Cooperation of science and business

< Back

One of the primary goals of the University –  to achieve smooth cooperation between science and business in the creation, development, and transfer of scientific results. In 2017, the Health Innovation Development Centre was established, finding ways to make the most effective use of the results of the University’s top-level fundamental and applied biomedical and agricultural research, developing, and putting into practice health technologies and innovations, with the aim of expanding the scope and areas of cooperation with business. The main tasks of the Health Innovation Development Centre are related to the active search and attraction of private investors in the University’s R&D activities and results, as well as the implementation of innovative activities that increase the University’s attractiveness to businesses.

Lithuanian University of Health Sciences is an active partner and participant in integrated science, study and business centres called valleys. Today, LSMU is a member and active partner of the Nemunas Valley and the Santaka Valley. To achieve this partnership, the R&D infrastructure development activities envisaged in the valley programmes are implemented, the main goal of which is directly correlated with the strategic goals of the valleys themselves – to promote science and innovation, ensure their dissemination and access to the latest research infrastructure. Direct access to the latest R&D infrastructure will be provided by open access centres set up by the Valley’s partners, providing a gateway to the latest research equipment and technology.

EIT Health is a unique network of the European Health Innovation Community with over 150 partners, including major companies, universities, R&D centres, hospitals and institutes. This collaboration is helping to address Europe’s major health challenges. With the help of EIT Health, life-changing ideas can become a reality – commercially viable products and services!

The activities of EIT Health in Lithuania are coordinated by the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences together with Kaunas University of Technology. From 2018 more than 30 science and innovation events were organised together: creative workshops, hackathons, conferences, competitions, etc. The events attracted more than 4,500 members of the health innovation ecosystem. Thanks to these activities, the health innovation ecosystem in Lithuania is strengthened and wide opportunities are opened for the implementation and development of innovative ideas.

EIT Health InnoStars – one of the eight geographical areas of EIT Health, covering almost half of Europe, including Hungary, Italy, Poland and Portugal, as well as additional regions included in the EIT Regional Innovation Scheme: Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Romania.

EIT Health InnoStars, headquartered in Budapest, brings together 25 key and associate partners. Along with them, we focus on promoting entrepreneurship, innovation and education in healthcare, healthy lifestyles and active ageing.

We are proud to have the success of EIT Health InnoStars in Lithuania almost every year! In 2018, the winners of the InnoStars Awards were Oxipit, who won the main prize of € 25,000. In 2019, BrachyDOSE became part of the EIT Health InnoStars Award community, winning € 25,000 in funding. In 2020, the starter Ligencewon the InnoStars Awards and € 50,000 in funding. In 2020, Emplastrum, together with partners in the RIS Innovation Call 2020 programme, received € 75,000 in funding.

More information: www.eithealth.eu

To promote entrepreneurship education and carry out scientific research and experimental development, the Health Innovation Development Center created the Incubation Program.

Incubation programme is excellent tool for developing innovative ideas and businesses in health care area. As part of the programme, innovators have access to resources, mentors, expert advice, professional support, and best practices to accelerate growth and increase their chances of success. It doesn’t matter if you have an innovative product or service, or if you just have an idea, the incubation programme can assist you in developing it and making it successful. If you’re ready to take your health idea to the next level, join the incubation programme today!

The programme goal is to encourage LSMU students and employees to carry out high international level scientific research and experimental development (hereinafter – R&D), directing the results to meet industry, business and social and cultural needs, to encourage the establishment of new innovative companies, to contribute to the creation of a coherent and coherent innovation ecosystem, to develop entrepreneurial culture.

All students and employees of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences who have completed the Application can participate.

Benefits for participants:

  • Team coordination, consulting, mentoring.
  • Targeted, hands-on training, hackathons, seminars, and events.
  • Help to attract EU funding.
  • Help in finding partners and investors.

REGISTER

Tests by accredited laboratories

Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Institute of Pharmaceutical Technologies is one of the leading pharmaceutical sciences institutions in the Baltics. Its goal – harmonisation of scientific research, education and pharmaceutical practice, striving to ensure optimal development and accessibility of pharmaceutical products.

