December 2023

NEWSLETTER

2023
πάντα ρει

INSTITUTE FOR BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH "SINIŠA STANKOVIĆ"

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA
UNIVERSITY OF BELGRADE
WELCOME WORD
Mirjana Mihailović, Ph.D.
Institute Director

As 2023 draws to a close, I am delighted to reflect on a year of remarkable success and

transformation at our Institute. Positioned at the intersection of tradition and innovation, we
celebrate 76 years of unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge and contributing to
the scientific community.This is a testament to the collective efforts of every member who has
played a crucial role in shaping our institute's rich legacy.

This year seven researchers have recently defended their Ph.D. theses, symbolising both
individual brilliance and a collective triumph for the Institute. Our researchers remain at the
forefront of research, actively engaging in 79 research projects that exemplify our
commitment to addressing research and knowledge, but also to tackle real-world challenges.
A special commitment is directed towards the SAIGE project, a cornerstone in our
transformation journey, dedicated to driving innovation and fostering entrepreneurship.

The exchange of ideas and collaboration continue to be pillars of our success. This year saw
the organisation of seminars, lectures by visiting researchers, and active participation in
congresses, creating invaluable opportunities to enhance collaborations, share insights, and
catalyse new ideas. Understanding the dynamic nature of knowledge, we maintain an
unwavering commitment to continual training and education. This ensures our researchers
stay at the cutting edge of their fields, contributing meaningfully to the ever-evolving
landscape of science. Science popularisation remains very important for us, and the annual
Researchers' Night stands as a testament to our commitment to making science accessible to
all. By engaging with the community, we aim to inspire curiosity, foster a love for learning, and
showcase the incredible work our researchers do.

I extend my gratitude to every

member, partner, and advisor for
their contributions, dedication, and
passion. Together, we will build on
our legacy, push the boundaries of
knowledge, and shape a future
where science thrives.

Welcome to an exciting year ahead!

TABLE OF CONTENTS
OUR YEAR IN NUMBERS 4

TABLEDAY
IBISS OF CONTENTS 5-6

Ph.D. DEFENCES 7 - 10
NEW PROJECT GRANTS 11 - 14

SAIGE PROJECT 15 - 16

INSTITUTE SEMINARS 17 - 25

GUEST LECTURES & VISITS 26 - 30

AWARDS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS 31 - 32

RESEARCHERS’ NIGHT 33

PUBLISHING 34

TRAINING AND EDUCATION 35 - 36

CONFERENCES & MEETINGS 37 - 41

 4

OUR YEAR IN NUMBERS

335 EMPLOYEES

62 Ph.D. STUDENTS

236 Ph.D.

37 ADMINISTRATIVE AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT

219 RESEARCH PAPERS

41 INTERNATIONAL
INOVATION FUND 3
24 COST ACTIONS

PROJECTS
SCIENCE FUND 17 10 BILATERAL

APPLICATIVE 16 2 SCIENCE POPULARISATION

 5

IBISS DAY
76. YEARS OF DEDICATED RESEARCH
IN BIOLOGY
IBISS DAY
SCIENCE
CELEBRATION TALKS
On Wednesday, May 31st 2023, the Institute for
Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" celebrated 76 Dr. Vladimir Ćirković
years of dedicated work and existence. The institute Institute for Medical
organised a traditional celebration comprising both Research
scientific and festive elements National Institute of the
Republic of Serbia,
University of Belgrade

Dr. Aleksandra Nikolić

Institute of Molecular
Genetics and Genetic
Engineering of the
University of Belgrade

Dr. Maja Bubić

Institute of Nuclear
Sciences "Vinča",
National Institute of the
CEREMONIAL PART Republic of Serbia,
University of Belgrade
During the ceremonial part, esteemed guests, including
Dr. Jelena Begović, the Minister of Science,
Technological Development and Innovation, Dr. Zorana Dobrijević
Institute for the
Academician Zoran Popović, the Vice-President of the
Application of Nuclear
Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Prof. Dr. Zorica
Energy
Vujić, the Vice-Rector for Finance of the University of
Belgrade, and Dr. Mirjana Mihailović, the Director of the
Institute, addressed the audience.
 6

IBISS DAY

IBISS DAY
SCIENCE
TALKS
Dr. Milorad Dragić
Faculty of Biology
University of Belgrade

Dr. Danijela Paunović

Institute for Biological CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION
Research "Siniša
Stanković", National Dr. Mihailović provided a comprehensive overview of
Institute of the the Institute's activities from the previous year. She
Republic of Serbia, outlined guidelines for ensuring the continuity and
University of Belgrade quality of scientific work. Certificates of appreciation
were presented to new doctors of biological sciences
who had earned this esteemed title during the past
Dr. Zorana Miletić year at the Institute.
Institute for Biological
Research "Siniša
Stanković", National
Institute of the
Republic of Serbia,
University of Belgrade
 7

Ph.D. DEFENCES

DRAGICA
MIĆANOVIĆ
from the Department of
Immunology defended her
doctoral dissertation “Effects of
chokeberry fruit water extract on
the immune system in mouse
models of infection and
melanoma”
Mentors: Dr. Tamara Saksida
and Dr. Biljana Božić
Nedeljković

JELENA
ĐUKNIĆ
from the Department of
Hydroecology and Water
Protection defended her doctoral
dissertation "Diversity and genetic
variability of the Simuliidae family
(Insecta: Diptera) in the area of the
Balkan Peninsula"
Mentors: Prof. Dr. Ivana Živić and
Dr. Nataša Popović
 8

Ph.D. DEFENCES

JELENA
RUDIĆ
from the Department of Plant
Physiology defended her
doctoral dissertation
"Superoxide dismutases in
potato (Solanum tuberosum L.):
characterisation of isoforms and
expression under high
temperature"
Mentors: Dr. Ivana Momčilović
and Dr. Dušica Janošević

MARIJA
ĐORĐEVIĆ
from the Department of Molecular
Biology defended her doctoral
dissertation "Transdifferentiation
of mouse pancreatic alpha to
insulin-producing cells using
EpiCRISPRs directed DNA
methylation"
Mentors: Dr. Jelena Arambašić
Jovanović and Dr Melita Vidaković
 9

