Leandro Rodriguez-Viera | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Leandro Rodriguez-Viera | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Leandro Rodriguez-Viera | Universisdad de Cadiz | Spain

Dr. Leandro Rodríguez Viera is a marine biologist with dual Ph.D. degrees from the University of Havana (Cuba) and the University of Cádiz (Spain), specializing in digestive physiology and trophic ecology of marine organisms. With over 15 years of experience in biological and aquaculture research, he has significantly contributed to the understanding of nutrient metabolism and predation dynamics in marine ecosystems. His scientific trajectory is defined by interdisciplinary work combining enzymology, nutrition, and biodiversity. Dr. Rodríguez Viera has published extensively in high-impact journals and collaborates with research teams across Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. He is also a co-recipient of the prestigious Cuban Academy of Sciences National Prize. His dedication to marine biology is evident through his active role in identifying invasive species and documenting marine biodiversity. His contributions enhance conservation efforts, sustainable aquaculture, and the ecological management of tropical marine environments.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Scopus

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Leandro Rodríguez Viera’s educational journey began with a Bachelor in Biology from the University of Havana in 2008, followed by a Master’s degree in Marine Biology and Aquaculture in 2010 from the same institution. He earned a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the University of Havana in 2018, with research focused on digestive enzymology and metabolism in crustaceans. In parallel, he completed a second Ph.D., Cum Laude, from the University of Cádiz in Spain in 2017, strengthening his expertise in marine physiology and aquaculture. His academic training combines a strong foundation in molecular biology, comparative physiology, and aquatic animal nutrition, positioning him as a multidisciplinary expert in marine life sciences. This robust educational background underpins his successful career in scientific research and publications in diverse fields such as marine biodiversity, gelatinous zooplankton, and digestive physiology in aquatic species.

Experience:

Dr. Rodríguez Viera has over 15 years of research experience in marine biology, aquaculture, and marine ecology. He began his career focusing on the digestive physiology of the spiny lobster (Panulirus argus), contributing to fundamental knowledge and diet development for aquaculture. His career spans collaborative projects with institutions like the University of Cádiz, ICMAN-CSIC, and international teams across Europe and the Caribbean. Dr. Rodríguez Viera has led or co-led several projects on nutrient digestion, enzymatic adaptations, and jellyfish–predator interactions. He is an active contributor to taxonomic, ecological, and metabolic studies involving fish, crustaceans, cnidarians, and tunicates. As a prolific author, he has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and guides. His interdisciplinary approach and regional focus on the Caribbean and Atlantic ecosystems make him a key scientific resource in marine trophic ecology, biodiversity documentation, and environmental monitoring programs.

Awards and Honors:

In 2019, Dr. Leandro Rodríguez Viera was honored with the National Prize of the Cuban Academy of Sciences for his contributions to digestive metabolism in the spiny lobster (Panulirus argus), which directly influenced aquaculture diet formulation. This prestigious award recognized his team’s work spanning universities in Cuba, Spain, and research institutes like ICMAN-CSIC. His earlier works also garnered significant academic citations, demonstrating influence in biochemical, nutritional, and ecological fields. Additionally, his publications in PLoS One, Journal of Experimental Biology, Aquaculture, and Marine Biology have earned wide recognition. Dr. Rodríguez Viera’s research continues to be integral to understanding digestive enzyme dynamics, invasive species spread, and marine food web interactions. His multidisciplinary reach, innovative methodologies, and cross-border collaborations underscore his impact, making him a strong candidate for international recognition and research awards.

Research Focus:

Dr. Rodríguez Viera’s research centers on marine trophic ecology, with a special focus on nutritional physiology, digestion, and gelatinous zooplankton interactions. His pioneering studies on Panulirus argus laid the groundwork for aquaculture diets tailored to digestive enzyme profiles. In recent years, he has explored predator–prey relationships among jellyfish, sea anemones, and fish, contributing to the knowledge of underexplored ecological roles in gelatinous food webs. He is also engaged in biodiversity documentation, especially of cnidarians and tunicates in Cuban and Caribbean waters. His integrative approach combines biochemical assays, molecular analysis, ecological fieldwork, and taxonomic identification. His ongoing projects address species invasions, climate-induced bleaching, and nutrient assimilation in marine organisms. This work supports sustainable marine resource use and enhances our understanding of tropical marine ecosystems, biodiversity threats, and aquaculture development.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1.  One-carbon nutrients and genistein as nutritional programming effectors in juvenile gilthead seabream – Aquaculture (2025)

