Sibel Elif Gultekin | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gultekin | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gultekin , Gazi University Faculty of Dentistry , Turkey

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin is an accomplished academic and researcher in Oral Pathology and Periodontology at Gazi University, Ankara. With dual DDS and Ph.D. degrees, she has led the Department of Oral Pathology for a decade and significantly contributed to understanding oral cancer, odontogenic lesions, and HPV-related pathologies. Her collaborative research with institutions such as UCSF and the University of Cologne has yielded numerous high-impact publications and advancements in oral diagnostics. She has authored two books and published over 96 articles in reputable journals. A prominent figure in national and international research boards, Dr. Gültekin has also played a pioneering role in establishing oral pathology as a specialty in Türkiye. Her work integrates molecular biology with clinical oral health, emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and translational science. Recognized globally, she continues to mentor emerging scholars while contributing to policy-making and curriculum development in dental education.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  • Extensive Research Portfolio: Over 96 peer-reviewed publications, with 40 in SCI journals, reflects consistent scholarly productivity and scientific depth.

  • Citation Impact: High citation indices (Google Scholar: 1,381, h-index: 17) demonstrate strong academic influence and relevance in the field of molecular oral pathology.

  • International Collaborations: Long-term, productive collaborations with prestigious institutions including the University of Cologne and UCSF underline global recognition and trust.

  • Focused Expertise: Specialization in oral epithelial dysplasia, HPV-associated oral/oropharyngeal cancers, and molecular mechanisms of odontogenic lesions aligns closely with cutting-edge cell biology and translational research.

  • Academic Leadership: Established the Department of Oral Pathology in Türkiye and mentored future scientists, contributing to both academic infrastructure and talent development.

  • Editorial and Advisory Roles: Active roles in scientific boards and journals underscore her influence in shaping academic discourse and peer-review standards.

🛠 Areas for Improvement:

  • Patent Development: Incorporating translational research into patentable diagnostics or therapeutics would enhance practical impact and innovation scoring.

  • Funding & Industry Engagement: Broader engagement with industry-funded projects and clinical trials could further expand her work’s translational potential and outreach.

  • Global Clinical Guidelines Influence: Participation in international committees that develop clinical practice guidelines would strengthen policy-level impact.

🎓 Education:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin pursued her initial dental training and later earned dual Ph.D. degrees in Periodontology and Oral Pathology, demonstrating a unique interdisciplinary depth. She completed her undergraduate and doctoral education at Gazi University, Faculty of Dentistry, Ankara. Her academic journey also included prestigious international research fellowships at the University of Cologne (Germany) and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF, USA), where she focused on advanced molecular mechanisms in oral diseases, especially HPV-related oncogenesis and tissue regeneration. Her training reflects a blend of clinical excellence and a strong foundation in molecular biology and translational research. Through a blend of local and global academic exposure, Dr. Gültekin has acquired cutting-edge knowledge and technical expertise, which she continues to leverage in her teaching and research. Her international education and academic credentials have contributed to building strong scientific bridges between Türkiye and the global dental research community.

🧪 Professional Experience:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin has over 20 years of academic and research experience in dentistry, with a specialized focus on Oral Pathology and Periodontology. She currently serves as a full professor and head of the Oral Pathology Department at Gazi University Faculty of Dentistry, a position she has held for more than a decade. Dr. Gültekin has actively engaged in research collaborations with renowned institutions such as the University of Cologne and UCSF, significantly contributing to the fields of oral cancer and molecular diagnostics. She has completed over 50 research projects and advised numerous postgraduate theses. As a scientific advisor and board member for several national and international journals and associations, she plays a pivotal role in shaping academic and clinical standards. Her editorial appointments and leadership in symposia highlight her commitment to academic excellence and global research integration. She continues to lead innovation in oral health education and research policy.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Gültekin’s research centers on the molecular pathology of oral diseases, with particular emphasis on oral epithelial dysplasia, HPV-induced oral/oropharyngeal cancers, and the genetic underpinnings of odontogenic tumors and cysts. Her studies have investigated biomarkers such as p16, PDCD4, and VIM3, enabling improved early detection and classification of oral malignancies. She is also involved in exploring microsatellite instability, loss of heterozygosity, and B-RAF/MEK inhibition in the context of oral and maxillofacial tumors. A major dimension of her work includes periodontal tissue regeneration and molecular mechanisms of tooth development, which bridges clinical periodontology with developmental biology. Her research is translational, aiming to bridge bench-to-chairside pathways, and supports the development of personalized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. With over 1,300 citations and active involvement in global research initiatives, her investigations have significantly influenced current understanding and clinical approaches in oral pathology.

