News: Faculty of Science

Scientists from the Department of Biophysics of the Faculty of Science of Palacký University Olomouc collaborated with the French cosmetic brand Guerlain and LVMH Recherche on a research program related to the development of a unique range of products aimed at slowing down skin aging processes. The knowledge gained in the laboratories of the Faculty of Science of Palacký University Olomouc (UP) was highlighted in the new Orchidée Impériale Gold Nobile – The Goldessence, which represents a new milestone in modern skin care based on scientific research.

Olomouc scientists used advanced biophysical and optical methods, which allows for detailed monitoring of biological processes in the skin, to demonstrate novel properties for the core ingredient technology of the Orchidée Impériale Gold Nobile range. The research focused in particular on the so-called ultra-weak photon emission – very weak light signals emitted by skin cells and which can serve as an indicator of aging.

Ultra-weak photon emission as an indicator of aging

“Our results show that ultra-weak photon emission can be a sensitive indicator of changes in the skin associated with aging. Thanks to unique measurement technologies, we are able to monitor these processes and better understand how their course can be influenced,” said the head of the research team, Ankush Prasad from the Department of Biophysics.

The new product formula uses an active ingredient extracted from the Dendrobium nobile orchid (Gold Nobile), which is associated with the restoration of UPE emissions close to those of normal skin cells, as compared to senescent cells. Biophysical analyses helped to clarify the mechanisms by which this ingredient contributes to improving the appearance of the skin, its radiance and reducing visible signs of aging.

Connecting science and luxury cosmetics

The Faculty of Science of Palacký University began cooperation with the Guerlain cosmetics house, which is part of the LVMH group, in 2022. This partnership was subsequently followed by a three-year contract focused on further research into mechanisms related to the modulation of ultra-weak photon emission in human skin and their contribution to cellular functions.

“This project is an example of how basic research in biophysics can find concrete applications in practice. Connecting the university environment with an industrial partner allows scientific knowledge to be transferred into real products,” added Ankush Prasad.

Research with an impact on everyday life

The project confirms the growing importance of collaboration between academia and industry and shows that cutting-edge research conducted at the UP Faculty of Science can contribute to innovations in areas of everyday life, including modern skin care.

Science made interesting, science made accessible, science everywhere. Once again, Olomouc is hosting the Academia Film Olomouc international festival, organized by Palacký University.

Although yesterday’s opening ceremony traditionally kicked off at the cinema, AFO isn’t just there. The entire city literally belongs to it. Thousands of visitors can look forward not only to dozens of films from around the world, but also to discussions, concerts, walks, and other events.

And as Rector Michael Kohajda notes on the festival website, AFO is more than just a film festival. “Academia Film Olomouc has long demonstrated the important role the university plays not only as a place for education, science, and research, but also as an active part of our society. The festival is one of the most striking examples of fulfilling the so-called third role of the university—it opens science to the public, promotes dialogue, and contributes to understanding the contemporary world. I greatly appreciate that students from Palacký University play a significant role in its organisation. Here, they gain valuable experience, learn to communicate scientific topics clearly, and develop skills that extend beyond their field of study and their academic work itself.”

So don’t hesitate. It’s definitely not too late. The programme for the 61st year is packed with films and events. Basic admission is free; all you need is accreditation on the festival website. We’ve written about the festival in detail here and here.

Due to the ongoing war, the number of Ukrainian students at Palacký University has increased. At the Department of Slavic Studies in the Faculty of Arts at Palacký University, this situation has also turned into an unexpected opportunity. Here, Ukrainian students are translating selected Czech legal regulations into their native language. In doing so, they are contributing to the reforms necessary for Ukraine’s accession to the European Union.

The Department of Slavic Studies at the UP Faculty of Arts has joined the project Czech Legislative Assistance to Ukraine, which aims to support Ukrainian lawmakers in preparing the reforms necessary to align with the European legal system. Students enrolled in the course Professional Text Translation 4 (KSU/7POT4) are participating in the project. There are ten native Ukrainian speakers.

As part of their studies, they translate selected Czech laws, for example, in the areas of animal protection, hunting, nature and landscape conservation, or veterinary care. The completed translations are then reviewed by a Ukrainian lawyer and subsequently forwarded to government institutions in Kyiv. There, they serve as a basis for preparing and approving new legislation.

For their work, students receive not only a course grade and three credits, but also a certificate of completion of the translation practicum.

“We joined the project because we can take advantage of the presence of native Ukrainian speakers who know Czech. Under expert guidance, they are able to translate legal texts into a form that a Ukrainian lawyer needs only to review and forward to the relevant institutions. For the students, it is also an opportunity to help their country while studying in the Czech Republic,” said Radana Merzová, head of the Ukrainian Studies section at the department.

The project combines teaching with practical experience and also represents a concrete contribution by the university to supporting Ukraine during this difficult period. It builds on a cooperation agreement between Palacký University and the International Institute for Development and Transformation Cooperation.