  2.  Diversity of ctenophores from the Cuban Exclusive Economic Zone – Marine Biology Research (2025)

  3. Review of benthic cnidarians as underappreciated gelatinous predators – Marine Biology (2025)

  4.  Novel predation of Scyphozoans by sea anemone Condylactis giganteaDiversity (2025)

  5.  First Atlantic record of genus Timoides in Cuban Caribbean waters – Thalassas (2025)

  6.  Ichthyofauna of Ensenada de la Siguanea: Guide to common mangrove and seagrass fishes – Rev. Invest. Mar. (2024)

  7.  First occurrence of invasive jellyfish Phyllorhiza punctata in the Dominican Republic – Bulletin of Marine Science (2024)

  8.  Opportunistic predation on hydromedusae by butterflyfish and crustaceans – Discover Oceans (2024)

  9.  Diversity of pelagic tunicates (Appendicularia & Thaliacea) from Cuba: A review – Marine Biodiversity (2024)

  10.  Asymmetrical bleaching of upside-down jellyfish Cassiopea in Cuba – Marine Biodiversity (2024)

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Leandro Rodríguez Viera is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award based on his significant contributions to marine biology, digestive physiology, and aquaculture. His dual doctoral qualifications, cross-institutional collaborations, and publication impact reflect a strong and sustained commitment to scientific excellence. With a research trajectory that spans fundamental science to applied marine ecology, Dr. Rodríguez Viera exemplifies the qualities of an innovative and impactful researcher. With continued focus on academic leadership and broader outreach, he is well-positioned to further advance scientific frontiers and make lasting contributions to marine science and aquaculture development.

Xue Xiao | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Xue Xiao | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Xue Xiao, Southwest Minzu University, China

Xue Xiao is a passionate and dedicated researcher specializing in fluorescence-based methodologies for biochemical applications. With a Master’s degree in hand from Southwest University in 2017, she has since contributed to the academic and scientific community as an experimental teacher at Southwest Minzu University. Her innovative approach integrates advanced fluorescence techniques—such as fluorescence anisotropy and FRET—with emerging nanomaterials like graphene oxide to explore complex biochemical mechanisms. Xue’s work not only advances fundamental understanding but also leads to practical biosensing technologies with real-world applications, such as disease diagnostics and cellular imaging. She has co-authored several impactful papers and is known for her collaborative spirit, meticulous methodology, and problem-solving mindset. Her academic journey reflects a consistent pursuit of excellence and innovation. With her outstanding research contributions and strong pedagogical engagement, she is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Academic Foundation:
    Xue Xiao earned her master’s degree from Southwest University in 2017, providing a solid grounding in chemical and biochemical sciences.

  2. Consistent Academic Commitment:
    Since 2017, she has served as an Experiment Teacher at Southwest Minzu University, consistently engaging in both education and research, fostering future scientists while contributing to the scientific community.

  3. Specialized Research Expertise:
    Her main research focuses on fluorescence methodologies, including fluorescence anisotropy and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), applied to complex biochemical problems in vitro and in living cells.

  4. Innovative Publication:
    In 2025, she co-authored a research article titled “Integrating graphene oxide with an enzyme-free DNA circuit for the development of universal fluorescence biosensor” published in the Microchemical Journal, demonstrating innovation at the interface of nanotechnology and biosensing.

  5. Applied Relevance:
    Her research holds strong translational potential in biosensor development, molecular diagnostics, and real-time intracellular imaging.

🔄 Areas for Improvement:

  • International Collaboration: Encouraged to build broader collaborations with global research institutions to increase the impact and visibility of her work.

  • Research Dissemination: Participation in more international conferences and symposia would help in wider dissemination of her research findings.

  • Patent and Industry Linkages: Exploring patentable technologies or partnerships with biotech firms could enhance the practical applications of her research.

🎓 Education:

Xue Xiao pursued her higher education with a strong focus on biochemical sciences. She earned her Master’s degree from Southwest University in 2017, where she developed a foundational understanding of chemical biology and fluorescence spectroscopy. During her academic training, she exhibited a strong inclination toward interdisciplinary research, merging principles of chemistry, biology, and physics to study molecular interactions. Her education was marked by rigorous training in laboratory techniques, particularly fluorescence-based analytical tools, which later became central to her research career. Throughout her studies, she was recognized for her diligence, curiosity, and analytical skills. Her graduate work laid the foundation for her later contributions to biosensor technology, especially in the integration of novel nanomaterials for biological detection. Her academic background continues to inform her research trajectory and positions her as a leading figure in innovative fluorescence methodology applications.

