1. Measuring biological age : insights from omics studiesEva Kočar, Robert Šket, Ana Halužan Vasle, Gorazd Avguštin, Evgen Benedik, Barbara Koroušić-Seljak, Pavle Simić, Antonio Martinko, Shawnda A. Morrison, Maroje Sorić, Mihaela Skrt, Tomaž Polak, Tine Tesovnik, Barbara Jenko Bizjan, Jernej Kovač, Tadej Battelino, Damjana Rozman, Nataša Poklar Ulrih, Bojana Bogovič Matijašić, Gregor Jurak, Miha Moškon, Tadeja Režen, 2026, pregledni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Biological ageing is a systemic, multifactorial process driven by progressive molecular and cellular alterations whose complexity necessitates systems-level approaches. Advances in high-throughput omics technologies now allow simultaneous quantification of millions of biomolecules from a single specimen, enabling longitudinal, integrative profiling across multiple molecular layers. This review synthesizes recent progress in applying genomics, epigenomics, metabolomics and microbiomics to ageing research, highlighting their contributions to biomarker discovery, mechanistic insight, and translational opportunities. Genomic studies reveal genetic variants that promote extreme longevity, while epigenetic clocks provide robust predictors of biological age. The blood proteome can be used to calculate proteome-based scores and evaluate temporal changes in ageing trajectories in an organ- and sex-specific manner. Metabolomic signatures identify key metabolites reflecting ageing trajectories, and microbiome research demonstrates that gut microbial composition mirrors and modulates biological ageing, with microbiome clocks emerging. The omics approaches have further elucidated the impact of exercise and diet providing evidence that interventions can reduce biological age. The integration of multi-omics with clinical and lifestyle data, powered by machine learning and artificial intelligence, is paving the way for a holistic definition of biological age and the development of personalized healthy ageing strategies. This review highlights how the omics technologies and computational modelling are transforming ageing biology into strategies for personalized healthy ageing. Ključne besede: ageing, biological ageing, omics, physical fitness, nutrition, computational modelling Objavljeno v DiRROS: 08.01.2026; Ogledov: 55; Prenosov: 26
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2. Child-parent cascade screening for familial hypercholesterolemia in Slovenia : insights from the pilot programJaka Šikonja, Kaja Kobale, Jan Kafol, Barbara Čugalj Kern, Matej Mlinarič, Ana Drole Torkar, Jernej Kovač, Matija Cevc, Zlatko Fras, Tadej Battelino, Urh Grošelj, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Background and aims: Cascade familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) screening of parents could reduce the burden cardiovascular disease (CVD) in relatives of index cases by enabling timely diagnosis of FH. Here, we present the positive outcomes of the pilot child-parent cascade screening program in Slovenia. Methods: One hundred and thirty-eight parents from 123 families of an index child with genetically confirmed FH were randomly included in the pilot child-parent cascade screening program. Index children were identified through the universal FH screening program in preschool children. Genetic testing using Sanger sequencing was performed for cascade screening to detect (likely) pathogenic variants, previously confirmed in the index child. Results: The success rate of confirming a (likely) pathogenic variant was 77.2 % when the first parent, preferably with higher total cholesterol levels, was tested, and reached 99.1 % when the variant was identified in the first tested parent or when both parents were tested. In the minority of cases (13.8 %), parents had had a clinical diagnosis of FH prior to their child and these had somewhat higher prevalence of CVD compared to parents that were diagnosed after their index child through the pilot program (12.5 % vs. 4.3 %; p = 0.382). Conclusions: In conclusion, the presented pilot child–parent cascade screening program is feasible in clinical practice and shows a high success rate in identifying parents with FH. Parents diagnosed through the program appeared to have a lower prevalence of CVD. However, larger cohorts are needed to confirm these findings. Ključne besede: child-parent screening, cascade screening, familial hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disease, Slovenia Objavljeno v DiRROS: 16.12.2025; Ogledov: 196; Prenosov: 90
