Zhijie Chang | Extracellular Vesicles | Cell Communication Award

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Prof. Zhijie Chang | Extracellular Vesicles | Cell Communication Award

Prof. Zhijie Chang, Tsinghua University, China

Professor Zhijie Chang is a distinguished molecular biologist and tenured professor at the School of Medicine and School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing. His research spans cancer signaling pathways, extracellular vesicle-mediated communication, and stem cell therapy, especially in lung diseases and tumor biology. A seasoned scholar, Dr. Chang earned his Ph.D. in Animal Genetics and Breeding before undertaking postdoctoral training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is currently a respected editor of FEBS Letters and a leader in molecular oncology in China. His recent works highlight the role of CREPT, Smad signaling, and macrophage modulation in cancer and fibrosis. Through decades of academic and translational research, he has significantly advanced our understanding of cell communication in disease contexts. With an extensive publication record in top journals, Dr. Chang remains a leading figure in Asia’s biomedical research landscape.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Pioneering Contributions in Cell Communication
    Prof. Chang’s research on CREPT, Smad proteins, NF-κB/Nrf2, and BMP signaling has directly advanced the understanding of how intracellular and intercellular communication impacts disease progression, especially in cancer and pulmonary disorders.

  2. High-Impact Publications
    He has numerous peer-reviewed articles in prestigious journals such as Nature Communications, Molecular Cancer, Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, and Journal of Biological Chemistry, many of which explore molecular and cellular communication in cancer and tissue repair.

  3. Translational Focus
    His integration of mesenchymal stem cell therapy, extracellular vesicles, and gene therapy reflects a strong translational approach, applying basic science to therapeutic innovations—a critical criterion for this award.

  4. Scientific Leadership and Mentorship
    As a tenured professor at Tsinghua University and editor at FEBS Letters, Prof. Chang is a leader in biomedical research and scientific dissemination, actively contributing to academic growth and mentorship.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. More Global Recognition
    While well-known in Chinese biomedical circles and respected internationally through publications, increased involvement in global consortia or leadership in international collaborations would further solidify his global scientific footprint.

  2. Public/Community Science Engagement
    Enhancing visibility through public lectures, science communication platforms, or policy advisory roles could broaden the societal impact of his work.

  3. Data-Sharing and Open Science Practices
    Encouraging or highlighting open-access datasets, repositories, or reproducible workflows would align with best practices in modern cell communication research.

🎓 Education:

Professor Zhijie Chang began his academic journey at Northwestern Agricultural University in Yangling, China, where he earned his B.Sc. (1978–1982) in Animal Science. He then continued at the same institution to obtain a combined M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Animal Genetics and Breeding from 1982 to 1989. His graduate research laid the foundation for his future in molecular biology, signaling studies, and genetics. Seeking international exposure and advanced training, he undertook postdoctoral research from March 1997 to October 1998 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA, in the Department of Pathology. There, he specialized in the BMP signaling pathway, gaining expertise in molecular signaling processes critical to cell communication. This blend of domestic and international education has equipped Dr. Chang with both the technical rigor and global perspective needed to pioneer breakthroughs in biomedical science.

💼 Professional Experience:

Professor Zhijie Chang has held a full professorship at Tsinghua University’s School of Medicine since June 2005, where he investigates cancer-related signaling mechanisms. Before this, he completed postdoctoral research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, focusing on BMP signaling, which strengthened his understanding of developmental and pathological cell signaling. Over the years, he has built a highly productive research lab, contributed extensively to translational medicine, and trained numerous doctoral and postdoctoral researchers. As an editor of FEBS Letters, he also contributes to scientific publishing and peer-review processes. His roles across academia, research, and editorial boards mark him as a multifaceted scientist whose work bridges laboratory insights and therapeutic applications. His collaborative style and consistent research funding reflect his leadership and innovation in molecular oncology and regenerative medicine.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Professor Zhijie Chang has been recognized multiple times by the Chinese Cell Biology Society for his high-impact publications. In 2003, he received the First Merit Paper Award for his groundbreaking research on hSef-mediated MAPK signaling inhibition in J. Biol. Chem. In 2005, he earned the Third Merit Paper Award for his study on CHIP-mediated degradation of Smad proteins, published in Mol. Cell. Biol.. These awards underscore his early and sustained contributions to deciphering molecular signaling pathways involved in cell communication, differentiation, and oncogenesis. His recent recognitions include publications in top-tier journals like Nature Communications, Molecular Cancer, and Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, indicating the continued relevance and innovation of his work. His role as an editor for FEBS Letters further highlights his stature in the field and dedication to advancing cell biology research at national and international levels.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Zhijie Chang’s research primarily investigates cellular communication in cancer and inflammatory diseases, with a focus on CREPT, Smad proteins, and extracellular vesicles. His work dissects how tumor-derived signals modulate the tumor microenvironment, metastasis, and immune cell behavior. He has made critical discoveries regarding the role of CREPT in chromatin looping and transcriptional regulation, especially in triple-negative breast cancer. In pulmonary fibrosis models, he has shown how umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) modulate macrophage activity via secreted vesicles. Another major area is his exploration of Smurf1, PDK1–Akt, and JAK/STAT3 signaling axes, targeting them for therapeutic intervention in various cancers. His translational approach integrates gene therapy, stem cell-based treatments, and protein signaling studies, bridging basic and clinical sciences. Through collaborative and interdisciplinary methods, Dr. Chang contributes valuable insights into how cells communicate and respond in disease settings.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 📘 CREPT is required for the metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer through a co-operational-chromatin loop-based gene regulation

  2. 🧪 Clinical investigation on nebulized human umbilical cord MSC-derived extracellular vesicles for pulmonary fibrosis treatment

  3. 🧬 Gene Therapy with Enterovirus 3C Protease: A Promising Strategy for Various Solid Tumors

  4. 🌬 Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells preferentially modulate macrophages to alleviate pulmonary fibrosis

  5. ⚡ CREPT upregulates the antioxidant genes via activation of NF-κB/Nrf2 in acute liver injury

  6. 🔁 An oncoprotein CREPT functions as a co-factor in MYC-driven transformation and tumor growth

  7. 🎯 Targeting Smurf1 to block PDK1–Akt signaling in KRAS-mutated colorectal cancer

  8. 📤 Microenvironment-induced CREPT expression by cancer-derived small extracellular vesicles primes field cancerization

  9. 🔋 Oxidative phosphorylation safeguards pluripotency via UDP-N-acetylglucosamine

  10. 🍄 Lachnochromonin, a fungal metabolite from Lachnum virgineum, inhibits cell growth and promotes apoptosis in tumor cells through JAK/STAT3 signaling

🧾 Conclusion:

Professor Zhijie Chang exhibits a robust and well-established career built on investigating mechanisms of cell signaling, tumor microenvironment dynamics, and intercellular communication. His scientific rigor, translational impact, and leadership in the field of cell communication make him an outstanding candidate for the Research for Cell Communication Award. Addressing some broader outreach and open science practices could further elevate his profile, but his contributions to foundational and applied research in this domain are already exemplary.

Mingkun Yu | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mingkun Yu | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mingkun Yu , Binzhou Medical College Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital(Binzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital) , China

Dr. Mingkun Yu is an Associate Chief Physician at Binzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, affiliated with Binzhou Medical College, China. He is an expert in integrating evidence-based medicine with traditional Chinese and Western medical practices, especially within oncology and ophthalmology. With over five years of clinical experience, Dr. Yu has made significant contributions to the field through impactful clinical research, trial designs, and methodological innovation. He is the recipient of a National Natural Science Foundation of China project and has led the development of national-level guidelines. Dr. Yu’s publications have gained high visibility, with citations and downloads from prestigious journals like BMJ. He collaborates with renowned experts worldwide and actively contributes as a peer reviewer for SCI journals. Known for his meticulous clinical approach and research rigor, Dr. Yu is a rising star in integrative medical science, particularly in addressing patient compliance and advancing myopia-related research strategies.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic Excellence
    Dr. Yu has earned advanced degrees from top-tier traditional Chinese medicine institutions in China, culminating in a PhD focused on integrated clinical medicine—a rare and interdisciplinary specialty.

