National Science Center OPUS 2023/51/B/NZ5/00999 (PI: A. Szewczyk) 11.06.2024 -10.06.2028
„Targeting mitochondrial potassium channels to regulate cellular senescence.”
Objectives: The goal of this project is to elucidate the role of mitochondrial potassium channels within the context of cell senescence. The primary aim is to specifically delineate the involvement of mitoBKCa channels in the initiation and progression of cellular senescence, focusing on distinct cell models for a comprehensive understanding.
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National Science Center OPUS 2023/25/B/NZ1/588576 (PI: P. Koprowski) 06.2024- 06.2028
“The potassium puzzle: unraveling the connection between the potassium channel and lipid kinases in kidney functioning”
Objectives: Investigating the interactions of ROMK2 potassium channel with lipid kinases AGK and DGKE in the kidney, focusing on their roles in potassium homeostasis and cytoprotection during ischemia/reperfusion events.
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National Science Center MAESTRO 2019/34/A/NZ1/00352 (PI: A. Szewczyk) 23.04.2020- 22.04.2024
“Light-regulated mitochondrial potassium channels: searching for new cytoprotective mechanisms?”
Objectives: The goal of this project are to examine regulation mitochondrial potassium channels such as large conductance calcium activated potassium channels by infrared light.
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National Science Center OPUS 2019/35/B/NZ1/02546 (Co-PI: B.Kulawiak, joint project (consortium) with P.Bednarczyk (project leader), SGGW) 07.2020-07.2024
„The role of the mitochondrial potassium channels in damage caused by urban particulate matters (PM) – search for a new cytoprotection strategy”
Objectives: The general aim of the project is the molecular identification and description of both, biochemical and biophysical properties of the mitochondrial K+ channels present in human epithelial cells. We would also like to study cytoprotective role of the mitoK channels in damage caused by urban PMs or oxidative stress in human epithelial cells.
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National Science Center OPUS 2015/17/B/NZ1/02496 (PI: A. Szewczyk) 18.02.2016- 17.02.2019
“Regulation of mitochondrial potassium channels by the gas relays information: NO, CO and H2S”
Objectives: We expected that our studies describing the regulation of the activity of mitochondrial potassium channels by gaseous information carriers will bring us closer to understanding the cytoprotective mechanisms triggered by the activation of mitochondrial potassium channels. The results of our research may significantly contribute in the future to the development of new therapeutic strategies that protect tissues against the effects of hypoxia.
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National Science Center HARMONIA 2017/26/M/NZ3/00727 (PI: P.Koprowski) 08.05.2018- 07.05.2022
“Membrane stretch regulation of mitochondrial potassium channel: role in fusion and fission? “
Objectives: This project aimed to explore the connection between mitoBKCa activity, its response to membrane tension (stretch), and mitochondrial morphology and function. Our research revealed that mitoBKCa channels respond to mechanical forces and are sensitive to beta-amyloid, an Alzheimer’s disease-associated agent, through a membrane-mediated mechanism. These findings provide valuable insights into the understanding of a possible etiology of neurodegenerative disorders.
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National Science Center OPUS 2015/19/B/NZ1/02794 (PI: P.Koprowski) 12.07.2016- 11.07.2020
“Interactions of the potassium channel ROMK2 with mitochondrial proteins“
Objectives: This project aimed to explore the interactions of ROMK2, a KATP channel isoform, with its protein partners. We identified new partners, AGK and DGKE, lipid kinases located in mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Through experiments, we confirmed their presence in ROMK2 complexes. Furthermore, we discovered that their products, LPA and PA, enhance ROMK2 channel activity in lipid bilayers. This study proposes a model highlighting localized lipid synthesis by channel-bound kinases, influencing ROMK2 regulation in specific cellular compartments like mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum.
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National Science Center SONATA-BIS 5 2015/18/E/NZ1/00737 (PI: B.Kulawiak), 04.2016-04.2022
„Mechanisms of mitochondrial cytoprotection – identification of mitoBK channel interactions with mitochondrial proteins”
Objectives: The aim of the project is to characterize the regulation and interactions of mitoBKCa channel subunits with other mitochondrial proteins. We predict that assembled mitoBKCa channel directly interacts with the respiratory chain. We speculate that this interaction is important for channel formation and activity. We also want to identify new partner proteins interacting with mitoBKCa channel complex. Additionally, we expect that the BK-DEC isoform of BKCa-type channel α subunit assemble in mitochondria to form a functional channel.
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National Centre for Research and Development (Warsaw) PBS1/B8/1/2012 (Co-PI: A. Szewczyk) 1.10.2012- 30.09.2015
“Since mitochondria to innovative cosmetics with a protective effect – MERIS”
Objectives: The researchers’ task was to identify and evaluate substances whose specific interaction with mitochondria has a beneficial effect on skin cells. These substances trigger processes in cells that slow down damage caused by oxidative stress. The commercial goal of the project was to introduce new, innovative dermo-protective cosmetics to the market.