Waldemar Debinski | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Waldemar Debinski | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Wake Forest School of Medicine | United States

Dr. Waldemar Debinski, M.D., Ph.D., is a distinguished neuroscientist and cancer researcher recognized for his pioneering work in brain tumor biology and targeted molecular therapies. His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive the development and progression of malignant brain tumors, with a particular emphasis on gliomas. Dr. Debinski has significantly contributed to the development of novel targeted therapeutics, including receptor-directed cytotoxins and biologics designed to selectively eliminate tumor cells while sparing healthy tissues. His investigations bridge molecular oncology, translational science, and clinical application, aiming to improve therapeutic outcomes for patients with brain cancers. Throughout his career, he has integrated insights from physiology, molecular biology, and pharmacology to develop translational approaches that move from laboratory discovery to clinical implementation. His extensive research has advanced the understanding of tumor-specific receptors and intracellular signaling pathways, contributing to innovative strategies in cancer immunotherapy and precision medicine. Dr. Debinski’s work exemplifies the integration of basic and clinical research toward the development of next-generation treatments for central nervous system malignancies, positioning him as a leading figure in neuro-oncology and translational cancer research.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Wocial, B., Januszewicz, W., Siedlecki, J., Feltynowski, T., & Debinski, W. (1982). Alterations in plasma dopamine-β-hydroxylase and catecholamine concentrations during surgical removal of pheochromocytoma. Endocrinologie, 79, 131–139.

Debinski, W., & Wocial, B. (1982). Various aspects of sodium metabolism in hypertension [in Polish]. Polski Tygodnik Lekarski, 37, 1339–1342.

Ignatowska-Świtalska, H., Debinski, W., & Chojnowski, K. (1983). The role of certain hormonal factors in arterial hypertension [in Polish]. Materia Medica Polona, 15, 74–86.

Wasawska, T., Feltynowski, T., Majewska, Z., Januszewicz, W., Sobolewska-Karwowska, A., Wocial, B., & Debinski, W. (1984). Pheochromocytoma: Description of two cases with an unusual clinical picture [in Polish]. Polski Tygodnik Lekarski, 39, 261–263.

Czarkowski, M., & Debinski, W. (1984). Sodium and primary arterial hypertension [in Polish] (Review). Kardiologia Polska, 27, 967–976.

Wocial, B., Debinski, W., Jablonska-Skwicinska, E., Feltynowski, T., Chodakowska, J., Kozakowska, E., & Januszewicz, W. (1984). Sodium content of erythrocytes in patients with arterial hypertension [in Polish]. Polski Archiwum Medycyny Wewnetrznej, 72, 167–174.

Garcia, R., Debinski, W., Gutkowska, J., Kuchel, O., Thibault, G., Genest, J., & Cantin, M. (1985). Gluco- and mineralocorticoids may regulate the natriuretic effect and the synthesis and release of atrial natriuretic factor by the rat atria in vivo. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 131, 806–814.

Debinski, W., Kuchel, O., Garcia, R., Buu, N. T., Racz, K., Cantin, M., & Genest, J. (1986). Atrial natriuretic factor inhibits sympathetic activity in one-kidney, one-clip hypertension in the rat. Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine, 181, 173–177.

Debinski, W., Kuchel, O., Buu, N. T., Garcia, R., Cantin, M., & Genest, J. (1986). Involvement of the adrenal glands in the action of the atrial natriuretic factor. Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine, 181, 318–324.

Debinski, W., Gutkowska, J., Kuchel, O., Racz, K., Buu, N. T., Cantin, M., & Genest, J. (1986). ANF-like peptide(s) in the peripheral autonomic nervous system. Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 134, 279–284.

Lei Shi | Tumorigenesis | Distinguished Scientist Award

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Mr. Lei Shi | Tumorigenesis | Distinguished Scientist Award

Mr. Lei Shi, Lanzhou University, China

Dr. Lei Shi is a distinguished cancer biologist and molecular pathologist, currently serving as a Professor and Group Leader at the School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, China. With an international career spanning Germany, the UK, and China, Dr. Shi has significantly contributed to our understanding of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), KRAS-mediated tumorigenesis, and lung cancer biology. He earned his Ph.D. from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and completed postdoctoral training at the CRUK Manchester Institute, one of the world’s premier cancer research centers. His interdisciplinary research bridges cancer signaling, immunotherapy, and molecular genetics. Dr. Shi has been the recipient of multiple national and international grants and has authored numerous high-impact publications in journals such as Nature Communications, Molecular Cancer, and Cell Death & Differentiation. His research plays a pivotal role in advancing personalized cancer therapy and diagnostics, making him a strong contender for the Distinguished Scientist Award.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Expertise in Tumorigenesis
    Dr. Shi has built a deep and consistent research track record in lung cancer biology, KRAS signaling, and non-coding RNAs—critical areas in modern tumorigenesis research. His work spans oncogene-driven pathways, epigenetics, and RNA biology, which are all highly relevant to the theme of this award.

