Xiaozhi Liu | Cell-Cell Communication | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Xiaozhi Liu | Cell-Cell Communication | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiaozhi Liu, Tianjin Fifth Central Hospital, China

Dr. Xiaozhi Liu, born on December 10, 1979, is a distinguished medical researcher and Director of the Central Laboratory at Tianjin Fifth Central Hospital. With over two decades of experience in neurosurgery and translational research, he has made substantial contributions in neural regeneration and SUMOylation-related mechanisms. Dr. Liu is a prolific academic with numerous publications in top-tier journals and active involvement in multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China projects. His international exposure as a visiting scholar at Duke University Medical Center (2012–2013) enhanced his global scientific perspective. Dedicated to neuroscience innovation, he combines advanced molecular biology techniques with clinical applications to improve patient outcomes in neurological disorders. Recognized for his scientific rigor, leadership, and innovative research approach, Dr. Liu is an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Innovative Research Focus: Dr. Liu’s expertise in SUMOylation, neural regeneration, and gene regulation presents a cutting-edge approach to treating cerebral ischemia, glioblastoma, and cardiac injury.

  2. Strong Grant History: He has led multiple prestigious National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) projects as both PI and co-investigator, with substantial funding and scientific merit.

  3. Impressive Publication Record: Over 15 peer-reviewed publications in impactful journals (Stroke, Aging, Neuroscience, etc.), with topics ranging from brain ischemia to cardiac injury, illustrate interdisciplinary strength.

  4. Leadership Role: As Director of the Central Laboratory, he demonstrates strong research management, mentoring, and institutional collaboration capabilities.

  5. Global Perspective: His time as a visiting scholar at Duke University Medical Center enhanced his academic and cross-cultural research competencies.

  6. Clinical & Basic Science Integration: Combines bench-to-bedside applications, especially in neurosurgery and molecular biology.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Outreach: While academically robust in China, Dr. Liu could benefit from increased global collaboration, co-authorship with foreign institutes, or keynote speaking roles at international conferences.

  2. Patent & Innovation Translation: There’s potential to strengthen the translational commercialization of his research findings through patents or biotech partnerships.

  3. Public Engagement: Increasing public science communication and media presence could enhance his visibility in broader scientific and policy-making communities.

🎓 Education Background:

Dr. Xiaozhi Liu began his academic journey at Zhangjiakou Medical College, completing a degree in Clinical Medicine in 2003. He pursued his passion for neurosurgery at Tianjin Medical University, where he earned a master’s degree in 2007 and later a Ph.D. in 2017. His academic pursuit extended internationally with a one-year research fellowship at the Duke University Medical Center in the United States (2012–2013), where he specialized in neurosurgical studies. Throughout his academic training, Dr. Liu has demonstrated a deep commitment to the integration of clinical knowledge with cutting-edge biomedical research, particularly in the areas of neuroregeneration and molecular neuroscience. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his contributions to neurobiology, clinical translation, and innovative research in SUMOylation, gene expression regulation, and therapeutic interventions for neurological diseases.

🏥 Work Experience:

Dr. Liu began his clinical career as a Neurosurgery Resident at the Affiliated Hospital of the Chinese People’s Armed Police Force Medical College from 2007 to 2009. He then served as a physician in the Department of Neurosurgery at Tianjin Fifth Central Hospital until 2012. Since December 2013, he has been serving as the Director of the Central Laboratory at the same institution. In this role, he has spearheaded major research initiatives and supervised clinical translational projects in neurobiology. His leadership has been instrumental in establishing a multidisciplinary research environment that bridges clinical neuroscience and molecular biology. His extensive experience in both hospital-based patient care and laboratory-based scientific discovery places him at the intersection of clinical excellence and research innovation. His career trajectory reflects an unwavering commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient care.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Xiaozhi Liu’s research centers on the molecular mechanisms of neuroregeneration, focusing particularly on SUMOylation, gene expression modulation, and neural stem cell therapy. His work explores the protective roles of SUMO-modified proteins in ischemic stroke, glioblastoma suppression, and spinal cord injury recovery. Dr. Liu investigates the role of small RNAs, mitochondrial dynamics, and oxidative stress in neurodegenerative conditions and cardiovascular diseases. His approach combines genomic, proteomic, and cell-based assays to understand the therapeutic potential of modulating cellular stress responses. Ongoing collaborations on stem cell transplantation, chromatin remodeling in cardiac diseases, and translational neuroscience further exemplify his dedication to interdisciplinary science. With an extensive list of national research grants and peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Liu remains at the forefront of biomedical innovations aimed at reversing tissue damage and enhancing neuroplasticity.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 🧠 Small ubiquitin-like modifier 3-modified proteome regulated by brain ischemia in transgenic mice – Stroke, 2014

