Category Archives: Uncategorized
Scientific achievements of the Department of Molecular Biology in understanding stress-dependent mechanisms of glioma growth
O. H. Minchenko*, Y. M. Viletska, M. Y. Sliusar, O. O. Khita
Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,
Department of Molecular Biology, Kyiv;
*e-mail: ominchenko@yahoo.com
Received: 09 July 2025; Revised: 25 July 2025;
Accepted: 30 October 2025; Available on-line: 02 December 2025
Since 2005, the Department of Molecular Biology has initiated research aimed at solving key problems in biochemistry and molecular biology, with an emphasis on elucidating the molecular basis of malignant tumor growth and the mechanisms of hypoxic regulation, the role of alternative splicing in the mechanisms of gene expression regulation, as well as the fundamental importance of endoplasmic reticulum stress in maintaining homeostasis and the development of pathological conditions, in particular, the growth of glioblastomas, the most malignant brain tumors that are difficult to treat. It has been shown that the expression of different 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase (PFKFB), key glycolysis regulators, is exacerbated in various malignant tumors and that PFKFB4 is a marker of tumor growth. It has been established that the expression level of PFKFB4 is controlled under hypoxia by a HIF-dependent mechanism, and a HIF-specific sequence has been identified in the promoter, the mutation of which completely removes hypoxic regulation of the PFKFB4 gene. Numerous splice variants of different PFKFB and VEGFA genes have also been identified. It has been established that inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress, its ERN1 signaling pathway, reduces the proliferation of glioblastoma cells by changing the expression levels of oncogenes, tumor suppressors, mitochondrial enzymes, as well as insulin and glucocorticoid receptors and their dependent proteins. An important role of ERN1 protein kinase activity in regulating the expression of various genes has been revealed, and its inhibition has been shown to lead to increased invasiveness of glioblastoma cells upon ERN1 knockdown. Attention is focused on studying non-canonical mechanisms of hypoxic gene expression regulation and its dependence on endoplasmic reticulum stress.
The Department of Neurochemistry from 1925 untill the present day
N. Krisanova, N. Pozdnyakova*
Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,
Department of Neurochemistry, Kyiv;
*e-mail: nataly.pozdniakova@gmail.com
Received: 11 June 2025; Revised: 14 August 2025;
Accepted: 30 October 2025; Available on-line: 02 December 2025
Activity in the Department of Neurochemistry from 1925 until the present day was described in particular. The main scientific areas of research at the Department of Biochemistry of the Nervous System until 1982 were following: study of the chemical topography of the nervous system; study of subcellular and suborganoid localization of neurospecific proteins; investigation of the effect of psychotropic agents on nitrogen, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism in the structures of the nervous system; studying membrane organization and function mechanisms of enzyme systems for active transport of sodium, potassium, and calcium in nerve cells. Since 1982, research in the Department has been focused primarily on the following areas: biogenesis of membrane and secretory proteins; research on neurospecific proteins; research on plasma membrane directly involved in the generation and transmission of nerve signals. Since 2010, the research of the Department of Neurochemistry was aimed at solving the following urgent problems: elucidation of the role of structural organization of membrane and lipid- protein interactions in the regulation of nerve signal transmission process; elucidation of the role of presynaptic receptors in the regulation of key stages of neurotransmission process and determination of the ways to modulate the neurotransmitter reception system; search and identification of natural membranotropic and neuroactive compounds, analysis of the molecular mechanisms of existing membranotropic and neuroactive drugs action; space biology, namely the development of a method for determining the toxicity of planetary dust; nanotechnology, namely the synthesis and analysis of the neuroactive effect of nanoparticles; environmental neurotoxicology, namely the study of the neurotoxic effects of environmental pollutants and the development of the ways to overcome their harmful impact.
Historical overview of lipid biochemistry research: from initial hypotheses to understanding the biological role of N-acylethanolamines
H. V. Kosiakova*, A. G. Berdyshev, T. M. Horidko,
V. M. Klimashevsky, O. F. Meged, O. S. Tkachenko,
N. L. Kindruk, O. V. Zhukov, V. S. Asmolkova, N. M. Hula
Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,
Department of Lipid Biochemistry, Kyiv;
*e-mail: kosiakova@hotmail.com
Received: 09 June 2025; Revised: 09 July 2025;
Accepted: 30 October 2025; Available on-line: 02 December 2025
In the Department of Lipid Biochemistry at the Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, a systematic approach to studying the functional role of lipids and investigating the lipidome of mammals and humans was developed and implemented from 1988 to 2025. A new class of low-polarity lipids, N-acylethanolamines (NAE), was discovered, and a multifaceted detailed study of their biological activity and functional role in the body was conducted. This allowed the discovery of several new mechanisms for regulating vital processes both in normal conditions and in various pathological states. The relevance of these studies lies in the fact that they not only deepened fundamental knowledge in human and animal biology but also led to the development of several pharmacological agents for the therapy of a range of pathological conditions. The drugs are proposed for use in cardiovascular diseases, allergies, burns, type I and II diabetes, inflammatory processes, oncological diseases, organ transplantation, as well as chronic and acute stress, drug addiction, alcoholism, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, antiviral agents have been developed that are highly effective against influenza virus, hepatitis C virus, herpes simplex virus, and coronavirus. These agents have no side effects and are protected by 19 Ukrainian patents. The scientific results of the Department of Lipid Biochemistry have been published in over 200 scientific papers and presented at more than 130 international and domestic scientific forums. This article provides a brief review of the main achievements of the Department of Lipid Biochemistry in investigating the biological effects of NAE.