🧪 Experience:

Since 2017, Xue Xiao has held the position of Experiment Teacher at Southwest Minzu University, where she combines research with academic instruction. In this role, she has mentored students, designed experimental curricula, and led laboratory-based teaching in biochemical methods. Her work focuses on practical applications of fluorescence methodologies in both in vitro and cellular contexts, fostering hands-on learning and encouraging experimental rigor. Over the years, she has cultivated a reputation as a skilled mentor and collaborative researcher. Her role also involves contributing to interdisciplinary projects, securing research grants, and co-authoring scholarly publications. Xue brings a unique blend of technical expertise and educational commitment, ensuring her lab is a space of discovery and skill development. Her continuous engagement in experimental teaching has allowed her to stay at the forefront of biochemical technologies while nurturing the next generation of scientists.

🔬 Research Focus:

Xue Xiao’s primary research lies at the intersection of fluorescence spectroscopy and biosensing technology. She specializes in the application of fluorescence anisotropy and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to understand biomolecular interactions, dynamics, and structures. Her work extends into living cells, enabling real-time, high-resolution observation of biochemical phenomena. Notably, she explores the integration of graphene oxide (GO) with enzyme-free DNA circuits to create universal fluorescence biosensors capable of detecting a wide range of biological targets. This fusion of nanotechnology and molecular diagnostics has positioned her as an emerging innovator in the field. Her research not only enhances analytical sensitivity and specificity but also opens avenues for point-of-care diagnostics and intracellular imaging. Xue Xiao’s contributions significantly advance our understanding of biomolecular mechanisms while pushing the boundaries of biosensor development. Her work has broad applications in disease diagnosis, drug delivery, and personalized medicine.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

🔬 Integrating graphene oxide with an enzyme-free DNA circuit for the development of universal fluorescence biosensorMicrochemical Journal, 2025

🧾 Conclusion:

Xue Xiao exemplifies the qualities of a rising scientific leader—innovative, dedicated, and deeply rooted in both theoretical and applied research. Her contributions to the field of fluorescence-based biosensing and her educational role at Southwest Minzu University make her a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work addresses both fundamental scientific questions and real-world diagnostic needs, embodying the spirit of impactful, interdisciplinary research.

Flavia Neto de Jesus | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Flavia Neto de Jesus | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Flavia Neto de Jesus, Texas A&M University, United States

Dr. Flavia Neto de Jesus is a passionate research scientist with a PhD in Pharmacology from the University of São Paulo and over a decade of experience in preclinical and translational research. She specializes in inflammation, reactive oxygen species (ROS), vascular physiology, and lymphatic system disorders, particularly in the context of arthritis and cancer. Currently a Postdoctoral Researcher in Canada, Dr. de Jesus has developed extensive skills in molecular biology, vascular imaging, and functional assays. Her multidisciplinary research contributes to advancing knowledge in immunopathology, lymphatic remodeling, and endothelial function. Widely published and recognized in her field, she has received awards for her scientific contributions and actively mentors students and collaborates across diverse research teams. Her work bridges pharmacological mechanisms with clinically relevant models, demonstrating both scientific rigor and innovation.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Originality & Scientific Merit:
    Dr. de Jesus’s work on lymphatic physiology, inflammation, and reactive oxygen species stands out for its mechanistic depth and translational relevance. Her findings related to NOX inhibition, acetylcholine-mediated vasodilation, and lymphatic hyperactivity in arthritis present novel therapeutic insights.

  2. High-Impact Publications:
    Published in respected journals such as PNAS, Life Sciences, Antioxidants, Biomolecules, and Microcirculation, her research demonstrates a consistent track record of scientific excellence.

  3. Award-Winning Contribution:
    The 2023 Travel Award from the Lymphatic Forum for a detailed vascular-laboratory-based study highlights peer recognition and confirms the value of her contributions to lymphatic research.

  4. Advanced Methodology:
    She applies cutting-edge techniques in animal models, functional vascular assessments, and molecular biology—key components that strengthen the scientific rigor of her articles.

