BrainMap

Mrs. Paula Ecaterina Florian

PhD

Scientific Researcher - INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE

Researcher | Scientific reviewer

Curriculum Vitae (03/01/2022)

Expertise & keywords

Smart responsive hybrid bioplatforms obtained by laser methods with tailored antibacterial and antitumor activity Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-2695 2020 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO)

Project website: https://laurentiurusen.wixsite.com/529ped

Abstract:

The project scope is to develop an experimental prototype of a new generation of responsive hybrid smart platforms engineered by laser method, with tailored antibacterial and antitumor dual activity, addressing the current needs for research studies and medical applications (e.g. controlled drug delivery, development of next-generation precision medications testing platform, tunable interfaces for basic cell research). The platform envisaged by this project consists in a pH and Temperature responsive copolymeric matrix (i.e. Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-butylacrylate (polyNIPAM-BA)) in which bioactive compounds such as antimicrobial peptides AMPs, Hydrophobines and Hydrophobines–AMPs conjugates) are embedded by the use of Matrix Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation (MAPLE). Based on the fact that tumor and bacteria cells exhibit more acidic medium and higher T compared to normal cells, this platform is designed for tumor and bacteria microenvironment-active /triggered drugs/bioactive compounds release. To achieve its goal, the project will follow 4 specific objectives:1-Designing the new smart hybrid platform based on innovative and complex hybrid coatings (i.e. pNIPAM-co-BA with/without single active bio-compound); 2. Developing the laboratory MAPLE technology for obtaining hybrid coating with enhanced sensitivity, antitumor and antibacterial potential by tailoring deposition parameters (laser, fluence, target system and composition) and by correlating it with the hybrid coating characteristics (thickness, porosity, composition: various ratio of pNIPAM-co-BA, Hydrophobines, AMPs).3. Optimizing the smart dual responsive engineered hybrid polymeric platforms with different compositions via laser methods and to demonstrate the bio-functionality using a tumor and bacteria microenvironment-active/triggered release of bioactive compounds; 4. To validate the efficacity of the hybrid platform at laboratory level (TRL 4) for various tumoral cells and bacterial lines.

Enhanced magnetic hyperthermia for malignant melanoma therapy Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2019-3292 2020 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE - DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA MATERIALELOR BUCURESTI RA (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: http://ema-hypermat.inflpr.ro

Abstract:

The main objective of the project “Enhanced magnetic hyperthermia for malignant melanoma therapy” (EMA-HYPERMAT) is to increase the level of TRL maturity of a technology for treatment of the malignant melanoma by means of magnetic hyperthermia, implying drug delivery nanosystems developed by us. Nanoparticles could be efficient cytostatic delivery systems, capable of tumor targeting; thereby, the use of such nanosystems decrease adverse effects, increase therapy effectiveness, and increase the survival of skin cancer patients. The combination of chemotherapeutics and hyperthermia can be adjusted, depending on the type and site of the tumor, also on the drug dose and temperature. We propose to combine the advantages of hyperthermia with the controlled delivery of the antitumoral loaded into magnetic particle systems. In this respect, the novelty of our proposal is related on the use of hyperthermia enhancers based on the combination of iron oxide/silica core-shell particles and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) embedded into the thermoplastic polymeric nanospheres. Both particle systems bring specific advantages. For such formulations, smaller concentrations of the iron oxide nanoparticles are necessary in order to obtain similar performances in hyperthermia tests which results in lower toxicity, reduced immunogenicity and side effects while magnetic polymeric nanospheres will provide improved efficiency in the case of hyperthermia and a better drug release due to the higher loading capacity of the polymer matrix.

Implementing a multiplex methodology for rapid testing of hepatic viruses Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect de transfer la operatorul economic
PN-III-P2-2.1-PTE-2019-0226 2020 - 2022

Role in this project:

Coordinating institution: PRO-VITAM S.R.L.