  2. Proven Research Record

    • Published 7 SCI-indexed papers (including in BMJ and Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology) and 5 Chinese core journal papers.

    • First/corresponding author impact factor: 18.3; co-author cumulative impact factor: 112.

    • One article with 9248 downloads, another cited 66 times—demonstrating strong academic reach and relevance.

  3. Research Leadership

    • Designed and led multiple RCTs, cohort studies, and cluster RCTs.

    • Principal investigator of a National Natural Science Foundation of China project.

    • Spearheaded the national-level guideline on myopia—a major public health concern in Asia.

  4. Innovative Contributions

    • Introduced target value analysis and conducted extensive patient compliance research in clinical trials.

    • Integrated evidence-based methods with traditional Chinese medicine, a cutting-edge niche in global medical research.

  5. Collaborations & Peer Review

    • Collaborates with global leaders such as Paul Little, Gordon Guyatt, and Lehana Thabane.

    • Reviewer for top SCI journals including European Journal of Integrative Medicine and BMC Geriatrics.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Global Dissemination & Outreach

    • Dr. Yu could further enhance his profile by increasing international speaking engagements, attending more global medical symposia, and joining international research societies.

  2. Books or Monographs

    • No books published yet. Authoring clinical reference books or practitioner guides would boost both practical impact and professional visibility.

  3. Translational Research and Patents

    • With only one published patent, there is scope to convert more research findings into innovative tools, treatments, or technologies for broader clinical application.

  4. Professional Memberships

    • Active memberships in professional research or clinical bodies could enhance his professional network and visibility in award circuits.

📚 Education:

Dr. Yu earned his Master’s degree in Evidence-Based Medicine (Oncology) from Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2021. His academic journey culminated in a PhD in Clinical Medicine (Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine) from Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2024. Throughout his education, Dr. Yu focused on bridging the gap between traditional Chinese therapeutic principles and contemporary Western medical methodologies. His doctoral research emphasized designing clinical trials, evaluating treatment efficacy using systematic review and meta-analysis, and developing methodologies for improving patient outcomes. His educational background also provided him with comprehensive knowledge in oncology, ophthalmology, acupuncture, and behavioral health, preparing him to implement innovative, integrative solutions in clinical practice. He was mentored by leading figures in evidence-based medicine and engaged in collaborative studies with international researchers, further enriching his global research perspective.

🩺 Experience:

With more than 5 years of experience in clinical medicine, Dr. Mingkun Yu has become a prominent practitioner and researcher in integrated traditional Chinese and Western medical care. As an Associate Chief Physician at Binzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, he leads and participates in high-level clinical research projects, including randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. He has contributed to over 7 national-level research projects and served as principal investigator in hospital-based clinical studies. Dr. Yu’s areas of expertise include patient compliance strategies in oncology, evidence synthesis in myopia prevention, and methodological development for clinical trials. He is a frequent presenter at national and international conferences and has served as a reviewer for SCI-indexed journals. Dr. Yu is also involved in writing clinical practice guidelines and has been recognized for his scientific contributions through research awards and publications in high-impact journals.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Mingkun Yu’s research lies at the intersection of evidence-based medicine and integrated Chinese and Western clinical practices. His key focus areas include patient compliance in oncology, risk factor identification and prevention strategies for myopia, and designing robust clinical trials like RCTs, cohort, and cluster studies. He actively develops and applies systematic review methodologies, meta-analyses, and guideline development processes to ensure high-impact clinical outcomes. Dr. Yu has innovated in the area of patient compliance by applying qualitative synthesis and target value analysis, improving retention and adherence in clinical trials. He is particularly invested in the development of guidelines for myopia in children and adolescents and has published widely in SCI journals. His collaboration with global experts such as Paul Little, Gordon Guyatt, and Lehana Thabane strengthens the international relevance of his work. Through this multifaceted research approach, Dr. Yu aims to bridge traditional wisdom with modern scientific rigor.

