Vol. 44-supp.A
Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF)
Warsaw, June 23-26, 2025
Plenary lectures/Posters
Download PDF
2025
1.
Gruszecki, Wieslaw I.
When you look deep into the human eye… A biophysicist's perspective Conference
Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF), vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025, ISSN: 2084-1892.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{PlenaryLectures2025_1,
title = {When you look deep into the human eye… A biophysicist's perspective },
author = {Wieslaw I. Gruszecki},
issn = {2084-1892},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-23},
urldate = {2025-06-23},
booktitle = {Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF)},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
issue = {44},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {When you look deep into a human eye, you will see a yellow spot. When you carefully examine this part of the retina, you will discover that this color comes from lutein and zeaxanthin, yellow xanthophyll pigments, the same ones found in the chloroplasts of plants. In fact, the very same pigment molecules that we owe to our healthy “green” diet may perform important biological functions, similar in both the photosynthetic apparatus and the eye. The results of the recent studies from our laboratory reveal the operation of very interesting and distinctive for the retina molecular mechanisms based upon the trans-cis photo-isomerization of xanthophylls. During my talk, I will provide an overview of these mechanisms, their physiological consequences, and promote a “colorful” diet that is extremely important for your sharp vision throughout the decades of your life},
key = {1},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
When you look deep into a human eye, you will see a yellow spot. When you carefully examine this part of the retina, you will discover that this color comes from lutein and zeaxanthin, yellow xanthophyll pigments, the same ones found in the chloroplasts of plants. In fact, the very same pigment molecules that we owe to our healthy “green” diet may perform important biological functions, similar in both the photosynthetic apparatus and the eye. The results of the recent studies from our laboratory reveal the operation of very interesting and distinctive for the retina molecular mechanisms based upon the trans-cis photo-isomerization of xanthophylls. During my talk, I will provide an overview of these mechanisms, their physiological consequences, and promote a “colorful” diet that is extremely important for your sharp vision throughout the decades of your life
2.
Gryczyński, Ignacy
Room temperature phosphorescence with direct triplet state excitation Conference
Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF), vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025, ISSN: 2084-1892.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{PlenaryLectures2025_2,
title = {Room temperature phosphorescence with direct triplet state excitation},
author = {Ignacy Gryczyński},
issn = {2084-1892},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-23},
urldate = {2025-06-23},
booktitle = {Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF)},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
issue = {44},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {Although transitions between states of different multiplicity are strongly forbidden, in many cases they have been observed. For example, triplet-singlet transition is forbidden, but phosphorescence is commonly observed and measured. Usually, phosphorescence requires low temperatures, and most measurements are done in liquid nitrogen or helium. However, immobilization of fluorophores in polymers with a low permeability for oxygen often results in easily observable phosphorescence emission at room temperature, phenomenon called RTP. Interestingly, in many cases RTP can be achieved with the direct triplet state excitation at longer wavelengths than absorption. In this lecture a recent achievements in directly excited RTP will be presented.},
key = {2},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Although transitions between states of different multiplicity are strongly forbidden, in many cases they have been observed. For example, triplet-singlet transition is forbidden, but phosphorescence is commonly observed and measured. Usually, phosphorescence requires low temperatures, and most measurements are done in liquid nitrogen or helium. However, immobilization of fluorophores in polymers with a low permeability for oxygen often results in easily observable phosphorescence emission at room temperature, phenomenon called RTP. Interestingly, in many cases RTP can be achieved with the direct triplet state excitation at longer wavelengths than absorption. In this lecture a recent achievements in directly excited RTP will be presented.
3.
Śmiałkowski, Krzysztofa; Bednarska-Szczepaniak, Katarzyna; Ebenryter-Olbińska, Katarzyna; Kulik, Katarzyna; Suwara, Justyna; Gajek, Gabriela; Fiedorowicz, Lidia; Foryś, Aleksander; Grűner, Bohumir; Nawrot, Barbara; Leśnikowski, Zbigniew
Conjugates of DNA and boron clusters as building blocks for nanoparticle carriers of therapeutic nucleic acids with gene silencing activities Conference
Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF), vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025, ISSN: 2084-1892.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{PlenaryLectures2025_3,
title = {Conjugates of DNA and boron clusters as building blocks for nanoparticle carriers of therapeutic nucleic acids with gene silencing activities},
author = {Krzysztofa Śmiałkowski and Katarzyna Bednarska-Szczepaniak and Katarzyna Ebenryter-Olbińska and Katarzyna Kulik and Justyna Suwara and Gabriela Gajek and Lidia Fiedorowicz and Aleksander Foryś and Bohumir Grűner and Barbara Nawrot and Zbigniew Leśnikowski },
issn = {2084-1892},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-24},
urldate = {2025-06-24},
booktitle = {Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF)},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
issue = {44},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {Despite thousands of chemotherapeutic drugs approved for clinical practice, there are still many unmet needs in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. The need to fill this never-shrinking gap is driving search for new drugs, both in the traditional chemotherapeutic category and in newer generation drugs such as biotherapeutics. Still another, emerging recently drug modality are therapeutic nucleic acids (TNAs) that have the potential to address many currently unmet by chemotherapeutic and biotherapeutic drugs needs [1-3]. However, even though already there are over 20 TNAs on the market, TNAs are still a new technology that faces challenges and problems that must to be solved. They include difficulties with delivery, susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, rapid clearance from the body, off-target effects and others. In quest to find solutions to these problems, a number of technologies are tested, one of them is nanotechnology.