Project partners: PRO-VITAM S.R.L. (RO); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO)

Affiliation:

Project website: https://szilard.ro/multihep

Abstract:

Hepatic viruses represent a major global health problem worldwide with more than 325 million people being chronically infected. Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) induce chronic infections and liver pathology ranging from liver steatosis to cirrhosis. The standard of care for HCV has been recently upgraded with direct acting antivirals being approved for clinical use. The present treatment for HBV is able to control the viral infection, but it does not achieve the clearance of the viral genome. HBV/HDV coinfection determines the most serious form of hepatitis and there is no specific antiviral treatment. In Romania, there is a high prevalence of HBV/HDV coinfected people. Thus, the diagnosis of patients infected with hepatic viruses and their early access to treatment represents a public health priority. Rapid detection tests (RDTs) represent an efficient method to achieve that goal. The present project aims to develop a multiplex RDT for detection of anti-HCV, anti-HDV and HbSAg in patient sera. Our test will use the HDSAg as a capturing probe for anti-HDV antibodies. HCV and HDV antigens will be produced in a recombinant prokaryotic system. Using these antigens, a multiplexed RDT will be assembled and tested in the research laboratory and medical testing laboratory as a prototype.

Integrated development project for advanced medical treatment technologies Call name: P 1 - SP 1.2 - Proiecte complexe realizate in consorții CDI
PN-III-P1-1.2-PCCDI-2017-0728 2018 - 2021

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO); INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE MEDICO-MILITARA „CANTACUZINO” (RO); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA PITESTI (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO)

Project website: http://teramed.inflpr.ro/

Abstract:

In order to increase community’s quality of life, the aim of the project proposal entitled “Integrated development project for advanced medical treatment technologies” (TERAMED) is to develop novel technologies with respect to the treatment of osseous and cutaneous conditions and oncological disorders. Given our experience in healthcare research and the current requirements of multidisciplinary and interinstitutional collaboration towards the personalized treatment purpose, the TERAMED project aims genuine synthesis and processing of biomaterials, but also functional and therapeutic evaluation relevant for clinical trials. The main objectives of the “Medical devices functionalized by laser technologies and alternatives for enhanced osseous integration and regeneration” subproject are to design and produce inorganic, composite or hybrid coatings for superior osteoconductive and osteoinductive performances of titanium-based implants. Smart wound patches and polymeric gels functionalized with antimicrobial and wound healing biomolecules incorporated within micro- and nanoparticles constitute the purpose of the “Medical devices (patches and gels) based on composite biomaterials obtained by laser, plasma and radiation technologies and alternatives for enhanced healing of cutaneous injuries” subproject. The “Technologies based on magnetic triggered nanostructures for oncological therapy: early diagnosis and targeted treatment” subproject aims the development of multifunctional medical devices for specific and selective diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer and melanoma. The general impact of the TERAMED project ensues from the beneficial conjunction of the clinical potential of the proposed medical devices, the feasible technological transfer and the economic advantages of interinstitutional collaboration.

Optimization and validation of an advanced material and technology default based on biopolymer-modified clay as carriers for controlled release of doxorubicin in gastrointestinal tract Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2016-1896 2017 - 2018

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti

Project partners: Institutul National de Cercetare-Dezvoltare pentru Chimie si Petrochimie - ICECHIM Bucuresti (RO); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO)

Project website: http://www.icechim-pd.ro/ro/syst_heter/sisteme_heterogene_doxsaclay.html

Abstract:

The goal of the project DoxSaClay is to obtain, optimize and validate a new product and the associated technology reffering to the advanced material “biopolymer IPN hydrogel networks-modified clay-bioactive agent”. Preliminary results related to polymer-advanced modified clay nanocomposite materials are already demonstrated by the team’s publications. The consortium offers a high level of competencies in biomaterials domain, the Project Coordinating team having a great expertise in the synthesis of advanced materials while the competencies of Partner being related with in vitro testing on cell lines. The method will connect Salecan biopolymer with pH responsive (co)polymers to design new semi-interpenetrated networks (SIPN) with encapsulated amphiphilic nanoclays by free cross-linking radical co(polymerization) to render tunable and efficient advanced materials with enhanced mechanical strength, improved stability and adjustable responsive properties, for the controlled release of anti-cancer drug-doxorubicin in gastrointestinal tract. New delivery methods, particular delivery of doxorubicin, could make a dramatic impact to the medical community who administers the cancer treatment and the patient who endure the effects of the cancer treatment. The local, oral delivery of anti-cancer drugs to the colon maybe made possible by using designed technology, own modified clays and biopolymer semi-interpenetrated networks, by assembling them into novel structures and architectures that can exhibit properties appropriate for the application at hand. Validation of the results will be achieved by ISI publications in prestigious peer-reviewed scientific journals, conferences with international visibility and at least one patent request. Another priority of the present project is to increase the international visibility and competitiveness of Romanian research for successful integration in European Projects (Horizon 2020).