PH.D. DEFENCES

BRANKA
BAJIĆ
from the Department of Genetic
Research "Genetic diversity and
population structure of bat flies of
the family Nycteribiidae and mites of
the family Spinturnicidae,
ectoparasites of the two
cavernicolous bat species in Serbia"
Mentors: Dr. Jelena Blagojević and
Dr. Milan Paunović

BOJANA
MIĆIĆ
from the Department of
Biochemistry “Contribution of
early postnatal overfeeding to
metabolic disorders in animal
model of polycystic ovary“
Mentors: Dr. Danijela Vojnović
Milutinović and Dr. Tanja Jevđović
 10

Ph.D. DEFENCES

KATARINA
ĆUKOVIĆ
from the Department of Plant
Physiology defended her doctoral
dissertation "Identification and
expression analysis of genes
involved in somatic
embryogenesis of centaury
(Centaurium erythraea Rafn)"
Mentors: Prof. Dr. Svetlana
Radović and Dr. Milica
Bogdanović
 11

NEW PROJECT GRANTS

APPROVED PROJECTS WITHIN
THE PRISMA PROGRAM

The Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia has published the

final ranking list of projects for funding under the PRISMA
program. IBISS participates in six projects, of which it is the
leader in four projects.

Approved projects within the PRISMA program in which IBISS

is the leader:
“Employing modern aeroponic technology and stress-protective
nanoparticles for improved seed potato production under
elevated temperature”, PI: Dr. Ivana Momčilović, Department of
Plant Physiology
“Genetic diversity maintenance and population dynamics in
natural populations of endangered plant species: Flower color
polymorphism in Iris pumila L.”, PI: Dr. Danijela Miljković,
Department of Evolutionary Biology
“Inflammation-driven cancer repopulation: seeds of progression
and platform for therapy”, PI: Dr. Danijela Maksimović-Ivanić,
Department of Immunology
“Targeting ferroptosis in diabetes and diabetic complications by
hydrogen (per)sulfide”, PI: Dr. Vesna Otašević, Department of
Molecular Biology

On two projects, researchers from the Department of

Neurobiology, participate in the following projects:
“Development of nature-inspired photoresponsive anticancer
agents - sclareol and artemisinin derivatives in cancer
multidrugresistance models: a foundation for the theranostic
approach”, PI: Prof. Dr. Igor Opsenica, Faculty of Chemistry,
University of Belgrade
“Biomimetic tumor engineering to enhance drug discovery”, PI:
Prof. Dr. Bojana Obradović, Faculty of Technology and
Metallurgy, University of Belgrade
 12

NEW PROJECT GRANTS

ALEXANDER VON HUMBOLDT

FOUNDATION PROJECT GRANT
Researchers from the Department of Molecular Biology Dr.
Melita Vidaković, Dr. Anja Tolić and Ana Sarić have gained
funding for the project “Targeted rewriting of epigenetic marks
as a new therapeutic approach in triple negative breast
cancers” from Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, German
Ministry of Education and Research Foreign Office and
German Federal.

SCIENCE POPULARISATION PROJECTS

The Center for the Promotion of Science has announced a

public call for applications for financial support for science
promotion and popularisation projects. The "BARAmetar"
project (PI: Dr. Tanja Vukov, Department of Evolutionary
Biology) will promote the preservation of small stagnant waters
and the environment, and the "Bean Watchers" project (PI Dr.
Mirko Đorđević, Department of Evolutionary Biology) will
popularise evolutionary principles, using a modern citizen
science approach.

APPROVED PROJECT WITHIN THE

PROMIS 2023 PROGRAM
Approved project within the PROMIS 2023 program
The Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia has published
the final ranking list of projects for funding under the
PROMIS 2023 program. IBISS participates in one project
as the leader: "Development under artificial light at night.
Biological impact of light pollution on amphibians -
ENLIGHT", PI: Dr. Marko Prokić, Department of Physiology.
 13

NEW PROJECT GRANTS

INNOVATION FUND VOUCHER
“Antitumor potential of the second generation of fullerene
derivatives 3HFWC alone and in combination with gold
nanoparticles” PI: Dr. Danijela Maksimović-Ivanić, Department
of Immunology

EU FUNDED PROJECT
"Support for further implementation of the River Basin
Management Planning in Bosnia and Herzegovina in line with
the Water Framework Directive" PI: Dr. Momir Paunović,
Department of Hydroecology and Water Protection

EU FOR GREEN AGENDA IN SERBIA

“Biomass for Energy and Biodiversity (B4EB)” PI:
Dr. Maja Raković, Department of Hydroecology
and Water Protection and Dr. Uroš Živković,
Department of Evolutionary Biology

WWF ADRIA
AquaμPlaS "Microplastics in aquatic ecosystems of Serbia -
monitoring and legal frameworks" PI: Aleksandar Vlajić,
Group for the Development of Environmental Awareness
and Dr. Maja Raković, Department of Hydroecology and
Water Protection

INNOVATION FUND VOUCHER

“Commercial application of ddPCR in wastewater-based
epidemiology” PI: Dr. Stoimir Kolarević, Department of
Hydroecology and Water Protection
 14

NEW PROJECT GRANTS

EU FUNDED PROJECT
“Support to Implementation and Monitoring of Water
Management, Montenegro” PI: Dr. Momir Paunović,
Department of Hydroecology and Water Protection

EU FOR GREEN AGENDA IN SERBIA

“Path to successful decarbonization through green cassette
roofs” PI: Dr. Ljiljana Tubić, Department of Plant Physiology

SECRETARIAT FOR CONVENTION

ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
“Enhancing Collaboration between the CEE and Central Asia's
Centres of Excellence to Address the Key Drivers of
Biodiversity Loss and Maintain Human, Crop and Livestock
Health” PI: Dr. Galina Mozgova, team member from IBISS: Dr.
Aleksej Tarasjev, Department of Evolutionary Biology

UNDP PROJECT
“Biodegradation of Plastic – Establishing an Incubator Center
(Phase I)” PI: Biljana Vasiljev, Belinda animals team members
from IBISS: Dr. Dajana Todorović, Dr. Larisa Ilijin and Dr.
Vesna Perić Mataruga from the Department of Insect
Physiology and Biochemistry.