For several years, our laboratory has researched modifying nucleic acids with boron clusters, a molecular cages with unique and advantageous properties [4], and studied their applications as probes for molecular diagnostics, boron carriers for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) and therapeutic nucleic acids. Continuing involvement in the very hot research area of TNAs we are focusing now on nanoparticle carriers of TNAs based on composites of DNA-oligomers and boron clusters.....
},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Despite thousands of chemotherapeutic drugs approved for clinical practice, there are still many unmet needs in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. The need to fill this never-shrinking gap is driving search for new drugs, both in the traditional chemotherapeutic category and in newer generation drugs such as biotherapeutics. Still another, emerging recently drug modality are therapeutic nucleic acids (TNAs) that have the potential to address many currently unmet by chemotherapeutic and biotherapeutic drugs needs [1-3]. However, even though already there are over 20 TNAs on the market, TNAs are still a new technology that faces challenges and problems that must to be solved. They include difficulties with delivery, susceptibility to degradation by nucleases, rapid clearance from the body, off-target effects and others. In quest to find solutions to these problems, a number of technologies are tested, one of them is nanotechnology.
For several years, our laboratory has researched modifying nucleic acids with boron clusters, a molecular cages with unique and advantageous properties [4], and studied their applications as probes for molecular diagnostics, boron carriers for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) and therapeutic nucleic acids. Continuing involvement in the very hot research area of TNAs we are focusing now on nanoparticle carriers of TNAs based on composites of DNA-oligomers and boron clusters.....
For several years, our laboratory has researched modifying nucleic acids with boron clusters, a molecular cages with unique and advantageous properties [4], and studied their applications as probes for molecular diagnostics, boron carriers for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) and therapeutic nucleic acids. Continuing involvement in the very hot research area of TNAs we are focusing now on nanoparticle carriers of TNAs based on composites of DNA-oligomers and boron clusters.....
4.
Stachewicz, Urszula
Cell Response Driven by Surface chemistry and Charges on electrospun polymer NANOfibers Conference
Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF), vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025, ISSN: 2084-1892.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{PlenaryLectures2025_4,
title = {Cell Response Driven by Surface chemistry and Charges on electrospun polymer NANOfibers},
author = {Urszula Stachewicz},
issn = {2084-1892},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-24},
urldate = {2025-06-24},
booktitle = {Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF)},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
issue = {44},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {Surface charge is a critical determinant in cell–biomaterial interactions, influencing adhesion, proliferation, and regenerative signaling. Electrospun polymer scaffolds, known for their high surface-area-to-volume ratio, are promising candidates for biomedical applications such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, and skin regeneration [1-2]. However, precise control over surface charge during electrospinning remains underexplored.
A comprehensive investigation of distinct mechanisms to modulate surface potential in electrospun fibers was performed. We examined the influence of polymer chain orientation induced by alternating voltage polarity during electrospinning [3]. We also explored material diffusion between core and shell phases in coaxial fibers [4]. Most recently, we evaluated the impact of incorporating two-dimensional conductive nanomaterials—reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and titanium carbide MXenes (Ti₃C₂Tₓ)—on surface potential of polymer fibers [5].We demonstrate that reversing the polarity of the applied voltage during electrospinning significantly alters the surface potential of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) fibers, as shown by Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), and this modulation directly enhances osteoblast adhesion [6]. Additionally, we explore how diffusion between core and shell materials affects fibre surface chemistry and charge distribution, shedding light on a previously unexamined factor in coaxial electrospinning. Moreover, we show that embedding rGO and MXene nanosheets within polymer matrices modifies surface potential and bioactivity, even when these nanomaterials are not surface-exposed.
Scaffolds were systematically characterized using KPFM, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and zeta potential measurements to correlate surface properties with cellular responses. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) with AiryScan was employed to visualize focal adhesion complexes, offering insights into how surface charge governs outside-in and inside-out signaling pathways.
In summary, our findings highlight the pivotal role of scaffold surface potential in mediating cellular responses and underscore the importance of tailored electrospun fibre design to accelerate tissue regeneration processes. ....
},
key = {4},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Surface charge is a critical determinant in cell–biomaterial interactions, influencing adhesion, proliferation, and regenerative signaling. Electrospun polymer scaffolds, known for their high surface-area-to-volume ratio, are promising candidates for biomedical applications such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, and skin regeneration [1-2]. However, precise control over surface charge during electrospinning remains underexplored.
