Huining He | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Huining He | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Huining He , School of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin Medical University , China

Dr. Huining He is a prominent Professor and the Dean of the School of Biomedical Engineering and Technology at Tianjin Medical University, China. With a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University, she completed joint research at the University of Michigan. Her career spans across significant achievements in biomedical engineering, specializing in biomaterials, drug delivery systems, and cancer therapy. She has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the “Young Changjiang Scholar” and the “Tianjin Science Fund for Outstanding Young Scholars.” As an active member of various academic societies and a board member of the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, she fosters international collaboration and academic advancement. Her research has garnered substantial contributions to the field of biomedical engineering, with numerous patents and high-impact publications in cancer treatment and drug delivery systems.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Huining He is an outstanding researcher with a strong academic and professional background. As a Professor and Dean at Tianjin Medical University, she leads the School of Biomedical Engineering and Technology with a focus on cutting-edge biomedical research, particularly in biomaterials and drug delivery systems. Her innovative work in the development of enzyme-sensitive targeted systems for gene therapy and prodrug-type macromolecular drug delivery for colon cancer is a key contribution to the field. Additionally, her leadership in several projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, particularly those targeting glioma treatment, showcases her ability to translate research into impactful clinical applications.

Dr. He’s collaboration with international and domestic institutions further enhances her research impact. She is well-regarded for pioneering novel drug delivery systems and has made notable contributions through numerous high-quality publications, which have earned her an H-index of 21 and six authorized patents. She also actively participates in academic exchanges and professional networks, serving as a member of editorial boards and scientific committees.

Areas for Improvements:

While Dr. He has made remarkable strides in biomedical engineering, there are areas where further focus could amplify her impact:

  1. Broader Clinical Application: The continued translation of her drug delivery systems into clinical settings could benefit from additional industry partnerships and clinical trials.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Expanding her work to incorporate emerging fields such as artificial intelligence in drug delivery systems could lead to more personalized treatment solutions.
  3. Public Engagement: Increasing public awareness of her research through media and outreach could bridge the gap between academia and the general public, facilitating broader societal impact.

Education:

Dr. Huining He earned her Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Tianjin University, where she gained profound expertise in biomaterials and drug delivery systems. During her doctoral studies, she participated in joint training at the University of Michigan, an experience that greatly expanded her research skills and international perspective. This training allowed her to engage in cutting-edge projects in the fields of biomaterials and drug delivery. Her advanced education laid the foundation for her future contributions to biomedical engineering, especially in the development of novel targeted systems for gene therapy and cancer treatment. Dr. He’s academic journey has been marked by strong mentorship, international collaborations, and her leadership role in several research projects that have significantly advanced the biomedical field.

Experience:

Dr. Huining He’s career in biomedical engineering spans extensive academic and research experience. Currently, as the Dean of the School of Biomedical Engineering and Technology at Tianjin Medical University, she leads a dynamic department focused on advancing healthcare solutions through innovative research. She has supervised numerous Ph.D. students, guiding them in pioneering research on biomaterials and drug delivery systems. Her work has been recognized by the Ministry of Education, with prestigious titles such as the “Young Changjiang Scholar.” Dr. He has led and contributed to several high-profile research projects funded by China’s National Natural Science Foundation, including investigations into enzyme-sensitive targeted systems for gene therapy and glioma treatment. Beyond academia, she has participated in industry projects, translating her research into real-world applications. As a member of numerous professional organizations and editorial boards, Dr. He plays a vital role in facilitating international collaborations and advancing scientific knowledge in the biomedical sector.

Research Focus:

Dr. Huining He’s research focuses on the design and development of advanced biomaterials and drug delivery systems, particularly in the treatment of cancer and other serious diseases. Her work involves creating innovative, targeted drug delivery systems that can enhance the efficacy and precision of treatment. She has conducted pivotal studies on enzyme-sensitive targeted systems for gene therapy, improving the delivery of therapeutic agents to cancer cells. Currently, Dr. He is leading several projects on siRNA co-delivery systems for glioma, investigating ways to overcome the challenges in glioma treatment. Her research also covers the development of prodrug-type macromolecular systems and multifunctional exosome-based drug delivery technologies. Dr. He’s work has the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment and other therapeutic approaches, contributing to the development of more efficient, less toxic therapies for patients. Her research continues to make substantial advancements in the fields of drug delivery, biomedical engineering, and cancer therapy.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. CaCO3-based nanomedicine with multi-functions of ferroptosis-apoptosis and microenvironment regulation in cancer 🔬💡 (Nano Today, 2025)
  2. Lipid Nanoparticular Codelivery System for Enhanced Antitumor Effects by Ferroptosis-Apoptosis Synergistic with Programmed Cell Death-Ligand 1 Downregulation 🧬⚡ (ACS Nano, 2024)
  3. Nanomedicine integrating the lipidic derivative of 5-fluorouracil, miriplatin and PD-L1 siRNA for enhancing tumor therapy 💊🧪 (Chinese Chemical Letters, 2024)
  4. A review on gold nanoparticles as an innovative therapeutic cue in bone tissue engineering: Prospects and future clinical applications 🏥🔬 (Materials Today Bio, 2024)
  5. Lipid core-shell nanoparticles co-deliver FOLFOX regimen and siPD-L1 for synergistic targeted cancer treatment 🧬🔗 (Journal of Controlled Release, 2024)
  6. An injectable signal-amplifying device elicits a specific immune response against malignant glioblastoma 💉🧠 (Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B, 2023)
  7. Antitumor synergism between PAK4 silencing and immunogenic phototherapy of engineered extracellular vesicles 🧬💥 (Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B, 2023)
  8. Dual-sensitive drug-loaded hydrogel system for local inhibition of post-surgical glioma recurrence 💧⚔ (Journal of Controlled Release, 2022)
  9. Antibody–siRNA conjugates (ARC): Emerging siRNA drug formulation 🧬💉 (Medicine in Drug Discovery, 2022)
  10. mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 and diverse diseases 💉🦠 (Journal of Controlled Release, 2022)

Conclusion:

Dr. Huining He’s exceptional contributions to the field of biomedical engineering, particularly in the development of novel drug delivery systems for cancer treatment, position her as an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her innovative work, combined with a clear vision for the future of precision medicine, continues to drive the field forward. She has the potential to further revolutionize medical treatments, making her a deserving nominee for this prestigious recognition.

 

 

 

Yimin Zhu | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Yimin Zhu | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Yimin Zhu , Suzhou Institute of Nanotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences , China

Prof. Yimin Zhu is a distinguished researcher in bioengineering, specializing in cancer therapies, biomaterials, and peptide screening platforms. With a background in both clinical medicine and biotechnology, she bridges the gap between medical applications and cutting-edge biotechnological innovations. Prof. Zhu completed her master’s in Clinical Medicine from Tianjin Medical University in 1996 and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the National University of Singapore in 2005. She has made significant contributions to cancer immunotherapy, drug delivery systems, and biomarker identification. Prof. Zhu’s work has led to over 30 first-author/co-corresponding publications in leading scientific journals, and she holds more than 20 patents. She currently holds a professorship at Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, CAS, where her research continues to advance cancer treatments through novel molecular mechanisms and drug delivery platforms.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Interdisciplinary Expertise: Prof. Yimin Zhu has a unique blend of clinical medicine and advanced biotechnology expertise, making her well-suited to bridge the gap between medical practice and cutting-edge cancer research. Her background in both the clinical and research fields allows her to tackle cancer therapies from multiple angles.
  2. Impactful Research: Prof. Zhu’s research focuses on critical areas in cancer therapy, such as peptide-based immunotherapy, tumor mechanisms, drug delivery systems, and biomarker discovery. She has published over 30 high-impact papers in leading journals, showcasing her leadership in the field.
  3. Innovative Contributions: She has made substantial contributions to developing peptide-based bispecific CAR T cells and innovative drug delivery systems, with several patents granted. These innovations hold great promise for advancing cancer therapy and improving patient outcomes.
  4. Support and Funding: Prof. Zhu has successfully secured substantial research funding, including multiple grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, supporting her groundbreaking research in cancer immunotherapy and biomaterial development.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Outreach: Although Prof. Zhu has made impressive advancements in cancer research, expanding her work’s visibility to a broader audience in the medical and biotechnology communities, as well as among the general public, could increase the impact of her innovations.
  2. Collaboration and Mentorship: Further expanding interdisciplinary collaborations, particularly with social scientists or clinicians in oncology, could strengthen the practical application of her research and increase its translation into clinical practice. Additionally, mentoring young women in STEM could increase her contribution to fostering diversity in the field.
  3. Public Engagement: Enhancing communication efforts to present her research in a more accessible format for non-experts could be a significant avenue for impact, particularly in terms of attracting additional funding and public interest in her cancer-focused work.

