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

Published on by Cell Biologist

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.

Hansong Dong | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Hansong Dong | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hansong Dong, Shandong Agricultural University, China

Dr. Hansong Dong is a distinguished Professor of Plant Pathology and Doctoral Supervisor at Shandong Agricultural University, China. With a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, his work spans over four decades, focusing on plant immunity, signal transduction, and the balance between crop growth and defense. A renowned researcher and published poet, Prof. Dong has made seminal contributions to our understanding of aquaporins, hormone signaling, and the molecular interface between host plants and pathogens. His international academic exposure, including time as a Visiting Scholar at Cornell University, has further enriched his scientific insights. In addition to his impactful research, Prof. Dong has mentored numerous graduate students and contributed to agricultural innovation. With numerous high-impact publications in journals like Molecular Plant and New Phytologist, his work is widely recognized. Beyond academia, his literary works reflect a philosophical appreciation of nature and resilience, exemplifying a rare integration of science and art.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

Education:

Prof. Hansong Dong pursued his undergraduate studies in Plant Protection at Shandong Agricultural University (1978–1982). He continued with his Master’s and Ph.D. in Plant Pathology at Nanjing Agricultural University, completing them in 1985 and 1988, respectively. His academic training provided a solid foundation in plant-microbe interactions, molecular biology, and host defense mechanisms. During his studies, he honed his focus on understanding plant immune responses, laying the groundwork for his future breakthroughs in signaling and aquaporin-mediated defense. His Ph.D. thesis contributed to early models of pathogen-host dynamics in crops, marking the start of a lifelong research trajectory in agricultural biotechnology. His formal education not only established his credibility in plant pathology but also shaped his vision for interdisciplinary research. Prof. Dong’s academic excellence has continued to drive forward key discoveries in the field, making him a leading authority in crop protection and molecular plant immunity in China and internationally.

Experience:

Prof. Dong began his career as a Lecturer in the Department of Plant Pathology at Shandong Agricultural University (1988–1993). He quickly rose through academic ranks—Associate Professor in 1993, and full Professor by 1994. His leadership and research capabilities were recognized early on, leading to a Visiting Scholar position at Cornell University (1997–2000), where he engaged in collaborative projects on plant immune signaling and pathogen effectors. Over his decades of teaching and research, Prof. Dong has supervised numerous doctoral students, published extensively, and shaped academic policy and curriculum in plant pathology. His tenure at Shandong Agricultural University is marked by scientific rigor, mentorship, and impactful agricultural innovations. His ability to bridge laboratory research with field application has contributed significantly to crop disease management strategies in China. Prof. Dong remains actively involved in national and international research initiatives, playing a vital role in advancing molecular plant pathology and crop resilience.

Awards & Honors:

Prof. Hansong Dong has received several prestigious accolades recognizing his early and sustained contributions to science and education. In 1992, he was honored as an Outstanding Young Intellectual and received the Shandong Youth Science and Technology Award, acknowledging his early promise in agricultural research. The same year, he was also named an Excellent Young Teacher, a testament to his pedagogical contributions. In 1993, he was recognized as a New Long March Commando, symbolizing excellence in youth-led scientific advancement in China. These early recognitions paved the way for a prolific academic career that has garnered respect across disciplines. His awards highlight his leadership in scientific innovation, commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers, and the societal relevance of his work in safeguarding global food security. As both a scientist and educator, Prof. Dong’s accolades reflect his well-rounded excellence and continued influence in plant pathology and agronomic science.

Research Focus:

Prof. Dong’s research focuses on signal transduction in plant disease resistance and the regulation of growth-defense trade-offs in crops. His work investigates the molecular dialogue between plants and pathogens, particularly through the lens of aquaporins, importins, and membrane proteins. He has significantly advanced our understanding of how pathogenic effectors manipulate host splicing and hormone pathways, notably through TAL effectors and NPR1/NPR3 systems in rice. His team applies multi-omics and CRISPR-based editing to engineer resistant crops while minimizing yield penalties, a critical goal in sustainable agriculture. By elucidating the roles of H2O2 transport, type-III secretion systems, and transcriptional regulation, his research offers translational solutions to fungal and bacterial diseases in cereals like rice and wheat. Prof. Dong’s innovative blend of molecular biology, bioinformatics, and field experimentation drives progress toward disease-resilient, high-yield crops. His collaborative, systems-level approach continues to shape modern plant pathology and crop biotechnology.