A comprehensive investigation of distinct mechanisms to modulate surface potential in electrospun fibers was performed. We examined the influence of polymer chain orientation induced by alternating voltage polarity during electrospinning [3]. We also explored material diffusion between core and shell phases in coaxial fibers [4]. Most recently, we evaluated the impact of incorporating two-dimensional conductive nanomaterials—reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and titanium carbide MXenes (Ti₃C₂Tₓ)—on surface potential of polymer fibers [5].We demonstrate that reversing the polarity of the applied voltage during electrospinning significantly alters the surface potential of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) fibers, as shown by Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), and this modulation directly enhances osteoblast adhesion [6]. Additionally, we explore how diffusion between core and shell materials affects fibre surface chemistry and charge distribution, shedding light on a previously unexamined factor in coaxial electrospinning. Moreover, we show that embedding rGO and MXene nanosheets within polymer matrices modifies surface potential and bioactivity, even when these nanomaterials are not surface-exposed.
Scaffolds were systematically characterized using KPFM, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and zeta potential measurements to correlate surface properties with cellular responses. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) with AiryScan was employed to visualize focal adhesion complexes, offering insights into how surface charge governs outside-in and inside-out signaling pathways.
In summary, our findings highlight the pivotal role of scaffold surface potential in mediating cellular responses and underscore the importance of tailored electrospun fibre design to accelerate tissue regeneration processes. ....
A comprehensive investigation of distinct mechanisms to modulate surface potential in electrospun fibers was performed. We examined the influence of polymer chain orientation induced by alternating voltage polarity during electrospinning [3]. We also explored material diffusion between core and shell phases in coaxial fibers [4]. Most recently, we evaluated the impact of incorporating two-dimensional conductive nanomaterials—reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and titanium carbide MXenes (Ti₃C₂Tₓ)—on surface potential of polymer fibers [5].We demonstrate that reversing the polarity of the applied voltage during electrospinning significantly alters the surface potential of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) fibers, as shown by Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), and this modulation directly enhances osteoblast adhesion [6]. Additionally, we explore how diffusion between core and shell materials affects fibre surface chemistry and charge distribution, shedding light on a previously unexamined factor in coaxial electrospinning. Moreover, we show that embedding rGO and MXene nanosheets within polymer matrices modifies surface potential and bioactivity, even when these nanomaterials are not surface-exposed.
Scaffolds were systematically characterized using KPFM, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and zeta potential measurements to correlate surface properties with cellular responses. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) with AiryScan was employed to visualize focal adhesion complexes, offering insights into how surface charge governs outside-in and inside-out signaling pathways.
In summary, our findings highlight the pivotal role of scaffold surface potential in mediating cellular responses and underscore the importance of tailored electrospun fibre design to accelerate tissue regeneration processes. ....
5.
Azuma, Yusuke
Reengineering of a Bacterial Compartment INTO Tailorable Bionanomaterials Conference
vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{PlenaryLectures2025_5,
title = {Reengineering of a Bacterial Compartment INTO Tailorable Bionanomaterials},
author = {Yusuke Azuma},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-24},
urldate = {2025-06-24},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
issue = {44},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {Self-assembling protein cages are naturally occurring hollow nanostructures with inherent capabilities for compartmentalizing and organizing biomolecules, making them promising candidates for a wide range of bioengineering applications. A key challenge in this field is precisely controlling their assembly and morphology to tailor function for specific applications. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the polymorphic protein assemblies provides a basis for designing ones with the desired morphology.
Our recent work elucidates fundamental principles governing the self-assembly of a model cage-forming protein, Aquifex aeolicus lumazine synthase (AaLS) [1,2]. An engineered, circularly permuted variant of AaLS exhibits remarkable structural plasticity, assembling into diverse, hollow spherical and cylindrical structures in response to subtle changes in ionic strength (Fig. 1). Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) reveals that these structures are composed entirely of pentameric subunits, and the dramatic cage-to-tube transformation is mediated by an α-helix domain that is untethered from its native position by circular permutation, a key structural determinant for controlling assembly [3]. The utility of this controlled assembly is demonstrated by the stabilization of labile biomolecules produced in host cells and their efficient retrieval outside biological contexts, showcasing cpAaLS as a versatile platform for nanoscale manipulation and cargo delivery [4].
Our results highlight the potential for broad advancements across biotechnological applications, ranging from bioproduction to nanomedicine. Furthermore, the structural insights gained into the assembly mechanisms and the role of circular permutation in dictating morphology provide a valuable framework for the rational design of novel nanomaterials with tailored properties....
},
key = {5},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Self-assembling protein cages are naturally occurring hollow nanostructures with inherent capabilities for compartmentalizing and organizing biomolecules, making them promising candidates for a wide range of bioengineering applications. A key challenge in this field is precisely controlling their assembly and morphology to tailor function for specific applications. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the polymorphic protein assemblies provides a basis for designing ones with the desired morphology.
