Shuxin Han | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Shuxin Han | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shuxin Han | Xinjiang University | China

Dr. Shuxin Han is a distinguished molecular biologist and professor at Xinjiang University, widely recognized for his pioneering work in hepatobiliary and metabolic biology. With a research career spanning over two decades, Dr. Han has made major contributions to understanding how Kruppel-like factors, especially KLF15, regulate endobiotic and xenobiotic metabolism, impacting drug detoxification and metabolic disease mechanisms. He earned his Ph.D. from Kent State University and has held prestigious positions at Harvard Medical School and Case Western Reserve University. His groundbreaking studies have been published in high-impact journals like Nature Metabolism and Nature Communications, with several articles naming him as first or corresponding author. In addition to research, Dr. Han serves as a reviewer for top-tier journals in pharmacology, hepatology, and clinical science. He is also an academic leader, currently shaping the next generation of scientific talent and metabolic disease research in China.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

Education:

Dr. Shuxin Han began his academic journey in Animal Sciences, earning a bachelor’s degree from Anhui Agricultural University (1994–1998). He advanced to a research assistant role at Peking University (1999–2000), where he deepened his scientific foundation. He then moved to the U.S. to pursue a Master’s in Biology at Temple University (2000–2003), followed by a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from Kent State University (2004–2009), focusing on metabolic biology and gene regulation. This progression from general animal sciences to highly specialized molecular biology reflects a systematic and deep commitment to biomedical research. His strong academic preparation laid the foundation for a research career investigating how transcriptional regulators impact health and disease. Dr. Han’s training spans world-class institutions across both China and the United States, equipping him with diverse scientific perspectives and techniques.

Experience:

Dr. Shuxin Han has accumulated rich research and academic experience over nearly 30 years. His early career included a pivotal research assistant role at Peking University, followed by advanced training in biology and molecular biology at Temple and Kent State Universities. He completed prestigious postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School (2009–2012) and Case Western Reserve University (2012–2015), where he later became a Senior Research Associate (2015–2019). He returned to China in 2019 as a Researcher at the University of Science and Technology of China First Affiliated Hospital, simultaneously engaging in academic duties at the university until 2023. Currently, he serves as a Professor and Academic Leader at Xinjiang University. Throughout his career, Dr. Han has built strong international collaborations, led research groups, and guided innovative projects in metabolic biology, demonstrating his leadership, research excellence, and academic mentorship capabilities.

Research Focus:

Dr. Shuxin Han’s research centers on the molecular regulation of metabolism, particularly focusing on the hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal systems. His work has elucidated the critical role of the Kruppel-like factor (KLF) family, especially KLF15, in controlling endobiotic and xenobiotic metabolism (EXM). These pathways govern how the body metabolizes both internal compounds and external substances like drugs. Dr. Han’s studies have shown that KLF15 acts as a master regulator, influencing drug resistance, liver injury, and metabolic homeostasis. His discoveries offer new insight into personalized medicine and treatment for metabolic disorders and drug-related toxicities. With numerous first-author and corresponding-author publications in journals such as Nature Metabolism, Nature Communications, and Drug Metabolism and Disposition, his work has significantly impacted both fundamental science and clinical applications. He is also active in peer-reviewing for top-tier journals and is recognized for his leadership in translational research.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Unveiling KLF15 as the Key Regulator of Cyclosporine A Metabolism and Adverse Effects – Drug Metabolism and Disposition, 2025

  2. Distribution and Functional Significance of KLF15 in Mouse Cerebellum – Molecular Brain, 2025

  3. Personalized Statin Therapy: Targeting Metabolic Processes – Heliyon, 2025

  4. Current Status and New Directions for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Diagnosis – Liver Research, 2024

  5. KLF15-Cyp3a11 Axis Regulates Rifampicin-Induced Liver Injury – Drug Metabolism and Disposition, 2024

  6. Advancing Drug Delivery and Bioengineering in Liver Research – Bioengineering and Translational Medicine, 2024

  7. Advances in IL-7 Research on Tumor Therapy – Pharmaceuticals, 2024 (Co-author)

  8. Pathogenic Mechanisms in Alcoholic Liver Disease – Journal of Translational Medicine, 2023

  9. Beta-Hydroxybutyrate Effects on iPSC-Derived Cardiac Myocytes – Biomolecules, 2022

  10. Interactions Between Intestinal Flora and Bile Acids – International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022 (Corresponding author)

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Shuxin Han is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His pioneering work on KLF15 and metabolic regulation has reshaped fundamental understanding in the field of hepatobiliary biology and pharmacology. His academic background, research productivity, international experience, and editorial service all reflect a well-rounded and impactful scientist. While there is room to increase clinical translation and international engagement, the depth, originality, and consistency of his research make him a strong contender for this recognition. Honoring Dr. Han with this award would acknowledge a career dedicated to scientific advancement with substantial implications for human health and drug therapy.

Gisela D’ANGELO | Cell Biology and Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Gisela D’ANGELO | Cell Biology and Cancer | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gisela D’ANGELO, CNRS, France

Dr. Gisela D’Angelo is a distinguished cell biologist and Research Director at CNRS, currently based at Institut Curie, Paris. Born in Montevideo, Uruguay (1961), she has built a notable career in molecular biology, specializing in the roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cell communication, development, and disease. With over three decades of international experience and a profound academic foundation from top French institutions, she has contributed significantly to understanding vesicle-mediated signaling pathways. Her work has reshaped knowledge of cellular dynamics in development, virology, and cancer. She is affiliated with the UMR144 Cell Biology and Cancer Department, and her scientific leadership has guided impactful projects and collaborations across Europe. A mentor to several postdoctoral researchers, her prolific publication record and active role in translational research solidify her position as a leader in EV biology.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. World-Class Researcher in Extracellular Vesicles (EVs):
    Dr. D’Angelo has made pivotal contributions to understanding the biogenesis and function of extracellular vesicles in both developmental and pathological contexts, such as placental biology, viral infection, and cancer.