📝 Publications Top Notes:

📄 Pseudomyopia as an independent risk factor for myopia onset: a prospective cohort study among school-aged children – British Journal of Ophthalmology, 2024
📘 The Process factors and improvement strategies of patient compliance and retention in clinical trials: a synthesis of qualitative research – Inplasy Report, 2021
📚 Berberine for diarrhea in children and adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis – Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology, 2020

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Mingkun Yu stands out as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his cross-disciplinary research integrating traditional Chinese and Western medicine, his leadership in national clinical trials, impactful publications, and commitment to clinical innovation. His scholarly output is not only substantial but also highly cited and widely read, reflecting real-world influence and academic excellence.

With a growing international research presence, a unique focus on culturally integrated methodologies, and an impressive trajectory of innovation and collaboration, Dr. Yu clearly embodies the ideals of a next-generation clinical research leader.

Weifen Zhang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Weifen Zhang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Weifen Zhang , Shandong Second Medical University , China

Professor Weifen Zhang is a renowned scientist in pharmaceutical sciences, serving as a Professor at the School of Pharmacy, Shandong Second Medical University. She also directs the Shandong Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Regenerative Medicine and the Pharmaceutical Experimental Teaching Center. With over 50 SCI-indexed publications and 27 national and international patents, her contributions have significantly influenced the development of targeted drug delivery systems and smart biomaterials. A recipient of the State Council Special Allowance and recognized as a Shandong Provincial Outstanding Expert, Professor Zhang combines academic excellence with practical innovation. She has led and collaborated on numerous national-level research projects, focusing on novel therapeutic strategies for cancer, regenerative medicine, and nano-drug technologies. Additionally, she plays a prominent role in scientific publishing as a guest editor and reviewer for leading journals. Her dedication to interdisciplinary research continues to shape the future of pharmaceutical technology.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. 📚 High Research Productivity: Over 50 SCI-indexed publications in high-impact journals such as ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, Journal of Biomedical Nanotechnology, and Science China Materials.

  2. 💡 Innovation & Intellectual Property: Holds 27 national and international patents, showing a strong translation of academic work into real-world applications.

  3. 🔬 Research Focus & Impact: Cutting-edge work in targeted drug delivery systems, intelligent biomaterials, and regenerative medicine, especially impactful in oncology.

  4. 🎯 Project Leadership: Principal Investigator for multiple nationally funded projects, managing significant funding amounts and driving original discoveries.

  5. 🌐 Academic Influence: Serves as a guest editor and reviewer for leading scientific journals, contributing to quality control and peer knowledge advancement.

  6. 📖 Educational Impact: Contributions to national-level textbooks like Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical English highlight her role in shaping future pharmaceutical education.

  7. 🤝 Industry Collaboration: Active collaborations with companies like NOIMAIER (Shandong) Medical Technology Co., Ltd, demonstrating practical application and outreach.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. 🌍 Global Outreach: While her influence is strong nationally, increased participation in international conferences, collaborations, and global visibility would further elevate her stature.

  2. 🎙️ Public Engagement: Enhanced involvement in science communication, including talks, public articles, or media, could broaden her societal impact.

  3. 🌐 Online Presence: A more visible online research profile (e.g., Google Scholar, ResearchGate, LinkedIn) could help in networking and research dissemination globally.

