The purpose of the present research is to improve our understanding of the mechanisms of action of neuropshycoactive drugs, especially during their chronic administration and modification by stress. Particular emphasis is placed on the research of benzodiazepines and antidepressants, used to treat anxiety, insomnia and depression, which are acting via GABAergic and serotonergic systems in the brain. Therefore, we investigate the changes in the expression and function of GABA-A receptor in vitro after prolonged exposure to benzodiazepines, known to induce the development of tolerance and dependence. Moreover, by using experimental animals, we have been also investigating the interactions between the effects of stress and benzodiazepines and antidepressants, primarily on the susceptibility to convulsions, as well as the role of the serotonergic system in controlling brain excitability.

Recent studies reveal that cholesterol may play a role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The goal of this project is to elucidate the mechanism(s) of cholesterol-effect on APP metabolism, formation of amyloid-β peptide (Aβ)  and the genesis of Alzheimer’s disease. We speculate that cholesterol regulation of membrane and protein trafficking along the endocytic pathway leads to amyloidogenic processing of APP and Aβ formation.

The main goal of this study is to investigate hereditary and sporadic genetic changes in benign and malignant gastrointestinal tumors in order to elucidate the mechanisms of their development and progression. Another goal of this study is to start with prospective pharmacogenetic study in order to examine the correlation between known polymorpisms and gastrointestinal cancer therapy.