Genetics of Civilization Diseases and Molecular Diagnostics
Leader: Dr hab. n. med. Justyna Klusek, Prof. UJK
Affiliation: Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce
Research Area
The development of civilization diseases such as colorectal cancer (CRC), type 2 diabetes, male infertility, and complications related to SARS-CoV-2 infection is increasingly being analyzed from a genetic perspective. Understanding the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the pathogenesis of these conditions is now a key element of translational research and a foundation for the development of personalized medicine.
At Collegium Medicum, research activities in this area focus on identifying genetic predictors of disease, developing risk models, and analyzing interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Both population studies and applied research aimed at clinical implementation are being conducted.
Leader Profile and Achievements
Dr. hab. n. med. Justyna Klusek, Prof. UJK, specializes in human molecular genetics and is a recognized expert in SNP research in the context of chronic and oncological diseases. She leads a research team investigating the role of regulatory genes in the development of colorectal cancer, as well as genotype associations with the course of type 2 diabetes and male infertility. In response to the pandemic, she also developed protocols for analyzing genetic susceptibility to severe COVID-19.
One of Prof. Klusek’s key achievements is the development of an original genetic risk assessment model for colorectal cancer based on SNP analysis in over 1,000 patients. This model has a strong application value and was developed in collaboration with the Świętokrzyskie Oncology Center as part of the pilot National Oncology Network program.
The researcher has experience in conducting studies using PCR, real-time PCR, and sequencing analysis, as well as in managing biobanks of genetic material, which include a comprehensive set of clinical, phenotypic, and environmental data.
Her scientific output includes publications in prestigious journals in the fields of genetics, molecular medicine, and oncology. Her research has been recognized both nationally and internationally, including through collaboration with the University of Copenhagen, where new approaches to interpreting genotypic data in metabolic diseases are being developed.
Preferred Forms of Collaboration
Prof. Justyna Klusek is open to scientific collaboration in interdisciplinary projects requiring expertise in molecular biology, population genetics, and personalized medicine. She is seeking partners for:
- conducting translational research on genetic biomarkers of chronic diseases,
- co-developing or validating SNP-based diagnostic tests,
- jointly building genotype-phenotype databases,
- bioinformatics and statistical analyses of large datasets.
Collegium Medicum UJK offers access to structured biobanks, experience in association analysis, and laboratory infrastructure enabling full sample processing—from DNA isolation to data analysis. This field offers an excellent platform for joint research, implementation, and educational projects.