Our recent work elucidates fundamental principles governing the self-assembly of a model cage-forming protein, Aquifex aeolicus lumazine synthase (AaLS) [1,2]. An engineered, circularly permuted variant of AaLS exhibits remarkable structural plasticity, assembling into diverse, hollow spherical and cylindrical structures in response to subtle changes in ionic strength (Fig. 1). Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) reveals that these structures are composed entirely of pentameric subunits, and the dramatic cage-to-tube transformation is mediated by an α-helix domain that is untethered from its native position by circular permutation, a key structural determinant for controlling assembly [3]. The utility of this controlled assembly is demonstrated by the stabilization of labile biomolecules produced in host cells and their efficient retrieval outside biological contexts, showcasing cpAaLS as a versatile platform for nanoscale manipulation and cargo delivery [4].
Our results highlight the potential for broad advancements across biotechnological applications, ranging from bioproduction to nanomedicine. Furthermore, the structural insights gained into the assembly mechanisms and the role of circular permutation in dictating morphology provide a valuable framework for the rational design of novel nanomaterials with tailored properties....
Our recent work elucidates fundamental principles governing the self-assembly of a model cage-forming protein, Aquifex aeolicus lumazine synthase (AaLS) [1,2]. An engineered, circularly permuted variant of AaLS exhibits remarkable structural plasticity, assembling into diverse, hollow spherical and cylindrical structures in response to subtle changes in ionic strength (Fig. 1). Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) reveals that these structures are composed entirely of pentameric subunits, and the dramatic cage-to-tube transformation is mediated by an α-helix domain that is untethered from its native position by circular permutation, a key structural determinant for controlling assembly [3]. The utility of this controlled assembly is demonstrated by the stabilization of labile biomolecules produced in host cells and their efficient retrieval outside biological contexts, showcasing cpAaLS as a versatile platform for nanoscale manipulation and cargo delivery [4].
Our results highlight the potential for broad advancements across biotechnological applications, ranging from bioproduction to nanomedicine. Furthermore, the structural insights gained into the assembly mechanisms and the role of circular permutation in dictating morphology provide a valuable framework for the rational design of novel nanomaterials with tailored properties....
6.
Klajnert-Maculewicz, Barbara; Dąbrzalska, Monika; Sztandera, Krzysztof; Gorzkiewicz, Michał
Nanocarrier-based delivery of rose bengal for enhanced photodynamic therapy of basal cell carcinoma Conference
vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025, ISSN: 2084-1892.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{PlenaryLectures2025_6,
title = {Nanocarrier-based delivery of rose bengal for enhanced photodynamic therapy of basal cell carcinoma},
author = {Barbara Klajnert-Maculewicz and Monika Dąbrzalska and Krzysztof Sztandera and Michał Gorzkiewicz},
issn = {2084-1892},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-24},
urldate = {2025-06-24},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
issue = {44},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative approach to skin cancer treatment, offering a targeted and less invasive alternative to conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy while minimizing adverse effects. PDT relies on the activation of a photosensitizing agent by light of a specific wavelength in the presence of molecular oxygen, generating singlet oxygen and reactive oxygen species that induce cell death. The effectiveness of PDT is largely dependent on the properties of the photosensitizer, which can face limitations such as poor solubility, low tumor specificity, and inadequate accumulation at the target site. To overcome these challenges, nanocarriers have been explored as effective delivery systems [1].
This study focuses on the potential of dendrimers [2, 3], dendrimersomes [4], and polymersomes [5] as nanoscale carriers for rose Bengal - a photosensitizer. We evaluated four distinct nanocarriers based on key parameters, including spectral properties, encapsulation efficiency, singlet oxygen generation, intracellular transport, and phototoxicity. By systematically comparing these nanosystems, we assessed their ability to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of rose Bengal in PDT for basal cell carcinoma.
Our findings highlight that the interaction mechanism between rose Bengal and the nanocarrier plays a crucial role in determining its photodynamic efficiency. Among the studied delivery methods, phosphorus dendrimers demonstrated the highest efficacy, significantly improving singlet oxygen production, intracellular transport, and phototoxic effects [2]. These results demonstrate the potential of nanocarrier-based delivery strategies for optimizing PDT outcomes in basal cell carcinoma treatment ....
},
key = {6},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative approach to skin cancer treatment, offering a targeted and less invasive alternative to conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy while minimizing adverse effects. PDT relies on the activation of a photosensitizing agent by light of a specific wavelength in the presence of molecular oxygen, generating singlet oxygen and reactive oxygen species that induce cell death. The effectiveness of PDT is largely dependent on the properties of the photosensitizer, which can face limitations such as poor solubility, low tumor specificity, and inadequate accumulation at the target site. To overcome these challenges, nanocarriers have been explored as effective delivery systems [1].
This study focuses on the potential of dendrimers [2, 3], dendrimersomes [4], and polymersomes [5] as nanoscale carriers for rose Bengal - a photosensitizer. We evaluated four distinct nanocarriers based on key parameters, including spectral properties, encapsulation efficiency, singlet oxygen generation, intracellular transport, and phototoxicity. By systematically comparing these nanosystems, we assessed their ability to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of rose Bengal in PDT for basal cell carcinoma.
