, their diversity and distribution patterns in formally protected natural areas of
Belgrade, like Avala, Kosmaj, Ada Ciganlija and Veliko Ratno Ostrvo. Research on
invasive flora was conducted during the 2024 vegetation season. The field research
revealed the presence of 36 invasive allochthonous species, classified into 20
families, of which the Asteraceae (31%) and Fabaceae (11%) are the richest in
species. In the biological spectrum of invasive flora, therophytes are the most
abundant (30%), and in the chronological spectrum, neophytes (72%). Twenty-three
species are of North American origin. The most frequent invasive plant species in
the studied areas are Erigeron annuus (L.) Pers. and Robinia pseudoacacia L. The
obtained results should enable the adaptation of an appropriate management plan for
more efficient protection of biodiversity in the studied area. Therefore, it is
important to conduct monitoring for the early detection of potentially invasive plant
species and the introduction of adequate measures for their control and removal.Nikolić D, Stojanović-Radić Z, Jenačković Gocić D, editors. Abstracts: 15th Symposium on the Flora of Southeastern Serbia and Neighboring Regions; 2025 May 23-25; Niš, Serbia. Niš: Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University; 2025. p. 71
DNA barcoding in the identification of species within the genus Digitalis
No full textAim: Understanding the molecular basis of a plant taxon begins with its accurate identification, a task that may present a major challenge. Traditional plant taxonomy relies primarily on morphological characters, but these often lack the precision required for reliable classification. A more accurate approach is the integration of genetic data through DNA barcoding. Combining plastid DNA sequences with nuclear ITS regions is a powerful approach in species identification and plant phylogenetics. Plastid DNA, inherited maternally in most plants, provides information on evolutionary relationships, while nuclear ITS regions provide higher resolution for distinguishing closely related species.
Material and methods: Among the 27 recognized species within the genus Digitalis, we analyzed five that occur in the Balkan Peninsula: D. lanata Ehrh., D. laevigata Waldst. & Kit., D. ferruginea L., D. viridiflora Lindl. and D. grandiflora Mill. (syn. D. ambigua Murray). Four plastid markers commonly used in molecular plant studies (matK, trnL-F, rbcL and psbA-trnH), complemented with nuclear ITS regions, were PCR amplified and subsequently sequenced to facilitate genomic characterization.
Main results: The generated data for the five Digitalis species analyzed within the present study were integrated with the publicly available data to reconstruct the phylogenetic relations. The obtained ITS sequences facilitated species determination and aid in explaining phylogenetic relations among the analyzed taxa. In addition, the sequences of all plastid regions were deposited in GenBank, contributing to an improved resolution of the inferred phylogeny.
Conclusion: Integration of plastid and nuclear markers increases the accuracy of phylogenetic relations by enabling direct sequence comparisons with reference databases, thereby ensuring both unambiguous species identification and deeper insights into genetic evolution. In addition, continuous expansion of reference public databases with taxonomically representative genetic datasets can improve the discriminatory resolution within the genus Digitalis and thus the reliability of botanical identification of species.Program and abstracts : International Seminar of Ecology - 2025 : Modern Ecology - Theoretical and Applied View; 2025 Sep 25-26; Sofia, Bulgaria. Farrago; 2025. p. 38-9
Urbano drveće kao indikatori i faktori za smanjenje PTEs: slučaj Acer platanoides L.