  2. 🧬 Interactions of connexin 43 and aquaporin-4 in glioma-induced brain edema – Mol Med Rep, 2015

  3. 🧠 Neuron-specific SUMO knockdown worsens outcome after brain ischemia in mice – Neuroscience, 2017

  4. 🦴 Silencing Ubc9 suppresses osteosarcoma and enhances chemosensitivity via Connexin 43 SUMOylation – Int J Oncol, 2018

  5. ❤️ SERCA2a: a key protein in the calcium cycle of heart failure – Heart Fail Rev, 2019

  6. 💓 Zinc-induced SUMOylation of Drp1 protects heart from ischemia-reperfusion injury – Oxid Med Cell Longev, 2019

  7. 🧠 Genetic polymorphisms and transcription in intracranial aneurysm involving NOTCH3 – Aging (Albany NY), 2019

  8. 🧪 Saikosaponin-d inhibits hepatoma and enhances chemosensitivity via SENP5-dependent Gli1 SUMOylation – Front Pharmacol, 2019

  9. 🧬 Parkin and Nrf2 prevent apoptosis in endplate chondrocytes via mitophagy – Life Sci, 2019

  10. 🧫 MitoQ protects against disc degeneration by targeting mitochondrial dysfunction – Cell Prolif, 2020

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Xiaozhi Liu stands out as a highly qualified and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His blend of clinical neurosurgery, translational laboratory research, and molecular innovation, particularly in SUMOylation and neuroprotection, positions him at the forefront of modern biomedical science in China. With a leadership role in a major hospital, strong national research recognition, and a substantial academic footprint, he exemplifies excellence in research and mentorship.

Dalia Saleh | Cancer Cell Biology | Innovative Research Award

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

Prof. Dalia Saleh, National Research Centre, Egypt

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

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

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

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

  • Novel Scientific Contributions:

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

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

  • Awards and Recognition:

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

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

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

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

Areas for Improvement:

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

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

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

🎓 Education:

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

👩‍🔬 Experience:

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

🏆 Awards & Honors:

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

🔬 Research Focus:

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

📚 Publications Top Notes:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Conclusion:

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

Iwona Kwiecień | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Iwona Kwiecień | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Iwona Kwiecień , Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute , Poland

Iwona Kwiecień, PhD, is an expert in clinical immunology and laboratory medicine. With a strong academic background and extensive experience in medical research, she has dedicated her career to exploring immunological mechanisms in various diseases. She is currently working at the Military Institute of Medicine in Warsaw, where she serves as a lab specialist and lecturer. Dr. Kwiecień holds a PhD in Medical Science with a specialization in immunology from the Medical University of Warsaw. Her research focuses on the immune response in lung cancer, sarcoidosis, and other inflammatory diseases, employing advanced techniques such as multicolor flow cytometry. Her scientific contributions have been recognized globally, and she continues to shape the field of immunology through her research and teaching.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień possesses an impressive academic background and a consistent record of significant contributions to the field of immunology and medical research. With a Ph.D. in Medical Science and immunology, along with expertise in laboratory medicine, hematology, and flow cytometry, Dr. Kwiecień has shown remarkable skill in investigating the immune system’s role in lung cancer and other diseases. Her work on antigenic profiles in the lung cancer microenvironment, macrophage subpopulations in lung cancer, and immune responses in systemic inflammation highlights her strong research abilities. The 2024 habilitation diploma is a testament to her research excellence. Furthermore, Dr. Kwiecień has contributed to the publication of numerous peer-reviewed articles with significant citations and impact, indicating her strong presence in the scientific community.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Kwiecień has demonstrated significant strength in immunological research, expanding her focus to include other cancer types or diseases beyond lung cancer may broaden the scope of her impact. Additionally, fostering greater international collaboration could further enhance the dissemination of her research globally.