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3. Universal screening for familial hypercholesterolemia in preschool children and their families in Slovenia (FH-FAMILIES) : a protocol for a study of four-stage screening programMia Becker, Bernarda Vogrin, Jan Kafol, Barbara Čugalj Kern, Urh Grošelj, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is the most common metabolic disease, with prevalence estimated between 1:250 and 1:300. The affected individuals have a significantly higher risk for developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to non-affected individuals. Early CVD can be prevented with early detection and treatment of FH. In Slovenia we have been conducting a national three-staged program of universal screening for FH of preschoolers. Goals: Our goal is to collect data for 5000 children, which is approximately one-quarter of one generation of preschoolers for the year 2023 (n = 5000). Methods: Our study includes both prospective and retrospective components and is a non-interventional cohort study. The prospective component began in 2023, when a questionnaire was distributed to multiple community health centers and outpatient practices in Slovenia. Pediatricians or school medicine specialists completed these questionnaires. The retrospective component involves our research team collecting the remaining necessary data from existing medical records. We are going to follow our algorithm for the implementation of the universal cholesterol screening program and seek all children that will be referred to the Pediatric Lipid Clinic at the University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre (UCH-UMC), Ljubljana, for further genetic testing. If a child has a positive genetic result, their parents and siblings will undergo genetic testing. Conclusions: Despite being a common genetic disorder, familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is still largely underdiagnosed globally; fewer than 10% of affected individuals are thought to be identified. Early detection through effective screening is therefore essential to improve outcomes and prevent premature cardiovascular events. Ključne besede: hypercholesterolemia, universal screening, preschoolers, total cholesterol, genetic testing Objavljeno v DiRROS: 11.12.2025; Ogledov: 202; Prenosov: 87
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4. Sudden death of a four-day-old newborn due to mitochondrial trifunctional protein/long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-coa dehydrogenase deficiencies and a systematic literature review of early deaths of neonates with fatty acid oxidation disordersAna Drole Torkar, Ana Klinc, Žiga Iztok Remec, Branislava Ranković, Klara Bartolj, Sara Bertok, Sara Colja, Vanja Čuk, Maruša Debeljak, Eva Kozjek, Barbka Repič-Lampret, Matej Mlinarič, Tinka Mohar Hajnšek, Daša Perko, Katarina Štajer, Tine Tesovnik, Domen Trampuž, Blanka Ulaga, Jernej Kovač, Tadej Battelino, Mojca Žerjav-Tanšek, Urh Grošelj, 2025, pregledni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Mitochondrial trifunctional protein (MTP) and long-chain 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (LCHAD) deficiencies have been a part of the Slovenian newborn screening (NBS) program since 2018. We describe a case of early lethal presentation of MTPD/LCHADD in a term newborn. The girl was born after an uneventful pregnancy and delivery, and she was discharged home at the age of 3 days, appearing well. At the age of 4 days, she was found without signs of life. Resuscitation was not successful. The NBS test performed using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) showed a positive screen for MTPD/LCHADD. Genetic analysis performed on a dried blood spot (DBS) sample identified two heterozygous variants in the HADHA gene: a nucleotide duplication introducing a premature termination codon (p.Arg205Ter) and a nucleotide substitution (p.Glu510Gln). Post-mortem studies showed massive macro-vesicular fat accumulation in the liver and, to a smaller extent, in the heart, consistent with MTPD/LCHADD. A neonatal acute cardiac presentation resulting in demise was suspected. We conducted a systematic literature review of early neonatal deaths within 14 days postpartum attributed to confirmed fatty acid oxidation disorders (FAODs), which are estimated to account for 5% of sudden infant deaths. We discuss the pitfalls of the NBS for MTPD/LCHADD. Ključne besede: FAOD, LCHAD deficiency, LCHADD, MTP deficiency, MTPD, NBS, fatty acid oxidation disorder, newborn, newborn screening, sudden infant death Objavljeno v DiRROS: 11.12.2025; Ogledov: 159; Prenosov: 93