Our findings highlight that the interaction mechanism between rose Bengal and the nanocarrier plays a crucial role in determining its photodynamic efficiency. Among the studied delivery methods, phosphorus dendrimers demonstrated the highest efficacy, significantly improving singlet oxygen production, intracellular transport, and phototoxic effects [2]. These results demonstrate the potential of nanocarrier-based delivery strategies for optimizing PDT outcomes in basal cell carcinoma treatment ....
This study focuses on the potential of dendrimers [2, 3], dendrimersomes [4], and polymersomes [5] as nanoscale carriers for rose Bengal - a photosensitizer. We evaluated four distinct nanocarriers based on key parameters, including spectral properties, encapsulation efficiency, singlet oxygen generation, intracellular transport, and phototoxicity. By systematically comparing these nanosystems, we assessed their ability to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of rose Bengal in PDT for basal cell carcinoma.
Our findings highlight that the interaction mechanism between rose Bengal and the nanocarrier plays a crucial role in determining its photodynamic efficiency. Among the studied delivery methods, phosphorus dendrimers demonstrated the highest efficacy, significantly improving singlet oxygen production, intracellular transport, and phototoxic effects [2]. These results demonstrate the potential of nanocarrier-based delivery strategies for optimizing PDT outcomes in basal cell carcinoma treatment ....
7.
Michel, Olga; Kaczorowska, Aleksandra; Matusewicz, Lucyna; Piórkowska, Kliwia; Golec, Marlena; Fus, Wiktoria; Kuliczkowski, Kazimierz; Sikorski, Aleksander F.; Czogalla, Aleksander
Peptidooliposomal formulations for antiviral therapies Conference
vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{PlenaryLectures2025_7,
title = {Peptidooliposomal formulations for antiviral therapies},
author = {Olga Michel and Aleksandra Kaczorowska and Lucyna Matusewicz and Kliwia Piórkowska and Marlena Golec and Wiktoria Fus and Kazimierz Kuliczkowski and Aleksander F. Sikorski and Aleksander Czogalla},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-24},
urldate = {2025-06-24},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
issue = {44},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {There is an urgent need for the development of new antiviral formulations because humanity is constantly confronted with a range of new, potentially lethal viruses originating from different reservoirs. These formulations should prevent the progression of viremia and disease while being relatively easily adaptable to specific needs and guarantee resistance to mutational changes [1]. Such a goal can be achieved with appropriately functionalized nanoparticles such as liposomes [2].
Our aim was to develop effective therapeutic formulations against coronavirus and influenza infections. Using maleimide-functionalized liposomes as a platform for the immobilization, stabilization and delivery of short peptide sequences with high affinity to viral particles, we focused on fine-tuning the lipid composition and size calibration procedure to achieve selective binding, high homogeneity and excellent long-term stability. We show that the stability of the formulations depends not only on their chemical composition, but more importantly on the particle size calibration technique used in their preparation. The approach based on the widely used extrusion through membranes of defined pores makes it possible to achieve long-term stability. However, a stable and highly homogeneous formulation could also be produced by a high-throughput microfluidic homogenization technique [3]. In a first step towards the creation of nanostructures that recognize and deactivate viral particles, we have demonstrated the robustness and specificity of the prepared nanostructures by measuring the biomolecular interactions using microscale thermophoresis. The inhibitory effect of the obtained preparations against the infection of susceptible cells by pseudoviruses (lentiviruses bearing genes encoding luciferase-conjugated SARS-Cov-2 proteins) was also confirmed. Furthermore, our nanoformulations showed no toxicity either in vitro or in vivo.
Thus, the developed nanocarrier technology can serve as a platform for virus-inactivating nanoparticles, and its versatility can be ensured by replacing individual components. ...
},
key = {7},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
There is an urgent need for the development of new antiviral formulations because humanity is constantly confronted with a range of new, potentially lethal viruses originating from different reservoirs. These formulations should prevent the progression of viremia and disease while being relatively easily adaptable to specific needs and guarantee resistance to mutational changes [1]. Such a goal can be achieved with appropriately functionalized nanoparticles such as liposomes [2].
Our aim was to develop effective therapeutic formulations against coronavirus and influenza infections. Using maleimide-functionalized liposomes as a platform for the immobilization, stabilization and delivery of short peptide sequences with high affinity to viral particles, we focused on fine-tuning the lipid composition and size calibration procedure to achieve selective binding, high homogeneity and excellent long-term stability. We show that the stability of the formulations depends not only on their chemical composition, but more importantly on the particle size calibration technique used in their preparation. The approach based on the widely used extrusion through membranes of defined pores makes it possible to achieve long-term stability. However, a stable and highly homogeneous formulation could also be produced by a high-throughput microfluidic homogenization technique [3]. In a first step towards the creation of nanostructures that recognize and deactivate viral particles, we have demonstrated the robustness and specificity of the prepared nanostructures by measuring the biomolecular interactions using microscale thermophoresis. The inhibitory effect of the obtained preparations against the infection of susceptible cells by pseudoviruses (lentiviruses bearing genes encoding luciferase-conjugated SARS-Cov-2 proteins) was also confirmed. Furthermore, our nanoformulations showed no toxicity either in vitro or in vivo.