  2. Prolific Publication Record:
    She has authored and co-authored multiple high-impact journal articles in top-tier journals like PNAS, Nature Methods, Current Biology, and Development. Her publications are often collaborative and interdisciplinary, indicating a strong network in the global scientific community.

  3. Leadership Role and Institutional Prestige:
    Holding the title of Research Director (DR2 CNRS) at the Institut Curie—a premier research center in Europe—underscores her leadership and scientific excellence. She also mentors young scientists and leads innovative projects.

  4. Innovative Use of Imaging & Model Systems:
    Her work combines advanced microscopy, Drosophila genetics, and molecular biology to explore intercellular communication—offering novel insights with translational potential.

  5. International Profile and Experience:
    Originally from Uruguay, educated in Paris, and professionally established in France, Dr. D’Angelo reflects a truly international scientific career.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Teaching and Public Engagement:
    While she is involved in a Master-level course, increasing her visibility in teaching, mentoring, and public science outreach could enhance her broader scientific influence.

  2. Expanded Global Collaborations:
    Most of her research collaborations are within France or Europe. Developing larger-scale international consortia or initiatives could amplify her global impact.

  3. Science Communication and Media Presence:
    Her profile and findings could benefit from more exposure via science communication platforms, conferences, and open-access forums to reach broader audiences.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Gisela D’Angelo’s academic journey began at Université Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris VI), where she earned a BS in Cell Biology and Physiology (1984), followed by a Master’s degree in Reproductive Physiology (1986). She went on to complete her PhD in Molecular Biology and Reproductive Physiology in 1990 at the same university. Her research skills and academic rigor led her to pursue the Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches (HDR) in 2003 at Université de Nice Sophia-Antipolis, qualifying her to supervise doctoral research and lead independent scientific programs. Her education laid a strong interdisciplinary foundation, integrating molecular biology, cell physiology, and developmental biology—skills that she continues to apply in her research on intercellular communication and extracellular vesicles.

💼 Experience:

Dr. D’Angelo began her research career in France, first as a Research Associate at INSERM U615, University of Nice (2000–2005), followed by a role at CNRS UMR 7277/INSERM 1091 (2005–2017). She then joined Institut Curie, Paris, as a Senior Research Scientist (CRCN, CNRS), and was promoted to Research Director in 2024. Her extensive experience spans cellular communication, reproductive biology, and cancer research, with a focus on extracellular vesicles (EVs). She undertook a sabbatical at Institut Curie in 2016, which helped deepen collaborative efforts in vesicle biology. She is recognized for leading multidisciplinary teams, mentoring early-career scientists, and contributing to major breakthroughs in developmental biology, particularly through high-resolution imaging and molecular tools. With over 20 publications in top-tier journals, Dr. D’Angelo’s career reflects innovation, academic rigor, and impactful science.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Gisela D’Angelo’s research revolves around the biogenesis, trafficking, and function of extracellular vesicles (EVs)—small, membrane-bound particles that mediate intercellular communication. Her work elucidates how EVs participate in developmental signaling pathways, immune regulation, placental communication, and disease pathogenesis (e.g., cancer, viral infections). A core part of her focus is understanding how microvilli-derived vesicles contribute to morphogenesis and tissue homeostasis, using advanced imaging and model organisms like Drosophila. She has also explored EV modifications by pathogens such as cytomegalovirus and their effects on fetal development. Her cutting-edge research combines molecular genetics, imaging technologies, and cell biology to dissect the subcellular mechanics of EV trafficking. As a leading figure in this dynamic field, she has significantly advanced understanding of how EVs act as messengers during physiological and pathological processes, making her work highly relevant to regenerative medicine, oncology, and developmental biology.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧪 Extracellular vesicles released by keratinocytes regulate melanosome maturation, melanocyte dendricity, and pigment transfer – PNAS, 2024

  2. 🤰 Placental extracellular vesicles in maternal-fetal communication during pregnancy – Biochemical Society Transactions, 2022

  3. 🦠 Human Cytomegalovirus modifies placental small extracellular vesicle composition to enhance infection of fetal neural cells in vitro – Viruses, 2022

  4. 🧬 Microvilli-derived extracellular vesicles carry Hedgehog morphogenic signals for Drosophila wing imaginal disc development – Current Biology, 2022

  5. 🔬 The power of imaging to understand extracellular vesicle biology in vivo – Nature Methods, 2021

  6. 🧫 Human Cytomegalovirus infection changes the pattern of surface markers of small extracellular vesicles – Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 2021

  7. 🧠 Centrosome amplification mediates small extracellular vesicle secretion via lysosome disruption – Current Biology, 2021

  8. 🧭 The GTPase Rab8 differentially controls Hedgehog gradient by regulating its apico-basal distribution – Development, 2021

  9. 🐛 Microvilli-derived extracellular vesicles govern morphogenesis in Drosophila wing epithelium – bioRxiv preprint, 2020

  10. 🧪 Centrosome amplification mediates EV secretion via lysosome disruption – bioRxiv preprint, 2020

  11. 🧩 The cell biology of extracellular vesicles: A jigsaw puzzle with a myriad of pieces – Review/Essay (unlisted journal)

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Gisela D’Angelo is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Her exceptional contributions to extracellular vesicle research—combined with leadership, publication quality, and scientific impact—place her among the top scientists in her field. While she could enhance her visibility in teaching and international collaboration, her track record demonstrates consistent excellence, innovation, and commitment to advancing biomedical research. She represents the ideal profile of a senior investigator who bridges fundamental science and translational relevance.