  5. Interdisciplinary Relevance:
    Her research links vascular biology, immunology, and pharmacology, adding significant value across disciplines including rheumatology, oncology, and metabolic disease.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Pending Publications:
    A few of her strongest recent manuscripts are still under review or in preparation. Their final publication would bolster her visibility and add further weight to her candidacy.

  2. Broader International Outreach:
    While her collaborations are robust, engaging more with international institutions beyond North and South America could further amplify the global impact of her work.

  3. Clear Highlight of Novelty in Abstracts:
    While the research is rich in content, abstracts and titles could more clearly emphasize novelty and real-world implications to stand out for award nominations.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Flavia Neto de Jesus earned her PhD in Pharmacology from the University of São Paulo, one of Brazil’s premier institutions for biomedical research. During her graduate studies (2011–2019), she focused on vascular biology and inflammation, developing deep expertise in endothelial dysfunction, nitric oxide signaling, and lymphatic-arterial cross-regulation. Her early academic journey included foundational studies in biology and pharmacological techniques, enriched by rigorous laboratory practice and collaborative research. To complement her ethical and methodological framework, she completed the TCPS2 training (Ethical Conduct for Research Involving Humans) in 2024 in Calgary, Canada. This has enabled her to work seamlessly in both Brazilian and Canadian research environments. Her education reflects a strong grounding in both experimental and translational science, empowering her to contribute meaningfully to complex biomedical challenges.

🧪 Professional Experience:

Since April 2019, Dr. Flavia Neto de Jesus has been working as a Postdoctoral Researcher focusing on inflammation-related mechanisms in arthritis, fibrosis, and cancer-associated lymphatic changes. Her role encompasses designing and executing in vivo studies, molecular biology experiments, and vascular function assessments. She leads laboratory operations, supervises student researchers, and contributes significantly to manuscript development and conference presentations. Her contributions to the field include pioneering insights into lymphatic dysfunction, ROS involvement in vascular remodeling, and endothelial channel regulation. With over a decade in pharmacological research, Dr. de Jesus has cultivated a rich portfolio of publications and collaborations across interdisciplinary teams. Her experience reflects a strong command over both experimental methodology and collaborative science, making her a valuable contributor in both academic and applied research settings.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Flavia Neto de Jesus has been recognized for her significant contributions to lymphatic system research. Notably, she received the Travel Award in 2023 from the Lymphatic Forum Conference for her impactful abstract: “Decreased contraction frequency by NOX inhibition and ACh-mediated vasodilation in hyperactive popliteal afferent lymphatic vessels in a TNFα-induced spontaneous arthritis mouse model.” This award acknowledged her advanced understanding of vascular and immune interplay in chronic inflammation. Additionally, she has participated in prestigious international conferences, such as the 19th World Congress of Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, where her work on NOS and NOX regulation in lymphatics was presented. These honors reflect her growing recognition within the vascular biology and pharmacology communities, underscoring her potential as a leader in translational immunovascular research.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. de Jesus’s research focuses on the interplay between inflammation, oxidative stress, and vascular dysfunction—especially within the context of the lymphatic system. Her work investigates how reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide signaling, and molecular pathways like NADH oxidase (NOX) and endothelin (ET) regulate lymphatic vessel contractility and remodeling. Her current postdoctoral work explores lymph node immunobiology, arthritis models, and cancer-lymphatic interactions using sophisticated in vivo and molecular approaches. She integrates vascular physiology with immunology, seeking to unravel how inflammation alters lymphatic transport, immune cell trafficking, and endothelial responses. Her studies often leverage genetically modified mouse models and combine functional assays with histological, biochemical, and transcriptomic analyses. Dr. de Jesus’s research offers novel insights into pathophysiological processes underlying chronic diseases such as arthritis, fibrosis, and cancer, positioning her at the forefront of lymphovascular research.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