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6. Gene therapy of rare diseases as a milestone in medicine : overview of the field and report on initial experiences in SloveniaUrh Grošelj, Marko Kavčič, Ana Drole Torkar, Jan Kafol, Duško Lainšček, Roman Jerala, Matjaž Sever, Samo Zver, Gregor Serša, Maja Čemažar, Primož Strojan, Aleš Grošelj, Mojca Žerjav-Tanšek, Špela Miroševič, Simona Ivančan, Tomaž Prelog, David Gosar, Jasna Oražem, Matej Mlinarič, Sara Bertok, Jernej Kovač, Jana Kodrič, Saba Battelino, Marko Pokorn, Alojz Ihan, Janez Jazbec, Tadej Battelino, Damjan Osredkar, 2025, pregledni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Gene therapy has transitioned from a long-awaited promise to a clinical reality, offering transformative treatments for rare congenital diseases and certain cancers, which have a significant impact on patients’ lives. Current approaches focus on gene replacement therapy, either in vivo or ex vivo, mostly utilizing viral vectors to deliver therapeutic genes into target cells. However, refining these techniques is essential to overcome challenges and complications associated with gene therapy to ensure long-term safety and efficacy. Slovenia has witnessed significant advancements in this field since 2018, marked by successful gene therapy trials and treatments for various rare diseases. Significant strides have been made in the field of gene therapy in Slovenia, treating patients with spinal muscular atrophy and rare metabolic disorders, including the pioneering work on CTNNB1 syndrome. Additionally, immune gene therapy, exemplified by IL-12 adjuvant therapy for cancer, has been a focus of research in Slovenia. Through patient-centred initiatives and international collaborations, researchers in Slovenia are advancing preclinical research and clinical trials, paving the way for accessible gene therapies. Establishing clinical infrastructure and genomic diagnostics for rare diseases is crucial for gene therapy implementation. Efforts in this regard in Slovenia, including the establishment of a Centre for Rare Diseases, Centre for the Technologies of Gene and Cell Therapy, and rapid genomic diagnostics, demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive patient care. Despite the promises of gene therapy, challenges remain, including cost, distribution, efficacy, and long-term safety. Collaborative efforts are essential to address these challenges and ensure equitable access to innovative therapies for patients with rare diseases. Ključne besede: gene therapy, rare genetic diseases, Slovenia, CAR-T cells, cancer, immune gene therapy Objavljeno v DiRROS: 04.12.2025; Ogledov: 238; Prenosov: 151
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7. The role of the MTUS1 gene in the development of left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy : a case reportTevž Gorjanc, Jaka Šikonja, Ana Drole Torkar, Mojca Žerjav-Tanšek, Jernej Kovač, Sara Bertok, Maruša Debeljak, Zvezdana Dolenc-Stražar, Marija Meznarič, Jernej Mlakar, Mirko Topalović, Gorazd Mlakar, Tadej Battelino, Urh Grošelj, 2025, drugi znanstveni članki Ključne besede: left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy, microtubule-associated scaffold protein 1 (MTUS1), whole-genome sequencing Objavljeno v DiRROS: 02.12.2025; Ogledov: 237; Prenosov: 96
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8. Integrating genetic insights, technological advancements, screening, and personalized pharmacological interventions in childhood obesityRobert Šket, Barbara Slapnik, Primož Kotnik, Klementina Črepinšek, Barbara Čugalj Kern, Tine Tesovnik, Barbara Jenko Bizjan, Blaž Vrhovšek, Žiga Iztok Remec, Maruša Debeljak, Tadej Battelino, Jernej Kovač, 2025, pregledni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Childhood obesity is a significant global health challenge with rising prevalence over the past 50 years, affecting both immediate and long-term health outcomes. The increase in prevalence from 0.7% to 5.6% in girls and 0.9% to 7.8% in boys highlights the urgency of addressing this epidemic. By 2025, it is estimated that 206 million children and adolescents aged 5–19 years will be living with obesity. This review explores the complex interplay of genomics and genetics in pediatric obesity, transitioning from monogenic and polygenic obesity to epigenetics, and incorporating advancements in omics technologies. The evolutionary purpose of adiposity, systemic evaluation of hyperphagia, and the role of various genetic factors are discussed. Technological advancements in genotyping offer new insights and interventions. The integration of genetic screening into clinical practice for early identification and personalized treatment strategies is emphasized. Ključne besede: hemophilia, wearable, Florio HAEMO, adherence, patient satisfaction Objavljeno v DiRROS: 27.11.2025; Ogledov: 233; Prenosov: 117
