From June 18th to 20th, 2024, the third CYANOMETA workshop turned Masaryk University in Brno, Czechia, into a dynamic hub of scientific innovation, thanks to the support of the prestigious Visegrad Fund.
Researchers from across the Visegrad and Western Balkan region gathered for a unique opportunity to explore the potential of in vitro techniques in cyanobacterial research. This workshop was more than just a series of lectures; it was a hands-on, interactive experience that pushed the boundaries of scientific discovery.

 

 

The event kicked off with a fascinating presentation by Dr. Eliška Sychrová (RECETOX, MU), showcasing the state-of-the-art research infrastructure at RECETOX. Participants delved into the multi-layered interactions between environment and health, ranging from molecular studies to population-level impacts. The session also unveiled the game-changing advantages of advanced 3D liver cell cultures in research.

Presentation by Dr. Eliška Sychrová

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Later, Dr. Eliška Sychrová, Dr. Petra Labohá and Ms. Eliška Řehůřková (RECETOX, MU), captivated the audience with the insights into gap junctional intercellular communication, a crucial marker of tissue homeostasis. The day culminated in an exhilarating hands-on experimental training session, where participants applied their newfound knowledge and skills in real-time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The second day was packed with groundbreaking lectures on cyanobacterial research at RECETOX. Dr. Pavel Babica (RECETOX, MU & Institute of Botany, CAS), took center stage with his exploration of advanced in vitro human liver models for assessing cyanobacterial hepatotoxicity. His presentation was a deep dive into the sophisticated methods used to understand the toxic effects of cyanobacteria on human health.

Lecture by Dr. Pavel Babica

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Lenka Šindlerová (Institute of Biophysics, CAS, & Animal Physiology and Immunology, MU), shared her pioneering findings on the immunomodulatory effects of endotoxins from cyanobacterial water blooms.  Her research highlighted the intricate relationship between bloom microbial composition and immune response.

Lecture by Dr. Lenka Šindlerová

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Petra Labohá, returned with an intriguing lecture on airborne cyanobacteria, detailing the methods used to assess exposure and health impacts. The day wrapped up with another session by Dr. Pavel Babica, discussing the latest results on gap junctional intercellular communication in WB-F344 cells exposed to cyanobacterial extracts.

Lecture by Dr. Petra Labohá

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The workshop concluded with a vibrant discussion on future research directions and the anticipation of the next CYANOMETA workshop. This event was more than a learning experience—it was a launchpad for future innovations in cyanobacterial research. Stay tuned for more updates and prepare to be part of the next wave of scientific breakthroughs!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to dr. Pavel Babica, the workshop organizer, and the entire team at RECETOX, MU, for making this event possible.

 

For a detailed overview of the workshop program and additional resources, visit the DOWNLOADABLE FILES section.