In 2021, the Laboratory of Biopharmaceutical Research of Institute of Pharmaceutical Technologies of the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences (LSMU)  was awarded international ISO accreditation (accreditation certificate No. LS.185-01) for the purpose of medicine and medical substances research. The LSMU laboratory was evaluated as the second in Lithuania and first of the University laboratories. The accreditation proves the laboratory’s commitment to maintain high quality and ethical standards, ensuring reliable and precise research results. It also allows the laboratory to contribute toward advancement in the fields of pharmacy and medicine developing and expanding new medicines, also conducting clinical trials, improving dosage forms and other biomedical innovations. International accreditation allows the laboratory to strengthen its position not only at the national, but also at the international level, providing an opportunity to participate in various international scientific, academic and business partnerships.

Determination of rosmarinic acidThe efficient liquid chromatography methodology (according to Eur. Ph. 01/2011:1447) is applied to the investigation of the quantity and identity parameters of extracts of medicinal plant raw materials accumulating rosmarinic acid.
Determination of total hydroxyanthracene glycosides and anthraquinonesThe efficient liquid chromatography methodology (according to Eur. Ph. 04/2020:0206) is applied to the investigation of the quantity and identity parameters of extracts of medicinal plant raw materials accumulating hydroxyanthracene glycosides and anthraquinones.
Research equipment booking

Check and follow this link to view the catalogue and book the research equipment.

Service offers

Analysis of metals and metalloids and their impact biomarkers in biomedia

Assessment of metals and metalloids and their impact biomarkers in human and animals biomedia in occupational health, environmental health, public health and clinical settings.

Ultra-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry detector study

Analyses with a liquid chromatograph and Xevo TQD mass spectrometer (Waters, USA). The mass spectrometer works with ESI and APCI ion sources in MSscan, SIM, MS/MS modes. Applications: identity and quantitative analysis of organic compounds, determination of purity of materials.

Development, validation and application of an efficient liquid chromatography technique for the phytochemical analysis of objects of plant origin

Efficient liquid chromatography techniques are used for the analysis of phenolic, triterpene, diterpene and other specific metabolites.

Studies on medicinal substances, their metabolites and impurities

Identification and detection of the medicinal substance or its metabolite in complex samples of pharmaceutical, biological or other origin.

Studies on phenolic acids and flavonoids in plant samples

Ultra-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry detector is used for the identification and determination of phenolic phytochemicals in plant samples and various products.

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of triterpenic compounds

The performance of the liquid chromatography assay is applied to the determination of triterpene compounds (ursolic, oleanolic, betulinic acid, etc.) for the analysis of samples of apples and their products.

Oxidised lipid tests

Ultra performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry detector for the determination of oxidised forms of lipids in biological samples. The test may be used for the determination of oxidation products of arachidonic acid metabolites.

Peptide and amino acid research

Ultra-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry detector for the identification and determination of peptides and amino acids in biological samples. The method can be used for metabolism studies.

Determination of rosmarinic acid

The efficient liquid chromatography technique (according to Eur. Ph. 01/2011:1447) shall be used for the analysis of the quantity and identity parameters of rosmarinic acid-containing extracts of medicinal herbal raw materials.

Determination of total hydroxyanthracene glycosides and anthraquinones

The efficient liquid chromatography technique (according to Eur. Ph. 04/2020:0206) shall be used for the analysis of the quantity and identity parameters of extracts of medicinal plant materials containing hydroxyanthracene glycosides and anthraquinones.

Determination of total phenolic compounds

Total phenolic compounds are determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu spectrophotometric method.

Determination of total flavonoid content

The determination of total flavonoids in the test samples is based on the formation of complex compounds with Al3+ ions.

Determination of total proanthocyanidins

The total proanthocyanidins in the samples analysed are determined using the DMCA spectrophotometric technique.

Determination of total hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives

Determination of the total amount of hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives is based on reaction with Arnow’s reagent.

Determination of in vitro anti-radical activity

The in vitro anti-radical activity of the test samples is assessed by radical-binding spectrophotometric ABTS and DPPH methodologies and is expressed as a trolox equivalent per unit mass of sample.

Determination of in vitro reductive activity

The in vitro reductive activity of the test samples shall be assessed by spectrophotometric spectrophotometric determination of the reductive activity using the CUPRAC and FRAP methodologies and shall be expressed as trolox equivalent per unit mass of sample.