 Publications Top Notes:

  1. Alternative splicing of OsNPR3… enhances disease susceptibility in rice – Molecular Plant, 2025

  2. Plant PI4P is required for bacteria to translocate type-3 effectors – New Phytologist, 2025

  3. MYB44 regulates PTI via EIN2 and MPK3/6 in Arabidopsis – Plant Communications, 2023

  4. Importin β1 mediates nuclear entry of EIN2C against aphids – IJMS, 2023

  5. Phosphorylation of wheat aquaporin enhances growth and defense – Molecular Plant, 2022

  6. Aquaporin OsPIP2;2 links H2O2 signaling to plant defense – Plant Physiology, 2022

  7. Editing rice importin IMPα1b sequesters TAL effectors – Phytopathology Research, 2022

  8. Aquaporin modulation intensifies photosynthesis and disease resistance – Plant Journal, 2021

  9. OsPIP2;2 facilitates drought tolerance in rice – Plant Direct, 2021

  10.  Aquaporin TaPIP2;10 confers dual fungal resistance in wheat – Phytopathology, 2021

Conclusion:

Prof. Hansong Dong is highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award.” His scholarly depth, sustained academic leadership, groundbreaking findings in plant pathology, and dedication to mentoring make him a standout candidate. His career exemplifies a blend of scientific rigor, poetic vision, and global relevance. Recognizing Prof. Dong would not only honor an exceptional researcher but also inspire younger generations in the intersection of science and humanity.

Prity Yadav | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Ms. Prity Yadav | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Prity Yadav, UNIVERSITY OF RAJASTHAN, JAIPUR, India

Prity Yadav is a dedicated research scholar at the Department of Zoology, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, India. Under the guidance of Prof. P.C. Mali, she is pursuing a PhD focused on nanotechnology and reproductive biomedicine. With a strong academic foundation including an M.Sc. in Zoology and CSIR-NET-JRF qualification, she currently receives the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) from CSIR, Delhi. Her interdisciplinary research combines herbal medicine and nanoscience to develop eco-friendly contraceptive strategies, aiming to revolutionize non-hormonal fertility control. Prity has published 11 research papers in reputed journals indexed in SCI and Scopus, and actively contributes to the scientific community through her work. A member of the Indian Science Congress Association, she is passionate about public health, sustainability, and the responsible use of nanobiotechnology for population control and reproductive health. Her work holds significant promise for advancing global reproductive healthcare through innovative, natural, and non-invasive solutions.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Focused and Impactful Research Area
    Prity Yadav’s interdisciplinary research on nanotechnology and reproductive biomedicine is both relevant and innovative, especially in addressing global concerns like non-hormonal contraception, male fertility regulation, and eco-friendly biomedical alternatives.

  2. Consistent Publication Record
    With 11 publications in reputed SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, her research contributions are well-documented and consistently recognized in the academic community.

  3. Research Innovation
    Her work in green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using medicinal plant extracts for antifertility treatments reflects high originality and societal relevance.

  4. Academic Excellence
    She has cleared CSIR-NET-JRF and is currently receiving SRF from CSIR, showing national-level academic competitiveness.

  5. Sustainability and Public Health Focus
    Her projects promote natural, sustainable alternatives to conventional fertility control methods, aligning with public health policy and eco-conscious innovation.

  6. Active Membership in Scientific Community
    Her involvement in organizations such as The Indian Science Congress Association supports her engagement in broader scientific discourse.

🔧 Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Collaborations & Exposure
    Participation in international research collaborations, conferences, or exchange programs would further enrich her global perspective and strengthen her research profile.

  2. Patent Filing and Intellectual Property
    Considering the novelty of her nanoformulations, pursuing patents could enhance the impact and translational value of her work.

  3. Industry Engagement
    Involvement in consultancy or industry-based projects would bridge the gap between lab research and real-world application.

  4. Editorial and Peer Review Roles
    Taking on editorial responsibilities or peer-review contributions would boost her academic service profile.