🎓 Education:

Professor Weifen Zhang received comprehensive training in pharmaceutical sciences, culminating in a doctorate in pharmacy or a related biomedical field (specific degree and institution not provided in the current profile). Her academic journey has been deeply rooted in advancing applied pharmaceutical research, especially in the field of drug delivery and intelligent materials. Her educational background laid the foundation for her specialization in nanoformulations, regenerative medicine, and drug resistance reversal. Professor Zhang has supplemented her academic credentials with continued professional development through her work with major national science foundations and governmental innovation programs. Her commitment to combining traditional pharmaceutical training with cutting-edge material science has enabled her to become a leader in translational research. Although the detailed degrees and institutions are not specified, her track record in high-impact research, publications, and academic leadership reflects a strong and diverse educational background.

🧪 Experience:

Professor Zhang brings over two decades of experience in pharmaceutical sciences, nanomedicine, and biomaterial engineering. She has served in multiple leadership roles, including Director of both the Shandong Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Regenerative Medicine and the Pharmaceutical Experimental Teaching Center at Shandong Second Medical University. As Principal Investigator on numerous high-profile projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and regional innovation programs, she has demonstrated excellence in both basic and translational research. Her industrial collaborations and consultancy projects, such as those with NOIMAIER Medical Technology, reflect her ability to translate scientific innovation into practical solutions. Her experience is also reflected in her active editorial and peer review contributions to top-tier journals, as well as her involvement in educational contributions through national textbook projects. Her academic, industrial, and clinical translational experiences make her a uniquely qualified and impactful researcher.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Weifen Zhang’s research is at the forefront of targeted drug delivery, intelligent biomaterials, and regenerative medicine. Her primary scientific focus involves developing novel nanoparticle-based platforms to improve therapeutic outcomes in diseases such as non-small cell lung cancer. She has led pioneering studies in dual-drug synergistic delivery, utilizing agents like quercetin and paclitaxel, aimed at overcoming drug resistance. Her lab also explores smart, biodegradable materials, such as Bletilla striata polysaccharide microneedles, for innovative therapeutic applications including hair regrowth and skin regeneration. In regenerative medicine, she is advancing bionic materials, such as mineralized collagen scaffolds, for orthopedic and dental use. Additionally, she works on plant-derived compounds, contributing to both pharmaceutical and agricultural solutions. Through interdisciplinary approaches, including nanotechnology, immunology, and pharmacokinetics, Professor Zhang’s work is positioned to influence both academic research and clinical practice. Her vision continues to shape the field of personalized and precision medicine.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📌 Bletilla striata polysaccharide-based dissolving microneedle patch integrated with nanoparticles for promoting hair regrowth

  2. 🧱 Composite scaffolds based on egg membrane and eggshell-derived inorganic particles promote soft and hard tissue repair

  3. 💉 Efficient chemo-immunotherapy leveraging minimalist electrostatic complex nanoparticle as “in situ” vaccine integrated tumor ICD and immunoagonist

  4. 🌿 A Chinese drug-compatibility-based approach to purslane hydrogels for acute eczema therapy

  5. 🔬 Dynamic Covalent Bond-Based Nanoassembly of Curcumin to Enhance the Selective Photothermal Therapy for Tumor Treatment

  6. 🧵 Multifunctional Nanofiber Membranes Constructed by Microfluidic Blow-Spinning to Inhibit Scar Formation at Early Intervention Stage

  7. 📄 Corrigendum to “Synergistically enhanced cancer immunotherapy by combining protamine-based nanovaccine with PD-L1 gene silence nanoparticle”

  8. 💉 Minimalist “in situ” tumor vaccine leveraging versatile dendrimer nanoplatform coordinated ICD and immunoagonist for boosted chemoimmunotherapy

  9. 🧬 A minimalist cancer cell membrane-shielded biomimetic nanoparticle for nasopharyngeal carcinoma active-targeting therapy

  10. ⚗️ Biodegradable Manganese-Containing Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Precisely Controlled Quercetin Delivery

 

📌 Conclusion:

Professor Weifen Zhang demonstrates exceptional qualifications for the Best Researcher Award. Her deep scientific contributions, robust patent portfolio, influential publications, and national leadership in pharmaceutical innovation mark her as a leader in biomedical research. With a few enhancements in global visibility and science communication, her already impressive profile could reach even greater heights.