Proteins of plasminogen/plasmin system: multifaceted roles in health and disease
A. O. Tykhomyrov*, O. I. Yusova, L. G. Kapustianenko, I. I. Patalakh,
T. A. Yatsenko, V. L. Bilous, T. V. Grynenko
Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,
Department of Enzyme Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kyiv;
*e-mail: artem_tykhomyrov@ukr.net
Received: 20 April 2025; Revised: 02 June 2025;
Accepted: 30 October 2025; Available on-line: 02 December 2025
The plasminogen/plasmin (Pg/Pm) system is a cornerstone of various biological processes, encompassing roles in fibrinolysis, angiogenesis, inflammation, wound healing, and tumor biology. This review consolidates knowledge on the multifaceted functions of the Pg/Pm system proteins in health and disease, highlighting historical developments, recent advancements, and the contributions of the Department of Enzyme Chemistry and Biochemistry to the understanding of their molecular mechanisms of function. We have explored the regulation of fibrinolysis and its intricate interplay with proteins of the Pg/Pm system, delving into their pivotal role in hemostatic balance. Reciprocal interactions between Pg/Pm system proteins and platelets underscore their contribution to thrombosis, fibrinolysis, inflammation, and vascular remodeling. In oncology, Pg/Pm system proteins orchestrate tumor growth and metastasis through their involvement in extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, and cancer cell survival. However, angiostatins – proteolytically-derived fragments of Pg/Pm – emerge as multifunctional polypeptides, which are known to affect cell migration, angiogenesis, and inflammation, suppress tumor growth and metastasis. Contribution of Pg/Pm to reparative processes, including wound healing, further emphasizes their therapeutic potential in regenerative medicine. Moreover, these proteins play crucial roles in ocular health, where their dysregulation may lead to the pathogenesis of ophthalmic diseases. In conclusion, advancement of our understanding of this versatile system functions through continued research is pivotal for applications of these proteins as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for cardiovascular disorders, inflammatory pathologies, cancer, autoimmune conditions, and various diabetic complications, offering insights into early detection of disease and development of innovative therapeutic strategies, ultimately driving progress in personalized medicine.
Scientific advancement on the way to molecular vitaminology at the Department of Vitamins and Coenzymes of the Palladin Institute of Biochemistry
M. Veliky, I. Shymanskyi, T. Kuchmerovska*, Yu. Parkhomenko
Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,
Department of Vitamins and Coenzymes, Kyiv;
*e-mail: tkuchmerovska@gmail.com
Received: 05 May 2025; Revised: 08 July 2025;
Accepted: 30 October 2025; Available on-line: 02 December 2025
Modern advances in molecular vitaminology are characterized by a marked expansion in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the actions of vitamins and their biologically active derivatives as highly effective compounds that ensure controlled interactions between cellular regulatory systems and metabolic processes. The molecular mechanisms of the pleiotropic effects of the hormonally active form of vitamin D3, calcitriol (1α,25(OH)2D3), are realized in target tissues through vitamin D3 receptors (VDR), which are present in virtually all cells. Our studies have focused on VDR-mediated effects, including modulation of the transcriptional activity of NF-κB, NFAT, HIF-1 and PPAR, as well as involvement of regulatory pathways such as HIF-1α/VEGF and RANK/NF-κB. We have also examined signaling through glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors, which play a key role in the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects of vitamin D3 under normal conditions and in pathology (osteoporosis, neurodegenerative disorders associated with glucocorticoid-induced neurotoxicity and type 2 diabetes mellitus). The mechanisms of the neurotropic effects of vitamin B3 (nicotinamide) and a derivative of nicotinic and amino butyric acid, nicotinoil-GABA (N-GABA), have also been studied. It has been demonstrated that nicotinamide (NAm) inhibits the development of diabetic neuropathy by reducing the activity and level of the PARP-1 enzyme, suppressing its fragmentation and preventing DNA damage in the brain tissue, and normalizing the nuclear levels of SIRT1 and SIRT2 proteins in neurons. One of the effective methodological approaches in our studies has been the investigation of thiamine-binding proteins in the brain and the effects of thiamine deficiency on the expression and state of neurospecific proteins. Based on our findings, we have formulated a working hypothesis regarding the molecular mechanisms of vitamin B1 involvement in the functioning of the cholinergic component of the nervous system. This hypothesis suggests that, in addition to the pool of thiamine diphosphate (ThDP) that binds to ThDP-dependent enzymes, nerve cells contain a rapidly exchangeable pool of thiamine derivatives that are involved in acetylcholine metabolism. The research achievements of our Department demonstrate the therapeutic potential of vitamins D3, B3, B1, and their biologically active derivatives in preventing the development of neurodegenerative complications under various pathological conditions and provide a scientific basis for the development of novel vitamin supplements.