Education:

Iwona Kwiecień earned her Master of Science in Laboratory Medicine from the Medical University of Warsaw in 2012. Later, she completed her PhD at the same university’s First Faculty of Medicine, specializing in immunology, with a thesis on regulatory mechanisms of the immune response, which she defended in 2017. She further pursued a specialization in Laboratory Medical Hematology at the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland, completing it in 2021. Dr. Kwiecień is also set to receive her habilitation diploma from the Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute in 2024, based on her scientific achievements in lung cancer immunology. Throughout her academic journey, she has developed expertise in clinical cytology, flow cytometry, and immunological assays, contributing significantly to the scientific community.

Experience:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień has accumulated substantial experience in the field of laboratory medicine and immunology, working at several prestigious institutions. Since 2017, she has been a laboratory specialist and lecturer at the Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute in Warsaw, focusing on flow cytometry and hematology. Her role involves designing, performing, and analyzing complex experiments, as well as providing education and training to students. Prior to her current position, Dr. Kwiecień worked as a research coordinator assistant at BioVirtus Research Site and Clinical Research Group in Warsaw. Her academic career also includes time spent at the University Clinical Center of the Medical University of Warsaw, where she collaborated on various pathology and immunology projects. Dr. Kwiecień’s professional experience extends to overseeing numerous grants and research projects, including her work on macrophage subpopulations and lung cancer.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień has received several accolades in recognition of her outstanding contributions to science and research. Among her awards is the prestigious “Gold Laurel Graduate” medal for being the best graduate of Laboratory Medicine at the Medical University of Warsaw in 2013. She also received the 2nd award from the Polish Archives of Internal Medicine for her student research on macrophage subpopulations in sarcoidosis in 2014. Additionally, Dr. Kwiecień has been the recipient of numerous research grants, including the 2014-2015 Grant for Young Scientific Researcher from the Medical University of Warsaw. Her work on macrophage subpopulations in lung cancer earned her a statutory grant at the Military Institute of Medicine in 2018-2019. These awards reflect her exceptional research contributions and commitment to advancing the field of clinical immunology and laboratory medicine.

Research Focus:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień’s research focus lies primarily in the immunology of lung cancer, sarcoidosis, and inflammatory diseases. Her studies have explored immune responses, particularly the role of macrophages, regulatory T cells, and other immune cell populations in disease progression. A key area of her research involves the use of multicolor flow cytometry to assess antigenic profiles of cells in cancer microenvironments. She has contributed to the understanding of how immune cells, such as T cells and macrophages, interact with tumor cells in the context of lung cancer and other inflammatory conditions. Dr. Kwiecień has also researched the impact of systemic inflammation on diseases like obstructive sleep apnea. Her work aims to uncover novel therapeutic targets and provide insights into the immune mechanisms driving various pathologies. Through her research, Dr. Kwiecień continues to contribute valuable knowledge to the fields of clinical immunology and hematology.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Frequency and spontaneous cytotoxicity of natural killer cells in healthy children: preliminary results 🧬🧒
  2. Association between M1 and M2 macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and tobacco smoking in patients with sarcoidosis 💨🫁
  3. Cytometric analysis of perforin expression in NK cells, CD8+, and CD4+ lymphocytes in children with autoimmune Hashimoto’s thyroiditis 👶🦠
  4. T, B, and NKT Cells in Systemic Inflammation in Obstructive Sleep Apnea 😴🩺
  5. Macrophage polarization in interstitial lung diseases 💔🫁
  6. D4+/CD25high/FoxP3+/CD127- regulatory T cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of lung cancer patients 🫀💉
  7. Elevated regulatory T cells, surface and intracellular CTLA‐4 expression and interleukin‐17 in the lung cancer microenvironment in humans 🫀🧪
  8. Elevated Foxp3/CD8 ratio in lung adenocarcinoma metastatic lymph nodes resected by transcervical extended mediastinal lymphadenectomy 🔬💊
  9. Immunophenotype of t cells expressing programmed death-1 and cytotoxic T cell antigen-4 in early lung cancer: local vs. systemic immune response 🎗️🫁
  10. Fas-positive lymphocytes are associated with systemic inflammation in obstructive sleep Apnea syndrome 🛏️🔬

Conclusion:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień is a highly capable researcher whose work has made substantial contributions to clinical immunology. Her ongoing focus on the immune responses in cancer offers significant potential for advancing cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. With a strong academic and research background, she is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.