Luminita Paraoan | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Luminita Paraoan | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Manchester Metropolitan University | United Kingdom

Professor Luminita Paraoan is a leading molecular and ocular cell biologist whose research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) function, degeneration, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Her pioneering work integrates omics-based analyses, molecular genetics, and cell biology to uncover how cellular stress responses, proteostasis, and intercellular communication contribute to retinal aging and disease. Paraoan has made significant discoveries on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathways, particularly the PERK/EIF2AK3 axis, and the regulation of apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy in RPE cells. Her studies have also revealed novel insights into p53/p63 effector PERP, Cystatin C, and visual cycle gene regulation in aging and disease contexts. Through collaborative research, she has explored stem cell protection mechanisms, PI3K/AKT signaling inhibition, and multi-omic signatures of aging across cancers and ocular tissues. Supported by over £4 million in external funding, her work has advanced understanding of molecular targets for retinal and neurodegenerative diseases. Professor Paraoan leads the Ocular Molecular Biology and Mechanisms of Disease Group, mentoring numerous postdoctoral and doctoral researchers internationally, and continues to shape the field of vision science and molecular ophthalmology.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Suwanmanee, G., Kheolamai, P., Tantrawatpan, C., Grimes, D., Matei, I. V., Paraoan, L., & Manochantr, S. (2025). Fucoxanthin protects placenta-derived human mesenchymal stem cells against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis by modulating genes involved in DNA damage repair, ER stress response, and p53-induced apoptosis. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 16(1), 497.

Jantalika, T., Manochantr, S., Kheolamai, P., Tantikanlayaporn, D., Pinlaor, S., Saijuntha, W., Paraoan, L., & Tantrawatpan, C. (2025). Human chorion and placental mesenchymal stem cells conditioned media suppress cell migration and invasion by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway in cholangiocarcinoma. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 31472.

Matei, I. V., & Paraoan, L. (2024). Aging retinal pigmented epithelium: Omics-based insights into vision decline. Aging (Albany NY), 16(12), 10201–10202.

Carlsson, E., Sharif, U., Supharattanasitthi, W., & Paraoan, L. (2023). Analysis of wild type and variant B cystatin C interactome in retinal pigment epithelium cells reveals variant B. Cells, 12(5), 713.

Dhirachaikulpanich, D., Lagger, C., Chatsirisupachai, K., de Magalhães, J. P., & Paraoan, L. (2022). Intercellular communication analysis of the human retinal pigment epithelial and choroidal cells predicts pathways associated with aging, cellular senescence, and age-related macular degeneration. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 14, 1016293.

Saptarshi, N., Porter, L. F., & Paraoan, L. (2022). PERK/EIF2AK3 integrates endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy responses in immortalised retinal pigment epithelial cells. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 13324.

Vaclav Ranc | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vaclav Ranc | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vaclav Ranc | Palacký University in Olomouc | Czech Republic

Dr. Václav Ranc is a distinguished analytical chemist and data analyst with over 15 years of experience in academia and applied research. Based in the Czech Republic, he leads a research group at Palacký University Olomouc, specializing in nanotechnology, plasmonic and electronic nanosensors, and advanced analytical techniques. He holds a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry and a Habilitation in Physical Chemistry. Dr. Ranc has published over 80 peer-reviewed scientific articles and holds several international patents. He has secured and managed significant EU funding, including Horizon Europe and MSCA projects, showcasing his excellence in both research and project leadership. His expertise spans Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and LC/GC methods, coupled with data analysis in Python, Matlab, and R. He is a regular presenter at international conferences and a recognized innovator in the fields of biosensing and nanomaterials.

Publication Profiles: 

Google Scholar
Orcid
Scopus

Education:

Dr. Václav Ranc earned his MSc. in Analytical Chemistry from Palacký University Olomouc (UPOL) in 2005, where he focused on the discrimination of enantiomers using mass spectrometry techniques such as LC-MS and CE-MS. He continued at UPOL to complete his Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, specializing in chiral analysis with HPLC-MS and GC-MS. His academic trajectory culminated in a Habilitation in Physical Chemistry, reflecting his advancements in Raman microscopy, SERS, and mass spectrometry. Dr. Ranc’s education is deeply rooted in analytical and physical chemistry, with a significant emphasis on developing and applying sophisticated separation and detection techniques for complex biological and clinical samples. His academic background is further enriched by international research experiences in Sweden and Switzerland, where he worked on electroanalytical techniques and nanoLC-MS applications for neurotransmitter analysis.

