Dalia Saleh | Cancer Cell Biology | Innovative Research Award

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 with over two decades of experience in experimental pharmacology and drug development. She holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacology from Cairo University and currently serves as a Professor at the National Research Centre in Cairo, Egypt. Dr. Saleh has contributed to numerous high-impact scientific journals and has led pioneering work in the areas of metabolic disorders, drug safety, and vascular pharmacology. Her multidisciplinary collaborations and continuous professional development from institutions like King’s College London demonstrate her dedication to excellence in research and education. She is also recognized for her commitment to academic instruction and quality assurance, having served as a Quality Assurance Director. Her work bridges scientific discovery and real-world therapeutic applications, making her a strong candidate for innovation-focused research awards.

publication profile:

scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Robust Academic Background:
    Dr. Saleh holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacology from Cairo University and has a long-standing academic and research career in pharmacology and drug development. Her doctoral and master’s theses reflect a strong foundation in vascular pharmacology, metabolic disorders, and endocrine influence—fields of enduring relevance.

  2. Consistent Research Productivity:
    Her recent publication record (2022–2024) is prolific and impactful, with studies published in high-visibility journals such as Scientific Reports, Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology, and Environmental Science and Pollution Research. Her work covers cutting-edge pharmacological topics, including:

    • AMPK/mTOR signaling pathways,

    • Neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory mechanisms,

    • Herbal and synthetic compounds in disease modulation,

    • Hepatic encephalopathy, diabetic nephropathy, and cystitis models.

  3. Interdisciplinary and Translational Approach:
    Dr. Saleh bridges basic pharmacological research with clinical relevance. Her investigations into molecular pathways (e.g., NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, SIRT-1) are grounded in disease models, thus demonstrating translational potential. Her inclusion of both natural and synthetic agents further adds diversity and innovation to her research.

  4. Capacity Building and International Exposure:
    She has participated in Continuing Professional Development modules at King’s College London, emphasizing drug safety, statistics, and ethics—key areas in modern drug development. This international engagement underscores her commitment to staying updated and aligned with global standards.

  5. Institutional Contribution and Leadership:
    As a Professor and former Quality Assurance Director at the National Research Centre (NRC), she has contributed to institutional excellence, including achieving ISO 9001/2008 certification. These roles reflect her leadership, organizational, and strategic planning skills.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Principal Investigator Leadership:
    While her name appears consistently in multi-author studies, further highlighting her role as the principal investigator (PI) or corresponding author could strengthen her case for innovation leadership.

  2. Patents or Product Development:
    There is no mention of patents or direct product development based on her findings. Translating research into tangible therapeutics or clinical trials would significantly elevate her eligibility for innovation-specific awards.

  3. Global Collaborations and Grants:
    Although she has participated in international seminars, active global collaborations or leading major international grants/projects would further establish her as a global innovator.

  4. Public/Industry Impact:
    While the academic impact is strong, showcasing industry partnerships or policy-level influence (e.g., contributions to clinical guidelines or regulatory science) would align more directly with innovation awards that emphasize practical application.

🎓 Education Summary :

Dr. Dalia Saleh completed her higher education at Cairo University’s Faculty of Pharmacy, where she earned her Master of Science in Pharmacology in 2009 and Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacology in 2012. Her M.Sc. thesis focused on the vascular and biochemical effects of rosiglitazone in diabetic rats, reflecting early interests in metabolic pharmacology. Her Ph.D. expanded on this foundation by exploring estrogen’s potential role in managing vascular changes related to insulin resistance. Both theses demonstrated robust experimental designs and contributed new insights into the interplay between hormonal and metabolic pathways in disease models. Dr. Saleh has since built on this academic background with advanced training in clinical drug development, safety, and biostatistics at King’s College London in 2023, indicating a continued commitment to integrating modern pharmaceutical science and translational research into her academic portfolio. This rich educational foundation underpins her success as a researcher and educator.

🔬 Research Focus :

Dr. Saleh’s research focuses on experimental pharmacology, with a special interest in metabolic diseases, drug-induced toxicities, inflammation, and vascular pharmacology. Her studies frequently involve animal models to investigate the mechanisms of drug action and to evaluate the protective or therapeutic roles of natural products and synthetic compounds. A recurring theme in her work is exploring the modulation of signaling pathways like AMPK, NF-κB, PI3K/mTOR, and Nrf2 in the context of oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular apoptosis. She has also studied the role of hormonal influences in disease models, such as estrogen’s effect on insulin resistance. Her research employs modern analytical techniques and integrates molecular biology with pharmacodynamics to derive mechanistic insights. This strong focus on mechanistic pharmacology enhances her work’s relevance in drug development, particularly for conditions such as diabetic complications, hepatic encephalopathy, nephropathy, and chemotherapy-induced toxicities.

