About

Ana Damjanovic received her Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she focused on understanding the quantum physics of photosynthetic light harvesting in the lab of Prof. Klaus Schulten. She continued her research on photosynthesis during her first postdoctoral work in the lab of Prof. Graham Fleming at UC Berkeley. Her second postdoctoral position was at Johns Hopkins University, where she studied internal ionizable groups through molecular dynamics simulations. Currently, Ana Damjanovic is an Assistant Research Professor at Johns Hopkins University, where her research interests include ion channels, protein and membrane electrostatics, and charge and information transfer in biological systems. She employs computational tools such as molecular dynamics and machine learning approaches, and works on developing new computational methods, including tools for protein pKa value predictions.

Research topics

• Chemistry
• Materials science
• Computer Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Nuclear chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Machine Learning
• Polymer chemistry
• Chemical engineering
• Statistics
• Nanotechnology
• Nuclear magnetic resonance
• Mathematics
• Composite material
• Crystallography
• Organic chemistry
• Biophysics

Selected publications

• <i>KRAS</i> , <i>NRAS</i> and <i>BRAF</i> Mutational Landscape in Serbian Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer Patients

  Cancer Control · 2026-02-19

  articleOpen access

  Introduction Early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) is increasing worldwide, with Serbia showing a similar incidence compared to global trends. Precise mutation genotyping has gained importance following the recent approval of KRAS -specific inhibitors. Although KRAS , NRAS , and BRAF testing is routinely performed in Serbia, specific mutation subtypes in EOCRC patients have not yet been published. This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate temporal trends in EOCRC incidence in Serbia and characterize the mutational profile of KRAS , NRAS , and BRAF in EOCRC patients. Methods National cancer registry data from 2016 to 2022 were analyzed to assess EOCRC incidence trends. Molecular testing for KRAS , NRAS , and BRAF was performed on 681, 420, and 67 EOCRC patients, respectively, using qPCR-based diagnostic assays, complemented by Sanger sequencing on 54 cases to characterize KRAS exon 2 and BRAF V600E mutations. Results Registry data revealed a consistent upward trend in EOCRC incidence, especially in the 45-49 years’ age group. In the qPCR-tested cohort, KRAS mutations were detected in 44.3% (302/681), NRAS in 6.4% (27/420), and BRAF in 8.9% (6/67). In the sequenced subset, KRAS mutations were found in 20.4%, including G12D (36.4%), G13D (27.3%), G12 C (18.1%), and G12S/G12 V (9.1%) variants. BRAF V600E was detected in 3.7%. Conclusions We report a rise in EOCRC in Serbia, especially in ages 45-49, and recommend policy makers to lower the screening age to 45. We present the first detailed molecular profile of Serbian EOCRC and recommend that policy makers implement routine KRAS variant testing and ensure access to KRAS G12C-targeted therapies to improve personalized care.

  PublisherDOI

• Newly Synthesized Telmisartan–Amino Acid Conjugates Exhibit Enhanced Cytotoxic Effects in Malignant Melanoma Cells

  Molecules · 2025-12-29

  articleOpen access

  Telmisartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) antagonist, possesses cytotoxic activity towards BRAF-mutated melanoma cell lines. However, its antihypertensive effects limit its use in the population of normotensive patients. To mitigate this shortcoming, a group of eight telmisartan–amino acid conjugates, designed to have reduced or no AT1R affinity with enhanced cellular uptake, were synthesized by the coupling reaction in yields ranging from 34% to 60%. Their cytotoxicity was tested on BRAF V600E-mutated melanoma cell lines (A375 and 518A2), and compounds 1, 3, and 8 stood out as the best candidates. These three compounds were also tested on the vemurafenib-resistant (A375R) and normal (HaCaT and MRC-5) cell lines, and compound 8 showed better cytotoxicity (IC50 = 8.84 ± 1.24 µM) and selectivity (&gt;3.50) when compared to telmisartan (IC50 = 29.23 ± 3.88, selectivity &gt; 2.40). The cellular uptake of compounds 1 and 8 was significantly higher than telmisartan, with substantial accumulation in the membrane and nuclear compartments. Unlike telmisartan, compounds 1, 3, and 8 did not inhibit angiotensin II-induced Ca2+ signaling, which indicates diminished AT1R binding. All three compounds induced cell cycle arrest and disrupted mitochondrial morphology and membrane potential. These findings highlight their potential as non-antihypertensive telmisartan derivatives for melanoma therapy.