Experience:

Dr. Václav Ranc currently serves as the Head of a Research Group at Palacký University Olomouc, managing a 20-member team focused on cutting-edge nanomaterials and analytical chemistry. He has led the group’s scientific, financial, and personnel management, improving research output by 30%. Previously, he worked as a Research Assistant in Switzerland and at Palacký University, where he developed analytical techniques for clinical and neurological studies using mass spectrometry. His earlier roles include assisting in electrochemical method development at Lund University and clinical toxicology at Faculty Hospital Olomouc. His leadership extends to managing multimillion-CZK budgets and delivering impactful results in EU-funded research projects. Throughout his career, he has seamlessly combined academic excellence with innovation, leading to patented technologies and industrial prototypes, while mentoring young researchers and collaborating with international scientific networks.

Honors & Awards:

Dr. Václav Ranc has received several national and international honors for his scientific excellence. Notable among them is the Golden Medal at the International Invent Arena for the innovative KeyLock authentication system. He also earned the Bronze Prize from MERCK’s Young Analytical Chemists Competition and was a Finalist for the prestigious Shimadzu Prize for Young Analytical Chemists. His awards reflect consistent recognition for his groundbreaking work in analytical chemistry and applied nanotechnology. These accolades underscore his ability to translate complex research into practical applications, particularly in biosensing, authentication systems, and advanced materials. Dr. Ranc’s career is marked by impactful innovations that bridge academic research with industry needs, affirming his role as a thought leader in his field. His awarded projects and patents have contributed significantly to medical diagnostics, material sciences, and anti-counterfeiting technologies.

Research Focus:

Dr. Ranc’s research focuses on analytical chemistry, nanotechnology, and biosensing. He specializes in Raman spectroscopy (including SERS), LC/GC-MS, and the development of plasmonic and electronic nanosensors. His work bridges basic science and applied innovation, emphasizing the synthesis of nanoparticles, development of authenticity verification systems, and detection of biomarkers in clinical diagnostics. His contributions to surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy have led to the development of patented methods and tools, including test strips and analytical systems. Dr. Ranc’s interdisciplinary approach combines analytical method development, data analysis using Python, R, and Matlab, and project management of EU-funded research. His current Horizon Europe projects focus on medical applications of nanotechnology, contributing to improved diagnostics, drug delivery systems, and authenticity verification. Through collaborations with European research institutions and industries, Dr. Ranc is pushing the boundaries of next-gen biomedical and analytical technologies.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Magnetic 2D Transition-Metal-Based Nanomaterials in Biomedicine: Opportunities and Challenges in Cancer Therapy

  2. Highly Cytotoxic Copper(II) Mixed-Ligand Quinolinonato Complexes: Pharmacokinetic Properties and Interactions with Drug Metabolizing Cytochromes P450

  3. Graphene Oxide Nanoplatforms to Enhance Cisplatin-Based Drug Delivery in Anticancer Therapy

  4. Polymer-Based Graphene Derivatives and Microwave-Assisted Silver Nanoparticles Decoration as a Potential Antibacterial Agent

  5. New Limits for Stability of Supercapacitor Electrode Material Based on Graphene Derivative

  6. Label-free Determination of Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen in Human Whole Blood by Magnetically Assisted SERS

  7. Cyanographene and Graphene Acid: Emerging Derivatives Enabling High-Yield and Selective Functionalization of Graphene

  8. Detection of Prosthetic Joint Infection Based on Magnetically Assisted Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy

  9. Functional Nanosheet Synthons by Covalent Modification of Transition-Metal Dichalcogenides

  10.  Nanoporous Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Oxide/Nickel Sulfide Composite Sheets for Hydrogen and Oxygen Evolution

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Václav Ranc is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award, demonstrating a rare synergy of academic excellence, applied innovation, and impactful leadership. His contributions to analytical chemistry and nanotechnology have advanced both scientific understanding and practical diagnostic solutions. His impressive publication record, international collaborations, patent portfolio, and success in leading multimillion-euro projects set him apart as a researcher of outstanding merit. With minor expansion into global research programs and commercialization efforts, Dr. Ranc is poised to further amplify his already significant impact. For his sustained contributions to science, his ability to lead and innovate, and his commitment to solving real-world problems through chemistry and nanotechnology, Dr. Václav Ranc is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

Rong Zhong | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Rong Zhong | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Rong Zhong, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China

Professor Rong Zhong is an esteemed academic in the field of molecular and cancer epidemiology at Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China. With a PhD in Epidemiology and Biostatistics and postdoctoral training from Harvard Medical School, she has built a distinguished career in investigating genetic and environmental interactions in cancer development. Over the years, she has led 51 research projects, authored 169 peer-reviewed articles, and earned over 3,600 citations. Dr. Zhong’s collaborative work extends across national and international institutions, including Huazhong Agricultural University and the General Hospital of Central Theater Command. Recognized with the Natural Science Award of Hubei Province, she is also actively involved in several national scientific committees. Her commitment to advancing cancer prevention through precision medicine and early detection strategies reflects both her scientific acumen and societal impact, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Output

    • 169 SCI/Scopus-indexed publications, many in high-impact journals like Gastroenterology, Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology, and Cancer Discovery.

