Gary Chan | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Gary Chan | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gary Chan , SUNY Upstate Medical University , United States

Dr. Gary Ching-Tao Chan is a distinguished professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY. He completed his Ph.D. in Immunology at the University of Alberta, Canada, under the supervision of Dr. Larry J. Guilbert. Dr. Chan’s research expertise lies in viral immunology, particularly in human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and dengue virus (DENV). He has a robust research portfolio with numerous contributions to the field, focusing on viral-host interactions and immune modulation. His work has led to groundbreaking discoveries in HCMV pathogenesis, including viral modulation of autophagy and cell signaling pathways. Dr. Chan has held academic appointments at prestigious institutions, including Louisiana State University Health Science Center, where he contributed significantly to advancing viral immunology. His commitment to research excellence is reflected in his impactful publications and active grant support.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Prolific Research Contributions: Dr. Gary Chan has made significant contributions to the field of microbiology, particularly in the understanding of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and its complex interactions with the immune system. His work has been consistently published in top-tier peer-reviewed journals such as Journal of Virology, Antiviral Research, and mBio, highlighting his influence in virology.

  2. Innovative and High-Impact Research: Dr. Chan’s research addresses fundamental aspects of viral pathogenesis, focusing on viral-host interactions, immune modulation, and viral replication. His innovative exploration into the molecular mechanisms of HCMV, such as the modulation of mTORC1 and the role of host transcription factors like HSF1, is groundbreaking and provides valuable insights for potential therapeutic strategies. His studies have also demonstrated significant contributions in understanding how viruses, including HCMV and Dengue virus, alter host cell signaling pathways, making his work crucial in antiviral research.

  3. Successful Grant Support: Dr. Chan has received substantial funding for his research, including multiple NIH R01 grants. His current projects, such as targeting the nuclear HSF1 for anti-HCMV strategies, are promising avenues for the development of novel antiviral therapies, further solidifying his standing as a leading researcher in his field.

  4. Recognition by Peers and Journals: His work has been widely recognized by peers in the field, as evidenced by the Journal of Virology Editor’s Pick in 2024 and the Journal of Virology Spotlight Article of Significant Interest in 2020. These accolades underline the impact and relevance of his research.

  5. Mentorship and Academic Leadership: As a Professor at SUNY Upstate Medical University, Dr. Chan contributes significantly to the academic and professional development of students and colleagues alike. His role in shaping the next generation of researchers, combined with his leadership in the field, highlights his commitment to advancing science.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Impact Across Other Virus Families: While Dr. Chan’s research on HCMV is groundbreaking, exploring the broader spectrum of viral infections, including RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2, could expand his impact across viral disease research. By diversifying his focus, he could address other significant public health threats, further enhancing the breadth of his research.

  2. Increased Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Although Dr. Chan has successfully collaborated with various experts in the field of virology, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations with researchers from fields such as bioinformatics, computational biology, and structural biology could accelerate the development of novel antiviral therapies and improve the understanding of viral mechanisms.

  3. Public Engagement and Communication: Dr. Chan’s impactful research is highly technical, and while it has contributed to the scientific community, increased efforts in communicating his findings to the broader public could help in promoting awareness of viral infections and their treatment. Public engagement through media, outreach programs, or collaborative projects with health organizations could amplify his work’s societal impact.

Education:

Dr. Gary Chan earned his Ph.D. in Immunology from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, from 1999 to 2005. His doctoral research focused on “Human cytomegalovirus-induced trophoblast apoptosis,” under the mentorship of Dr. Larry J. Guilbert in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology. Following his Ph.D., Dr. Chan pursued postdoctoral training at Louisiana State University Health Science Center (2006–2011) in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. Under the guidance of Dr. Andrew Yurochko, his postdoctoral research expanded his expertise in virology and immune modulation. Dr. Chan’s extensive academic background, coupled with his training in cutting-edge viral immunology, has laid the foundation for his pioneering work on viral-host interactions, particularly with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), contributing to novel therapeutic strategies.

Experience:

Dr. Gary Chan is a Professor at the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at SUNY Upstate Medical University, a role he has held since 2023. Prior to this, he was an Associate Professor at the same department from 2018 to 2023. Dr. Chan has a wealth of experience in virology and immunology, with a focus on human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and dengue virus (DENV). He has been instrumental in advancing research on the molecular mechanisms of viral infections and their impact on the host immune system. Dr. Chan’s academic journey includes several years of postdoctoral training at Louisiana State University, where he contributed to significant findings in viral replication and immune responses. With a comprehensive background in molecular virology, cell biology, and immunology, Dr. Chan is recognized for his expertise in viral pathogenesis and therapeutic research.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Gary Chan has received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions for his research excellence. In 2024, his publication, Human cytomegalovirus modulates mTORC1 to redirect protein translation within quiescently infected monocytes, was selected as an Editor’s Pick by the Journal of Virology. Additionally, his article on HCMV-induced autophagy preventing necroptosis of infected monocytes was featured as a Spotlight Article of Significant Interest in 2020. His innovative research has earned him continuous recognition within the virology community, including numerous peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Chan’s research contributions have also attracted substantial NIH grant support, including an R01 from the NIAID, to explore novel anti-HCMV strategies targeting nuclear HSF1. His scholarly achievements, including the successful funding of multi-year research projects, underscore his dedication to advancing our understanding of viral diseases and their immune modulation.