🎓 Education:

Prity Yadav has a solid academic background in life sciences, specializing in Zoology. She completed her Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Zoology with distinction, focusing on reproductive physiology and applied biology. Demonstrating her academic excellence, she cleared the highly competitive CSIR-NET-JRF examination, qualifying for Junior Research Fellowship and later advancing to Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) funded by CSIR, New Delhi. She is currently enrolled in the PhD program at the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, under the supervision of Prof. P.C. Mali in the Department of Zoology. Her academic path reflects a consistent focus on animal biology, toxicology, and molecular studies related to fertility and reproduction. Her strong theoretical knowledge, combined with hands-on laboratory training in nanoscience and biomedical research, sets a solid foundation for her innovative research. Prity’s education is a blend of traditional life sciences and modern interdisciplinary tools like nanotechnology and phytomedicine.

🧪 Experience:

Prity Yadav has accumulated significant research experience during her doctoral studies at the University of Rajasthan. With over four years of hands-on laboratory work, she has become proficient in nanoparticle synthesis, in vivo animal experimentation, biochemical analysis, and histopathological techniques. Her research focuses on developing green-synthesized silver nanoparticles using herbal extracts and evaluating their antifertility effects in male rodents. She has co-authored 11 publications in reputable journals and collaborated with fellow researchers on interdisciplinary projects involving herbal pharmacology, nanomedicine, and reproductive biology. While she has no direct industry consultancy experience, her academic research aligns closely with pharmaceutical applications. She frequently presents her findings in national and international conferences and is an active member of the Indian Science Congress Association. Prity’s experience highlights her commitment to scientific rigor, ethical research practices, and a vision for creating sustainable healthcare solutions through biocompatible nanotechnologies.

🔬 Research Focus:

Prity Yadav’s research lies at the intersection of nanotechnology and reproductive biomedicine, with an emphasis on developing herbal-based, non-hormonal antifertility agents. Her work explores the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using medicinal plant extracts, aiming to enhance bioavailability and targeted delivery of active phytoconstituents. The ultimate goal of her research is to create eco-friendly, reversible male contraceptive methods with minimal side effects. She focuses on evaluating the impact of these nanoparticles on male reproductive systems through in vivo studies using rodent models. Her findings contribute to a deeper understanding of reproductive toxicity, oxidative stress, and fertility regulation mechanisms. This research addresses global challenges such as overpopulation and limited access to safe male contraceptives. Prity’s interdisciplinary approach supports sustainable healthcare by integrating traditional herbal knowledge with modern nanoscience, opening new avenues in contraceptive technology and public health policy.

📚 Publications Top Notes: 

  1. 🌿🔬 Herbal Nanoparticles to Control Fertility and Regulation: A Review

  2. 🧫🔥 Testicular Inflammation in Male Reproductive System

  3. 🍃🧪 Assessment of the Antifertility Potential of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Pongamia pinnata Leaf Extract in Male Wistar Rats

  4. 🌱📖 Medicinal Plants Potentials of Fertility Control, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities: A Review

  5. 🧬🌿 Potential Antifertility and Antimicrobial Activities of Plants Used in Traditional Medicines: A Review

  6. 💊🦠 Cassia auriculata-Based Silver Nanoparticles: A Novel Approach to Combat Bacterial Infections

  7. 🌾🧠 A Review on Potential Antioxidant, Neuroprotective and Antidepressant Activities of Herbal Medicinal Plants

  8. ⚗️🧍‍♂️ Effects of Silver Nanoparticles of Putranjiva roxburghii on Reproductive Organs in Male Albino Rats

  9. 🌳🧬 Exploring the Impacts of Tecomella undulata Mediated Silver Nanoparticles on Male Rats Fertility and Reproductive Health

  10. 🍀🧫 An In Vitro Antioxidant Potential Analysis of Herbal Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Methanolic Leaf Extract of Cassia siamea

🧾 Conclusion:

Based on her scientific contributions, innovative research, and academic merit, Prity Yadav is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work presents a unique and impactful solution to pressing challenges in public health and reproductive medicine. With scope for further growth in collaborative and translational domains, she stands out as a rising researcher making meaningful advances in her field.