📖 Hyperactive popliteal lymphatic vessels require activation of NADH oxidase (NOX) and endothelin (ET) pathways in arthritic mice (In prep)
📖 Microbiota is dispensable for lymphatic vessel hyperactivity in the TNFΔARE/+ mouse modelArthritis Rheumatology (Under revision)
📖 Dysregulated lymphatic remodeling promotes immunopathology during non-healing cutaneous leishmaniasisCell Press (Under review)
📖 Presence of dysfunctional soluble guanylate cyclase in mesenteric arteries from periodontitis ratsEuropean J. of Pharmacology (2025)
📖 Flow-dependent regulation of mesenteric lymphatic vessels via TRPV4 activationMicrocirculation (2023)
📖 Increased contractile activity and dilation of lymphatic vessels in TNF-α-overexpressing arthritic miceLife Sciences (2023)
📖 Lymph-derived chemokines drive neutrophil infiltration in lymph nodes post-S. aureus infectionPNAS (2022)
📖 Nutraceutical mix modulates gene expression in Type-2 Diabetes Obesity ModelAntioxidants (2022)
📖 AP39-induced vasorelaxation in mouse mesenteric arteriesBiomolecules (2022)
📖 Leukotriene receptor antagonist reduces bone loss in periodontitisJournal of Periodontology (2021)
📖 Endothelial dysfunction in periodontitis involves NO and COX-2 productsArchives of Oral Biology (2016)
📖 Beta-alanine and sodium bicarbonate improve swimming performanceApplied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism (2013)

📝 Conclusion:

Dr. Flavia Neto de Jesus is highly suitable for the Best Research Article Award. Her article on NOX inhibition and ACh-mediated vasodilation in hyperactive lymphatic vessels offers a novel mechanistic insight into the vascular pathology of inflammatory arthritis, an area with significant unmet clinical need. Her work is original, methodologically rigorous, and impactful within the field of lymphatic and vascular biology. Given her award-winning presentation, peer-reviewed track record, and interdisciplinary research value, she is a strong candidate deserving of recognition.

Liquan Huang | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Liquan Huang | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Liquan Huang , Zhejiang University – Zijingang Campus , China

Liquan Huang is a distinguished molecular biologist specializing in taste transduction and chemosensory research. He completed his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Yale University in 1996 under Dr. Michael Lerner and pursued postdoctoral training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York University. With extensive experience in molecular physiology, Dr. Huang has made significant contributions to sensory perception and signaling pathways. Currently, he serves at Zhejiang University, China, where he leads groundbreaking research on G-protein signaling and taste receptor mechanisms. His work has been widely published in top-tier journals, influencing the fields of neuroscience and molecular biology. Dr. Huang has mentored several postdoctoral researchers and contributed to organizing international scientific conferences. His research on sensory transduction has broad applications, including food sciences and human health. His dedication to advancing scientific knowledge makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions – Dr. Liquan Huang has an impressive publication record in high-impact journals such as Nature Neuroscience, Journal of Neuroscience, eLife, and PLoS Genetics. His work spans molecular biology, neurophysiology, taste receptor studies, and virology, showing a broad impact in multiple scientific disciplines.

  2. Significant Scientific Impact – His research on taste receptors, G-protein signaling, and environmental viromes has contributed significantly to the understanding of molecular signaling pathways, sensory biology, and viral ecology. His discoveries, such as the pseudogenization of sweet receptors in cats and the role of Gγ13 in inflammation resolution, have broad implications.

  3. Funding and Recognitions – Dr. Huang has received multiple fellowships and research grants, including the Morley R. Kare Fellowship and Small Research Grant Program Award, demonstrating sustained recognition and funding for his work.

  4. Mentorship and Training – Having trained multiple postdoctoral fellows and graduate students, he has contributed to the scientific community by fostering new talent in molecular biology and neuroscience.

  5. International Collaborations and Professional Affiliations – As a member of esteemed organizations like the New York Academy of Sciences, Association for Chemoreception Sciences, and Society for Neuroscience, and as an organizer of major scientific meetings, he has actively contributed to the global research community.

  6. Recent Cutting-Edge Research – His recent work on environmental viromes, the evolution of human pathogenic RNA viruses, and G-protein-mediated inflammation resolution shows his ability to evolve with emerging research trends.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Diversity of Funding Sources – While Dr. Huang has received multiple research grants, expanding his funding from diverse international sources and large-scale collaborative grants could further support high-impact research.

  2. Broader Public Engagement – Increased engagement in public science communication, industry collaborations, and policy-making could enhance his influence beyond academia.

  3. Interdisciplinary Expansion – While his research is already multidisciplinary, extending collaborations into areas such as AI-driven bioinformatics, synthetic biology, or applied therapeutics could amplify the translational impact of his work.