    • Strong citation record with 3,697 citations on Web of Science, reflecting broad scientific influence.

  2. Innovative and Impactful Research

    • Focus on molecular and cancer epidemiology, particularly gene-environment interactions in gastrointestinal cancers, addressing a critical public health challenge.

    • Groundbreaking research on environmental risk factors (e.g., bisphenol A, tobacco smoke) and genetic susceptibility in cancer risk.

  3. Grants and Funding Leadership

    • Principal investigator of major national research projects, including National Natural Science Foundation of China grants and the Young Top-notch Talent Cultivation Program of Hubei Province.

  4. Recognition and Service

    • Recipient of the Natural Science Award of Hubei Province.

    • Serves on editorial boards of reputable journals such as Ebiomedicine and American Journal of Gastroenterology.

    • Active member in national scientific committees related to cancer prevention and epidemiology.

  5. Collaboration and Mentorship

    • Strong institutional and cross-disciplinary collaborations, including with Huazhong Agricultural University and military medical research institutions.

    • A demonstrated leader in mentoring young researchers in public health and biomedical science.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Industry Engagement & Technology Transfer

    • Although she holds 2 patents, there is limited mention of industry consultancy or commercialization, which could strengthen real-world impact.

  2. International Policy Influence

    • Expanding her involvement in international advisory boards or global health policy initiatives could further elevate her research visibility and societal contribution.

  3. Science Communication & Public Engagement

    • Enhanced participation in public education, community outreach, or policy translation could help bridge science and society, especially in preventive oncology.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Rong Zhong earned her PhD in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the prestigious Huazhong University of Science and Technology, where she built the foundation for her future research excellence. To further expand her academic perspective, she completed postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School, USA—an experience that enriched her global outlook and enhanced her methodological rigor in public health research. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Zhong has demonstrated a passion for understanding complex interactions between genes and environmental exposures, particularly in relation to cancer epidemiology. Her education, characterized by a blend of rigorous Chinese academic training and Western research exposure, has laid a strong interdisciplinary base. This robust academic background has equipped her with a unique skill set to lead impactful research in molecular epidemiology and precision prevention of gastrointestinal cancers.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Rong Zhong currently serves as a Professor at the School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology. With extensive experience in cancer epidemiology, she has successfully led national and provincial research initiatives including projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Young Top-notch Talent Cultivation Program of Hubei Province. Over the years, she has been instrumental in mentoring young scientists, shaping national health policies, and advancing cancer prevention strategies in China. She also serves on editorial boards of high-impact journals such as Ebiomedicine and American Journal of Gastroenterology. Her experience bridges research, academic leadership, and international collaboration, reflecting her multidimensional contribution to science and public health. Her advisory roles in national committees focused on cancer prevention and epidemiology further underscore her influence and thought leadership in the field.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Zhong’s primary research focus lies in molecular and cancer epidemiology, with an emphasis on gastrointestinal cancers. Her work aims to elucidate the gene-environment interactions that contribute to cancer risk, leveraging large-scale cohort and case-control studies. By integrating genomic data with environmental exposures (e.g., diet, pollutants, endocrine-disrupting chemicals), she develops predictive models that enable early screening and personalized prevention strategies for high-risk populations. Her recent studies investigate interactions between genetic polymorphisms and substances like bisphenol A, tobacco smoke, and gut microbiota, especially in relation to colorectal and breast cancer. These contributions bridge the gap between basic science and clinical translation, offering a pathway toward precision public health. Her research not only advances scientific knowledge but also holds tangible implications for national cancer screening guidelines and individualized preventive healthcare strategies.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📘 Western-Style Diet, pks Island-Carrying Escherichia coli, and Colorectal Cancer: Analyses From Two Large Prospective Cohort Studies – Gastroenterology

  2. 🚬 In Utero and Childhood/Adolescence Exposure to Tobacco Smoke, Genetic Risk and Lung Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Adulthood – AJRCCM