Research Focus:

Dr. Gary Chan’s research primarily focuses on viral immunology, specifically human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and dengue virus (DENV). His work explores how these viruses manipulate host cellular processes, such as signaling pathways and immune responses, to promote viral replication and persistence. One of his major research areas is investigating the interactions between HCMV and monocytes, particularly how the virus modulates autophagy and apoptosis to avoid immune detection and promote its survival. Additionally, Dr. Chan’s research delves into the role of host transcription factors, such as HSF1, in regulating viral replication. His innovative work also involves creating bioswitches through protein and DNA engineering to combat HCMV. Through these projects, Dr. Chan aims to identify novel therapeutic targets to limit viral infections and improve antiviral strategies. His work is pivotal in advancing the understanding of how viral infections impact the host immune system and contribute to disease pathogenesis.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Targeting HSF1 prevents HCMV replication 🦠

  2. DENV infection induces differential immunotranscriptomic profiles 🦟

  3. B cell receptor enhancement of dengue virus infection 🧬

  4. Virion-associated US28 modulates Akt activity in monocytes 💉

  5. The harms of promoting the leak lab hypothesis for SARS-CoV-2 🧫

  6. HCMV modulates mTORC1 in infected monocytes 💪

  7. Virology – The path forward 🔬

  8. Inhibition of SIRT2 promotes HCMV-infected monocyte death ⚔️

  9. Virology under the Microscope – A call for rational discourse 📚

  10. Modulation of host cell signaling in HCMV latency 🧪

Conclusion:

Dr. Gary Ching-Tao Chan is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award due to his outstanding contributions to the field of virology, particularly in the area of human cytomegalovirus and its interaction with the immune system. His innovative research has shaped the understanding of viral pathogenesis, leading to potential therapeutic breakthroughs. With significant funding, prestigious recognition, and a strong academic presence, Dr. Chan continues to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge. While there are opportunities for expansion into other viral research areas and greater public outreach, his accomplishments make him a leading figure in microbiology and an excellent candidate for this award.

Bárbara Verçosa | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Bárbara Verçosa | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Bárbara Verçosa , Faculdade de Saude Pitágoras Codó , Brazil

Bárbara Laurice Araújo Verçosa, a Brazilian researcher and veterinarian, specializes in veterinary pathology and the study of leishmaniasis. She holds a Doctorate in Biology (2015) from Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, with a focus on renal response in canine visceral leishmaniasis. She is a committed educator and scientific researcher, contributing extensively to the fields of veterinary medicine and animal pathology. She has published numerous papers in international journals, participated in various academic and professional events, and is an active member of editorial boards. Her contributions to veterinary science, especially in the study of inflammatory responses and apoptosis in leishmaniasis, have earned her recognition both nationally and internationally.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic Qualifications and Research Focus:
    Dr. Verçosa has a strong academic background, with a Doctorate in Biology from the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a Master’s degree in Pathological Anatomy and Clinical Pathology from the same institution. Her research focuses on canine visceral leishmaniasis, which is highly relevant and impactful in veterinary medicine. Her expertise in apoptosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and renal pathology related to infectious diseases shows a high level of specialization and contribution to the field.
  2. Research Publications:
    Dr. Verçosa has an impressive publication record with 23 articles in reputable scientific journals, including high-impact journals such as Microbial Pathogenesis, Molecular Immunology, and Veterinary Parasitology. Additionally, she has authored books and chapters and has presented her research at numerous conferences. The breadth and depth of her publications demonstrate her active contribution to advancing knowledge in veterinary medicine, particularly in parasitic diseases.
  3. Experience and Knowledge:
    With significant experience in pathology, veterinary medicine, and molecular diagnostics, she brings a holistic understanding of both the basic and applied aspects of her field. Her experience in teaching, mentoring graduate students, and serving as a scientific journal referee further exemplifies her leadership in the academic and research community.
  4. Awards and Recognition:
    Dr. Verçosa’s work has been recognized with multiple awards such as the Menção Honrosa at the Seminário de Iniciação Científica and the 1st Prize in Scientific Initiation from Fapepi. These awards highlight her early career achievements and ongoing recognition in her research contributions.
  5. International Recognition and Collaborations:
    Dr. Verçosa is an active contributor to international research, with collaborations and refereeing roles in journals such as the Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International and the Asian Journal of Advances in Research, which reflects her international recognition and commitment to global scientific dialogue.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Increase Interdisciplinary Collaborations:
    While Dr. Verçosa’s expertise is mainly within the veterinary and biological sciences domain, exploring interdisciplinary research with fields like public health, epidemiology, and clinical veterinary practices could further broaden the impact of her work, especially considering the public health implications of diseases like Leishmaniasis.
  2. Expanding Research into Novel Treatment Approaches:
    Given the ongoing challenges in treating Leishmaniasis in animals, expanding her research to explore new treatment protocols or innovative therapies in collaboration with clinicians could be a valuable area of growth. Exploring how her findings in inflammatory response and fibrosis can lead to better therapeutic options could strengthen the clinical relevance of her work.
  3. Increased Public Engagement:
    While her publications are substantial in academic circles, increasing public engagement through outreach programs or community awareness initiatives about canine Leishmaniasis and other diseases she studies could enhance her contribution to society. This could help bridge the gap between research and practical applications for the broader population.

