IUS Secures MONKS-Funded Research Project Exploring the Potential of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural in Melanoma Therapy
The International University of Sarajevo (IUS)has successfully secured funding from the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Youth of Sarajevo Canton (MONKS) for the research project entitled “The Potential of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural in Melanoma Therapy.” Notably, this is the only IUS project awarded funding under this year's call, representing an important achievement for the University and its research community.
The project is led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Altijana Hromić-Jahjefendić (IUS), with a multidisciplinary research team consisting of Asst. Prof. Dr. Abas Sezer (IUS), Asst. Prof. Dr. Lejla Mahmutović (IUS), Prof. Dr. Lana Nezic (University of Banja Luka), and Prof. Dr. Viktorija Maksimova (Goce Delcev University, North Macedonia).
Melanoma is among the most aggressive forms of skin cancer, characterized by its high metastatic potential and resistance to existing therapies. Despite significant advances in cancer treatment, the identification of new compounds with potential anticancer properties remains an important scientific priority.
The project focuses on 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), a naturally occurring compound found in various food products, whose potential effects on melanoma cells remain largely unexplored. The research will investigate its influence on melanoma cell proliferation, viability, and programmed cell death, while examining molecular mechanisms involved in cancer cell survival. Particular attention will be given to concentration-dependent effects and their potential therapeutic and toxicological implications.
By generating new insights into the biological activity of 5-HMF, the project aims to contribute to the scientific understanding of its potential as a starting point for future anticancer strategies and further preclinical investigations.
Beyond its scientific objectives, the project highlights IUS's growing research capacity and commitment to international scientific collaboration. Bringing together researchers from Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia, it strengthens interdisciplinary partnerships and creates opportunities for scientific publications, laboratory expertise development, student engagement, and future collaborative research initiatives.
This achievement further reinforces IUS's dedication to advancing innovative biomedical research and contributing to scientific discoveries with potential long-term benefits for human health.