Education:

Prof. Yimin Zhu’s educational journey reflects her interdisciplinary approach to bioengineering and medical science. She earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Medicine from Tianjin Medical University in 1996, where she initially focused on medical practice, gaining hands-on experience as a resident and consultant in Neurology. Her passion for scientific research led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the National University of Singapore, completed in 2005. This transition to biochemistry allowed her to explore molecular biology, cancer research, and biotechnology. Prof. Zhu’s postdoctoral work at the University of California, Santa Barbara, in Chemical Engineering, further honed her expertise in nanotechnology, bioengineering, and therapeutic innovations. This broad educational foundation, combining clinical experience with cutting-edge research, has uniquely positioned her as a leader in cancer bioengineering and drug delivery systems.

Experience:

Prof. Yimin Zhu’s diverse experience spans both clinical medicine and high-impact research. Between 1996 and 2000, she worked as a resident and consultant doctor in Neurology, which provided a strong foundation in patient care and medical science. Transitioning to research, she served as a research fellow at the National University of Singapore from 2003 to 2005, focusing on biochemistry and cancer-related molecular mechanisms. Prof. Zhu further developed her expertise during her postdoctoral training in the Chemical Engineering Department at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she explored the intersection of chemical engineering, nanotechnology, and therapeutic interventions. Since joining the Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics in 2008, she has been a professor, where she leads innovative research in peptide-based cancer therapies, immunotherapy, and drug delivery systems. Her extensive academic background and practical experience have earned her numerous patents and substantial research funding.

Research Focus:

Prof. Yimin Zhu’s research primarily focuses on bioengineering for cancer treatment, peptide screening platforms, and targeted drug delivery systems. Her work involves identifying molecular mechanisms behind tumor cell behavior and developing innovative methods for cancer diagnosis and therapy. She is dedicated to advancing cancer immunotherapy, particularly through the development of peptide-based bispecific CAR T cells targeting key proteins like EGFR and tumor stroma. Prof. Zhu’s research aims to enhance the efficacy of cancer treatments while minimizing side effects. Her studies also explore the development of smart delivery systems, such as extracellular vesicle-based nanodrugs, to improve the precision and effectiveness of drug delivery to tumor sites. Additionally, her work delves into the identification of cancer biomarkers, offering new ways to predict tumor metastasis and optimize treatment regimens. By combining molecular biology, nanotechnology, and biotechnology, Prof. Zhu’s research holds great promise for advancing personalized cancer care.

Publications Top Notes:

  • The peptide-based bispecific CAR T cells target EGFR and tumor stroma for effective cancer therapy 🧬
  • Develop a PD-1-blockade peptide to reinvigorate T-cell activity and inhibit tumor progress 💉
  • Natural killer cells contribute to ‘hot’ tumor regression in the allergic inflammatory environment 🦠
  • Identification of cancer protein biomarker based on cell specific peptide and its potential role in predicting tumor metastasis 🔬
  • Extracellular Vesicle‐Based Nanodrug Delivery 💊
  • Inhibition of Autophagy Promotes the Elimination of Liver Cancer Stem Cells by CD133 Aptamer-Targeted Delivery of Doxorubicin 🧫
  • Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergen Der p 22: Cloning, expression, IgE-binding in asthmatic children, and immunogenicity 🌿
  • Reforming the Chimeric Antigen Receptor by Peptide Towards Optimized CAR T Cells With Enhanced Anti-Cancer Potency and Safety 🦠
  • Smart delivery of poly-peptide composite for effective cancer therapy 💡
  • The inhibition of ABCB1/MDR1 or ABCG2/BCRP enables doxorubicin to eliminate liver cancer stem cells ⚙️

Conclusion:

Prof. Yimin Zhu’s research excellence, particularly in cancer therapy, peptide-based immunotherapy, and novel drug delivery systems, positions her as a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her interdisciplinary approach, groundbreaking innovations, and leadership in publishing high-impact scientific papers make her a trailblazer in the field of bioengineering. By addressing the areas for improvement, particularly in outreach and mentorship, Prof. Zhu could amplify her contributions even further, inspiring the next generation of women scientists and advancing the fight against cancer.