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9. Unravelling genetic etiology of cerebral palsy : findings from a Slovenian pediatric cohortUla Arkar Silan, Ana Trebše, Jernej Kovač, Mihael Rogač, Anja Troha Gergeli, Robert Šket, Tina Bregant, David Neubauer, Borut Peterlin, Damjan Osredkar, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Introduction: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a permanent movement or postural disorder due to non-progressive injury to the developing brain, with recent research suggesting a genetic contribution in many patients. This study aimed to investigate the genetic etiology of CP in Slovene children without a previously suspected genetic cause or with prior negative genetic testing. Methods: All children born after 2003 from the Slovenian National Registry of Cerebral Palsy (SRCP) without an established genetic diagnosis were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was conducted, followed by analysis of 110 CP-associated genes. Thirteen patients underwent additional family segregation by Sanger sequencing. Genetic findings were classified according to the ACMG guidelines. Results: The study included 136 children, of whom 68 (50%) were male. Spastic CP was identified in 85% of the participants, dyskinetic in 13%, and ataxic in 2%. Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels varied, with the majority (36%) classified as level I. Pathogenic variants, likely pathogenic variants, or ‘de novo’ variants of unknown significance (VUS) were identified in nine children (6.6%) in ATL1, CTNNB1, DYRK1, KMT2A, PROC, SPAST, ZC4H2, and ZSWIM6. Among these nine children, two had normal brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and three had an unsuspicious medical history. Conclusion: This study identified plausible, possible, or definite genetic etiologies in a cohort of children with CP. Apart from the exclusion of individuals with a previously established genetic diagnosis, no other selection criteria were applied, allowing for an inclusive assessment of genetic contributions within this population. With the advent of personalized medicine and genetic treatment, understanding the genetic underpinnings of CP is crucial for targeted therapy. Ključne besede: cerebral palsy, genetic etiology, whole exome sequencing, gene therapy, CTNNB1 Objavljeno v DiRROS: 21.11.2025; Ogledov: 235; Prenosov: 101
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10. Sex differences in cholesterol levels among prepubertal childrenJan Kafol, Mia Becker, Barbara Čugalj Kern, Jaka Šikonja, Matej Mlinarič, Katarina Sedej, Matej Kafol, Ana Drole Torkar, Jernej Kovač, Tadej Battelino, Urh Grošelj, 2025, izvirni znanstveni članek Povzetek: Background and aims: Sex differences in cholesterol levels are well documented in adults and adolescents, but limited data exist for prepubertal children. This study aimed to evaluate innate sex differences in total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels among prepubertal children, both in the general population and among those with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from Slovenia’s Universal FH Screening Program. Two populationbased random samples of children undergoing routine cholesterol screening at age 5 years were included from 2014 (N = 3412) and 2023 (N = 4182). In addition, a referred cohort from the Slovenian Hypercholesterolemia Registry (n = 1160, aged <10 years) who underwent genetic testing was analyzed. Results: In both the 2014 and 2023 cohorts, girls had significantly higher TC levels than boys (median difference: 0.10–0.11 mmol/L; p < 0.05). Among FH-negative children in the Registry, girls had on average 0.14 mmol/L higher TC and 0.13 mmol/L higher LDL-C than boys (both p < 0.05). No sex differences were observed in FHpositive children (p = 0.83 for TC; p = 0.82 for LDL-C). In the overall Registry cohort, after adjusting for FH status, girls had 0.11 mmol/L higher TC and 0.10 mmol/L higher LDL-C (both p < 0.05). Conclusion: Prepubertal girls have modestly higher TC and LDL-C than boys, a difference not observed in prepubertal FH-positive children, suggesting that the presence of a pathogenic FH variant may override innate physiological differences in lipid metabolism. These findings support universal early cholesterol screening and suggest that sex-specific reference values may improve early cardiovascular risk assessment in prepubertal FHnegative children. Ključne besede: sex differences, prepubertal children, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, familial hypercholesterolemia Objavljeno v DiRROS: 17.11.2025; Ogledov: 254; Prenosov: 105
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