Kick-off Conference at the University of Split School of Medicine
On April 14, 2025, the University of Split School of Medicine (MEFST) hosted the official InnoThyroGen Project Introduction. Funded by the Horizon Europe programme, the project brings together 13 partners from Croatia and Serbia. Over the next four years, they aim to improve thyroid disease diagnosis and treatment by integrating genomic data and artificial intelligence.
Connecting Science, Clinical Practice, and the Community
The conference aimed to connect the scientific team, clinical experts, and all interested stakeholders. These include healthcare professionals, patients, and members of the public with a confirmed diagnosis of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, or thyroid cancer.
Media Coverage: Giving Voice to Science and Personal Experience
Before the conference began, representatives of the MEFST research team—Prof. Tatijana Zemunik, Assoc. Prof. Ivana Gunjača, Dr. Nikolina Pleić, and Dr. Andrea Gelemanović—spoke to Radio Kampus, following a previous appearance on TV Jadran. A potential study participant also shared its personal journey with thyroid disease, emphasizing the importance of research for future patients.
Welcoming Speeches of Support
The event opened with a warm welcome from Dr. Andrea Gelemanović, who thanked attendees for supporting a project that merges scientific excellence with clinical insight and community relevance. Following her address, several distinguished guests shared their support:
- Prof. Renata Pecotić, Vice Dean for Education, University of Split School of Medicine
- Dr. Danica Ramljak, Senior Science and Education Advisor at the World Bank and Science Advisor to the Rector of MedILS
- Prof. Nikša Jajac, Vice-Rector of the University of Split
- Mr. Blaženko Boban, Prefect of Split-Dalmatia County
Horizon Europe: Supporting Scientific Breakthroughs
Joining virtually from Zagreb, Mr. Viktor Koska of the Agency for Mobility and EU Programmes (AMPEU) presented the Horizon Europe programme. He explained how this EU framework supports international projects that merge innovation, research, and social impact. InnoThyroGen stands as a strong example of these principles in action.
Project Presentation by the Coordinator
Next, Dr. Nikolina Pleić, project coordinator from MEFST, introduced the InnoThyroGen initiative. Her talk highlighted:
- The main goals of the project
- Its scientific and clinical foundations
- A breakdown of the 13 partner institutions
- Expected outcomes and healthcare benefits
- The crucial role of stakeholder involvement
Scientific-Clinical Session: Merging Experience and Expertise
This session focused on real-world clinical experience and the challenges of diagnosing and treating thyroid conditions. Additionally, speakers shared new methods that combine genomics with medical practice.
Assoc. Prof. Dubravka Brdar: The Role of Nuclear Medicine in Diagnostics
Assoc. Prof. Dubravka Brdar, a nuclear medicine specialist from KBC Split, discussed her work with patients showing signs of thyroid dysfunction. She stressed the value of precise diagnostics using tools such as scintigraphy and lab tests. Furthermore, she explained how InnoThyroGen supports earlier detection through genetic profiling.
Dr. Ante Škaro: The Otorhinolaryngology Perspective and the Need for Clear Communication
Dr. Ante Škaro, an otorhinolaryngologist at Polyclinic Leptir, shared insights from his clinical practice. He emphasized the need for clear and timely communication with patients. In addition, he advocated for a multidisciplinary approach involving ENT, endocrinology, and nuclear medicine.
A Message from Zagreb
Prof. Ozren Polašek, Director of the Croatian Science Foundation, joined via video message. He expressed strong support for research that combines scientific discovery with practical clinical application.
Round Table: Open Dialogue and a Call to Participate
To conclude the event, a round table discussion invited stakeholders to engage directly with the project team. During the session, attendees could:
- Ask questions about the project’s goals, scope, and methods
- Learn how to participate
- Share personal insights and expectations
- Fill out an anonymous questionnaire on personalized medicine
Experts who responded to questions included: Dr. Nikolina Pleić, Assoc. Prof. Ivana Gunjača, Dr. Andrea Gelemanović, Prof. Tatijana Zemunik, Dr. Dubravka Brdar, and Dr. Ante Škaro.
Special attention was given to those interested in participating in the research. Eligibility includes individuals diagnosed with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, or thyroid cancer.
Conclusion
The InnoThyroGen introduction in Split was more than a formal event. It fostered open dialogue, collaboration, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of personalized medicine. We extend our sincere thanks to all partners, medical professionals, and citizens for their involvement. We now look forward to four years of meaningful scientific progress.