GREEN PROGRAM OF COOPERATION

BETWEEN SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
“Advanced BioPhysical Methods for Soil Targeted Fungi-Based
Biocontrol agents”, PI: Dr. Aleksandra Krmpot, team member
from IBISS: Dr. Nataša Todorović, Department of
Neurophysiology
 15

SAIGE PROJECT
STRENGTHENING TIES BETWEEN THE
ACADEMIC AND ECONOMIC SECTORS
IBISS signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Science, Technological
Development and Innovation of the Republic of Serbia to support institutional transformation
through the SAIGE project. This initiative aims to strengthen ties between the academic and
economic sectors, foster innovation, and encourage the growth of entrepreneurship in Serbia.

KEY PROJECT PARTICIPANTS

The SAIGE project brings together 18 scientific SAIGE PROJECT -
institutes, including IBISS, to drive the reform of the
scientific and research sector. With international and
national collaboration, the project focuses on enhancing SERBIA
the quality of scientific research, improving ACCELERATING
competitiveness on international projects, and
advancing knowledge and technology transfer.
INNOVATION AND
GROWTH
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
PROJECT
ACKNOWLEDGING OUR EXPERTS
We extend our gratitude to international and national experts
who have played a crucial role in the transformation of IBISS.
Special thanks to:

International Institutional Consultant: Dr. Richard Adams

National Institutional Consultant: Dr. Aleksandar Belic

International Advisory Board: A distinguished panel of experts including Dr.

Teresa Lettieri, Prof. Marianne Rots, Prof. Gordana Vunjak-Novaković, Dr. Matjaž
Polak, Dr. Efstathios Gonos, Prof. Damid Barcelo Cullerds, and Dr. Thomas Mohr

Project Implementation Unit of the SAIGE Project

Consultant for knowledge and technology transfer: Davorka Moslavac Forjan

Consultant for intellectual property and legislation: Andra Radonjanin

Consultant for managing human resources: Ivona Simić

European Training Academy - EUTA

 16

SAIGE PROJECT
PROJECT ACTIVITIES

67 Training Sessions: Covering areas such as

knowledge and technology transfer, intellectual
property protection, project writing, data management,
open science, and human resource management.

34 Additional Trainings: Focused on project preparation

and management, market analysis, commercialization,
financial management, electronic archiving, gender
IBISS IS equality, and more.

COMMITTED TO 73 Meetings: Including discussions with the World Bank

ELEVATE administration, international and national consultants,

IBISS Scientific Council and Board of Directors,
STANDING IN department heads, transformation team, knowledge

INTERNATIONAL
and technology transfer team, and the digital
communication team.

RESEARCH AND
INNOVATION

PROJECT ACHIEVEMENTS

Transformation Plan adopted

Establishment of Transformation Team and delegated responsibilities
Finalisation of Communication Plan
Establishment of Digital Transformation Team
Establishment of Project Preparation and Implementation Unit
Establishment of Technology Transfer Unit
Establishment of Advisory Board
Drafting of the Rulebook of Protection of Intellectual Property
Establishment of IT Group
Launch of IBISS Internal Proof of Concept and support for 5 projects
Adoption of IBISS Strategy and Action Plan
 17

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
CITIZENS ET AL. - THE ROLE OF CITIZEN SCIENCE IN BIOLOGY
Dr. Mirko Đorđević from the Department of Evolutionary Biology discussed how citizen
science has been used in biological research over the past decade. His talk was focused on
gaining experiences with the citizen science project "Obtectus Finders". A particular focus of
this talk was on the opportunities that citizen science can provide to researchers working at
IBISS and the opportunity for our institute to be recognized as a center of development in this
field.

CITIZEN SCIENCE PROJECTS

CITIZEN
In the citizen science projects citizens collaborate with
professional scientists in gathering, analyzing and
SCIENCE
interpreting the data. Active participation of volunteers in
citizen science projects improves their science literacy
by helping them better understand scientific Citizen science actively
methodology (how science is done) and contributes to involves the public in
democratization of science and decentralization of scientific research that
science promotion. For scientists, citizen science generates new
provides an opportunity to gather information that would knowledge.

be impossible to collect because of limitations of time

and financial resources. Moreover, it can often operate
at greater geographic scales than conventional science.
 18

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
BIODEGRADATION OF PLASTIC - CONTRIBUTION TO THE CIRCULAR
ECONOMY
Dr. Larisa Ilijin from the Department of Insect Physiology and Biochemistry presented the
project "Biodegradation of plastics - contribution to the circular economy" from the program
"EU for the Green Agenda in Serbia". The project is implemented by UNDP, with the financial
support of the EU and in partnership with the Ministry of Environmental Protection.

SOLUTION TO POLLUTION
TENEBRIO Plastic materials are an important part of the global
MOLITOR economy, and people's daily lives, while plastic waste
has been one of the biggest environmental pollutants for
Several insect species,
decades. The level of accumulation of this waste in the
such as the larvae of
environment is high and constant, while the degree of its
the mealworm, Tenebrio
molitor, have the ability degradation is very low. This is especially true for
to biodegrade different polystyrene, which is massively used in the food
types of plastic. industry for food packaging, so it is necessary to
Different symbiotic develop a sustainable system for its biodegradation.
strains of bacteria in The main focus of this talk was the development of a
their midgut participate circulatory system in which T. molitor larvae would be
in the biodegradation of fed wheat bran (the usual substrate) with the addition of
plastic materials.
polystyrene. Multiple advantages of this innovation were
discussed: reducing the amount of plastic waste,
reducing the level of greenhouse gas emissions, as well
as reducing the level of soil and water pollution and a
healthier environment.
 19

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
ZEBRAFISH (DANIO RERIO) AS A MODEL IN BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH

Dr. Margareta Kračun-Kolarević and Dr. Stoimir

Kolarević from the Department of Hydroecology and
Water Protection presented the work of the newly
formed zebra hatchery to IBISS researchers. In Serbia,
there are currently several institutions that use zebrafish
in research. In 2021, our Institute was approved for
entry into the Register for animal experiments for the
keeping, reproduction and trade of zebrafish. In the
same year, the Institute launched a project to create a ZEBRAFISH
breeding facility. Within the lecture the zebrafish model
was introduced to the interested colleagues within the
Zebrafish is simple and
framework of current research topics. Fruitful discussion economical to cultivate, it
was opened to discuss the possibilities for expanding has a rapid reproduction,
both basic and applied research that newly formed relatively short
hatchery may provide, as well as plans for further development period and
development and improvement of the hatchery. high regenerative
potential. This makes it
particularly popular in
USE OF ZEBRAFISH laboratories around the
world.
Zebrafish have been recognized as a reliable model
used in various biological research since the 1960s.
Cancer biology, biotechnology, ecotoxicology,
behavioural biology, immunology, biology of ageing,
neurobiology, are just some of the topics in which this
model can be of great importance.
 20

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
TARGETED REWRITING OF EPIGENETIC MARKS AS A NEW
THERAPEUTIC APPROACH IN TRIPLE NEGATIVE BREAST CANCERS
Ana Sarić from the Department of Molecular Biology talked about how BRCA1 methylation
(BRCAness) can be used as a predictor for therapeutic response to PARPi and other
therapeutics and how it can allow direct triple-negative breast cancers TNBC treatment
without previous screening for BRCA1 mutations. This methodological setup can be helpful in
future apoptosis and cancer cell diminishment.

NEW APPROACH IN CANCER

DNA RESEARCH
METHYLATION During the talk the potential use of epigenetic editing
tools for BRCAness phenotype induction as a pre-
DNA methylation is a therapeutic approach in TNBCs with unknown
crucial epigenetic mutational signature of BRCA1 was addressed. Main
modification that
target of the research is to induce BRCAness by
involves the addition of
suppressing BRCA1 gene expression in TNBC cells via
a methyl group to the
DNA molecule. It plays
targeted DNA methylation of the BRCA1 promoter using
a fundamental role in the synthetic epigenetic editing tool (Epi-
regulating gene CRISPR/dCas9/KRAB/DNMT3a3l).
expression and
maintaining genomic
stability.
 21

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
CLINICAL RESEARCH EDUCATION, OFFICE OF
CLINICAL RESEARCH, NIH, MD, USA

Dr. Srđan Sokanović from the Department of

Neurobiology had a seminar in order to promote the
Clinical Research Education Program provided by the
Office of Clinical Research, NIH, MD, USA. In his talk
Dr. Sokanović presented and described several courses

NIH CLINICAL
including Ethical and Regulatory Aspects of Clinical
Research, The Introduction to the Principles and
Practice of Clinical Research (IPPCR), Principles of
Clinical Pharmacology. Useful advice related to
CENTER
registration, learning and the certificate receiving were
provided. The NIH Clinical Center is
a hospital solely
dedicated to clinical
research at the National
Institutes of Health
campus in Bethesda,
Maryland.
 22

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
BORN TO BEE WILD

Dr. Slobodan Davidović from the Department of Genetics of populations and

ecogenotoxicology presented the results of the SERBHIWE project implemented in the period
from 2020-2022, and financed by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia as part of the
first PROMIS call for young and promising researchers.

UNDERSTANDING GENETIC
DIVERSITY
GENETIC Dr. Davidović talked about the implementation of the

DIVERSITY project, the genetic diversity of different free-living

honey bee (Apis mellifera) populations from nature as
Genetic diversity refers well as those from beehives. The importance of better
to the variety of genetic understanding the genetic diversity of this important
information within a species for the purpose of preserving natural
population of
populations and better management of managed ones
individuals of the same
was indicated. Genetic diversity was analyzed at the
species. It
level of two types of genetic markers: mitochondrial
encompasses the range
of different alleles, DNA and microsatellites from autosomal loci.
genes, and genetic
characteristics present
in a population.

Photo Credit: Dr. Aleksandra Patenković

 23

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
DANUBEST - RESEARCH AWARDED WITH THE DANUBIUS YOUNG
SCIENTIST AWARD 2022
Dr. Zorana Miletić from the Department of Ecology received the award for her doctoral
dissertation "Content of potentially toxic elements in selected woody species as
bioindicators of pollution in the coastal zone of the Sava River". She presented information
about the Danubius Awards, the criteria, and how to apply for the awards, as well as the
research that was awarded the Danubius Young Scientist Award 2022.

DANUBIUS
BIOINDICATION AND PHYTOREMEDIATION
YOUNG
In the seminar Dr. Miletić indicated the capacity for
bioindication and phytoremediation of 14 chemical SCIENTIST
elements in several indigenous species including Salix
alba (white willow), Populus alba (white poplar), P. nigra
AWARD
(black poplar), Ulmus glabra (mountain elm) and highlights the scientific
Juglans regia (walnut). work and talent of young
researchers who cover
research issues and
topics that are
specifically related to the
Danube region.

Photo Credit: Dr. Milica Jonjev

 24

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
FROM FIELDWORK TO IUCN RED LIST CATEGORIES
Dr. Ivana Budinski from the Department of Genetic Research highlighted the value of
data collected in the field for establishing effective conservation strategies for bats. The
lecture outlined how the IUCN Red List process to assess the extinction risk of a species
works and showcased an example of how this data was directly used in the first IUCN Red
List assessment of Pseudoromicia nyanza.

BAT DIVERSITY ASSESSMENT

BIODIVERSITY The Afrotropics are recognised as a biodiversity hotspot,

HOTSPOT but significant knowledge gaps remain for many taxa,

including bats. More comprehensive studies are needed
to assess bat species' distributions, population trends
is a biogeographic region and conservation status. An expedition conducting a
that is characterised by a rapid bat diversity assessment at eight privately-owned
significant level of sites across Uganda at the beginning of 2023 was
biodiversity and is described. Using a combination of ground mist nets, a
usually under threat from triple high mist net system, and a harp trap to survey
human activities.
bats, there were 664 captured bats (44 species from 8
families). Each method revealed unique captures
emphasising the importance of using a combination of
methods to assess the bat community. Collected data
was included in the evaluation of IUCN categories of
bats of Africa at the workshop that was held in Namibia
in September this year.