Education:

Dr. Liquan Huang has a strong academic background in biology and molecular sciences. He obtained his Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Yale University in 1996, where he was mentored by Dr. Michael Lerner. Prior to this, he earned an M.Ph. in Biology from Yale University in 1993. His foundational training in cell biology and anatomy began at New York Medical College in 1991. These rigorous academic pursuits equipped him with expertise in molecular and cellular mechanisms, particularly in sensory and chemosensory research. His education laid the groundwork for his later advancements in taste receptor studies and G-protein signaling pathways. His tenure at these prestigious institutions provided him with a strong theoretical and experimental foundation, allowing him to excel in interdisciplinary research. His academic excellence was further recognized through fellowships at Yale University and New York Medical College, highlighting his commitment to scientific innovation.

Experience:

Dr. Liquan Huang has an extensive research and academic career spanning over three decades. He began his career as an Assistant Researcher at the Institute of Genetics, Academia Sinica, China (1987–1990). Following his doctoral studies, he pursued postdoctoral research at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York University (1996–2000) under Dr. Robert F. Margolskee. He later became an Instructor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Mount Sinai School of Medicine (2000–2002). Currently, he is a researcher and faculty member at Zhejiang University, leading studies in molecular physiology and taste transduction. Dr. Huang has also trained multiple postdoctoral fellows and collaborated on high-impact research. His expertise in sensory biology has led to numerous publications and organizing roles in international conferences. His contributions to neuroscience, molecular biology, and sensory perception establish him as a leading figure in the field.

Awards and Honors:

🏅 Morley R. Kare Fellowship (2004–2006) – Recognized for excellence in chemosensory research.
🎖 Small Research Grant Program Award (R03 DC05154) (2002–2005) – Supported research on molecular taste mechanisms.
🏆 Individual National Research Service Award (F32DC00310) (1998–2000) – Awarded for outstanding postdoctoral research contributions.
🥇 Institutional National Research Service Award (T32DA07135) (1997–1998) – Recognized for research excellence in molecular biology.
🎓 Yale University Fellowship (1991–1996) – Prestigious scholarship for Ph.D. studies in Molecular Biology.
🎖 New York Medical College Fellowship (1991) – Awarded for academic excellence in cell biology training.

Research Focus:

🔬 Taste Transduction & Chemosensory Signaling – Investigating molecular mechanisms of taste receptor activation.
🧬 G-Protein Signaling Pathways – Studying Gγ13 subunit’s role in sensory processing and inflammation resolution.
🦠 Virology & Environmental Microbiology – Exploring deep-sea RNA viromes and their evolutionary significance.
🩺 Biomedical Applications – Examining taste receptor implications in human health and disease.
🍽 Food Science & Peptidomics – Identifying bioactive peptides with taste-modulating properties.

Publications Top Notes📚:

1️⃣ Gγ13 colocalizes with gustducin in taste receptor cells – Nature Neuroscience 🧠
2️⃣ Tas1r3 encodes a new taste receptor – Nature Genetics 🧬
3️⃣ Transient receptor potential channel in taste receptor cells – Nature Neuroscience ⚡
4️⃣ G protein subunit G13 in retinal ON bipolar cells – Journal of Comparative Neurology 👁
5️⃣ Polymorphisms in Tas1r3 gene affect saccharin preference – Journal of Neuroscience 🧪
6️⃣ Cats’ indifference toward sugar due to receptor pseudogenization – PLoS Genetics 🐱
7️⃣ Voltage-gated chloride channel in taste bud cells – Journal of Biological Chemistry 🌊
8️⃣ Human taste: peripheral anatomy & transduction – Advances in Otorhinolaryngology 👅
9️⃣ Interferon pathways activated in taste bud cells – Journal of Neuroscience 🦠
🔟 Bitter peptides activate human bitter receptors – Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 🍵

Conclusion:

Dr. Liquan Huang’s extensive contributions to molecular biology, neuroscience, and virology, combined with his mentorship, international collaborations, and leadership in scientific meetings, make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While there is always room for growth in funding diversification and interdisciplinary expansion, his body of work demonstrates excellence and innovation in his field.