Human lactoferrin-derived peptides with broad spectrum antiviral activity Call name: P 2 - SP 2.1 - Proiect experimental - demonstrativ
PN-III-P2-2.1-PED-2016-1409 2017 - 2018

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO); INSTITUTUL DE VIRUSOLOGIE "STEFAN S.NICOLAU" (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO)

Project website: http://peptivir.ucoz.ro/

Abstract:

Infections with Hepatitis B (HBV) and C viruses (HCV) are major public health threats with more than 400 million individuals being affected worldwide. Romania has a high prevalence of chronic infections, above the average of EU countries. Chronic patients are at high risk of developing end-stage liver diseases or hepatocarcinoma, and about 1 million people die annually due to such liver complications. Infections with the ubiquitous human pathogens Herpes simplex viruses (HSV) and the highly variable RNA viruses, Human adenovirus 5 (Ad5), Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), Enteric cytopathic human orphan 30 (ECHO subtype 30), Measles virus (MeV) also result in severe symptoms which require prolonged treatment.

A major drawback of the current antiviral therapies is the very high cost, which makes them unaffordable for many health care systems in developing countries.

Lactoferrin (Lf), an immunomodulatory glycoprotein was shown to interfere with the life-cycles of many viruses, regardless their origin or structure, both, in vitro and in vivo. In most cases, Lf was demonstrated to exert its antiviral effect at an early step of viral infection due to the crucial presence of cationic clusters in its structure. Recently, our group has rationally designed and characterized the anti-HBV activity of an Lf-derived peptide containing one of the cationic clusters. The peptide has better properties than the parental protein which could overcome the limitation for Lf use in clinical application. Thus, the major goal of this project is to take our initial observation further and investigate Lf-derived peptide(s) with increased solubility and efficient anti-viral action against a broad-range of human viruses, considering the pathogens listed above as models.

This project will prove the concept that the development of non-toxic, small Lf-derived molecule(s) with a broad-spectrum anti-viral activity may constitute a valuable, cheaper alternative to the current standard of care.

Highly adherent biological Hydroxyapatite thin films synthesized by pulsed laser deposition techniques for medical applications Call name: Projects for Young Research Teams - RUTE -2014 call
PN-II-RU-TE-2014-4-1570 2015 - 2017

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO)

Project website: http://lspi.inflpr.ro/contracte%20noi/site%20TE%20108/index.html

Abstract:

The surface functionalization of the implants represents an advanced development in implantology. Hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings for implants are the subject of recent researches pointing to the improvement of biointegration.

This project aims to improve the efficiency of the public health system by studying and developing of Pulsed Laser Deposition protocols for the synthesis of biocompatible nanostructured layers of innovative materials (biological HA, simple or reinforced with various ions) onto metallic substrates (Ti and Ti alloys) for implantology.

The synthesized nanostructures with controlled morphology, structure, thickness and adherence will be thoroughly studied by complex physical-chemical and mechanical investigations. During in-vitro specific bioactivity assays (Simulated Body Fluids), the physical-chemical modifications of the implant’s surface will be monitored as an effect of the interaction with the biological fluids. In-vitro cell cultures and antimicrobial tests will consist in the study of adhesion, proliferation and differentiation of cells and bacterial and fungal strains adhesion onto the studied materials, in order to quantify their biological response.

The expected results refer to obtaining competitive biomimetic implants with increased functionality and biological efficiency as compared to the ones synthesized by plasma spraying, the single technique used nowadays for coating of medical implants.