📄 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Microsatellite Instability and Loss of Heterozygosity as Prognostic Markers in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Genes, Chromosomes and Cancer (2024)

  2. 💊 Efficiency of B-RAF-/MEK-inhibitors in B-RAF mutated Ameloblastoma: Case report and review – Heliyon (2023)

  3. 🦷 Kişiselleştirilmiş Diş Hekimliği (Personalized Dentistry) – ADO Klinik Bilimler Dergisi (2023)

  4. 🧪 Apoptosis Related PDCD4: Promising Novel Biomarker for Early Detection of Oral Cancer – ADO Klinik Bilimler Dergisi (2022)

  5. 🧫 PD-L1 Expression and CD8+ Lymphocyte Infiltration Predict Outcome in Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma – IJMS (2020)

🔍 Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin stands out as an exceptional and qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work in the field of oral pathology and molecular diagnostics not only contributes to advancing science but also bridges basic research with clinical applications. With a solid foundation in interdisciplinary science, international collaboration, and academic leadership, she exemplifies the values the award seeks to honor. Her achievements strongly align with the criteria of sustained research excellence, innovation, and global impact.

Elham Hasanzadeh | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh , Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences , Iran

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh is an Iranian Assistant Professor specializing in Tissue Engineering. She is currently serving in the Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Science at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences (MAZUMS), Sari, Iran. Dr. Hasanzadeh holds a Ph.D. in Tissue Engineering from Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), where she earned the 1st rank in her class. Her research focuses on advancing tissue engineering techniques for regenerative medicine, particularly for neural, cardiac, and soft tissue regeneration. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Hasanzadeh has collaborated on numerous innovative projects and published extensively in prestigious scientific journals. Her work includes the development of scaffolds, stem cell therapies, and biomaterials for various tissue regeneration applications. As a member of international professional networks, she is committed to advancing regenerative medicine globally.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Academic Achievements:
    • Dr. Hasanzadeh has demonstrated exceptional academic performance throughout her education, with first rank in both her M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees from prestigious Iranian institutions, showing not only academic excellence but also dedication and deep expertise in her field.
    • Her Ph.D. thesis, titled “Fabrication of fibrin/polyurethane hydrogel scaffold seeded with endometrial stem cells differentiated into neural cells for spinal cord injury,” indicates significant contributions to cutting-edge research in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
  2. Extensive Research Output:
    • She has published numerous high-impact research papers in reputed journals such as International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, Regenerative Therapy, Life Sciences, and others, spanning multiple applications in tissue engineering (cardiac, neural, skin, spinal cord, etc.).
    • Her work addresses key challenges in regenerative medicine, such as scaffolding for cell growth, stem cell differentiation, and cell therapy for injury treatment, which is highly relevant and innovative.
  3. Recognition and Awards:
    • Talented Student recognition at the University of Tehran and Tehran University of Medical Sciences demonstrates her academic potential and research capabilities from an early stage.
    • First-place rankings in national entrance exams and the highest GPA in her Ph.D. cohort further validate her academic strength.
  4. Innovative Research Projects and Collaborations:
    • Dr. Hasanzadeh is involved in pioneering projects, such as 3D ovarian tissue engineering using 3D printing technology and the use of endometrial stem cells for sciatic nerve repair, which are highly innovative and promising in the medical field.
    • Her involvement in global collaborative projects, such as the use of MSCs in treating COVID-19 and regenerative medicine, adds to her recognition and the practical significance of her research.
  5. Professional Memberships and Certifications:
    • Being a member of renowned professional organizations such as ITERMS and USERN indicates her commitment to staying at the forefront of research and engaging in the global scientific community.
    • Her certifications in 3D cell culture, cell signaling, and scaffold fabrication further showcase her proficiency and versatility in various aspects of tissue engineering.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Research Scope:
    • While her focus on tissue engineering, particularly in soft tissue, neural tissue, and cardiovascular applications, is commendable, diversifying her research to cover other emerging areas in regenerative medicine could broaden her expertise and impact.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
    • While she has worked on some interdisciplinary projects, further collaborations with fields like biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, or material science could offer more expansive research opportunities. These fields could complement her tissue engineering expertise, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in regenerative medicine.
  3. Public Outreach and Application of Research:
    • Although Dr. Hasanzadeh’s research is highly impactful, additional efforts in promoting and applying her findings in clinical settings or through public outreach could enhance the real-world application of her work.
  4. Expanding International Visibility:
    • While Dr. Hasanzadeh has an impressive research profile, increasing her visibility in global scientific networks and publishing in even more internationally recognized journals could amplify her recognition.