  3. 🧬 FOXA1 of regulatory variant associated with risk of breast cancer through allele-specific enhancer in the Chinese population – Breast Cancer

  4. 🧪 Genome-wide gene-bisphenol A, F and triclosan interaction analyses on urinary oxidative stress markers – Science of The Total Environment

  5. 🧫 Urinary bisphenol A and its interaction with CYP17A1 rs743572 are associated with breast cancer risk – Chemosphere

  6. 🧠 Animal-eRNAdb: a comprehensive animal enhancer RNA database – Nucleic Acids Research

  7. 🔬 Hepatocellular carcinoma risk variant modulates lncRNA HLA-DQB1-AS1 expression via a long-range enhancer–promoter interaction – Carcinogenesis

  8. 🧍‍♀️ Bisphenol A exposure, interaction with genetic variants and colorectal cancer via mediating oxidative stress biomarkers – Environmental Pollution

  9. 🧾 Discovery and Features of an Alkylating Signature in Colorectal Cancer – Cancer Discovery

  10. 🚨 Rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer — a call to action – Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology

📌 Conclusion:

Professor Rong Zhong is an outstanding and highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her prolific output, innovative approaches to cancer risk assessment, and leadership in national scientific research firmly position her among the top-tier researchers in her field. Her contributions have laid the groundwork for precision public health, with real potential to transform early cancer detection and prevention strategies in China and globally.

Dalia Saleh | Cancer Cell Biology | Innovative Research Award

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Prof. Dalia Saleh | Cancer Cell Biology | Innovative Research Award

Prof. Dalia Saleh, National Research Centre, Egypt

Dr. Dalia Osama Abd El Fattah Saleh is a distinguished pharmacologist and professor at the National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt. With a career spanning over two decades in academic and pharmaceutical research, she specializes in molecular pharmacology, experimental therapeutics, and drug development. She earned her Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Pharmacology from Cairo University, where she also completed her undergraduate pharmacy degree with honors. Dr. Saleh’s prolific contributions to science are reflected in her extensive publication record, focusing on novel therapeutic strategies against various toxicological, metabolic, and inflammatory disorders. Her collaborative efforts have led to advancements in drug signaling pathways, phytochemical pharmacology, and nanotechnology-based delivery systems. Recognized nationally for her innovation, she has received several prestigious awards. Dr. Saleh continues to shape pharmacological research through her dedication to translational science, mentorship, and participation in international seminars and training programs.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  • Extensive Academic Background: Holds a Ph.D., M.Sc., and B.Sc. in Pharmacology from Cairo University, with a clear focus on endocrine and vascular pharmacology from early in her career.

  • Distinguished Research Record: Authored over 25+ high-impact publications in peer-reviewed journals including Scientific Reports, Toxicology Reports, Biochemistry and Cell Biology, and Environmental Science and Pollution Research.

  • Novel Scientific Contributions:

    • Explores molecular pharmacology through cutting-edge therapeutic approaches like AMPK/mTOR signaling, Nrf2/NF-κB modulation, and natural compound pharmacodynamics.

    • Studies involve both synthetic and phytochemical-based interventions, representing a hybrid and innovative research style.

  • Awards and Recognition:

    • National recognition for her research quality and productivity by the National Research Centre, with awards received in 2015 and 2020.

    • Ranked 24th in the institution for publication volume in 2014—an indicator of sustained output.

  • Global Exposure: Participated in professional training programs at King’s College London, enhancing her knowledge in clinical drug development and data management—an asset for interdisciplinary and translational research.

  • Leadership and Longevity: Promoted through all academic ranks at NRC, from Research Assistant to Professor, demonstrating not only competence but leadership and mentorship over time.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Clinical Translation: While the preclinical research is extensive, initiating clinical trials or translational studies would further strengthen the real-world applicability of her findings.

  • Global Visibility: Although trained internationally, more international speaking engagements, keynote invitations, or editorial roles could enhance global recognition.

  • Interdisciplinary Projects: Expanding collaborations across fields such as bioinformatics or biotechnology could amplify the innovation aspect of her work.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Dalia Saleh obtained all her academic degrees from Cairo University’s esteemed Faculty of Pharmacy. She was awarded her Ph.D. in Pharmacology in 2012 for her thesis examining estrogen’s vascular effects in insulin-resistant, ovariectomized rats. Earlier, she earned her M.Sc. in 2009 with research on rosiglitazone’s effects in streptozotocin-induced vascular changes. Her academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Pharmacy in 2002, graduating with distinction and honors. Her strong educational foundation laid the groundwork for her innovative and interdisciplinary research spanning molecular pharmacology, toxicology, and metabolic disorders. Through continuous professional development, including modules at King’s College London, Dr. Saleh stays aligned with global standards in pharmacological science and clinical drug development. Her educational background combines academic excellence with practical research expertise, making her well-equipped to address complex biomedical challenges.