Thus, the developed nanocarrier technology can serve as a platform for virus-inactivating nanoparticles, and its versatility can be ensured by replacing individual components. ...
Our aim was to develop effective therapeutic formulations against coronavirus and influenza infections. Using maleimide-functionalized liposomes as a platform for the immobilization, stabilization and delivery of short peptide sequences with high affinity to viral particles, we focused on fine-tuning the lipid composition and size calibration procedure to achieve selective binding, high homogeneity and excellent long-term stability. We show that the stability of the formulations depends not only on their chemical composition, but more importantly on the particle size calibration technique used in their preparation. The approach based on the widely used extrusion through membranes of defined pores makes it possible to achieve long-term stability. However, a stable and highly homogeneous formulation could also be produced by a high-throughput microfluidic homogenization technique [3]. In a first step towards the creation of nanostructures that recognize and deactivate viral particles, we have demonstrated the robustness and specificity of the prepared nanostructures by measuring the biomolecular interactions using microscale thermophoresis. The inhibitory effect of the obtained preparations against the infection of susceptible cells by pseudoviruses (lentiviruses bearing genes encoding luciferase-conjugated SARS-Cov-2 proteins) was also confirmed. Furthermore, our nanoformulations showed no toxicity either in vitro or in vivo.
Thus, the developed nanocarrier technology can serve as a platform for virus-inactivating nanoparticles, and its versatility can be ensured by replacing individual components. ...
8.
Radoń, Adrian; Ciuraszkiewicz, Agnieszka; Piotrowski, Piotr; Hudecki, Andrzej; Litwinienko, Grzegorz; Lewińska, Anna; Wnuk, Maciej
Hotter together: boosting hyperthermia efficiency through inter-particle interactions Conference
Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF), vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025, ISSN: 2084-1892.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{Radoń2025,
title = {Hotter together: boosting hyperthermia efficiency through inter-particle interactions},
author = {Adrian Radoń and Agnieszka Ciuraszkiewicz and Piotr Piotrowski and Andrzej Hudecki and Grzegorz Litwinienko and Anna Lewińska and Maciej Wnuk},
issn = {2084-1892},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-24},
urldate = {2025-06-24},
booktitle = {Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF)},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
issue = {44},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {In recent years, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted growing interest as anticancer agents within the scientific and medical fields. A prominent example is NanoTherm® therapy, primarily applied in treating gliomas, which utilizes magnetically induced hyperthermia [1]. In this therapy, an alternating magnetic field generates heat through Néel and Brownian motions and hysteresis losses (in some instances) of magnetic particles [2].
The chemical composition, size, and shape of the MNPs significantly influence the efficiency of magnetically induced hyperthermia. As such, these parameters are systematically tested to optimize performance [3]. One of the most critical factors is the dispersion concentration of the magnetic particles (Cmagn). However, the relationship between Cmagn and the specific absorption rate (SAR) is nonlinear. Moreover, the resulting temperature increase (ΔT) does not directly correlate with SAR values. These phenomena were recently explored in depth by Kim et al. [4], who linked them to inter-particle interactions in magnetic fluids at varying concentrations.
In this study, we focus on these inter-particle interactions by varying the dispersion concentration and modifying the initial nanoparticle interactions during the synthesis process. Tailored synthesis methods allow us to produce a variety of nanoparticle structures, including ultrafine and highly agglomerated particles, large cuboidal particles, multicore MNPs, and ultrafine particles embedded in a polymer matrix.
Each nanoparticle type exhibits distinct behavior when analyzing SAR as a function of concentration. Interestingly, even nanoparticles with identical chemical compositions and similar size and shape can show significantly different heating efficiencies (see Table 1). These variations are attributed to inter-particle interactions, which can be precisely adjusted during synthesis using different surface modifiers ....
},
key = {8},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
In recent years, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have attracted growing interest as anticancer agents within the scientific and medical fields. A prominent example is NanoTherm® therapy, primarily applied in treating gliomas, which utilizes magnetically induced hyperthermia [1]. In this therapy, an alternating magnetic field generates heat through Néel and Brownian motions and hysteresis losses (in some instances) of magnetic particles [2].
The chemical composition, size, and shape of the MNPs significantly influence the efficiency of magnetically induced hyperthermia. As such, these parameters are systematically tested to optimize performance [3]. One of the most critical factors is the dispersion concentration of the magnetic particles (Cmagn). However, the relationship between Cmagn and the specific absorption rate (SAR) is nonlinear. Moreover, the resulting temperature increase (ΔT) does not directly correlate with SAR values. These phenomena were recently explored in depth by Kim et al. [4], who linked them to inter-particle interactions in magnetic fluids at varying concentrations.
In this study, we focus on these inter-particle interactions by varying the dispersion concentration and modifying the initial nanoparticle interactions during the synthesis process. Tailored synthesis methods allow us to produce a variety of nanoparticle structures, including ultrafine and highly agglomerated particles, large cuboidal particles, multicore MNPs, and ultrafine particles embedded in a polymer matrix.
Each nanoparticle type exhibits distinct behavior when analyzing SAR as a function of concentration. Interestingly, even nanoparticles with identical chemical compositions and similar size and shape can show significantly different heating efficiencies (see Table 1). These variations are attributed to inter-particle interactions, which can be precisely adjusted during synthesis using different surface modifiers ....
The chemical composition, size, and shape of the MNPs significantly influence the efficiency of magnetically induced hyperthermia. As such, these parameters are systematically tested to optimize performance [3]. One of the most critical factors is the dispersion concentration of the magnetic particles (Cmagn). However, the relationship between Cmagn and the specific absorption rate (SAR) is nonlinear. Moreover, the resulting temperature increase (ΔT) does not directly correlate with SAR values. These phenomena were recently explored in depth by Kim et al. [4], who linked them to inter-particle interactions in magnetic fluids at varying concentrations.
In this study, we focus on these inter-particle interactions by varying the dispersion concentration and modifying the initial nanoparticle interactions during the synthesis process. Tailored synthesis methods allow us to produce a variety of nanoparticle structures, including ultrafine and highly agglomerated particles, large cuboidal particles, multicore MNPs, and ultrafine particles embedded in a polymer matrix.
Each nanoparticle type exhibits distinct behavior when analyzing SAR as a function of concentration. Interestingly, even nanoparticles with identical chemical compositions and similar size and shape can show significantly different heating efficiencies (see Table 1). These variations are attributed to inter-particle interactions, which can be precisely adjusted during synthesis using different surface modifiers ....
9.
Biela, Artur P.
From MDa to kDa – across the scale of the cryoEM SPA analysis of biological molecules Conference
Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF), vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025, ISSN: 2084-1892.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{nokey,
title = {From MDa to kDa – across the scale of the cryoEM SPA analysis of biological molecules},
author = {Artur P. Biela},
issn = {2084-1892},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-24},
urldate = {2025-06-24},
booktitle = {Abstracts of the XIX Congress of the Polish Biophysical Society (PTBF)},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {Cryo-electron microscopy has gained considerable attention and has proven to be a powerful tool in structural biology. For the past years, scientists worldwide tried to push the boundaries of the technique and used it in their research projects to solve structures of all kinds of biological molecules. Here, in this presentation, I would like to show that size does matter, but there is a way to overcome this issue. Starting from large protein assemblies like synthetic cages of paradoxical geometry derived from bacterial enzyme, virus-like particles of different shapes and sized (both: spherical and rod-like) being in the MDa range (Figure 1), and going down to relatively small multimeric enzymes in complexes with their partners (both: proteins and small molecules), and finally finishing at sub 30-kDa particles like free tRNA molecule, being the smallest molecule so far reconstructed with cryoEM. Despite the broad range of molecular masses, we were able to show some important features of the molecules investigated like the symmetry of the assemblies, paradoxical arrangements of the building blocks, draw some rules about the symmetry breaking, describe the composition of the complexes, decipher the mechanism of their action, get to know the nature of the crucial bonds or even the influence of the introduced modifications on the structure’s rigidity (to some extend)(Figure 2)....},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Cryo-electron microscopy has gained considerable attention and has proven to be a powerful tool in structural biology. For the past years, scientists worldwide tried to push the boundaries of the technique and used it in their research projects to solve structures of all kinds of biological molecules. Here, in this presentation, I would like to show that size does matter, but there is a way to overcome this issue. Starting from large protein assemblies like synthetic cages of paradoxical geometry derived from bacterial enzyme, virus-like particles of different shapes and sized (both: spherical and rod-like) being in the MDa range (Figure 1), and going down to relatively small multimeric enzymes in complexes with their partners (both: proteins and small molecules), and finally finishing at sub 30-kDa particles like free tRNA molecule, being the smallest molecule so far reconstructed with cryoEM. Despite the broad range of molecular masses, we were able to show some important features of the molecules investigated like the symmetry of the assemblies, paradoxical arrangements of the building blocks, draw some rules about the symmetry breaking, describe the composition of the complexes, decipher the mechanism of their action, get to know the nature of the crucial bonds or even the influence of the introduced modifications on the structure’s rigidity (to some extend)(Figure 2)....
10.
Wiktorska, Katarzyna; Medyńska, Katarzyna; Pogorzelska, Anna; Mazur, Maciej
pH-responsive chlorophyll derivatives-modified liposomes for doxorubicin delivery Conference
vol. 44 (suppl.A), Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan, 2025.