Photo Credit: Dr. Ivana Budinski

 25

INSTITUTE SEMINARS
DOES THE AGEING PROCESS CONTRIBUTE TO THE RELATIVITY OF
TIME?
Dr. Vladimir Ajdžanović from the Department of cytology introduced physical relativity into
the mind/thought context and elaborated changed perception of the time flow (the impression
of the time acceleration) with ageing.

PHYSICAL RELATIVITY AND THE

MIND/THOUGHT CONTEXT
TIME The phenomenology of time is observed in the context

DILATION of physical and biological clocks, as well as by

introducing the category of ‘mind time’. Mental
In the theory of
processing impairment is crucial for the “ageing-caused
relativity, Einstein
relativity of time”. A brief overview of the perception of
determined that the
time flow in some disease states that coincide with
time is relative to the
reference frame of the
ageing was presented. This approach has a perspective
observer. Under for future development in the interdisciplinary synergy of
specific conditions, philosophy, physical-mathematical elaboration,
there is a difference in experimental biology and clinical investigations.
the elapsed time
between two clocks.
This is known as time
dilation.
 26

GUEST LECTURES & VISITS

DR. MARKUS SCHOSSERER
Medical University of Vienna

"RIBOSOMAL RNA MODIFICATIONS

IN CELLULAR AND ORGANISMAL
AGING"

DR. MARIJA KUNDAKOVIĆ

Fordham University GUEST
"Epigenomic programming of LECTURES
brain plasticity and disease risk
are invaluable for
by ovarian hormones" fostering a rich
academic environment.

DR. NADICA MILJKOVIĆ

University of Belgrade – School of Electrical Engineering

"A LECTURE ON RESEARCH DATA

FROM THE RESEARCHER'S
PERSPECTIVE"

DR. VARVARA TRACHANA

Faculty of Medicine, Larisa

"SELECTIVE AUTOPHAGY-DRIVEN
SENESCENCE AS A BARRIER TO
TUMORIGENESIS"
 27

GUEST LECTURES & VISITS

DOC. DR. EVA KAMERER
Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade

"A MICROCOSM OF EVOLUTION:

WILL DARWIN HELP US CURE
SERIOUS DISEASES?"

PROF. JANKO NIKOLIĆ, MD

GUEST
University of Arizona, Tucson

"SARS-COV-2, CYTOMEGALOVIRUS LECTURES

AND THEIR IMPACTS ON IMMUNITY
AND HEALTH OVER THE LIFESPAN" bring diverse perspectives,
networking opportunities,
collaborations.

PROF. BOGOLJUB ĆIRIĆ

Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia

"GATA1 CONTROLS NUMBERS OF

HEMATOPOIETIC PROGENITORS AND
THEIR RESPONSE TO AUTOIMMUNE
NEUROINFLAMMATION"

PROF. DIETER LÜTJOHANN

Institute of Clinical Chemistry and
Pharmacology, University of Bonn, Germany

“CHOLESTEROL MANAGEMENT 2023

– CHANCES AND LIMITATIONS”
 28

GUEST LECTURES & VISITS

PETR BARANOV, MD, PHD
Schepens Eye Research Institute; Massachusetts Eye and
Ear, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School

“TRANSPLANTATION OF RETINAL
GANGLION CELLS: GUIDING
DONOR NEURONS TO THEIR FATE“

DR. PANAYIOTA XYLIA

GUEST The Group of Hydro-Aromatic Plants, Cyprus University of

LECTURES Technology, Lemessos

“HYDRO-AROMATIC PLANTS
contribute to a culture GROUP, RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
of continual learning.
AND CASE STUDIES“

DR. IVAN MILENKOVIĆ

Oldenburg University

“WHAT DRIVES OUR BEHAVIOR AND

MOTIVATES US FOR ACTION:
FUNCTION OF THE REWARD SYSTEM
IN THE BRAIN”

DR. DRAGANA ROGULJA

Harvard Medical School

“SLEEP AND THE GUT”

 29

GUEST LECTURES & VISITS

SIGNED AGREEMENT WITH
WUHAN INSTITUTIONS VISIT OF
A Memorandum of understanding was signed between BIOTECHNOLOGY
the IBISS and the Wuhan Institute of Industrial
Innovation and Development (WHIIID), as well as Nano
INCUBATORS AND
Body Life Science and Technology Co., Ltd (NBLST). BASES IN CHINA
After two delegations from Wuhan, China, presented
their institutions to IBISS researchers, the memorandum
The Director and
was signed by Dr. Mirjana Mihailović, director of IBISS,
Assistant Director of
and Mrs. Yao Yuen, Chief Risk Officer of WHIIID, and IBISS, Dr. Mirjana
Mr. Ali Vari, Marketing Director of NBLST. Mihailović and Dr. Momir
Paunović, together with
the assistant minister of
science, technological
development and
innovation, Dr. Marina
Soković, accompanied by
the technical secretary of
PANDA, Nađa
Hadžimurtović, visited the
Shanghai Institute of
Materia Medica (SIMM)
and visited several
biotechnology incubators
and bases in China.
During the visit, the
RESEARCH VISIT further development of
cooperation between
Serbia and China was
Reciprocal research visits
negotiated, as well as the
between Dr. Sandra Belij-
further work of the "One
Rammerstorfer, Oxford Belt and One Road" Joint
Vaccine Group, and Dr. Laboratory.
Tamara Saksida, Department
of Immunology, were realised
as part of the project
"Laboratory exchange to
facilitate testing for nairovirus
reactivity in Serbian livestock"
 30