📚 Publications Top Note:

  1. 🧪 Eugenol alleviates acrylamide-induced testicular toxicity via AMPK/pAKT/mTOR modulationScientific Reports, 2024

  2. 🧠 Trimetazidine prevents cisplatin neuropathy through AMPK, Nrf2, and NF-κB pathwaysBiochemistry and Cell Biology, 2023

  3. 🔬 Novel chromone-thiazolopyrimidines as TNF-α, IL-6, and PGE2 inhibitorsPolycyclic Aromatic Compounds, 2023

  4. 🚽 Chrysin protects against cyclophosphamide-induced hemorrhagic cystitis via anti-inflammatory signalingChemico-Biological Interactions, 2023

  5. 🧃 Linagliptin & L-arginine synergy in gastric hyperacidity via EP4 receptor upregulationNaunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology, 2023

  6. 🧠 L-arginine reduces thioacetamide-induced hepatic encephalopathy via NF-κB downregulationEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research, 2023

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

  8. 🛡️ Olmesartan mitigates diabetic nephropathy via AGE/PKC and TLR4/SIRT-1 pathwaysEuropean Journal of Pharmacology, 2022

  9. 🍃 Plumbago species show anti-fibrotic effects in liver fibrosis rat modelsScientific Reports, 2022

  10. 🫀 Omega-3 combats doxorubicin-induced liver toxicity via Nrf2/PI3K/Akt signalingPending Publication

Conclusion:

Dr. Dalia O. Saleh presents a strong candidacy for the Research for Innovative Research Award, particularly due to her sustained publication record, mechanistic depth in pharmacology, and commitment to professional development and institutional excellence. Her work spans innovative mechanistic explorations and novel therapeutic evaluations, showing real promise in addressing current pharmacological challenges.

Dalia Saleh | Cancer Cell Biology | Innovative Research Award

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 signalingScientific Reports, 2024

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

  3. 🧪 Chromone-thiazolopyrimidine hybrids inhibit TNF-α, IL-6, and PGE2Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

  10. 🐟 Omega-3 fatty acids protect against doxorubicin-induced liver damageSaudi 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.

Weifen Zhang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Weifen Zhang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Weifen Zhang , Shandong Second Medical University , China

Professor Weifen Zhang is a renowned scientist in pharmaceutical sciences, serving as a Professor at the School of Pharmacy, Shandong Second Medical University. She also directs the Shandong Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Regenerative Medicine and the Pharmaceutical Experimental Teaching Center. With over 50 SCI-indexed publications and 27 national and international patents, her contributions have significantly influenced the development of targeted drug delivery systems and smart biomaterials. A recipient of the State Council Special Allowance and recognized as a Shandong Provincial Outstanding Expert, Professor Zhang combines academic excellence with practical innovation. She has led and collaborated on numerous national-level research projects, focusing on novel therapeutic strategies for cancer, regenerative medicine, and nano-drug technologies. Additionally, she plays a prominent role in scientific publishing as a guest editor and reviewer for leading journals. Her dedication to interdisciplinary research continues to shape the future of pharmaceutical technology.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. 📚 High Research Productivity: Over 50 SCI-indexed publications in high-impact journals such as ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, Journal of Biomedical Nanotechnology, and Science China Materials.

  2. 💡 Innovation & Intellectual Property: Holds 27 national and international patents, showing a strong translation of academic work into real-world applications.

  3. 🔬 Research Focus & Impact: Cutting-edge work in targeted drug delivery systems, intelligent biomaterials, and regenerative medicine, especially impactful in oncology.

  4. 🎯 Project Leadership: Principal Investigator for multiple nationally funded projects, managing significant funding amounts and driving original discoveries.

  5. 🌐 Academic Influence: Serves as a guest editor and reviewer for leading scientific journals, contributing to quality control and peer knowledge advancement.

  6. 📖 Educational Impact: Contributions to national-level textbooks like Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical English highlight her role in shaping future pharmaceutical education.

  7. 🤝 Industry Collaboration: Active collaborations with companies like NOIMAIER (Shandong) Medical Technology Co., Ltd, demonstrating practical application and outreach.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. 🌍 Global Outreach: While her influence is strong nationally, increased participation in international conferences, collaborations, and global visibility would further elevate her stature.

  2. 🎙️ Public Engagement: Enhanced involvement in science communication, including talks, public articles, or media, could broaden her societal impact.