No full textTrees in urban ecosystems not only improve the microclimatic conditions and aesthetic value of urban spaces, but also contribute to the accumulation and redistribution of potentially toxic elements (PTEs), thereby mitigating ecological risks and supporting urban sustainability. In this study, the phytoremediation potential of Acer platanoides L. was assessed by analysing B, Cu, Sr and Zn in soil, roots and leaves from three urban parks in Belgrade. The element concentrations were determined by ICP-OES after microwave digestion (CEM Mars 6). The measured concentrations of B and Sr in leaves reached toxic levels, indicating a potential risk of phytotoxicity of A. platanoides. Bioconcentration and translocation factors confirmed an efficient uptake and transfer of B, but a limited uptake of Cu, Sr and Zn from the soil. The results show that the species is very good at accumulating and translocating B, while it has limited uptake and redistribution of other elements into plant tissue. Due to its relatively rapid growth, stress tolerance and ability to accumulate certain PTEs (especially B), A. platanoides can be considered as an efficient and cost-effective species to improve the resilience and ecological functions of urban green spaces.Pavlović M, Pantović Pavlović M, editors. Proceedings : Meeting point of the science and practice in the fields of corrosion, materials and environmental protection : XXVI YuCorr International Conference; 2025 Nov 3-5; Palić, Serbia. Belgrade: Serbian Society of Corrosion and Materials Protection, UISKOZAM; 2025. p. 63-4
Development of bile acid-derived compounds as dual NRF2 activators and FXR modulators with anticancer potential
No full textThe design of multifunctional molecules capable of simultaneously activating the factor erythroid 2–related
factor 2 (NRF2) pathway, the key regulator of redox balance and bile acid signaling pathways presents a
promising strategy in the development of therapeutics for metabolic and inflammatory liver diseases, as well as cancer. In this study, we build on our previous work on NRF2 activators. We report the synthesis of novel bile acid derivatives tailored to act as dual modulators: activators of the NRF2 pathway and antagonists of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR). Our synthetic approach utilized chenodeoxycholic and cholic acid as starting scaffolds, capitalizing on their inherent structural compatibility with bile acid receptor targets. By introducing enone/dienone moieties and an ethylidene group, we aimed to enhance NRF2 activation through electrophilic engagement. Lead compounds SB140 and SB141 showed strong NRF2 activation and ARE gene induction, serving as promising scaffolds for further optimization. After confirming the activity of our compounds we decided to add the ethylidene group, an FXR pharmacophore, since in the meantime there have been papers confirming that these two signaling pathways synergize.
The synthesized compounds were characterized by NMR and HRMS, and evaluated in vitro for NRF2 activation via induction of cytoprotective genes (HMOX1, NQO1, GCLM). SB141 showed >12-fold HMOX1 induction, strong HO-1 expression, and effective oxidative stress reduction. In silico studies confirmed high-affinity binding to the Keap1 BTB domain, supporting their potential as covalent NRF2 activators. Details of the synthetic procedures, biological evaluation, and structure–activity insights will be presented at the conference.MedChem 2025 Annual One Day Meeting on Medicinal Chemistry of KVCV and SRV : Sustainability in Drug Discovery; 2025 Dec 15; Ghent, Belgium. Bruxelles : Societe Royale de Chimie; 2025. p. 34
Semaglutide as a potent activator of anti-tumor immune response in breast cancer
No full textBreast cancer is the most common malignant tumor in women and is usually associated with early metastasis, representing a significant health problem. The immune response against cancer is based on the effector actions of cells of the immune system, among which NK cells and CD8+ T lymphocytes are the most significant. Semaglutide is an antidiabetic, belonging to the group of incretin mimetics. It exerts its effects through agonistic action on receptors for glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The anti-tumor effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists manifests as inhibition of growth, proliferation, migration, and invasiveness of tumor cells. The aim of this study is to investigate the anti-tumor effect of semaglutide in the 4T1 experimental model of murine breast cancer. After induction of breast cancer, BALB/c mice were treated with semaglutide intraperitoneally. Semaglutide application significantly delayed the onset of palpable tumors and slowed tumor growth. At the same time, the antidiabetic did not show a direct anti-tumor effect in in vitro experiments. The results of the study indicate that semaglutide affects the functional phenotype of CD3-CD49b+ NK cells by enhancing the expression of activation receptors CD69 and NKG2D, while reducing the expression of the PD-1 inhibitory receptor and IL-10. Additionally, semaglutide increased the infiltration of CD3+CD49b- T lymphocytes into the tumor as well as the expression of activation markers CD69 and NKG2D, and enhanced granzyme production. It also significantly reduced the expression of PD-1 and IL-10 on CD3+CD49b- T lymphocytes. Semaglutide did not affect the overall number of tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells but significantly increased the expression of the costimulator CD86. These results indicate that semaglutide has the potential as a therapeutic agent for stimulating the immune system against tumors.Abstract Book: 7th European Congress of Immunology: Conquering challenges; 2024 Sep 1-4; Dublin, Ireland. John Wiley and Sons; 2024. p. 748. (European Journal of Immunology; Vol. 54; No. S1)
REVIEW: Evidence Supporting the 'Preparation for Oxidative Stress' (POS) Strategy in Animals in Their Natural Environment
No full textHypometabolism is a common strategy employed by resilient species to withstand environmental
stressors that would be life-threatening for other organisms. Under conditions such as
hypoxia/anoxia, temperature and salinity stress, or seasonal changes (e.g. hibernation, estivation),
stress-tolerant species down-regulate pathways to decrease energy expenditures until the return of
less challenging conditions. However, it is with the return of these more favorable conditions and
the reactivation of basal metabolic rates that a strong increase of reactive oxygen and nitrogen
species (RONS) occurs, leading to oxidative stress. Over the last few decades, cases of species
capable of enhancing antioxidant defenses during hypometabolic states have been reported across
taxa and in response to a variety of stressors. Interpreted as an adaptive mechanism to counteract
RONS formation during tissue hypometabolism and reactivation, this strategy was coined
“Preparation for Oxidative Stress” (POS). Laboratory experiments have confirmed that over 100
species, spanning 9 animal phyla, apply this strategy to endure harsh environments. However, the
challenge remains to confirm its occurrence in the natural environment and its wide applicability as
a key survival element, through controlled experimentation in field and in natural conditions.