Protein mysterious structure and numerous functions department
V. O. Chernyshenko*, V. I. Gryshchuk
Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,
Department of Protein Structure and Function, Kyiv;
*e-mail: bio.cherv@gmail.com
Received: 02 July 2025; Revised: 30 July 2025;
Accepted: 30 October 2025; Available on-line: 02 December 2025
This overview is dedicated to the history of the Department of Protein Structure and Function at the Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. It outlines the department’s main scientific objectives and highlights its key achievements. In particular, it describes research related to patient blood management, fundamental studies of fibrinogen structure and function, the development of next-generation antithrombotic prototypes, as well as the creation and clinical testing of diagnostic assays. Special attention is given to inventions and studies aimed at addressing pressing social issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder and the consequences of COVID-19. The importance of maintaining continuity in hemostasis research is emphasized, as it enables the generation of unique scientific results and their implementation in medical practice.
Department of Muscle Biochemistry: calixarenes as modulators of energy-dependent Са(2+)-transporting pumps in smooth muscles
S. O. Kosterin
Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,
Department of Muscle Biochemistry, Kyiv;
e-mail: kinet@biochem.kiev.ua
Received: 12 May 2025; Revised: 18 June 2025;
Accepted: 30 October 2025; Available on-line: 02 December 2025
In this scientific-historical review devoted to the recent achievements of the Muscle Biochemistry Department of the Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, the NAS of Ukraine, we synthesize findings from interdisciplinary investigations of intracellular calcium homeostasis in smooth muscle (exemplified by the myometrium) conducted at the interface of biochemistry, physical and organic chemistry, biophysics, and mathematical/computational modeling. We emphasize that the selected calix[4]arenes considered here act selectively as inhibitors of the Mg2+,ATP-dependent calcium and sodium pumps – ion-transporting ATPases (electroenzymes Ca2+,Mg2+-ATPase and Na+,K+-ATPase) – of the plasma membrane of smooth-muscle cells, enabling controlled modulation of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and the contractile activity of the myometrium. The data obtained also indicate that the selected calix[4]arenes can be regarded as compounds suitable for efficient investigation of mitochondrial function in smooth-muscle cells, in particular the mechanisms of transmembrane Ca2+ exchange, the principles governing membrane-potential formation, and the contribution of these subcellular structures to the control of the mechanokinetics of the contraction–relaxation cycle. It is shown that some calix[4]arenes act as effectors of the ATPase activity of contractile proteins and protect this activity from the inhibitory influence of heavy-metal ions. Taken together, these results outline biochemical approaches to the fine regulation of calcium fluxes and smooth-muscle contractility and underscore the potential of calix[4]arenes as selective “molecular platforms” useful for addressing fundamental and applied (biomedical) problems in contemporary physico-chemical muscle biology.
About the Department of Molecular Immunology, or why it is important to study immunological processes at the molecular level
S. V. Komisarenko, S. I. Romaniuk
Palladin Institute of Biochemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,
Department of Molecular Immunology, Kyiv;
e-mail: svk@biochem.kiev.ua
Received: 26 August 2025; Revised: 03 October 2025; Accepted: 30 October 2025
This review summarizes the scientific accomplishments of the Department of Molecular Immunology at the Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine over the period 1975–2025. Particular attention is given to studies on the mechanisms and functions of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) expressed in lymphocytes, focusing on their role in inflammatory processes, including those associated with Alzheimer’s disease, COVID-19 and post-COVID syndrome. The review also covers research on the mathematical modeling of interactions between polyreactive immunoglobulins (PRIGs) and antigens, as well as studies on the biological functions of these antibodies. Additionally, it examines the antigenic, immunogenic, and immunobiological properties of proteins – especially recombinant proteins – that could serve as key components of diagnostic test systems and next-generation vaccines for respiratory infectious diseases such as pertussis, diphtheria, tuberculosis and COVID-19. The article further considers opportunities to develop therapeutic agents based on recombinant proteins, including single-chain variable fragment (including scFv antibodies), vitamin complexes and other bioactive components for the treatment of human diseases. Special attention is also given to efforts aimed at disseminating knowledge on biosafety, bioprotection and bioethics in Ukraine. Finally, the review looks at future prospects for the Department of Molecular Immunology, in light of current challenges and new opportunities, particularly those arising from rapid advances in biotechnology.