Felicia ANTOHE | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Molecular Cell Biology Award

Dr. Felicia ANTOHE | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Molecular Cell Biology Award

Dr. Felicia ANTOHE , Inst. Cellular Biology and Pathology NS , Romania

Dr. Felicia Antohe is the Head of the Proteomics Department at the Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology, Romanian Academy. With a background in cellular biology and biophysics, she has contributed significantly to biomedical research, particularly in vascular endothelium, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and immune disorders. She has received multiple prestigious awards and conducted pioneering research, especially on the transcytosis of macromolecules in endothelial cells. As a PhD advisor, she mentors young researchers, having guided 12 PhD students to date. Dr. Antohe is an internationally recognized expert with extensive experience in immunology, cell biology, and proteomics.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Felicia Antohe stands out as an exceptional candidate for the Research for Molecular Cell Biology Award due to her extensive academic and research achievements. As Head of the Proteomics Department at the Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology, Romanian Academy, her leadership in pioneering research in endothelial cell biology and vascular pathologies has been transformative. Dr. Antohe’s strong academic background, with a Master’s in Biophysics and a PhD in Cellular Biology, complements her robust research portfolio. With over 170 scientific papers, 90 of which are indexed in Web of Science, she is recognized for her contributions to molecular mechanisms in diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, and immune disorders. Furthermore, her work on monoclonal antibodies and proteomics has had a significant impact on both scientific and clinical advancements.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Antohe’s research is highly regarded, there is potential for greater integration of her research with cutting-edge technologies in bioinformatics and computational biology. This could further expand her work on proteomics and molecular mechanisms. Additionally, there is an opportunity for broader outreach to apply her findings in practical therapeutic contexts through collaborations with pharmaceutical companies or clinical trials. Expanding her influence in translational research could have a larger impact on public health, especially in diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders.

Education:

Dr. Felicia Antohe holds a Master’s degree in Biophysics from the University of Bucharest (1977). She completed her PhD in Cellular Biology at the Romanian Academy’s Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology (1994). In addition to her formal education, she has been a PhD coordinator since 2000 and has contributed significantly to research training at national and international levels. Her work blends theoretical knowledge with cutting-edge lab techniques in molecular biology, proteomics, and immunology.

Experience:

Dr. Antohe’s research experience spans numerous roles. She is currently the Principal Investigator and Member of the Scientific Council at the Romanian Academy’s Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology. She has also worked as a visiting scientist at prestigious institutions like McGill University, University of Alberta, and Max Planck Institute. She has coordinated over 44 research projects, including national and international grants, and is actively involved in multiple collaborative research efforts across Europe and beyond. Her leadership in cell biology and proteomics is widely recognized.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Antohe has received numerous awards, including the EURESCO Prize (2001), the BIO-RAD Laboratories Prize for valuable research (2002), and the Romanian Academy Emil Racovita Prize (1991). She has also won multiple international recognitions for her scientific contributions, such as the Best Poster award at the “8th International Conference on Vascular Endothelium” (2005), and various fellowships and grants from organizations like COST and the European Science Foundation.

Research Focus:

Dr. Antohe’s research focuses on endothelial cell biology, particularly transcytosis, endocytosis, and cell receptor mechanisms in both health and disease. She investigates the bio-pathology of atherosclerosis, diabetes, and immune disorders, with particular attention to the transport of macromolecules across vascular cells. Her work also explores the role of monoclonal antibodies as diagnostic and therapeutic tools. She applies proteomic techniques to study endothelial cell function, aiming to understand vascular biology at molecular and cellular levels.

Publications Top Notes:

  • The MHC class I-related receptor, FcRn, plays an essential role in the maternofetal transfer of γ-globulin in humans 📄
  • Functional expression of the MHC class I-related receptor, FcRn, in endothelial cells of mice 📄
  • Transcytosis of plasma macromolecules in endothelial cells: a cell biological survey 📄
  • Expression of functionally active FcRn and the differentiated bidirectional transport of IgG in human placental endothelial cells 📄
  • Analytical techniques for multiplex analysis of protein biomarkers 📄
  • Functional ultrastructure of the vascular endothelium: changes in various pathologies 📄
  • Effect of enoxaparin on high glucose-induced activation of endothelial cells 📄
  • Albumin-binding proteins function in the receptor-mediated binding and transcytosis of albumin across cultured endothelial cells 📄
  • Carbapenemase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in Romania: A Six-Month Survey 📄
  • Establishment of a pure vascular endothelial cell line from human placenta 📄

Conclusion:

Dr. Felicia Antohe is an outstanding researcher whose work has greatly advanced our understanding of endothelial cell biology, molecular transport, and disease mechanisms. Her combination of technical expertise, leadership in multiple high-impact research projects, and numerous prestigious awards positions her as an ideal candidate for the Research for Molecular Cell Biology Award. While there is always room to expand her research applications, her contributions to science are already substantial and impactful.