Dominika Fričová, MUDr., RNDr., PhD.

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease with a prevalence of 0.5–1% among people aged 65–69, and rising to 1–3% among people over 80.

Our research group is focused on several intriguing and fascinating questions regarding this devastating disease.

1. The major part of our studies is focused on a cellular process called senescence. Does it play a significant role in the nervous system and neurodegeneration? Is clearance of senescent cells a possible therapeutic approach for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease treatment?

2. Next, we study the role of extracellular vesicles in the spreading of Parkinson’s disease pathology. Is the cargo of extracellular vesicles a messenger, which can trigger Parkinson’s disease related pathological changes in distant tissues?

3. Finally, what is the role of mitochondria in the origin of Parkinson‘s disease? Are disrupted mitochondrial functions the cause or consequence of Parkison’s disease pathological cellular responses? In order to answer these questions, we develop completely novel cellular tools using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Our results are opening new venues for the field of neurodegenerative studies in general

Lab members

• Kristína Macová (PhD student)
• Miraj Ud Din Momand (PhD student)
• Karolína Albertusová (PhD student)
• Nikoleta Gúghová (Master student)
• Natália Maruškinová (Master student)

Alumni

• Klára Oláhová (Master student)

Projects funding and awards

• 2021-2024 SASPRO 2; Horizon 2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND Action with Slovak Academy of Sciences
• 2021-2023 VEGA 2/0158/21
• 2020 L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award Slovakia