GUEST LECTURES & VISITS

DR. ANDREA DELEGATION FROM WUHAN AND
SHANGHAI VISITS SERBIA
BÁBELOVÁ Delegations from Whiiid Wuhan Institute of Industrial
VISITS IBISS Innovation and Development (WHIIID), Nano Body
Life Science and Technology Co., and Shanghai
Institute of Materia Medica visited IBISS. Delegations
The Department of Plant
Physiology IBISS and the also participated in the Biotech Future Forum held in
Institute of Oncology and Belgrade.
Radiology of Serbia
hosted Dr. Andrea VISIT OF THE AMBASSADOR OF THE
Bábelova, the head of the
REPUBLIC OF CUBA
Department of
Nanobiology at the The Institute had the honour of hosting His
Cancer Research Excellency Leyda Ernesto Rodríguez Hernández,
Institute of the Ambassador of the Republic of Cuba to Serbia. This
Biomedical Research visit was organised in order to establish cooperation
Center of the Slovak between IBISS and scientific institutions in Cuba.
Academy of Sciences in
Bratislava, Slovak
Republic.
DELEGATION FROM FUZHOU
(FUJIAN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY)
VISITS SERBIA
RESEARCH Ana Despotović from the Department of
Neurophysiology hosted participants of the project of
VISIT bilateral cooperation between the Republic of Serbia
and the People's Republic of China visited IBISS
(project: "Investigation of additions of strontium
Dr. Anja Tolić from the
carbonate and strontium fluoride to calcium silicate
Department of Molecular
Biology, had the dental cements: physico-chemical and biological
opportunity to visit a characterization STROCE).
bioinformatics group led
by Dr. Francesco Ferrari
at IFOM ETS - The AIRC
Institute of Molecular
Oncology in Milan. The
visit was funded by a
STSM grant from COST
action International
Nucleome Consortium
CA18127.
 31

AWARDS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

BIO4 CAMPUS
In the Government of the Republic of Serbia, in the
presence of the Minister of Science, Technological
Development and Innovation (NITRA), Dr. Jelena
Begović, representatives of seven faculties and nine
institutes, including IBISS, signed the architectural
foundations for the premises of the BIO4 Campus. THE MOST CITED
BIO4 Campus is considered one of the largest SCIENTISTS
investments in the field of science in Serbia.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO BIOLOGY Researchers from

Stanford University
Dr. Mirjana Mihailović, the director of IBISS, has have recently revised
the standardised
been honoured in recognition of significant
citation indicators
milestones in the field of biology. This
author database and
acknowledgment highlights Dr. Mihailović's released the findings
substantial and enduring contributions to biology, for 2022. Among the
molecular biology and ecology. This award marks most cited scientists
Dr. Mirjana Mihailović role in the institute's across academia, this
commitment to excellence. year's list proudly
features three of our

6th CONGRESS OF SDIR colleagues from the

Institute of Biological
Research "Siniša
The Serbian Association for Cancer Research
Stanković" – Dr. Marina
awarded a certificate of appreciation to the Institute
Soković, Dr. Jasmina
for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" for
Glamočlija, and Dr.
successful cooperation and financial support in the Marija Ivanov, all
realisation of the 6th Congress of SDIR with affiliated with the
international participation. Department of Plant
Physiology.
CENTER FOR THE PROMOTION OF
SCIENCE - CERTIFICATE OF
APPRECIATION
IBISS received the certificate of appreciation for
support and remarkable contribution of Center for
the Promotion of Science work.
 32

AWARDS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

GORAN LJUBIJANKIĆ
FOUNDATION AWARD
Dr. Danijela Paunović, Department of Plant Physiology,
is one of the winners of the Goran Ljubijankić
Foundation Award for the best PhD thesis in Molecular
Biology in 2022. Dr. Paunović received the award for
her thesis entitled "Identification of AGP genes in
"GOLDEN
centaury (Centaurium erythraea, Gentianaceae) and BEE''
AWARD
monitoring of their expression in response to tissue
mechanical wounding in vitro"

"AKADEMIK MILUTIN Dr. Slobodan

Davidović, Department
RADOVANOVIĆ" AWARD of Genetics of
Populations and
Dr. Jelena Đuknić, Department of Hydroecology and Ccogenotoxicology,
Water Protection, has been honoured for her with the SERBHIWE
outstanding dissertation titled "Diversity and genetic project was
variability of the Simuliidae family (Insecta: Diptera) in unanimously declared
the area of the Balkan Peninsula." Her dissertation this year's winner of
the "Golden Bee ''
was recognized as the best in the public competition
award. The award is the
"Akademik Milutin Radovanović" within the field of
highest national
zoology at the University of Belgrade for the
recognition for the
2022/2023 academic year. contribution to the
preservation,
CoMBoS2 protection and
promotion of bees and
The Serbian Society for Molecular Biology awarded
other pollinators given
the Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" by the Republic of
a certificate of appreciation for its contribution to the Slovenia. The award
realisation of the Second Congress of Molecular was presented by the
Biologists of Serbia (CoMBoS2). President of the
Republic of Slovenia,
"Communities Together" Dr. Nataša Pirc Musar.

In the "Communities Together" competition organised

by the NIS company this year, the Institute for
Biological Research "Siniša Stanković" secured funds
totaling 1,107,852.00 dinars. These funds are
earmarked for the acquisition of an automated
biochemical analyzer.
 33

RESEARCHERS’ NIGHT
IBISS OPEN DOOR
Institute warmly welcomed and hosted 35 highly motivated high school students with a special
interest for biological sciences. Among them were students from several Belgrade high
schools. After hearing the most important facts about the Institute, students had the chance to
explore our Institutes’ laboratories and hear about our current research.

14. EUROPEAN RESEARCHERS’ NIGHT

Since 2011, this event has been hosted in Serbia, with EUROPEAN
active participation from IBISS researchers who are
dedicated to science popularisation. This year, video RESEARCHERS’
materials showcased the activities of the Institute's four
departments. Additionally, a novel format, "We asked
NIGHT
the scientists?", was introduced, featuring entertaining 40 colleagues representing
answers to scientific questions posed by visitors from 10 different departments of
last year's event. For the Night itself, various programs the Institute actively
and exhibits were designed and presented. participated in this year's
program. They organised
the event and engaged
directly with visitors through
scientific installations.
 34

PUBLISHING
TWO ISSUES OF ARCHIVES
OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Archives of Biological Sciences: ABS 75(1)2023.
Archives of Biological Sciences: ABS 75(2)2023.
Archives of Biological Sciences: ABS 75(3)2023.
Archives of Biological Sciences: ABS 75(4)2023.