Biochemistry is the language of life. A century of research and discovery (Preface)
Serhiy Komisarenko
Director of the Palladin Institute of Biochemistry,
National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv;
e-mail: svk@biochem.kiev.ua
A hundred years is not merely a span of time – it is a distance measured by generations of scientists and by the depth of knowledge gained in the constant pursuit of truth. During this period, the world has undergone fundamental transformations – from the first radio broadcasts and the discovery of the DNA structure to artificial intelligence and genome decoding. These changes have inevitably influenced the development of science, particularly biochemistry – a field that today combines molecular precision, interdisciplinarity, and the drive to apply knowledge for the preservation of life.
The century-long history of the Palladin Institute of Biochemistry is the story of how the Ukrainian school of biochemistry has been developed – a school that has harmoniously combined fundamental research with the solution of applied biomedical problems. From the first steps in the study of vitamins, enzymes, lipids, and proteins – to modern investigations of cellular signaling, immunomodulation, neurochemistry, molecular oncology, and biomedical innovations – the Institute’s path reflects the evolution of science itself.
This jubilee issue of the Ukrainian Biochemical Journal presents review articles from all ten departments of the Institute – each not only summarizes their scientific achievements but also outlines the horizons of the future.
The Department of Neurochemistry, tracing its roots back to 1925, has developed the understanding of the chemical topography of the nervous system, the mechanisms of neurotransmission, and the molecular basis of the action of neuroactive compounds – from classical studies to modern experiments in space biology.
The research of the Department of Molecular Immunology demonstrates how fundamental science, studying the regulation of the immune system, responds to the challenges of our time – the COVID-19 pandemic and the consequences of war – by developing new approaches to treating post-traumatic stress disorders, dangerous bleeding and promoting wound healing.
The Department of Muscle Biochemistry explores the molecular mechanisms regulating ion transport and the role of calixarenes in the controlled modulation of smooth muscle contractility, combining biochemical insight with mathematical modeling.
Continuing a tradition of studying hemostasis, the Department of Protein Structure and Function develops innovative diagnostic tests and prototypes of next-generation antithrombotic agents.
The Department of Protein Structure and Function continues the tradition of studying hemostasis by developing diagnostic tests against the risk of thrombosis and prototypes of a new generation of antithrombotic agents.
The research conducted by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry of Enzymes focuses on uncovering the multifaceted functions of plasminogen/plasmin proteins in homeostasis, inflammation, oncogenesis, regeneration, and vascular biology, providing a basis for the development of personalized medical approaches.
The Department of Cellular Signaling Mechanisms shows how a shift in scale – from individual proteins to the network organization of signaling systems – opens new approaches to understanding oncogenesis and cellular plasticity.
A significant contribution to the development of molecular vitaminology has been made by the Department of Vitamin and Coenzyme Biochemistry, where researchers investigate the neurotropic action of vitamins B1, B3, and D3 and their derivatives, which hold potential for preventing neurodegenerative disorders.
The history of the Department of Lipid Biochemistry represents a path from the early hypotheses to the discovery of a new class of compounds, N-acylethanolamines that play a vital role in regulating physiological and pathological processes and open the way for the development of new therapeutic agents for a wide range of diseases.
At the Department of Molecular Biology, researchers explore the molecular mechanisms of glioma growth and the role of hypoxia and endoplasmic reticulum stress in regulating gene expression, offering valuable insights into the pathogenesis of the most aggressive brain tumors.
Finally, the Department of Scientific Information and Innovative Research provides a systematic analysis of the achievements of Nobel laureates, showing how great discoveries shape the course of modern life sciences.
Each of these reviews is not merely a scientific summary; it is a testament to living traditions, continuity of generations, and the tireless pursuit of knowledge. Today, as a century ago, biochemistry remains the science of life in its deepest sense. It reveals the mechanisms that sustain health, resilience, and adaptation, helping humanity to understand itself and the world in which it lives. Biochemistry is a science to which all generations of researchers at the Institute of Biochemistry in Kyiv have devoted their lives – where one of the main priorities has always been the constant rejuvenation of scientific community and the training of young scientists.
Ahead lie new challenges, new technologies, and, without doubt, new discoveries. Yet one thing remains unchanged – our faith in the power of scientific thought and in our calling to serve life. It is this spirit that unites the past, present, and future of the ever-young century-old Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine.