Yanqi Dang | Cancer Cell Biology | Editorial Board Member

Mr. Yanqi Dang | Cancer Cell Biology | Editorial Board Member

Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032 | China

The researcher focuses on the epigenetic regulation of metabolic diseases and tumorigenesis, with major contributions in colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnostics, mechanisms, and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)-based interventions. In early CRC detection, the team performed transfer RNA (tRNA) sequencing and identified two key tRFs—tRF-Tyr-GTA-081 (downregulated) and tRF-Ala-AGC-060 (upregulated)—whose combined diagnostic model demonstrated strong performance for colorectal neoplastic lesions and cancer, outperforming traditional markers such as CEA and CA199. Multi-omics analyses of mRNAs, miRNAs and circRNAs identified three circRNAs with predictive value for adenoma–carcinoma transition. Through DNA hydroxymethylation sequencing, ZW10 emerged as a prognostic-related marker, and its circulating hydroxymethylation level showed high accuracy for early CRC detection. Mechanistic studies revealed that METTL3 regulates CRB3 in an m6A-dependent manner to modulate HIPPO signaling, while DNMT3B- and TET2-mediated epigenetic modifications jointly control PGC-1α to promote CRC progression. In therapeutic research, Scutellaria baicalensis Tang, Sijunzi Tang, and related monomers are under investigation for anti-CRC effects. In metabolic disease research, Ling-Gui-Zhu-Gan decoction and cinnamaldehyde were shown to improve steatosis and insulin resistance in NAFLD, supporting the TCM concept of “phlegm-beverage.” Current studies focus on lean NAFLD, demonstrating that METTL14 regulates TIM3 to influence disease development, and that GJLZ decoction alleviates steatosis and inflammation by enhancing this pathway.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Ma, J., …, & al. (2025). Regulation of histone H3K27 methylation in inflammation and cancer.

Mohammad Hossein Ahmadi | Microbial Cell Biology | Editorial Board Member

Prof. Dr. Mohammad Hossein Ahmadi | Microbial Cell Biology | Editorial Board Member

Shahed University | Iran

The researcher has a strong background in medical bacteriology and microbiology, with extensive experience investigating genital mycoplasmas, Chlamydia trachomatis, and their clinical implications. His doctoral work focused on elucidating the relationship between genital mycoplasmas and C. trachomatis infections in the context of male infertility. This research integrated molecular diagnostics, including Multiplex Real-Time PCR, with conventional culture methods to assess pathogen prevalence and evaluate the impact of targeted antibiotic therapy on spermatozoa quality and reproductive outcomes. His findings contributed to a better understanding of how bacterial pathogens influence male reproductive health and highlighted the utility of molecular approaches for accurate detection and treatment monitoring.

At the master’s level, his research involved a comparative analysis of PCR and culture techniques for detecting Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma urealyticum in infertile men. This work emphasized the diagnostic advantages of molecular assays over traditional microbiological methods, supporting improved clinical decision-making in reproductive microbiology. Across his academic training, he has developed expertise in molecular diagnostics, microbial pathogenesis, reproductive tract infections, and translational approaches aimed at improving infertility management. His research collectively underscores the importance of integrating advanced molecular tools to enhance diagnostic precision and therapeutic outcomes in clinical microbiology.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Ahmadi, M. H., Mirsalehian, A., & Bahador, A. (2015). Prevalence of genital Chlamydia trachomatis in Iran: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pathogens and Global Health, 109(6), 290–299.

Ahmadi, M. H., Mirsalehian, A., & Bahador, A. (2016). Prevalence of urogenital mycoplasmas in Iran and their effects on fertility potential: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Iranian Journal of Public Health, 45(4), 409–422.

Ahmadi, M. H., Mirsalehian, A., & Bahador, A. (2016). Association of Chlamydia trachomatis with infertility and clinical manifestations: A systematic review and meta-analysis of case–control studies. Infectious Diseases, 48(7), 517–523.

Ahmadi, M. H., Mirsalehian, A., Sadighi Gilani, M. A., Bahador, A., & Talebi, M. (2016). Asymptomatic infection with Mycoplasma hominis negatively affects semen parameters and leads to male infertility: Improvement of semen parameters after antibiotic treatment. Urology, 100, 97–102.

Ahmadi, M. H., Mirsalehian, A., Sadighi Gilani, M. A., Bahador, A., Talebi, M., & Salman Yazdi, R. (2017). Antibiotic treatment of asymptomatic Ureaplasma infection improves semen parameters in infertile men. Journal of Applied Biomedicine, 15(2), 139–145.

Esmaa Bouhamida | Molecular and Cellular Biology | Cell Biology Research Award

Dr. Esmaa Bouhamida | Molecular and Cellular Biology | Cell Biology Research Award

Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata (VIMM) | Italy

The candidate’s research centers on understanding how mitochondrial signaling, hypoxia-responsive pathways, and cell-cycle regulatory networks collectively influence cardiac regeneration and cardiovascular disease. Their work investigates how hypoxia-inducible factors, particularly HIF-1α, modulate mitochondrial function during ischemic injury, with the broader goal of identifying mechanisms that could restore or enhance the regenerative potential of adult cardiac tissue. Through advanced molecular and cellular approaches, their studies explore how metabolic rewiring, mitochondrial stress responses, and oxygen-sensing pathways govern cardiomyocyte survival, proliferation, and reprogramming.

Building on expertise in molecular biology, signal transduction, and genetics, the researcher has expanded their focus to include the interplay between mitochondrial homeostasis and protein-quality control mechanisms in muscle tissues. Their postdoctoral work examines signaling pathways that regulate proteostasis and their impact on muscle integrity under physiological and pathological conditions. This integrated approach bridges cardiac regeneration, mitochondrial dynamics, and muscle biology, enabling the identification of therapeutic targets relevant to heart failure, ischemia, and degenerative muscle disorders.

Their long-term vision is to develop interventions that combine mitochondrial modulation, gene therapy, and cellular reprogramming strategies to promote tissue repair and functional recovery in cardiovascular disease. Their contributions have been recognized through competitive scientific evaluations at international cardiovascular and stem-cell research forums.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Bouhamida, E., Vadakke-Madathil, S., Mathiyalagan, P., Ranjan, A. K., Khan, A., Sherman, M. P., & others. (2025). Single nucleus transcriptomics supports a role for CCNA2-induced human adult cardiomyocyte cytokinesis. bioRxiv.

Bouhamida, E., Vadakke-Madathil, S., Mathiyalagan, P., Ranjan, A. K., Sherman, M. P., & others. (2025). Cyclin A2 induces cytokinesis in human adult cardiomyocytes and drives reprogramming in mice. npj Regenerative Medicine, 10(1), 47.

Ran Wang | Pulmonary Hypertension | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ran Wang | Pulmonary Hypertension | Best Researcher Award

First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University | China

Dr. Ran Wang is an accomplished respiratory medicine researcher whose work has significantly advanced the understanding of pulmonary hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). With more than two decades of clinical and scientific experience, he has extensively investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying hypoxic pulmonary hypertension and COPD pathogenesis. His research has contributed to improved insights into vascular remodeling, inflammatory signaling, and pulmonary vascular resistance, helping to strengthen the scientific basis for future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

He has successfully led multiple high-impact research projects, including two funded by the National Natural Science Foundation and three additional provincial-level studies. His work spans basic, translational, and clinical domains, integrating experimental models with patient-centered research to address key challenges in pulmonary vascular diseases. He has authored or co-authored 59 peer-reviewed journal articles, including over 50 SCI-indexed publications and more than 20 as first or corresponding author. His research outputs include four patents related to respiratory disease mechanisms and clinical application innovations.

In addition to his scholarly publications, he serves on editorial boards of leading journals such as Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology, BMC Pulmonary Medicine, and Cancer Control, contributing to the advancement of scientific discourse in respiratory and cancer research.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

  • Han, R., Guan, Y., Li, P., Tang, M., Fei, G., Zeng, D., & Wang, R. (2025). Real-world efficacy of oral azvudine in hospitalized patients with COVID-19: A multicenter retrospective cohort study. Journal of Infection and Public Health, 18(12), 102987.

  • Liu, Y., Wang, R., & Jiang, T. (2025). RNA-binding proteins as a molecular link between COPD and pulmonary hypertension. International Journal of Medical Sciences, 22(8), 1979–1991.

  • Rao, B., Wang, D., Yang, M., … et al. (2025). Real-world effectiveness and safety of oral Azvudine versus Paxlovid for COVID-19 in patients with kidney disease: A multicenter, retrospective, cohort study. BMC Infectious Diseases, 25, 275.

 

 

 

Kimberly Gilmour | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Kimberly Gilmour | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Women Researcher Award

Great Ormond Street Hospital | United Kingdom

Kimberly Coughlan Gilmour is a leading expert in immunology, molecular diagnostics, and cell-based therapeutic development. Her early academic work contributed foundational insights into cytokine signaling, particularly the regulation of the Interferon Regulatory Factor-1 (IRF-1) gene and the signal transduction pathways activated by prolactin and interleukin-2. During her postdoctoral research, she investigated mechanisms governing thymocyte proliferation and differentiation using retroviral manipulation of murine thymic organ cultures, advancing understanding of T-cell development.

Gilmour has played a pivotal role in the evolution of clinical immunology diagnostics, leading the development of national services for the molecular diagnosis of primary immunodeficiency disorders. She has been instrumental in translating complex research methodologies—including gene expression analysis, retroviral and lentiviral transduction, and thymus tissue culture—into routine clinical tools that directly inform patient management. Her work supports post-treatment monitoring for haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, gene therapy, and targeted antibody-based interventions.

As a leader in cell therapy, she has overseen the implementation of advanced cellular manufacturing processes and supervised the clinical authorization of personalized therapeutic products. Her career integrates immunogenetics, translational science, and cellular therapy innovation, significantly shaping clinical practice for paediatric patients with rare and complex immune disorders.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

  • Maimaris, J., Roa-Bautista, A., Sohail, M., et al. (2025). Griscelli Syndrome Type 2: Comprehensive analysis of 149 new and previously described patients with RAB27A deficiency. Journal of Clinical Immunology, 45(50).

  • Author(s) Unknown. (2025). Safety and diagnostic utility of brain biopsy and metagenomics in decision-making for patients with inborn errors of immunity (IEI) and unexplained neurological manifestations. Journal of Clinical Immunology, 45, 86.

  • Booth, C., Masiuk, K., Vazouras, K., Fernandes, A., Xu-Bayford, J., Campo Fernandez, B., Roy, S., Curio-Penny, B., Arnold, J., Terrazas, D., Reid, J., Gilmour, K. C., Adams, S., Mediavilla, E. A., Mhaldien, L., O’Toole, G., Ahmed, R., Garabedian, E., Malech, H., De Ravin, S. S., Moore, T. B., De Oliveira, S., Pellin, D., Lin, T.-Y., Dang, T. T., Cornetta, K., Hershfield, M. S., Hara, H., Thrasher, A. J., Gaspar, H. B., & Kohn, D. B. (2025). Long-term safety and efficacy of gene therapy for adenosine deaminase deficiency. New England Journal of Medicine, 393(15), 1486–1497.

  • Guardo, D., Mishra, A. K., Rashed, H., Gilmour, K. C., Adams, S., Pinner, D., Sauer, M., Vora, A., Veys, P., Pavasovic, V., Rao, K., & Qasim, W. (2025). Long-term outcomes of genome-edited “universal” CAR19 T cells for relapsed/refractory B-ALL at a single pediatric center. Blood Advances, 9(18), 4750–4754.

 

Santosh Kumar | Cellular Senescence Aging | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Santosh Kumar | Cellular Senescence Aging | Best Researcher Award

Georgetown University | United States

Dr. Santosh Kumar is a cancer biologist with extensive experience in cellular and molecular oncology, particularly in understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate cancer progression, therapy resistance, and tumor heterogeneity. His work integrates advanced 2D and 3D cell-culture systems, immunophenotyping, flow cytometry, and high-resolution microscopy to dissect tumor cell behavior in physiologically relevant contexts. With strong expertise in RNA–protein interaction assays, including EMSA and complementary biochemical approaches, he investigates post-transcriptional regulation and molecular signaling pathways that influence cancer stem cell dynamics and immune-related phenotypes within tumors. Dr. Kumar’s research has also focused on identifying biomarkers associated with tumor aggressiveness and exploring how stress responses and radiation exposure influence cancer cell survival and transformation. His postdoctoral and faculty-level research contributions have advanced the understanding of stem-like tumor cell populations and their role in therapeutic resistance. Through collaborative translational studies, he has contributed to projects aimed at improving diagnostic strategies and developing targeted interventions in oncology. Recognized through awards such as the Radiation Research Society’s Early Career Investigator Award and the NSBRI Post-Doctoral Fellow Presentation Award, Dr. Kumar continues to contribute to innovative cancer research with an emphasis on molecular mechanisms, immunophenotyping, and stem-cell-driven tumor biology.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

  • Kumar, S., Kumar, K., Angdisen, J., Suman, S., Kallakury, B. V. S., & Fornace, A. J., Jr. (2025). cGAS/STING pathway mediates accelerated intestinal cell senescence and SASP after GCR exposure in mice. Cells, 14, 1767.

  • Kumar, K., Moon, B. H., Kumar, S., Angdisen, J., Kallakury, B. V. S., Fornace, A. J., & Suman, S. (2025). Senolytic agent ABT-263 mitigates low- and high-LET radiation-induced gastrointestinal cancer development in Apc<sup>1638N/+ </sup> mice. Aging, 16.

  • Kumar, S., Suman, S., Angdisen, J., Moon, B. H., Kallakury, B. V. S., Datta, K., & Fornace, A. J., Jr. (2024). Effects of high-linear-energy-transfer heavy ion radiation on intestinal stem cells: Implications for gut health and tumorigenesis. Cancers, 16(19), 3392.

  • Kwiatkowski, E., Suman, S., Kallakury, B. V. S., Datta, K., Fornace, A. J., Jr., & Kumar, S. (2023). Expression of stem cell markers in high-LET space radiation-induced intestinal tumors in Apc<sup>1638N/+ </sup> mouse intestine. Cancers, 15(17).

  • Kumar, K., Kumar, S., Datta, K., Fornace, A. J., Jr., & Suman, S. (2023). High-LET-radiation-induced persistent DNA damage response signaling and gastrointestinal cancer development. Current Oncology, 30(6), 5497–5514.

  • Kumar, S., Suman, S., Moon, B. H., Fornace, A. J., Jr., & Datta, K. (2023). Low-dose radiation upregulates Ras/p38 and NADPH oxidase in mouse colon two months after exposure. Molecular Biology Reports, 50(3), 2067–2076.

  • Suman, S., Kumar, S., Kallakury, B. V. S., Moon, B. H., Angdisen, J., Datta, K., & Fornace, A. J., Jr. (2022). Predominant contribution of the dose received from constituent heavy-ions in the induction of gastrointestinal tumorigenesis after simulated space radiation exposure. Radiation and Environmental Biophysics, 61(4), 631–637.

 

Ziwei Luo | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ziwei Luo | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Shenzhen Hospital of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine | China

Ziwei Luo is an emerging researcher specializing in molecular mechanisms underlying osteoarthritis, stem cell biology, and regenerative medicine. His work focuses on the regulatory roles of microRNAs in cellular differentiation and disease progression, with a particular emphasis on cartilage degeneration and hair follicle stem cell regulation. He has contributed significant findings demonstrating how novel-miR-81 acts as a key modulator in osteoarthritis by targeting IL16, offering new insights into potential therapeutic pathways for degenerative joint diseases. Additionally, his research has elucidated the function of miR-203a-3p in promoting loureirin A–induced differentiation of hair follicle stem cells through Smad1 signaling, expanding understanding of microRNA-mediated control in tissue repair processes. Luo has also identified a regulatory mechanism in which novel-miR-81 enhances chondrocyte differentiation from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by suppressing Rac2 expression, highlighting its importance in cartilage regeneration. Collectively, his research advances the field of molecular medicine by uncovering critical microRNA-gene interactions that influence stem cell fate and musculoskeletal tissue remodeling, contributing to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

1. Luo, Z., Xie, J., Ye, H., Zhang, J., Liu, Y., Ma, C., Cao, J., Pan, H., Liu, X., Zhou, X., et al. (2025). Novel-miR-81 promotes the chondrocytes differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells through inhibiting Rac2 expression. CARTILAGE, 16(3), 333–344.

2. Luo, Z., Han, Q., Lu, J., Ouyang, X., Fan, Y., Liu, Y., Zhou, X., Kong, J., Liu, H., Liu, A., et al. (2024). IL16 regulates osteoarthritis progression as a target gene of Novel-miR-81. CARTILAGE.

3. Ye, S., Si, W., Qin, W., Yang, L., Luo, Z., Li, Z., Xie, Y., Pan, H., Li, X., Huang, Z., et al. (2023). Atractylodes lancea volatile oils target ADAR2-miR-181a-5p signaling to mesenchymal stem cell chondrogenic differentiation. The Anatomical Record.

4. Luo, Z., Dou, J., Xie, F., Lu, J., Han, Q., Zhou, X., Kong, J., Chen, D., & Liu, A. (2021). miR-203a-3p promotes loureirin A-induced hair follicle stem cells differentiation by targeting Smad1. The Anatomical Record, 304(3), 531–540.

Nikhil Gadewal | Biomarkers for Renal Cancer | Epigenetics in Cell Biology Award

Dr. Nikhil Gadewal | Biomarkers for Renal Cancer | Epigenetics in Cell Biology Award

Advanced Center for Treatment and Research in Cancer | India

Dr. Nikhil Gadewal is an accomplished scientist specializing in bioinformatics, molecular modeling, structure-based drug design, and integrative multi-omics analysis. His research portfolio includes 42 peer-reviewed publications spanning computational biology, cancer therapeutics, and systems-level data interpretation. A key focus of his work is the development and application of gene regulatory network analysis using multi-omics datasets to uncover molecular mechanisms underlying disease pathology, particularly in cancer. He has made significant contributions to structure-based drug design, identifying phytochemicals and small molecules with therapeutic potential for integrative cancer treatment strategies. His patented work on biomarkers and therapeutic targets for transformed epithelium in gingivo-buccal cancer reflects his expertise in translational cancer research and precision medicine. In addition to research, he actively contributes to capacity building by conducting workshops and training programs in next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis, molecular modeling, and molecular dynamics simulations. His work integrates computational approaches with biological insight to advance drug discovery, biomarker identification, and systems-level understanding of complex diseases.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Khare, S. P., Habib, F., Sharma, R., Gadewal, N., Gupta, S., & Galande, S. (2012). HISTome—A relational knowledgebase of human histone proteins and histone modifying enzymes. Nucleic Acids Research, 40(D1), D337–D342.

Chikhale, R., Thorat, S., Choudhary, R. K., Gadewal, N., & Khedekar, P. (2018). Design, synthesis and anticancer studies of novel aminobenzazolyl pyrimidines as tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Bioorganic Chemistry, 77, 84–100.

Singh, S. V., Dakhole, A. N., Deogharkar, A., Kazi, S., Kshirsagar, R., Goel, A., … Gadewal, N. (2017). Restoration of miR-30a expression inhibits growth and tumorigenicity of medulloblastoma cells accompanied by autophagy inhibition. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 491(4), 946–952.

Bejugam, P. R., Kuppili, R. R., Singh, N., Gadewal, N., Chaganti, L. K., Sastry, G. M., … (2013). Allosteric regulation of serine protease HtrA2 through a novel non-canonical substrate binding pocket. PLOS ONE, 8(2), e55416.

Tokala, R., Sana, S., Lakshmi, U. J., Sankarana, P., Sigalapalli, D. K., Gadewal, N., … (2020). Design and synthesis of thiadiazolo-carboxamide bridged β-carboline-indole hybrids: DNA intercalative topo-IIα inhibition with promising antiproliferative activity. Bioorganic Chemistry, 105, 104357.

Gadewal, N. S., & Zingde, S. M. (2011). Database and interaction network of genes involved in oral cancer: Version II. Bioinformation, 6(4), 169–175.

Alp Can | Stem Cell Research | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr. Alp Can | Stem Cell Research | Distinguished Scientist Award

Ankara University School of Medicine | Turkey

Dr. Alp Can is a distinguished researcher and academic leader in histology, embryology, and stem cell biology, with a particular focus on human umbilical cord-derived stromal cells and reproductive biology. His research has significantly advanced understanding of mesenchymal stem cell properties, differentiation potential, and their applications in regenerative medicine, particularly in cardiovascular and reproductive models. With over 90 publications in SCI-indexed journals and more than 6,800 citations (h-index: 39), his work has been recognized globally, including being listed among Stanford University’s top 2% most influential scientists. Dr. Can has directed over 30 research projects and authored 15 scientific books, contributing extensively to knowledge dissemination in cell and tissue engineering. His patented innovations—covering cryopreservation of umbilical cord stroma, advanced methods for transport and storage of mesenchymal stromal cells, and 3D-printed tissue scaffolds with controlled release properties—reflect his commitment to translational science and biomedical innovation. As editor of Stem Cell Bulletin and an active member of leading international societies such as ISSCR, ASCB, and ESHRE, Dr. Can continues to foster scientific collaboration and mentor emerging researchers in cellular therapy, reproductive toxicology, and regenerative medicine. His work bridges fundamental research and clinical applications, advancing the frontiers of modern cell biology.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Yemisci, M., Gursoy-Ozdemir, Y., Vural, A., Can, A., Topalkara, K., & Dalkara, T. (2009). Pericyte contraction induced by oxidative-nitrative stress impairs capillary reflow despite successful opening of an occluded cerebral artery. Nature Medicine, 15(9), 1031–1037. https://doi.org/10.1038/nm.2022

Karahuseyinoglu, S., Cinar, O., Kilic, E., Kara, F., Akay, G. G., Demiralp, D. Ö., Can, A., & others. (2007). Biology of stem cells in human umbilical cord stroma: In situ and in vitro surveys. Stem Cells, 25(2), 319–331. https://doi.org/10.1634/stemcells.2006-0286

Can, A., & Karahuseyinoglu, S. (2007). Concise review: Human umbilical cord stroma with regard to the source of fetus-derived stem cells. Stem Cells, 25(11), 2886–2895. https://doi.org/10.1634/stemcells.2007-0417

Gürsoy-Özdemir, Y., Can, A., & Dalkara, T. (2004). Reperfusion-induced oxidative/nitrative injury to neurovascular unit after focal cerebral ischemia. Stroke, 35(6), 1449–1453. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.STR.0000126044.61190.81

Alarcon-Martinez, L., Yilmaz-Ozcan, S., Yemisci, M., Schallek, J., Kılıç, K., Can, A., & others. (2018). Capillary pericytes express α-smooth muscle actin, which requires prevention of filamentous-actin depolymerization for detection. eLife, 7, e34861. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.34861

Unal-Cevik, I., Kılınç, M., Can, A., Gürsoy-Özdemir, Y., & Dalkara, T. (2004). Apoptotic and necrotic death mechanisms are concomitantly activated in the same cell after cerebral ischemia. Stroke, 35(9), 2189–2194. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.STR.0000137607.23073.95

Çinar, M. E., Bilecenoglu, M., Öztürk, B., & Can, A. (2006). New records of alien species on the Levantine coast of Turkey. Aquatic Invasions, 1(2), 84–90. https://doi.org/10.3391/ai.2006.1.2.5

Josefina Patricia Fernandez Moreno | Plant Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Josefina Patricia Fernandez Moreno | Plant Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

University of Cordoba | Spain

Dr. Josefina Patricia Fernández Moreno is a plant biologist and biotechnologist whose research focuses on crop improvement through molecular, physiological, and biochemical approaches. Her work explores the genetic and metabolic regulation of bioactive compounds and stress responses in plants. During her master’s research, she investigated the functional role of the Sl-MYB12 transcription factor in the biosynthesis of polyphenols in tomato fruit using Virus-Induced Gene Silencing, contributing to the understanding of secondary metabolism regulation. Her current collaborations involve elucidating the role of ethylene signaling, particularly the EIN3 transcription factor, in early nodulation processes of Medicago truncatula, aiming to improve nitrogen-fixing efficiency. Additionally, she contributes to a comprehensive review on glycine betaine’s multifaceted roles in plant defense, emphasizing its influence on abiotic and biotic stress tolerance in crops. Beyond her academic contributions, she has applied her expertise in biotechnology as an adviser for an agricultural start-up focused on in-vitro culture and specialized metabolite production. Her research integrates molecular biology, plant physiology, and biotechnology to develop sustainable strategies for enhancing crop resilience and productivity under environmental stress conditions.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications:

Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Yaschenko, A. E., Fenech-Torres, M., Zhao, C., Neubauer, M., Brumos, J., Davis, H., Marchi, A. J., Concannon, R., Keren, A., Levitsky, V., Ascencio-Ibanez, J. T., Goldshmidt, A., Zemlyanskaya, E., Alonso, J. M., & Stepanova, A. N. (2025). EBSnew, a robust synthetic reporter for monitoring ethylene responses in plants. Plant Biotechnology Journal, 0, 1–19. Müller, S., Stegmann, T., Adema, K., Holmer, R., van Seters, A., van Velzen, R., Kulikova, O., Wijsman, T., Klein, J., Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Stepanova, A. N., Alonso, J. M., Franssen, H., Larrainzar, E., van Zeijl, A., & Kohlen, W. (2025). Spatiotemporal dynamics of ethylene biosynthesis shape infection and nodule initiation in Medicago truncatula. Plant Cell. (Submitted).

Balakireva, A. V., Karataeva, T. A., Karampelias, M., Mitiouchkina, T. Y., Morozov, V. V., Macháček, J., Shakhova, E. S., Perfilov, M. M., Belozerova, O. A., Palkina, K. A., Drazna, N., Vondrakova, Z., Kalachova, T., Fleiss, A., Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Alonso, J. M., Stepanova, A. N., Fakhranurova, L. I., Markina, N. M., … Sarkisyan, K. S. (2025). Non-invasive imaging of salicylic and jasmonic acid activities in planta. Nature Communications. (Submitted).

Biswal, A. K., Banasiak, A., Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Mitra, M., Harholt, J., Derba-Maceluch, M., Majda, M., Kushwah, S., Kumar, V., Abreu, I., Sivan, P., Pattathil, S., Immerzeel, P., Gorzsás, A., Moritz, T., Hahn, M. G., Scheller, H. V., Aharoni, A., & Mellerowicz, E. J. (2025).* Cuticle deposition in the leaf epidermal cells depends on integrity of homogalacturonan. iScience, 25, 113963.

Fernandez-Moreno, J.-P., Yaschenko, A. E., Neubauer, M., Marchi, A. J., Zhao, C., Alonso, J. M., & Stepanova, A. N. (2024). A rapid and scalable approach to build synthetic repetitive hormone-responsive promoters.