THE FIRST CATALOGUE OF MOTH AND BUTTERFLY

FAUNA OF SERBIA (LEPIDOPTERA LINNAEUS, 1758)
ARCHIVES OF This publication represents a significant contribution to the
knowledge of the biodiversity of the Lepidoptera of Serbia.
BIOLOGICAL This well-studied group of organisms has many species

SCIENCE that are endangered and protected at the national and/or

international level.

The Institute for Biological IBISS BIBLIOGRAPHY

Research "Siniša Stanković" “Institut za biološka istraživanja "Siniša Stanković" - Institut
is co-publisher of the
od nacionalnog značaja za Republiku Srbiju, Univerzitet u
Archives of Biological
Beogradu : bibliografija : 2022”
Sciences, the official journal
of the Serbian Biological
Society.
 35

TRAINING AND EDUCATION

SEPSANIMA WORKSHOP
This workshop is part of the project "Novel sepsis
animal models", collaboration with diaspora funded
by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia. The
workshop assembled researchers from the
Department of Immunology IBISS and Department
of Pathology, University of Iowa. The workshop
included several lectures from Dr. Đordje Miljković,

DROPLET
Dr. Suzana Stanisavljević, Prof. Dr. Vladimir
Badovinac, Roger Berton and Prof. Dr. Thomas
Griffith.
DIGITAL PCR
COURSE "BIOCHEMISTRY IBISS is one of the first
institutions in the Republic
FOR HEALTH - MODERN of Serbia to install a droplet
digital PCR system.
METHODOLOGICAL Researchers attended a two-

APPROACHES IN day ddPCR on-site training

held by experts of Labena
BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH" and Biorad companies.

The Biochemical Society of Serbia organised the

course "Biochemistry for health - modern
methodological approaches in biomedical
research" for undergraduate and graduate
students. This year IBISS was a host for the
theoretical and practical parts of the course.
Participants listened to lectures in the IBISS library
and had a practical segment of the course:
”Working on a flow cytofluorimeter and processing
the results of flow cytofluorimetry". The knowledge
was transferred by colleagues from the
Department of Immunology.
 36

TRAINING AND EDUCATION

“STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND
PROJECT MANAGEMENT” WORKSHOP
Dr. Branka Bajić from the Department of Genetic Research
participated in the training "Conservation Management &
Leadership Reunion: Stakeholder Engagement & Project
Management"

"GIVE GENES A CHANCE"

LIQUID-MASS WORKSHOP
SPECTROMETER
Dr. Milica Bogdanović, from the Department of Plant
A new liquid-mass
Physiology, participated in a conference and workshop
spectrometer (UHPLC-
"Give Genes A Chance"
Orbitrap Exploris 120)
arrived at IBISS. The
training for working on the
device was held by the
company Analysis. The
COPYTREE TRAINING SCHOOL
first round of training was
attended by 7 associates Dr. Slađana Jevremović, from the Department for Plant
from the Department of Physiology participated in the training school "Temporary
Plant Physiology. Immersion Bioreactors, Opportunities and Pitfalls for
Mass Production" was organised under the framework of
the COST action COPYTREE CA21157.

EUTA TRAINING
Series of workshops on preparation, writing and
management of Horizon projects and on research data
management were held in the organisation of EUTA.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
OFFICE TRAINING
IBISS researchers were at the Intellectual Property Office
for a search workshop in the Espacenet patent
documentation database.
 37

CONFERENCES & MEETINGS

"GROWING THE FUTURE”

Researchers from the Department of Plant Physiology

Dr. Slađana Todorović, Dr. Marijana Skorić, Dr. Jelena
Savić and Dr. Nina Devrnja attended the 10. Seed Days
of the Region "Growing the Future – Bringing together
the players of the Agri-Food Chain" organised by the
Seed Association of Serbia.

THE 5TH B
"PLAY FOR HUMANITY!"
SCIENCE FOR ALL" CHROMOSOME
CONFERENCE
IBISS was present at the 65th International Fair of
Techniques and Technical Achievements held at was held in Petnica
Belgrade Fair. Researchers from the Department of organised by the IBISS
Plant Physiology together with colleagues from the and the Serbian Genetic
Department of Hydroecology and Water Protection Society. Eight plenary
presented the importance of natural products as lectures, eighteen oral
and seven poster
sources of innovative approaches in the industry. Also,
presentations were held.
the researchers from the Department of Plant
Physiology have shown an alternative technology for
obtaining planting material of sweet potato by using in
vitro culture techniques. Researchers from the
Department of Physiology and Biochemistry of Insects
presented insects as valuable allies in the era of eco-
concepts, their potential in agricultural development and
biodegradation of plastics. Also, IBISS had its
representatives at the BIO4 campus stand.
 38

CONFERENCES & MEETINGS

IMMUNOPHARMACOLOGY MEETING
Dr. Đorđe Miljković visited Cuba and gave a lecture at
the Immunopharmacology 2023 congress, which lasted
from June 12 to 16, 2023. The session was dedicated to
neuroimmunology, neuroimmunopharmacology and
neuroimmunomodulation.

