Head: Radka Václavíková, RNDr., Ph.D.
email: radka.vaclavikova@szu.gov.cz
Toxicogenomics Unit – Basic Description of Activities
The Toxicogenomics Unit (OT) focuses primarily on comprehensive research into the effects of molecular factors on the development of tumor growth and the progression of oncological diseases. One of our goals is to investigate the role of susceptibility to chemical exposure and to assess the potential use of genetic polymorphisms in enzymes involved in the metabolism and transport of foreign substances for predicting the risk of DNA damage and, subsequently, cancer (predictive medicine). Another goal is to understand the development of cancer and use its characteristics to define therapeutically significant profiles (pharmacogenomics) and, ultimately, to contribute to the targeted development of drugs that specifically damage cancer cells. In model tumor cell lines, we investigate the mechanisms of action of known anticancer drugs (taxanes, anthracyclines) and seek ways to enhance their therapeutic effect. We also study new drugs that have not yet been included in clinical trials, and we are developing animal models of tumor growth, such as patient xenografts. Our main goal is therefore to contribute to the development of the concept of precision medicine, particularly in oncology. Protein and gene standards are obtained through molecular cloning and heterologous expression in a laboratory operating under GMO Category I regulations.
OT staff participate in a number of domestic and international grant projects, publish results in professional journals, lecture at the Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education (IPVZ), medical faculties and the Faculty of Science, Charles University, and supervise students in their bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies.
Another part of the OT’s work involves evaluating applications for the use of genetically modified organisms from the perspective of health risks.