Education:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh earned her Ph.D. in Tissue Engineering (2015-2019) from the Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Science, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), with a GPA of 19.35/20, achieving 1st rank in her cohort. Her doctoral research focused on “Fabrication of fibrin/polyurethane hydrogel scaffold seeded with endometrial stem cells differentiated into neural cells for spinal cord injury,” earning a perfect score of 20/20. Prior to that, she completed her M.Sc. in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in Tissue Engineering (2011-2014), at the University of Tehran, with a GPA of 19.02/20. Her M.Sc. thesis focused on “Evaluation of continuous differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into endothelial cells under chemical stimulation and flow stress in a perfusion bioreactor.” She completed her B.Sc. in Biology at the University of Tehran, where she ranked 1st with a GPA of 17.56/20.

Experience:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh has a wealth of experience in the field of tissue engineering, with a focus on regenerative medicine, stem cell therapy, and scaffold development. She is an Assistant Professor at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences (MAZUMS), where she conducts pioneering research on tissue engineering applications for soft, neural, and cardiovascular tissues. She has worked on multiple research projects, such as developing 3D-printed ovarian tissue engineering and using polyurethane-CNT/poly-L-lactic acid conduits for nerve regeneration. In addition, Dr. Hasanzadeh has contributed significantly to the understanding of stem cell-derived therapies, particularly in the context of COVID-19 treatment and spinal cord injury regeneration. Her extensive academic background and research activities have made her a key figure in the Iranian regenerative medicine community. Dr. Hasanzadeh’s international collaborations further highlight her commitment to advancing tissue engineering research globally.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh has received numerous awards throughout her academic career, recognizing her excellence in research and academic achievements. She was honored as a talented student at the University of Tehran (UT) and Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) between 2007 and 2019. Dr. Hasanzadeh ranked 2nd nationwide in the Tissue Engineering Ph.D. entrance exam in Iran (2014). She was awarded 1st place for the highest GPA among all tissue engineering graduate students at TUMS (2019) and the highest GPA among all graduate students at UT (2011). Her research excellence has led to several prestigious publications in high-impact journals, and she continues to contribute to the advancement of tissue engineering in various medical fields. Dr. Hasanzadeh is also actively involved in professional organizations such as the Iranian Society for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (ITERMS) and the Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN).