Abstract | BibTeX | Tagi: Plenary lectures
@conference{nokey,
title = {pH-responsive chlorophyll derivatives-modified liposomes for doxorubicin delivery},
author = {Katarzyna Wiktorska and Katarzyna Medyńska and Anna Pogorzelska and Maciej Mazur},
year = {2025},
date = {2025-06-24},
urldate = {2025-06-24},
journal = {Current Topics in Biophysics},
volume = {44 (suppl.A)},
publisher = {Polish Biophysical Society and Adam Mickiewicz University},
address = {ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 2, 61-614 Poznan},
abstract = {Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for approximately 10% of all breast cancer cases and is distinguished by its aggressive clinical behavior and high rates of metastasis. A significant challenge in the treatment of TNBC is the absence of estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, which excludes the use of receptor-targeted therapies. Thus, systemic chemotherapy with doxorubicin remains a primary treatment approach. The clinical application of doxorubicin is limited due to severe systemic side effects, particularly dose-dependent cardiotoxicity, which often results in therapy discontinuation. Hence, liposomal formulations of doxorubicin have been introduced to reduce off-target toxicity.
Building on our recent findings that sulforaphane (SFN) synergistically enhances doxorubicin efficacy and reduces its toxicity in vivo [1], this study aimed to design a novel pH-sensitive liposomal delivery system that enables targeted release of doxorubicin in the acidic tumor microenvironment while limiting release under physiological pH. The innovative aspect of this approach involves the use of natural, non-toxic chlorophyll derivatives—chlorophyll, chlorophyllin, and pheophytin—as pH-responsive release modulators. The proposed mechanism under acidic conditions involves: the reversible protonation of doxorubicin, which weakens its interaction with chlorophyllin and facilitates its diffusion across the liposomal membrane; degradation of lipophilic chlorophyll, localized within the liposomal lipid bilayer, increasing membrane permeability.
Liposomes were prepared via the passive loading method and characterized by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) - size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and drug loading efficacy were determined. Next, drug release profiles were evaluated at pH 7.4 (physiological) and pH 6.5 (tumor-mimicking), revealing enhanced doxorubicin release under acidic conditions while restricting release under physiological pH.
....
},
type = {Plenar lecture},
keywords = {Plenary lectures},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {conference}
}
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for approximately 10% of all breast cancer cases and is distinguished by its aggressive clinical behavior and high rates of metastasis. A significant challenge in the treatment of TNBC is the absence of estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, which excludes the use of receptor-targeted therapies. Thus, systemic chemotherapy with doxorubicin remains a primary treatment approach. The clinical application of doxorubicin is limited due to severe systemic side effects, particularly dose-dependent cardiotoxicity, which often results in therapy discontinuation. Hence, liposomal formulations of doxorubicin have been introduced to reduce off-target toxicity.
Building on our recent findings that sulforaphane (SFN) synergistically enhances doxorubicin efficacy and reduces its toxicity in vivo [1], this study aimed to design a novel pH-sensitive liposomal delivery system that enables targeted release of doxorubicin in the acidic tumor microenvironment while limiting release under physiological pH. The innovative aspect of this approach involves the use of natural, non-toxic chlorophyll derivatives—chlorophyll, chlorophyllin, and pheophytin—as pH-responsive release modulators. The proposed mechanism under acidic conditions involves: the reversible protonation of doxorubicin, which weakens its interaction with chlorophyllin and facilitates its diffusion across the liposomal membrane; degradation of lipophilic chlorophyll, localized within the liposomal lipid bilayer, increasing membrane permeability.
Liposomes were prepared via the passive loading method and characterized by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) - size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and drug loading efficacy were determined. Next, drug release profiles were evaluated at pH 7.4 (physiological) and pH 6.5 (tumor-mimicking), revealing enhanced doxorubicin release under acidic conditions while restricting release under physiological pH.
....
Building on our recent findings that sulforaphane (SFN) synergistically enhances doxorubicin efficacy and reduces its toxicity in vivo [1], this study aimed to design a novel pH-sensitive liposomal delivery system that enables targeted release of doxorubicin in the acidic tumor microenvironment while limiting release under physiological pH. The innovative aspect of this approach involves the use of natural, non-toxic chlorophyll derivatives—chlorophyll, chlorophyllin, and pheophytin—as pH-responsive release modulators. The proposed mechanism under acidic conditions involves: the reversible protonation of doxorubicin, which weakens its interaction with chlorophyllin and facilitates its diffusion across the liposomal membrane; degradation of lipophilic chlorophyll, localized within the liposomal lipid bilayer, increasing membrane permeability.
Liposomes were prepared via the passive loading method and characterized by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) - size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and drug loading efficacy were determined. Next, drug release profiles were evaluated at pH 7.4 (physiological) and pH 6.5 (tumor-mimicking), revealing enhanced doxorubicin release under acidic conditions while restricting release under physiological pH.
....