👩‍🔬 Experience:

Dr. Dalia Saleh has built a progressive research career at Egypt’s National Research Centre, beginning as a Research Assistant in 2003. Over the years, she rose through the ranks to become a Professor in 2022. She previously held positions as Researcher (2012–2017) and Assistant Professor (2017–2022). Throughout her tenure, she has actively contributed to preclinical pharmacology research, focusing on inflammation, neuroprotection, metabolic diseases, and organ toxicity. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates pharmacodynamics, molecular signaling, and therapeutic intervention studies using both synthetic and natural compounds. She has led numerous studies that explore drug mechanisms at cellular and systemic levels, often employing rodent disease models. Dr. Saleh’s active participation in international training (e.g., at King’s College London) highlights her global engagement and commitment to continuous learning. Her career reflects not only research productivity but also leadership in collaborative scientific initiatives and mentoring of emerging researchers.

🏆 Awards & Honors:

Dr. Dalia Saleh has received multiple accolades that underscore her impact in the field of pharmacology. She was honored with the 2020 Scientific Pioneers Award and the 2015 Scientific Encouragement Award from Egypt’s National Research Centre (NRC), recognizing her outstanding research contributions. In 2014, she received institutional recognition for both her high publication output (ranked 24th NRC-wide) and for publishing in a high-impact journal (impact factor 4.067). These achievements highlight her consistent scientific productivity and influence in biomedical research. Dr. Saleh’s awards reflect a career driven by innovation, rigor, and dedication to solving pressing health issues. Her work continues to be widely cited and applied in translational pharmacology, securing her reputation as a leading figure in her discipline. She remains an inspiration to peers and students alike, with a legacy of both scientific excellence and mentorship.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Dalia Saleh’s research is rooted in experimental pharmacology, with an emphasis on cell signaling pathways, drug discovery, and natural compound pharmacodynamics. She investigates molecular mechanisms underlying chronic diseases such as diabetes, hepatic and renal injury, neurodegeneration, and inflammatory disorders. A recurring theme in her work is the modulation of key signaling axes (e.g., AMPK/mTOR, NF-κB, PI3K/Akt) in mitigating organ toxicity and disease progression. Her recent studies explore the pharmacological potential of phytochemicals, drug hybrids, and nanoformulations in preclinical models. Dr. Saleh also examines gender-specific pathophysiology, as seen in her Ph.D. research on estrogen’s role in vascular dysfunction. She actively integrates biochemical, histological, and behavioral endpoints to ensure translational relevance. By bridging traditional medicine and molecular pharmacology, her work contributes to next-generation therapeutics and precision medicine. Her research has both national and global impact, frequently published in high-tier journals and cited in clinical research discussions.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Eugenol alleviates acrylamide-induced testicular toxicity via AMPK/pAKT/mTOR signaling – Scientific Reports, 2024

  2. 💊 Trimetazidine protects against cisplatin-induced neuropathy via AMPK and Nrf2 pathways – Biochemistry and Cell Biology, 2023

  3. 🧪 Chromone-thiazolopyrimidine hybrids inhibit TNF-α, IL-6, and PGE2 – Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, 2023

  4. 🧻 Chrysin counters cyclophosphamide-induced cystitis via STAT-3 and NF-κB inhibition – Chemico-Biological Interactions, 2023

  5. 🩺 Linagliptin and L-arginine synergize in hyperacidity via EP4 upregulation – Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology, 2023

  6. 🧠 L-arginine protects against hepatic encephalopathy via anti-apoptotic mechanisms – Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2023

  7. 🌿 Calotropis procera seed oil shows anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic activity – Arabian Journal of Chemistry, 2022

  8. 🧫 Olmesartan mitigates diabetic nephropathy through TLR4/P38-MAPK modulation – European Journal of Pharmacology, 2022

  9. 🌱 Anti-fibrotic activities of Plumbago species in liver fibrosis models – Scientific Reports, 2022

  10. 🐟 Omega-3 fatty acids protect against doxorubicin-induced liver damage – Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 2022

Conclusion:

Dr. Dalia O. Saleh is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award based on her prolific scientific contributions, consistent academic progression, and commitment to impactful pharmacological research. Her strength lies in combining rigorous mechanistic studies with applied therapeutic exploration, especially in inflammation, oxidative stress, and natural product pharmacology.