Next generation of orthopaedic implants based on new Ti bioalloy functionalized with hybrid biomimetic coatings Call name: Joint Applied Research Projects - PCCA 2013 - call
PN-II-PT-PCCA-2013-4-1994 2014 - 2017

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA

Project partners: INSTITUTUL NATIONAL DE CERCETARE DEZVOLTARE PENTRU FIZICA LASERILOR, PLASMEI SI RADIATIEI - INFLPR RA (RO); R&D CONSULTANTA SI SERVICII S.R.L. (RO); UNIVERSITATEA POLITEHNICA DIN BUCURESTI (RO); UNIVERSITATEA BUCURESTI (RO); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO); TEHNOMED IMPEX CO S.A. (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE (RO)

Project website: http://ppam.inflpr.ro/ORTHOBIOMIM.htm

Abstract:

The main objective of ORTHO-BIOMIM project is to obtain competitive and original products, namely advanced orthopaedic implants based on a new Ti-Ta-Nb alloy, which are functionalized by laser based technique (Matrix Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation) with complex hybrid biomimetic coatings (Lactofferin, Hydroxyapatite, Polyethilenglycol-Polycaprolactone synthetic copolymer functionalized with methyl ether group, Lf_HA_PEG-PCL-Me). The proposed approach relies on applied experimental research involving strongly interdisciplinary domains (i.e. material science, mechanics, laser physics, chemistry, microbiology, biomedicine), combined with industrial research activities, development.

The strategic key points for obtaining orthopaedic implant with enhanced characteristics within ORTHOBIOMIM project are:

• New and highly biocompatible Titanium (Ti)–based alloy containing non-toxic components (Ti-Ta-Nb) obtained by levitation technique with enhanced properties (low corrosion, mechanical resistance, elastic modulus etc.) working as implant body;

• Improved mechanical characteristics of the alloy obtained by its thermo-mechanical processing;

• Alloy biofunctionalization with complex hybrid coatings having multiple functionalities (biodegradable, bioresorbable, increased capacity osteogenic, osteoconductive and osteoinductive, anti-inflammatory ) by laser methods (MAPLE).To mimic the process of osseointegration, these coatings will be composed of natural biodegradable compounds, namely lactoferrin (Lf) and hydroxyapatite (HA), and a antifouling synthetic copolymer functionalized with methyl ether PEG-PCL-Me);

• Highly flexible methods for obtaining alloy processing and functionalization, allowing control defined composition, chemistry and surface topography when both alloy and the coating / film hybrid biomimetic functional.

The implications anticipated within ORTHOBIOMIM project development are related to major scientific benefits by increasing national competitiveness and visibility in research, development and innovation, but also to social and economic benefits . In the social context, in addition to the involvement of a large number of youth in the project and creating jobs, a very important benefit provided by this project is given by the envisaged faster osseointegration and long lifespan of the implant. This might be of crucial importance for those patients whose health status and life will be enhanced through the use of new medical implants by reducing risks of infection and thus reduce costs for medication or those necessary to replace a failed implant.

By the proposed objectives and approach, the project is aligned with the main points defined Partner Program, which promotes the applied inter and trans-disciplinary research in micro and nanostructured advanced materials for applications in medical field.

Oral delivery of bio-actives with polymeric nanoparticles: bioavailability and tissue distribution of delivered active ingredient, nanoparticle translocation and overall particle bioreactivity Call name:
EPA-G2010-STAR-N2 Food Matrices (Award No. 2010-05269) and the N 2011 - 2016

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY

Project partners: LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY (); INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE ()

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE ()

Project website: https://reeis.usda.gov/web/crisprojectpages/0224971-oral-delivery-of-bioactives-with-polymeric-nanoparticles-bioavailability-and-tissue-distribution-of-delivered-active-ingredient-nanoparti.html

Abstract:

The overriding goal of the project is to assess the bioreactivity (biotoxicity, inflammatory effects and immune-reactivity) of polymeric nanoparticles specifically designed for delivery of biologically active compounds via food, with a focus on quantifying the bioreactivity as a function of nanoparticle properties and dose, type of entrapped active ingredient, and characteristics of the meal with which administered. Polymeric nanoparticles of well-controlled sizes, surface properties, and material compositions with entrapped hydrophobic and hydrophilic bioactives will be synthesized by (double) emulsion evaporation method. Pharmacokinetics of entrapped bioactives provided via 2 types (normal and high fat) meals will be quantified in-vivo. In-vivo NP bioreactivity will be measured by clinical pathologic assessment of serum chemistry parameters and histopathologic evaluation of target organs of mice following acute and chronic exposure to PLGA and PLGA/Chi nanoparticles of two sizes.

Cellular mechanisms associated with the endoplasmic reticulum during hypoxia. Implications for biomedical research. Call name: Projects for Young Research Teams - TE-2010 call
PN-II-RU-TE-2010-0048 2010 - 2014

Role in this project: Key expert

Coordinating institution: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE DIN BUCURESTI

Project partners: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE DIN BUCURESTI (RO)

Affiliation: INSTITUTUL DE BIOCHIMIE DIN BUCURESTI (RO)

Project website: http://www.biochim.ro/ib/projects/hipoxia/hipoxia_ro.php

Abstract:

ALL CELLS, IN PARTICULAR THE EUKARYOTES, DEPEND FOR THEIR SURVIVAL ON AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF OXYGEN. HYPOXIA CAN AFFECT THE WHOLE BODY IF ORGANISM ENCOUNTERS CARDIAC ARREST OR SEVERE HYPOTENSION, OR A SMALLER TISSUE AREA AS IN MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION, STROKE OR CANCER. IF OXYGEN CONCENTRATIONS ARE VERY LOW AND PROLONGED FOR LONG TIME CELLS ENTER APOPTOSIS AND WILL FINALLY DIE. SO FAR MANY STUDIES FOCUSED ON THE MECHANISMS OF OXYGEN SENSING AND ON ALTERATIONS OF CYTOPLASMIC AND MITOCHONDRIAL PROCESSES DURING HYPOXIA. RECENT FINDINGS SUGGEST THAT AN ENDOPLASMIC RETICULUM (ER) ASSOCIATED PROCESS, NAMELY THE UNFOLDED PROTEIN RESPONSE (UPR) IS ACTIVATED DURING HYPOXIA LEADING TO FORMATION OF TRANSCRIPTION FACTORS THAT DRAMATICALLY EFFECTS GENE EXPRESSION AND REGULATION. HOWEVER, THE TRIGGER THAT PROMOTES UPR ACTIVATION IS UNKNOWN. USING COMPLEX CELLULAR BIOLOGY, BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY ASSAYS, WE AIM TO INVESTIGATE DISULFIDE BOND FORMATION FOR SEVERAL MODEL PROTEINS DESTINED TO THE SECRETORY PATHWAY AND SUBSEQUENTLY TO IDENTIFY THE ER RESIDENT PROTEINS THAT CAN NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY IN HYPOXIC CONDITIONS. ER ASSOCIATED DEGRADATION (ERAD) MAY ALSO BE THE CAUSE OF UPR ACTIVATION. FOR THIS REASON, WE WILL MONITOR DEGRADATION OF SEVERAL ERAD SUBSTRATES IN HYPOXIA, AIMING TO UNDERSTAND IF ACCUMULATION OF ERAD SUBSTRATES IS THE LEADING CAUSE OF UPR ACTIVATION. ALL TOGETHER THESE FINDINGS WILL CREATE NEW POTENTIAL TARGETS FOR MEDICINES THAT AIM TO ALLEVIATE THE SYMPTOMS OF HYPOXIA-ASSOCIATED DISEASES OR WILL INTERFERE WITH ACTIVATION OF SPECIFIC GENES IN CANCER.

FILE DESCRIPTION	DOCUMENT
List of research grants as project coordinator or partner team leader
Significant R&D projects for enterprises, as project manager
R&D activities in enterprises
Peer-review activity for international programs/projects