YSU researcher explores ways to overcome resistance to antibiotics

While presenting insights from the project, Naira Sahakyan emphasized that the implementation of this project is one of the World Health Organization's current priorities. 

Significance of understanding the link between bacterial infections and cancer 

The emergence of antibiotic resistance has rendered traditional approaches to managing health problems increasingly ineffective. Understanding the link between bacterial infections and cancer is crucial, especially given the rising mortality rates among cancer patients due to antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This issue is further complicated by the mutations in intestinal microflora that occur during cancer chemotherapy, which contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Therefore, it is essential to study new compounds with antimicrobial and anticancer properties, as well as to develop innovative strategies to address these challenges. 

Overcoming antibiotic resistance in tumor cells 

Plant phenolics have the potential to address antibiotic resistance in both bacterial and tumor cells, thereby enhancing the therapeutic effects of existing treatments. This project will explore the metabolic characteristics of various plants and the mechanisms underlying the antibiotic and antibiotic-modulating effects of their extracts or individual flavonoids.

A range of bacteria and cell lines, including both cancerous and normal types as well as antibiotic-resistant forms, will be used as test systems. Various in vitro (under experimental conditions) and in silico (using IT technologies) biochemical approaches will be employed to elucidate the mechanisms of action of physiologically active compounds. 

Engaging youth in science project to facilitate smooth generational transition

The studies will be conducted in the biology research laboratories at YSU and are expected to last approximately three years. The research team consists of PhD students and undergraduate students from various academic years. The PhD students have received training at various European research institutions through local and international grants, acquiring new skills and professional expertise.

In addition to scientific findings, involving youth is expected to facilitate a smooth generational transition and provide fresh impetus for ongoing grant programs. Plans are in place to ensure young professionals can participate in various international conferences. To support this, efforts will be made to secure additional resources for their training abroad. 

Professor Ruben Abagyan from the University of San Diego is involved in the research activities of this project as a scientific consultant. His research focuses on developing new structure-based drug discovery and optimization technologies for structural systems biology and protein modeling aimed at target discovery. 

Creating trust via articles published in peer-reviewed journals

The choice of this topic stems from the fact that, over many years, our laboratory has accumulated substantial information on the role of plant phenols in cellular processes across various organisms. Together, our group members have co-authored around five dozen scientific articles published in local and international peer-reviewed journals. This extensive publication record instills confidence in the ongoing direction of our research.

Projects submitted by twelve female researchers from YSU were recognized as winners in the "Program for the Advancement of Women Leaders - 2024" competition hosted by the RA MoESCS.