Research Focus:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh’s research focuses on cutting-edge advancements in tissue engineering, with a particular interest in soft tissue, neural, and cardiovascular tissue regeneration. She explores the use of stem cells, biomaterials, and 3D scaffolding techniques to develop effective solutions for tissue repair and regeneration. Her innovative projects include designing tissue-engineered scaffolds for spinal cord injury, cardiac regeneration, and peripheral nerve repair. Dr. Hasanzadeh is also involved in the use of advanced technologies, such as 3D printing, electrospinning, and microfluidic systems, to fabricate complex tissue structures and promote cellular differentiation. Her work on the secretome of mesenchymal stem cells for COVID-19 treatment underscores her commitment to addressing current global health challenges. Dr. Hasanzadeh’s research has wide-reaching applications in regenerative medicine, aiming to improve the quality of life for patients with severe tissue damage or degenerative conditions.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. “Cardiac tissue regeneration by microfluidic generated cardiac cell-laden calcium alginate microgels and mesenchymal stem cell extracted exosomes on myocardial infarction model” 🫀
  2. “Applications of blood plasma derivatives for cutaneous wound healing: A mini-review of clinical studies” 🩸
  3. “Clinical trials of mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of COVID-19” 💉
  4. “Collagen short nanofiber-embedded chondroitin sulfate–hyaluronic acid nanocomposite: A cartilage-mimicking in situ-forming hydrogel with fine-tuned properties” 💪
  5. “Preparation of bilayer tissue-engineered polyurethane/poly-L-lactic acid nerve conduits and their in vitro characterization for use in peripheral nerve regeneration” 🧠
  6. “Enhanced spinal cord regeneration by gelatin/alginate hydrogel scaffolds containing human endometrial stem cells and curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in rat” 🧑‍🔬
  7. “The role of Advanced technologies against COVID-19: Prevention, Detection, and treatments” 💻
  8. “Development of Tissue Engineering Scaffolds for Cancer Cell Cultures” 🧬
  9. “Injectable hydrogels in central nervous system: Unique and novel platforms for promoting extracellular matrix remodeling and tissue engineering” 💉
  10. “Enhanced sciatic nerve regeneration with fibrin scaffold containing human endometrial stem cells and insulin encapsulated chitosan particles: An in vivo study” 🦵

Conclusion:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award based on her exceptional academic background, innovative research, and contributions to the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Her work on stem cells, scaffolding, and regenerative therapies for spinal cord injury, cardiac tissue, and other injuries has the potential to significantly impact medical treatment options.

Her academic excellence, extensive research output, high-impact collaborations, and leadership in cutting-edge projects make her a prime candidate for this award. With a few enhancements in interdisciplinary approaches, broader global exposure, and clinical translation of her research, she could further solidify her position as a leading researcher in her field.

 

 

 

 

Chunli Ma | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Chunli Ma | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Chunli Ma  , Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University , China

Chunli Ma is a Master’s student at Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Shandong First Medical University in China. With a strong background in Optometry and Vision Science, Ma has expanded into Ophthalmology for her graduate studies. She possesses a deep understanding of ocular disorders and the corresponding diagnostic and treatment protocols. She is passionate about cellular and molecular experimentation, specializing in animal models for scientific research. Her expertise extends to experimental techniques that offer innovative solutions for eye injury and healing. Chunli’s work aims to improve corneal repair, reduce scarring, and enhance treatment outcomes for ocular diseases through advanced therapeutic approaches, including stem cell therapy and specialized eye drops.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

Chunli Ma is a promising researcher with a strong foundation in both clinical ophthalmology and experimental techniques. Her academic background in Optometry and Vision Science, along with her specialized focus on Ophthalmology, positions her as an emerging leader in the field. Ma’s contributions to the understanding and treatment of corneal injuries, particularly her work on exosomes derived from adipose mesenchymal stem cells and antibacterial eyedrops, have significant therapeutic potential. The formulation of exosomes into eyedrops to aid in rapid corneal healing and prevent scarring, along with the development of multifunctional eyedrops for treating bacterial keratitis, showcases her innovative approach to solving complex clinical challenges. Her ability to translate laboratory research into potential clinical applications is commendable. Moreover, her publications in well-regarded journals and ongoing involvement in impactful research add to her eligibility for the Best Researcher Award.