Assessment of the degree of oxidation in biological samples, antioxidant efficiency tests

Determination of the degree of oxidation of proteins, lipids and nucleic acids in biological samples.

Investigating the feasibility of optical detection of circulating metabolites in blood

Preparation of metabolite solutions, determination of concentrations in solutions and optimisation of measurement conditions. Measurement of metabolite concentrations in animal bloodstream by varying metabolite concentrations. Measurement of concentrations of multiple metabolites under conditions of artificial sepsis, comparison of results with laboratory results.

Determination of rheological properties

Evaluation of the rheological properties of semi-solid preparations (pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, foodstuffs): flow curve, oscillation, temperature test.

Particle size determination

Particle size of microemulsions, nanostructured carriers is determined by ZetaSizer; particles of emulsions, suspensions are determined by MasterSizer.

Determination of the pH of the sample

Biochemical analysis of blood

A blood test using a biochemical analyser. The concentration of various biochemical analytes in plasma or serum is determined.

Platelet aggregation test

A blood plasma test using the turbidimetric Born method. The luminal permeability of platelet-rich plasma stimulated with an inducer (adenosine diphosphate, epinephrine or arachidonic acid) is measured. The test is used to assess treatment with antiplatelet agents (e.g. clopidogrel, ticagrelor, prasugrel) or to assess platelet resistance to aspirin.

DNA isolation and concentration determination

Isolation of genomic DNA from peripheral blood leucocytes, saliva using the salt method or silica gel columns. DNA concentration and purity are determined spectrophotometrically.

Real-time PCR analysis of gene variants

The amount of the specific product of the resulting gene variant (e.g. CYP2C9*2*3, VKORC1 G-1639A, CYP2C19*2,*3,*17, CYP4F2*3, FV:Leiden, PAI-1 4G/5G, FII G20210A) produced shall be captured and measured using fluorescent markers and monitored in real time by real-time PCR.

Preparing sequencing libraries

Bacterial 16S rRNA sequencing libraries (to amplify the V1-V2 16S rRNA gene region), exome, transcriptome sequencing libraries, etc.

Determination of protein concentration

Co-concentration of various proteins in plasma, serum and other samples is determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

SARS-CoV-2 whole genome sequencing

Whole genome sequencing using Oxford Nanopore technology. The test involves scanning the genome of SARS-CoV-2 virus. The viral lineage and mutations are identified and sequenced in FASTA format. The test material is RNA from a nasopharyngeal sample.

Cell sorting and testing

Preparation, testing and sorting of cell samples using a cytometer-cell sorter. Expression studies for various surface antigens and receptors, intracellular protein expression studies, cell identification and quantitative analysis.

Cell imaging with the Stedycon superresolution microscope

Preparation of cell samples by immunofluorescence, imaging of samples. Live cell imaging using a temperature-controlled incubator and CO2 environment.

Manufacture of intermediate and final pharmaceutical forms

Formulation selection, technological functionalisation and stability studies of granules, microcapsules, tablets, capsules, syrups, solutions, potions, drops, ointments, gels, suppositories, etc.

Manufacture of cosmetic products

Formulation selection, technology and stability studies for various cosmetic products (creams, serums, hair and face masks, shampoos, conditioners, washes, mouthwashes, toothpastes, lipsticks, etc.).

In vitro biopharmaceutical studies of pharmaceutical forms

The dissolution kinetics of solid dosage forms (tablets, capsules, granules, powders and suppositories) shall be evaluated according to Ph. Eur. 2.9.3 and 2.9.42 monographs and other studies.

Modification of cell cultures and functional studies

Cells are transfected with siRNAs or miRNAs of the customer’s choice, and functional assays are performed in cell cultures (viability assays, colony formation, migration assays, etc.).

In vitro cytotoxicity assessment

Toxicity assessment of chemicals, biologicals and their preparations in cell culture. Parameters to be determined include: cellular metabolic activity, viability, death pathway, activation of the inflammatory response, oxidative stress, mitochondrial and glycolytic energy activity.