EXHIBITION: HOW DO MEALWORMS

BIODEGRADE PLASTICS?
THE SECOND Exhibition: How do mealworms biodegrade plastics?
In the Microgallery of the Center for the Promotion of
CHINA-CEEC Science passers-by can experience a part of the
research project conducted by researchers from the
CONFERENCE Department of Insect Physiology and Biochemistry about
about the mealworm that feeds on styrofoam and
Dr. Marijana Skorić from
the Department of Plant
polyethylene film and provides opportunities to reduce
Physiology participated plastic waste.
at „The Second China- VISIT TO THE HUBEI
CEEC Conference on UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY
Technology Cooperation
and Exchange“ in
Nanjing, China.
At the invitation of the Hubei University of Technology
(HUT), Wuhan, China, Dr. Danijela Maksimović Ivanić,
Dr. Sanja Mijatović and Dr. Tamara Saksida from the
Department of Immunology held several lectures and
were appointed as visiting professors of this university.
An agreement on cooperation between HUT and IBISS
was signed, thus ensuring that the cooperation between
IBISS and the Hubei University of Technology will
continue in the future. They also gave lectures at
Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University and presented
the work of IBISS as well as the work of the Department
of Immunology. They also participated in the Brain
Health and Human Disease Conference and the 2023
International Conference on the Cooperation and
Integration of Industry, Education, Research and
Application.
 39

CONFERENCES & MEETINGS

"8TH CONGRESS OF THE SERBIAN NEUROSCIENCE SOCIETY”

The event took place in Belgrade and was organised by

Ithe Serbian Neuroscience Society and IBISS, with Dr.
Selma Kanazir as Chair of the Scientific Committee and
Dr. Ivana Bjelobaba as Chair of the Organising
Committee. IBISS colleagues Dr. Ana Podolski-Renić,
Dr. Smilja Todorović and Dr. Milica Lazarević were
invited as speakers.
SECOND CONGRESS
"6TH CONGRESS OF THE SERBIAN OF THE MOLECULAR
CANCER RESEARCH SOCIETY (SDIR6)" BIOLOGISTS OF
SDIR6 was organized in Belgrade by the Serbian
Cancer Research Society, with IBISS acting as co-
SERBIA (COMBOS2)
took place in Belgrade and was
organizer. The conference, entitled “From collaboration
organised by the Serbian Society for
to innovation in cancer research”, was attended by an
Molecular Biology, with IBISS acting
IBISS researcher, Dr. Sofija Jovanović Stojanov and Dr. as co-organiser. IBISS researchers
Marija Mojić, as guest speakers. The PhD students gave three plenary lectures, one
selected for oral presentations at SDIR6 were Milica invited lecture, 2 flash presentations
Pajović, Ekatarina Mihajlović and Teodora Komazec, and eight poster presentations.
while IBISS researchers were first authors of four
posters.
The members of the Scientific Committee were: Dr. Ana
Podolski-Renić, Dr. Ljubica Harhaji-Trajković, Dr. Jelena
Dinić and Dr. Milica Pešić. Member of the Supervisory
Board was Dr. Danijela Maksimović-Ivanić, while Dr.
Sofija Jovanović Stojanov and Dr. Ana Stepanović were
members of the Organizing Committee. The moderators
of the sessions at SDIR6 were Dr. Milica Pešić, Dr.
Ljubica Harhaji-Trajković, Dr. Ana Podolski-Renić and
Dr. Jelena Dinić.
 40

CONFERENCES & MEETINGS

TRAINING PROGRAM OF NATURAL

PRODUCTS AND DRUG DISCOVERY
The conference was attended by nearly hundred
scientists from China, Serbia, Slovenia, North
Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro,
Albania and Greece. Ms. Shi Yi and Mr. Li Rui, from the
FAIR OF GREEN Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Serbia,

IDEAS, PROJECTS also joined the conference. 26 Lectures were held on

various biological activities of natural products and their
AND INNOVATIONS application in pharmacy and medicine, drug design,
functional foods, as well as policies and experiences on
Researchers from the Department
of Insect Physiology and achievement transferring, transformation and research.
Biochemistry, together with
associates from Belinda Animals,
presented the project
"Biodegradation of plastics –
formation of incubation center –
Phase I" organised by the UNDP
Serbia on the occasion of the World
Environment Day.

''INNOVATION FORUM''

IBISS researchers participated in ''Innovation Forum''

envisaged to encourage innovation and promote
cooperation between Serbia and France. Researchers
from IBISS (Dr. Tanja Vukov, Dr. Ana Đorđević, Dr. Ana
Ćirić and Dr. Dejan Stojković) exchanged ideas, shared
knowledge and explored possible collaborations. The
event was organised by the French Embassy in Serbia
and the Ministry of Science, Technological Development
and Innovation of the RS.
 41

CONFERENCES & MEETINGS

“PANDA” FOURTH ANNUAL CONFERENCE
The Fourth Annual Conference and Training Program of
Pan-Balkan Alliance of Natural Products and Drug
Discovery Associations (PANDA) and International
Seminar of UNESCO Regional Network of Natural
Products Chemistry for Safety and Well-being in Asia
and the Pacific was held in Shanghai, China. The
conference attended nearly sixty scientists from twenty
one countries. At the conference, lectures were held on
the biomedical research achievements, newly emerging
IBISS AT THE
viral infectious diseases, including the discovery of INTERNATIONAL
FAIR
bioactive compounds derived from natural products and
traditional medicines and the discovery of new drugs
based on active compounds. Researchers from the
Department of Plant Physiology
IBISS VISITING WUHAN INSTITUTIONS participated at the 4th
International Fair of Medicinal,
Spice, Ornamental Plants, Bee
The Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković", Products and Mushrooms in
Institute of Materia Medica (SIMM) and Wuhan Institute Vranje. The fair brought together
of Industrial Innovation and Development (WHIIID) co- companies, small entrepreneurs
organised the Third Session of the Donghu Scientific and researchers.
Symposium - International Seminar on Natural Products
and New Drug Discovery held in Wuhan, China. The
focus was on a facilitated exchange in the research and
development of natural products and new drugs
between research institutions and universities in China
and the wider Balkan region. From IBISS, Dr. Marina
Soković gave the opening speech, the lecture was given
by Dr. Ana Ćirić, while Dr. Jasmina Glamočlija took part
in the panel discussion. During the visit to Wuhan,
colleagues from the Department of Plant Physiology,
together with PANDA members, visited Wuhan’s Optics
Valley, United Imaging, Wuhan National University and
Nano Body Life Science and Technology Co., Ltd
(NBLST).