  3. 🌐 Online Presence: A more visible online research profile (e.g., Google Scholar, ResearchGate, LinkedIn) could help in networking and research dissemination globally.

🎓 Education:

Professor Weifen Zhang received comprehensive training in pharmaceutical sciences, culminating in a doctorate in pharmacy or a related biomedical field (specific degree and institution not provided in the current profile). Her academic journey has been deeply rooted in advancing applied pharmaceutical research, especially in the field of drug delivery and intelligent materials. Her educational background laid the foundation for her specialization in nanoformulations, regenerative medicine, and drug resistance reversal. Professor Zhang has supplemented her academic credentials with continued professional development through her work with major national science foundations and governmental innovation programs. Her commitment to combining traditional pharmaceutical training with cutting-edge material science has enabled her to become a leader in translational research. Although the detailed degrees and institutions are not specified, her track record in high-impact research, publications, and academic leadership reflects a strong and diverse educational background.

🧪 Experience:

Professor Zhang brings over two decades of experience in pharmaceutical sciences, nanomedicine, and biomaterial engineering. She has served in multiple leadership roles, including Director of both the Shandong Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Materials and Regenerative Medicine and the Pharmaceutical Experimental Teaching Center at Shandong Second Medical University. As Principal Investigator on numerous high-profile projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and regional innovation programs, she has demonstrated excellence in both basic and translational research. Her industrial collaborations and consultancy projects, such as those with NOIMAIER Medical Technology, reflect her ability to translate scientific innovation into practical solutions. Her experience is also reflected in her active editorial and peer review contributions to top-tier journals, as well as her involvement in educational contributions through national textbook projects. Her academic, industrial, and clinical translational experiences make her a uniquely qualified and impactful researcher.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Weifen Zhang’s research is at the forefront of targeted drug delivery, intelligent biomaterials, and regenerative medicine. Her primary scientific focus involves developing novel nanoparticle-based platforms to improve therapeutic outcomes in diseases such as non-small cell lung cancer. She has led pioneering studies in dual-drug synergistic delivery, utilizing agents like quercetin and paclitaxel, aimed at overcoming drug resistance. Her lab also explores smart, biodegradable materials, such as Bletilla striata polysaccharide microneedles, for innovative therapeutic applications including hair regrowth and skin regeneration. In regenerative medicine, she is advancing bionic materials, such as mineralized collagen scaffolds, for orthopedic and dental use. Additionally, she works on plant-derived compounds, contributing to both pharmaceutical and agricultural solutions. Through interdisciplinary approaches, including nanotechnology, immunology, and pharmacokinetics, Professor Zhang’s work is positioned to influence both academic research and clinical practice. Her vision continues to shape the field of personalized and precision medicine.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📌 Bletilla striata polysaccharide-based dissolving microneedle patch integrated with nanoparticles for promoting hair regrowth

  2. 🧱 Composite scaffolds based on egg membrane and eggshell-derived inorganic particles promote soft and hard tissue repair

  3. 💉 Efficient chemo-immunotherapy leveraging minimalist electrostatic complex nanoparticle as “in situ” vaccine integrated tumor ICD and immunoagonist

  4. 🌿 A Chinese drug-compatibility-based approach to purslane hydrogels for acute eczema therapy

  5. 🔬 Dynamic Covalent Bond-Based Nanoassembly of Curcumin to Enhance the Selective Photothermal Therapy for Tumor Treatment

  6. 🧵 Multifunctional Nanofiber Membranes Constructed by Microfluidic Blow-Spinning to Inhibit Scar Formation at Early Intervention Stage

  7. 📄 Corrigendum to “Synergistically enhanced cancer immunotherapy by combining protamine-based nanovaccine with PD-L1 gene silence nanoparticle”

  8. 💉 Minimalist “in situ” tumor vaccine leveraging versatile dendrimer nanoplatform coordinated ICD and immunoagonist for boosted chemoimmunotherapy

  9. 🧬 A minimalist cancer cell membrane-shielded biomimetic nanoparticle for nasopharyngeal carcinoma active-targeting therapy

  10. ⚗️ Biodegradable Manganese-Containing Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Precisely Controlled Quercetin Delivery

 

📌 Conclusion:

Professor Weifen Zhang demonstrates exceptional qualifications for the Best Researcher Award. Her deep scientific contributions, robust patent portfolio, influential publications, and national leadership in pharmaceutical innovation mark her as a leader in biomedical research. With a few enhancements in global visibility and science communication, her already impressive profile could reach even greater heights.