In vitro evaluation of anti-inflammatory effects

Evaluate the effect (efficacy) of agents and medical devices on viral (including COVID-19) or bacterial inflammation in vitro in a selected tissue model. Determine the production and secretion of immune and/or other markers of immunometabolic activity of selected cells induced by viral or bacterial agents, such as production and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, production of metalloproteinases, production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, mitochondrial-glycolytic energy metabolism transition, etc. Possible models include the respiratory tract, blood vessel, myocardium, gastrointestinal tract, etc.

Efficacy studies in an in vitro model of myocardial ischemia

Determine whether the investigational agent protects cardiomyocytes from ischemic death. The study may be extended to assess the effects on different death pathways (apoptosis, necrosis, ferroptosis, etc.), functionality (contractility) and mitochondrial damage.

Efficacy studies in an in vitro model of cerebral ischemia

Determine whether the substance being tested protects neurons from ischemia-induced death. Optional assessment parameters include neuronal death rate, number of synapses, synaptic activity and signal quality, level of inflammatory activity of astrocytes and microglia, mitochondrial and glycolytic functionality, and level of inflammatory factors.

Drug efficacy studies in an in vitro model of neurodegeneration

It assesses how the substance protects neurons (cultured together with other brain cells such as microglia and astrocytes) from neurotoxicity. Optional assessment parameters include neuronal death rate, number of synapses, synapse activity and signal quality, level of inflammatory activity of astrocytes and microglia.

Studies on effects on mitochondrial function

The effect of the product on the efficiency of the mitochondrial respiratory chain and phosphorylation system, the integrity of the inner and outer membranes, and other mitochondrial health parameters of the selected tissue is assessed.

Studies on effects on glycolytic activity

The effect of the product on the glycolytic efficiency of the selected tissue and the capacity of the glycolytic system is assessed.

Investigating the elicitation of an inflammatory response in human immune cells

Assess whether the test substances induce inflammation in immune cells such as macrophages, microglia, fibroblasts, astrocytes etc. The level of inflammation shall be assessed by the production and secretion of cytokines and chemokines, the production of metalloproteinases, the production of active oxygen and nitrogen compounds, the mitochondrial-glycolytic energy metabolism transition, etc.

Studies on anticancer effects

The effects of chemicals, biologicals and drugs in cell monolayers and three-dimensional (3D) cultures are investigated. Effects on viability, proliferation, migration, oncogenic factor production intensity and other parameters are determined.

In vitro/ex vivo multi-barrier permeation studies

It assesses the permeation of substances across various barriers: blood-brain, intestinal, vascular endothelial, skin, respiratory epithelial and other barriers in vitro.

Regenerative impact assessment

The regenerative effect on the cells of the selected tissue is evaluated using methods such as wound healing, total metabolic activity, energy metabolism intensity and others. Available models include skin (epidermis, mesoderm, hypodermis, full thickness), respiratory tract, brain, intestine, myocardium, skeletal muscle, retinal neuroepithelium, stem cells, immune cells, etc.

Evaluation of the effects on skin maintenance and functionality in a 3D in vitro model

The effect of the test substance on skin structure (layer thickness and shape, formation of characteristic layers) and function (production of extracellular filler proteins) is investigated in a 3D model of skin cultured in the air-liquid phase boundary.

Assessment of the maintenance of brain functionality in 3D in vitro models replicating natural cerebellar structure and functionality

Investigating neuronal viability and functionality by replicating the cellular composition, structure and function of the natural brain in 3D in vitro models.

Assessment of effects on osteogenesis

Effects on osteoblast viability, proliferation and differentiation are assessed.

Evaluation of the effects of substances in an in vitro model of osteonecrosis

The effect of the test substances on the viability, proliferation and energy metabolism of osteoblasts inhibited by bisphosphonates.

In vitro studies of the effects of neurodegenerative preparations in a model of Alzheimer’s disease

The models can be sporadic (based on amyloidogenic peptides), familial (based on mutation) or mixed. Determine whether the investigational agent protects neuronal synapses, improves their function, reduces inflammation and improves energy metabolism.

Ex vivo evaluation of the effects of medicinal substances or devices in the vasculature

Determine how the chosen drug or device affects the blood vessels ex vivo.