Education:

Bárbara Verçosa holds a Doctorate (2015) in Biology from Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Brazil, where she focused on inflammatory responses and apoptosis in dogs infected with Leishmania. She completed her Master’s in Pathological Anatomy and Clinical Pathology at UFMG in 2010, investigating apoptosis in naturally infected dogs. She earned her Veterinary Medicine degree from Universidade Federal do Piauí (UFPI) in 2007, specializing in the inflammatory responses in canine leishmaniasis. Additionally, Verçosa has participated in postdoctoral research at Universidade de Brasília (UnB), focusing on health sciences, and has completed several continuing education courses in diagnostic imaging, molecular diagnostics, and animal pathology.

Experience:

Verçosa has extensive academic and professional experience in veterinary medicine and pathology. She served as a faculty member at Universidade Regional do Cariri (URCA) and currently teaches at Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde Pitágoras Codó. She has been involved in research, graduate supervision, and clinical training in veterinary anatomy and pathology. Her research focus includes canine leishmaniasis, inflammatory responses, and apoptotic processes in infected tissues. Her career also includes several trainee and research positions, particularly in animal pathology at UFPI, and clinical practice in large animal surgery. Verçosa’s international exposure includes teaching and research roles at UFMG, where she taught pathology to veterinary students. Her involvement in research and scientific publication spans many years, with a focus on advancing the understanding of animal diseases through detailed anatomical and molecular studies.

Awards and Honors:

Bárbara Verçosa has received multiple awards for her research and academic contributions. Notably, she received two Honorable Mentions in 2006 for her presentations at the XIV Seminário de Iniciação Científica at UFPI. She was also awarded the 1st Prize for Scientific Initiation by Fapepi, the Foundation for Research Support of the State of Piauí, in 2005. These recognitions highlight her early dedication to scientific research. Verçosa’s career has also been distinguished by her scholarships from CAPES and CNPq, which supported her doctoral and master’s research. Her research excellence has been further validated by her ongoing involvement in prestigious journals as a reviewer, alongside her role in various editorial boards. Her academic achievements reflect her significant contributions to the fields of veterinary science and animal pathology.

Research Focus:

Bárbara Verçosa’s research primarily focuses on veterinary pathology, particularly in the context of visceral leishmaniasis in dogs. Her studies explore the inflammatory response, apoptosis, and fibrosis in organs affected by this parasitic disease. She investigates the molecular and histomorphometric changes in canine renal tissues, with an emphasis on the interactions between immune responses and tissue damage. Verçosa’s work also covers the role of chemokines, cytokines, and apoptosis markers in understanding the disease’s pathogenesis. Her research extends into other areas of veterinary pathology, including the study of animal inflammatory diseases and zoonotic diseases. Through her studies, she aims to contribute to improving diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive measures for animal health. Verçosa’s interdisciplinary approach combines molecular biology, histopathology, and clinical studies, positioning her as a leading expert in veterinary parasitology.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Enhanced apoptotic index in hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and inflammatory infiltrate showed positive correlation with hepatic lesion intensity, parasite load, and clinical status in naturally Leishmania-infected dogs. (MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS) 📚🦠
  2. MCP-1/IL-12 ratio expressions correlated with adventitial collagen depositions in renal vessels and IL4/IFN-γ expression correlated with interstitial collagen depositions in the kidneys of dogs with canine leishmaniasis. (MOLECULAR IMMUNOLOGY) 🧬🦠
  3. Nucleolar organizer region proteins enhancement in nucleoplasm’s of renal tubular cells is an indication of kidney impairment in Leishmania-infected dogs. (VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY) 🦠🧪
  4. Enhanced apoptotic index, chemokines and inflammatory recruitment in renal tissues shows relationship with the clinical signs in Leishmania-infected dogs. (VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY) 🔬🐶
  5. The balance between IL-12/IL4 in renal tissue switches the inflammatory response arm and shows relationship with the clinical signs in Leishmania-infected dogs (Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology, 2021).

Conclusion:

Dr. Bárbara Laurice Araújo Verçosa is a highly accomplished and well-regarded researcher in the field of veterinary medicine, particularly in pathology and infectious diseases. Her extensive research publications, awards, and international collaborations are a testament to her expertise and impact in the field. The areas identified for improvement are relatively minor and pertain to enhancing the breadth and public visibility of her work. Overall, her scientific contributions make her an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award.