Jan Svoboda, MSc
PhD student
Department of Patophysiology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University
Scientific background
My journey began as a Ph.D. student at the Institute of Physiology, Department of Developmental Epileptology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic. Immersed in the world of academia, I was fueled by curiosity and driven by the desire to make meaningful contributions to the field of developmental epileptology. During my time as a Ph.D. student, I also had the privilege of serving as an academic staff member at the Department of Anatomy and Biomechanics, Faculty of Physical Education, Charles University. This experience allowed me to not only deepen my understanding of human anatomy and physiology, but also to nurture the next generation of scholars.
As I transitioned into the role of a researcher at the Department of Pathological Physiology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, my journey took on a new dimension. Here, I have had the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of pathological conditions of human brain, exploring novel avenues of research and pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. The challenges have been daunting, but with perseverance and determination, I have continued to forge ahead, driven by the belief that every obstacle is an opportunity in disguise. Through it all, one thing has remained constant: my unwavering commitment to excellence. Whether in the lab, the classroom, or the lecture hall, I have always strived to give nothing less than my best.
Research interests
I am deeply interested in understanding the mysterious structure laying on the edge of blood and brain. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) stands as a sentinel, guarding the delicate neural tissue against harmful substances circulating in the bloodstream. However, in conditions like brain ischemia and epilepsy, this barrier undergoes significant changes, allowing for the passage of molecules that can exacerbate neuronal damage and dysfunction.
In the aftermath of a stroke or ischemic event, the BBB becomes compromised, leading to increased permeability. This breakdown is multifaceted, involving the disruption of tight junction proteins that normally seal the gaps between endothelial cells lining the cerebral blood vessels. As a result, inflammatory mediators, immune cells, and neurotoxic substances infiltrate the brain parenchyma, exacerbating tissue damage and neuronal death.
Similarly, in epilepsy, alterations in BBB permeability play a crucial role in disease progression. Seizure activity induces a cascade of molecular events that compromise the integrity of the BBB, facilitating the entry of ions, neurotransmitters, and inflammatory molecules into the brain. This influx further fuels neuronal hyperexcitability and promotes the development of recurrent seizures, perpetuating the epileptic cycle.
Understanding the mechanisms underlying BBB dysfunction in brain ischemia and epilepsy is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic interventions. Strategies aimed at preserving BBB integrity or restoring its function hold promise for mitigating neuronal damage and improving clinical outcomes in these debilitating conditions. Recent advancements in imaging techniques and biomarker discovery have shed light on the dynamic nature of BBB permeability changes in neurological disorders. Non-invasive imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) enable clinicians to visualize BBB integrity in vivo, providing valuable insights into disease progression and treatment response.
Selected publications
Svoboda, J., Litvinec, A., Kala, D., Pošusta, A., Vávrová, L, Jiruška, P. Otáhal, J.
Strain differences in intraluminal thread model of middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats. Physiological Research, 2019. 68. 37-48. https://doi.org/10.33549/physiolres.933958
More information
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7656-0846
AAR-6011-2020