Ex vivo effects of ex vivo drug treatment on blood vessels by ultrasound modulation

Determine how the chosen drug or device affects the blood vessels ex vivo.

Isolation of lipocytes from lipoaspirate and assessment of their viability and determination of hemoglobin in lipoaspirate

Lipocyte viability/metabolic activity is assessed by fluorescence microscopy, Alamar blue and other methods, and hemoglobin content in the lipoaspirate is determined.

In vitro model of normal intestinal tissue

A 2D/3D in vitro intestinal model formed from colonic stem cells for testing various active substances. It can assess morphological changes, proliferation, apoptosis markers, changes in gene and protein expression, epithelial barrier function.

Toxicity and efficacy studies in in vivo models

According to the customer’s needs, the material is prepared for the study. Toxicity, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, bioanalysis of the material and surgical profile experiments are assessed. Cancer, infections, digestive system and other models are possible.

Effects on blood vessels in in vivo models

Determine how a selected drug or medical device affects blood vessels and their function in animal models.

Selection of microorganisms for the production of yeast bakery products

Selection of microorganisms for the production of leavening agents, selection of the optimum amount of leavening agent according to the sensory characteristics, porosity and specific volume of bakery products.

Quality tests on bakery products: porosity, specific volume, intensity of ringing during storage, sensory characteristics

The bakery products are analysed for porosity, specific volume, intensity of ringing during storage and sensory characteristics.

Modelling and/or optimisation of recipes for bakery and confectionery products

Formulation, selection of the optimum quantity of new ingredients and (if necessary) technological functionalisation.

Modelling fermented beverage technologies

Selection of microorganisms for the production of fermented beverages, optimisation of production conditions.

Modelling of chewing gum technology

Formulation, selection of the optimum quantity of new ingredients and (if necessary) technological functionalisation.

Modelling technologies for bioconversion of food industry by-products into valuable raw materials

Development of bioconversion schemes into valuable components for the food industry, according to the specificity of the by- product.

Determination of contamination of feed materials and feedstuffs with microscopic  fungi (mould)

Assessment of contamination of feed materials and feedstuffs with fungi (number, genus).

Determination of mycotoxin concentrations in cereals and feeding stuffs

Mycotoxins: aflatoxins (total), aflatoxin B1, ochratoxins (total), ochratoxin A, deoxynivalenol, deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, T-2 toxin, T-2/HT-2 toxin, fumonisins B1+B2.

Determination of dry matter

The dry matter content shall be determined by weight on samples of natural moisture.

Determination of crude protein, crude fat, crude ash, crude fibre, starch

The analysis is carried out using the NIR Foss InfraXact spectrometer and other methods.

Determination of nitrogen and protein content

The study is carried out using the Kjeldahl method.

Determination of the moisture content of cereals and cereal products

The sample is analysed with a Kern MLB 50-3Ns moisture meter.

Determination of energy value (calorific value)

The test is carried out using an IKA C-2000 calorimeter and other methods.

Determination of organic matter in soil

Soil samples shall be analysed by the burn method.

Sensory evaluation of feed

Evaluation of hay, haylage, grain, silage by sensory and other means.

Oversight and management of studies

Experts from the University provide advice on study design, project strategy development and study protocols.

Training services

Training of the customer to independently and qualitatively carry out microbiological analyses of food, feed or water in accordance with the requirements of the ISO standard chosen by the customer.

Consultations for dental clinics

Consultancy services for private dental clinics (e.g. on dynamic navigation dental implants).

Advice for food processing companies

Advice on the application of microbiological criteria, experimental design and interpretation of results.

Consultancy services for the prevention of mycotoxicosis Health assessment of the dairy herd

Assessing the health of the herd, making recommendations.

Investigation and evaluation of the potential of different preparations for the health and reproductive success of fresh cows and calves and the prevention and treatment of clinical and subclinical mastitis in cows

GET IN TOUCH

 

We are open to all scientists, researchers, students and entrepreneurs!

 

b
Health Innovation Development Centre
A. Mickevičiaus gatvė 7, Kaunas, Lithuania
sivc@lsmu.lt
Edmundas Šalna
Head of the Health Innovation Development Centre
+370 612 73 311 edmundas.salna@lsmu.lt
A. Mickevičiaus st. 7, room 108
All contacts