  PublisherDOI

• Two Decades of Progress in Personalized Medicine of Colorectal Cancer in Serbia – Insights from the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia

  Preprints.org · 2024-09-09

  preprintOpen access

  Background/Objectives: The global burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) is projected to increase by 2040, highlighting the need for prevention strategies, early detection and adequate follow. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the progress in personalized medicine of CRC in Serbia, with results and insights from the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia (IORS), and to propose guidance for tackling observed challenges in the future. Methods: Epidemiological data was derived from official global and national cancer registries and IORS electronic medical records. Germline genetic testing for Lynch syndrome was performed by Next Generation Sequencing. RAS and BRAF mutation analyses were performed using qPCR diagnostic kits. Results: Epidemiology and risk factors, prevention and early detection programs, as well as treatment options and scientific advances have been described in detail. Out of 103 patients who underwent germline testing for Lynch syndrome, 19 (18.4%) had a pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutation in one of the MMR genes, and 8 (7.8%) in other CRC-associated genes (APC, CHEK2, MUTYH). Of 6369 tested patients, 50.43% had a mutation in KRAS or NRAS genes, while 9.54% had the V600 mutation in the BRAF gene. Conclusions: Although significant improvements in CRC management have occurred globally in recent years, the high incidence of young-onset CRC and the growing elderly population due to a rise in life expectancy require a strategic approach leading to population-based systemic solutions, especially important for countries with limited health care resources as Serbia.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Molecular dynamics study of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor

  Biophysical Journal · 2024-02-01

  articleSenior author
  PublisherDOI

• Improved detection of T790M Mutation in the EGFR gene at the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia A comparative study of dPCR and qPCR technologies over two years

  Oncology Insights · 2024-01-01

  articleOpen access

  The T790M mutation in the EGFR gene is a critical biomarker of resistance in patients undergoing EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy. Accurate and efficient detection of this mutation is essential for guiding treatment decisions in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. This study, conducted over two years at the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia, compared the effectiveness of digital PCR (dPCR) and quantitative PCR (qPCR) in detecting the EGFR T790M mutation in liquid biopsies of patients with disease progression on EGFR TKIs. Our findings reveal higher detection rate using dPCR (30.48%) compared to qPCR (19.44%). The improved sensitivity of dPCR supports its implementation as a preferred technique for EGFR T790M mutation detection, enhancing clinical decision-making and personalized treatment options for patients with NSCLC.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Two Decades of Progress in Personalized Medicine of Colorectal Cancer in Serbia—Insights from the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia

  Biomedicines · 2024-10-08 · 3 citations

  articleOpen access

  Background: It is projected that, by 2040, the number of new cases of colorectal cancer (CRC) will increase to 3.2 million, and the number of deaths to 1.6 million, highlighting the need for prevention strategies, early detection and adequate follow-up. In this study, we aimed to provide an overview of the progress in personalized medicine of CRC in Serbia, with results and insights from the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia (IORS), and to propose guidance for tackling observed challenges in the future. Methods: Epidemiological data were derived from official global and national cancer registries and IORS electronic medical records. Germline genetic testing for Lynch syndrome was performed by Next Generation Sequencing. RAS and BRAF mutation analyses were performed using qPCR diagnostic kits. Results: Epidemiology and risk factors, prevention and early detection programs, as well as treatment options and scientific advances have been described in detail. Out of 103 patients who underwent germline testing for Lynch syndrome, 19 (18.4%) showed a mutation in MMR genes with pathogenic or likely pathogenic significance and 8 (7.8%) in other CRC-associated genes (APC, CHEK2, MUTYH). Of 6369 tested patients, 50.43% had a mutation in KRAS or NRAS genes, while 9.54% had the V600 mutation in the BRAF gene. Conclusions: Although significant improvements in CRC management have occurred globally in recent years, a strategic approach leading to population-based systemic solutions is required. The high incidence of young-onset CRC and the growing elderly population due to a rise in life expectancy will be especially important factors for countries with limited healthcare resources like Serbia.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• CtDNA: What We Know and What We Are Looking For

  Oncology Insights · 2024-01-01

  articleOpen access1st authorCorresponding

  In recent years, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has become an essential analyte in both scientific research and the treatment of oncology patients. While many questions remain unanswered, the information contained in ctDNA molecules is crucial for understanding the biological characteristics of malignant tumors. Currently, plasma is the standard biological source of ctDNA, although other sources are being explored as potential alternatives. The kinetics of ctDNA is influenced by various factors, all of which must be considered when determining the timing and volume of body fluid samples. CtDNA has applications in oncology, particularly in selecting the most appropriate targeted therapy based on the mutations present in tumors. Its role in the early detection of cancer or minimal residual disease is still under investigation. Our aim was to highlight outstanding challenges for the applications of ctDNA in research and molecular diagnostics. To expand the use of ctDNA in clinical practice it is necessary to establish clear and standardized protocols for the isolation and detection of ctDNA. Until then, we must continue to summarize existing literature, highlighting the issues that we are eager to resolve.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Modification of selectively acid-etched halloysite by mucoadhesive chitosan derivatives: New bionanocomposites with improved functional properties

  Materials Chemistry and Physics · 2024-07-23 · 10 citations

  articleOpen access
  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Abstract 1304: Employing widening funds to address inequity in cancer research - example of the STEPUPIORS collaborative rectal cancer project

  Cancer Research · 2024-03-22

  article

  Abstract Introduction: Treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) using neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) improves local control and survival, but response varies. Patients treated at the Institute for Oncology and Radiology of Serbia (IORS) who undergo surgery upon complete response might be exposed to risks and poor quality of life. A consortium dedicated to redefining prognostic and predictive biomarkers in rectal cancer was formed within the framework of the STEPUPIORS Horizon Europe project. The current study evaluated whether employing collaborative widening funds might lead to sustainable strategies for cancer treatment, lowering inequity and steering societal impact, especially in countries with limited resources, using a pilot rectal cancer project. Patients and Methods: The analysis was performed in the period Oct 01, 2022, to Oct 01, 2023, with a Serbian coordinating institution and partners from Spain, Greece, and the Netherlands as expert twinning centers. RT was administered to 75 patients with LARC using volumetric modulated arc therapy-simultaneous integrated boost approach/concomitant chemotherapy (5FU/Leucovorin, week 1&amp;5) for the first time in Serbia. A comprehensive approach towards building human capacities on biobanking, multiomics analyses and project management was developed through intensive training and expert visits. Consensus consortium decisions were reached on regular partner meetings. Results: Patients with clinical complete response (16.0%) and initially distant-located tumors were enrolled in the watch and wait approach and are under follow up. Developed pipelines for multiomics analyses led to 4 high-quality papers on new predictive biomarkers to nCRT in LARC and the deposition of omics data in open-science repositories following FAIR data principles. A first Serbian cancer biobank was successfully installed. Fifteen IORS researchers (87% female), were certified in biobanking. A grant management office was established to provide and support the sustainability of future research projects. This led to 5 new grant applications and enrollment of 1 female project member in a Masters program for Management in the Health Care System. Conclusion: This study showed that even within the first 12 months, implementation of a 3-year collaborative grant dedicated to a specific research problem, might significantly change educational and treatment strategies enabling better patient care (OCEBM level of evidence 3). The results highlight that disparities in cancer outcomes and health equity might only be addressed by progressing beyond descriptions of said outcomes and taking specific action. Systematic, long-term strategic initiatives and collaborations among relevant stakeholders and ethical, legal and societal structures are needed in more countries. Acknowledgements: Horizon Europe Project STEPUPIORS (101079217). Citation Format: Milena Cavic, Ana Djuric, Mladen Marinkovic, Aleksandra Stanojevic, Miljana Tanic, Snezana Bjelogrlic, Jelena Spasic, Ana Damjanovic, Marija Djordjic Crnogorac, Ana Vuletic, Katarina Mirjacic Martinovic, Marko Radulovic, Suzana Stojanovic-Rundic, Ana Krivokuca, Radmila Jankovic, Sergi Castellvi-Bel, Jerome Zoidakis, Remond J. Fijneman. Employing widening funds to address inequity in cancer research - example of the STEPUPIORS collaborative rectal cancer project [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 1304.

  PublisherDOI

• EGFR mutation testing from pleural effusions of non-small cell lung cancer patients at the institute for oncology and radiology of Serbia

  Translational Oncology · 2023-08-31 · 6 citations

  articleOpen access

  BACKGROUND: The use tumor-derived cell-free DNA extracted from body fluids is being evaluated for genetic testing in lung cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility and utility of implementation of EGFR molecular testing from pleural effusions in non-small cell lung cancer in the clinical diagnostics workflow. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study included patients diagnosed with primary lung adenocarcinoma in the period July 2016 to June 2023. EGFR mutation testing was performed by qPCR (Cobas®) and dPCR. Testing was performed from 211 plasma samples when tissue was unavailable at diagnosis, and from 301 plasma samples and 18 pleural effusions at progression on first/second generation of EGFR TKIs. Descriptive methods of statistical analysis were used to summarize the sample data. Fisher's exact test, McNemar's test, Cohen's kappa tests were used for statistical analyses. Two-sided p-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A significantly higher detection rate of the T790M mutation in pleural effusion was obtained compared to blood (50% and 20%, p=0.047). When comparing the detection success rate of the resistant T790M mutation in pleural effusion and blood, a statistically significant difference was obtained in favor of pleural effusion (50% vs. 21.87%, p=0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Superior performance of pleural effusions compared to blood plasma was shown both in the analysis of success rate and in the detection of the resistant T790M mutation, at progression on EGFR TKIs. Pleural effusion should be considered in this setting whenever available, especially in countries with limited health resources.

  PublisherDOI

Frequent coauthors

• Bernard R. Brooks

  National Institutes of Health

  63 shared

• Benjamin T. Miller

  Evelina London Children's Healthcare

  37 shared

• Bertrand García‐Moreno E.

  22 shared

• Juyong Lee

  Seoul National University

  22 shared

• Petar Maksimović

  16 shared

• T. Wenaus

  16 shared

• Zorica D. Juranić

  Oncology Institute of Vojvodina

  15 shared

• Tatjana Stanojković

  Oncology Institute of Vojvodina

  14 shared

Education

• PhD

  Faculty of Pharmacy

  2018