Even under such conditions, numerous confounding factors may complicate data interpretation, but
this remains the only approach to provide an integrative look at the evolutionary aspects of
ecophysiological adaptations. In this review, we provide an overview of representative cases where
the POS strategy has been demonstrated among diverse species in natural environmental conditions,
discussing the strengths and weaknesses of these results and conclusions
Urban waterbodies in the Belgrade region – ecological potential assessment in year 2023
No full textThe waterbodies in the Belgrade urban area are exposed to numerous anthropogenic pressures, such as communal wastewater discharges from the surrounding settlements, urban, agricultural and industrial areas. Regular monitoring of the ecological potential of waterbodies in the region is conducted. In this study, the ecological potential of the 16 rivers and canals in the Belgrade area was assessed based on the macroinvertebrate communities in 2023. A total of 126 macroinvertebrate taxa were recorded. Insecta, Oligochaeta and Crustacea were the dominant groups. According to calculated indices and national legislation, the Sava river (class V) had a lower ecological potential than the Danube (class IV). The rivers Kolubara, Turija, Barajevska reka and Topčiderka as well as the canal Progarska Jarčina were classified as class V and had a very poor ecological potential. Galovica, Sibnica and Obrenovački kanal had a poor ecological potential (class IV). Peštan, Beljanica and the Karaš had a moderate ecological potential (class III), while only the Klovita, Vizelj and PKB canals achieved a good ecological potential (class II).Chatziefstathiou M, editor. Proceedings Book: 5th International Congress on Applied Ichthyology, Oceanography & Aquatic Environment: HydroMediT 2024; 2024 May 30 - Jun 2; Mytilene, Greece. Volos, Greece: University of Thessaly - School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment; 2024. p. 807-11
Vodeni beskičmenjaci kao ključni element u razvoju metodologije i identifikaciji prioritetnih kaskada za uklanjanje
No full textThe aim of the study is to assess the effects of six weirs towards the macroinvertebrates and to establish methodology for selection of priority weirs for removal. Macroinvertebrates were collected from 12 sampling sites on the rivers Kriva Reka (2), Pcinja (8) and Kumanovska Reka (2) upstream and downstream of selected weirs. The degree of similarity of the macroinvertebrates above and below the weirs was used as ecological criteria to participate in determining which weirs could be subject to removal or could remain unchanged. Results showed that only weir below the city of Kriva Palanka could be subject to removal.Cilj ove studije je da se proceni uticaj šest kaskada na makrobeskičmenjake i utvrdi
metodologija za izbor prioritetnih kaskada za uklanjanje. Makrobeskičmenjaci su prikupljeni
sa 12 lokacija za uzorkovanje na rekama Kriva Reka (2), Pčinja (8) i Kumanovska Reka (2)
uzvodno i nizvodno od odabranih kaskada. Stepen sličnosti makrobeskičmenjaka iznad i
ispod kaskada je korišćen kao jedan od ekološki kriterijuma u određivanju koje kaskade mogu
biti predmet uklanjanja, a koje mogu ostati nepromenjene. Rezultati su pokazali da samo
kaskada ispod grada Krive Palanke može biti uklonjena.Đukić A, editor. Conference Proceedings: The 53rd Annual Conference of the Serbian Water Pollution Control Society: Water 2024; 2024 May 27-29; Palić, Serbia. Belgarde: Serbian Association for Water Protection; 2024. p. 259-72