Areas for Improvement:

While Chunli Ma’s work demonstrates great potential, there are areas where she could continue to develop. Expanding her research to a broader range of ocular conditions beyond corneal injury and keratitis could make her work even more influential across various ophthalmic fields. Additionally, seeking more collaborations with interdisciplinary teams, such as those focusing on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of ocular diseases, could provide deeper insights and enhance her ability to tackle more complex issues. Although she has made valuable contributions to scientific publications, continuing to increase the number and impact of her published papers, especially in top-tier journals, will further solidify her reputation in the scientific community. Gaining experience in patent applications and commercialization of her research could also help bridge the gap between laboratory findings and real-world clinical application.

Education:

Chunli Ma completed her undergraduate degree in Optometry and Vision Science, where she gained foundational knowledge in ocular health and vision correction. Building on this, she pursued a Master’s degree in Ophthalmology, which allowed her to specialize in clinical and experimental ophthalmic research. Her academic journey includes hands-on research in cell biology, molecular techniques, and experimental models to address common ocular disorders, particularly in corneal injury repair. Chunli’s academic training has not only refined her diagnostic skills but also equipped her with cutting-edge knowledge in treatment and therapeutic strategies. Her graduate work bridges practical clinical care with advanced research, focusing on cellular regeneration, stem cell treatments, and tissue healing in the eye. This robust academic background underpins her ongoing commitment to advancing ophthalmic medicine through innovative scientific inquiry and applied research in the field of corneal injury and wound healing.

Experience:

Chunli Ma’s academic journey has been bolstered by hands-on experience in both clinical ophthalmology and cellular research. Her work in experimental ophthalmology has focused on the use of adipose mesenchymal stem cells for corneal repair, creating new methodologies for promoting healing and reducing scarring. She has demonstrated expertise in animal model management and experimentation, gaining insights into complex biological processes affecting eye injuries. Ma has contributed to the development of novel treatments, including multifunctional eye drops for both bacterial keratitis and corneal trauma. Her research findings have important clinical implications, directly informing therapeutic strategies for ocular health. Additionally, Ma’s experience includes publishing scientific articles, with a growing portfolio in well-regarded journals. This combination of clinical knowledge, experimental research, and hands-on technique has allowed her to make valuable contributions to ophthalmic science, particularly in terms of innovative solutions for corneal injury and healing.

Research Focus:

Chunli Ma’s research focus is centered on the mechanistic modulation of corneal injury and wound healing. She investigates the potential of stem cell-derived exosomes in promoting the regeneration of corneal tissues, with a particular interest in their role in reducing scarring after trauma. Her work delves into advanced therapeutic applications, such as multifunctional eye drops containing composite antibacterial and healing properties for the treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis. By targeting the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of corneal repair, Ma aims to offer innovative solutions for treating corneal injuries and infections. Her research also explores the impact of wound size and location on the prognosis of penetrating ocular injuries, offering a more nuanced approach to patient care. Chunli’s focus on the development of cutting-edge materials and therapies for ophthalmic applications promises significant advances in clinical practice, particularly for patients with challenging corneal conditions.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Exosomes derived from adipose mesenchymal stem cells promote corneal injury repair and inhibit the formation of scars by anti-apoptosis 📑🧬
  2. Wound size and location affect the prognosis of penetrating ocular injury 👁️‍🗨️🩹
  3. Potential role of ARG1 c.57G > A variant in Argininemia 🔬🧬

Conclusion:

Chunli Ma’s research reflects an excellent blend of clinical expertise and innovative scientific inquiry. Her work has already made notable contributions to improving the treatment of ocular injuries, particularly in corneal healing and bacterial keratitis. With a clear focus on translational research, she has demonstrated the potential for significant advancements in ophthalmic treatments. Given her ongoing dedication to advancing ophthalmology through novel therapeutic approaches, Chunli Ma is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued growth in her research, collaboration efforts, and scholarly output, she has the potential to make even greater strides in the field of ophthalmology and regenerative medicine.