  2. Strong International Training and Collaborations
    His academic path includes a Ph.D. in Germany (LMU Munich), a postdoctoral fellowship in the UK (University of Manchester/Cancer Research UK), and leadership in China—demonstrating international impact and collaboration.

  3. Proven Research Leadership
    As a Group Leader and Professor at Lanzhou University, Dr. Shi has led grants from both national and provincial Chinese funding bodies, showcasing strong institutional leadership and research independence.

  4. High-Impact Publications
    Dr. Shi has multiple first-author and corresponding-author publications in top-tier journals like Nature Communications, Molecular Cancer, Cell Death & Differentiation, Cancer Research, and others. This indicates a sustained contribution to scientific knowledge with measurable impact.

  5. Focus on Translational Relevance
    His work on KRAS-mediated tumorigenesis, lncRNAs in cancer, microRNA regulation, and drug resistance directly contributes to potential cancer therapies and diagnostics, aligning with the translational emphasis of many distinguished awards.

  6. Mentorship and Emerging Talent Development
    Multiple publications list junior co-authors under his supervision, showing that he actively mentors young scientists and builds collaborative research teams.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Recognition in Global Awards
    While Dr. Shi has an impressive research footprint, there is limited mention of international awards, editorial roles, or keynote presentations, which are often considered markers of distinguished global leadership.

  2. Clinical Translation or Patents
    The profile would benefit from stronger clinical application indicators, such as patents, clinical trials, or biotechnology translation, to further demonstrate real-world impact.

  3. Broader Research Diversification
    Although his expertise is deep in KRAS and RNA biology, engaging with emerging areas like AI in cancer research, organoid modeling, or immune-oncology interfaces could amplify his multidisciplinary influence.

Education:

Dr. Lei Shi’s academic journey is deeply rooted in life sciences and molecular pathology. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine (2003–2007) from Heibei North University, China, followed by a Master’s degree (2007–2010) in Agricultural Microbiology at Huazhong Agricultural University, where he developed his early interest in pathogenic mechanisms. He then pursued his Ph.D. (Dr.rer.nat) in Molecular Pathology (2011–2014) at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany, under the mentorship of Prof. Dr. Heiko Hermeking. His doctoral research explored the transcriptional regulation of tumor suppressors and oncogenes. This academic progression built a solid foundation in molecular oncology, leading to a postdoctoral fellowship (2015–2021) at the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute and Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, UK. Dr. Shi’s diverse education has provided him with a global and translational perspective on cancer biology, strengthening his leadership in molecular oncology research today.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Lei Shi is a Professor and Group Leader (2021–present) at Lanzhou University, where he heads translational cancer biology research within the School of Public Health. Prior to this, he held a prestigious Postdoctoral Research Fellow role (2015–2021) at the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, affiliated with The University of Manchester. There, he conducted cutting-edge research on KRAS-driven lung cancers, drug resistance mechanisms, and RNA therapeutics. Earlier, he was a Ph.D. researcher (2011–2014) at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, delving into the regulatory roles of p53 and lncRNAs. His professional experience reflects a continuum of cancer research from fundamental science to translational applications. Dr. Shi’s team at Lanzhou University is now exploring new therapeutic targets for non-small cell lung cancer and virus-associated cancers. He has secured multiple prestigious national and international grants and is actively mentoring the next generation of cancer researchers in China.

Research Focus:

Dr. Lei Shi’s research centers on the molecular mechanisms of cancer development and progression, with a primary focus on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), KRAS oncogene signaling, and RNA-based therapeutic strategies. His lab investigates how lncRNAs modulate gene expression, interact with microRNAs, and influence tumor microenvironment and immune response, particularly in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and virus-related malignancies. Dr. Shi is also exploring transcriptional feedback loops, including interactions between HIF1A-AS2 and MYC, to unravel how oncogenic pathways fuel metastasis. His postdoctoral work revealed KRAS-induced microRNA regulation, significantly advancing the understanding of RNA biology in cancer. Dr. Shi’s research integrates bioinformatics, functional genomics, and clinical samples to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. His contributions are paving the way for precision oncology, making a significant impact on early diagnosis, patient stratification, and drug resistance profiling in solid tumors, especially lung cancer.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. The roles of KRAS in cancer metabolism, tumor microenvironment and clinical therapy – Molecular Cancer (2025)

  2. Long non-coding RNA-encoded micropeptides: functions, mechanisms and implications – Cell Death & Discovery (2024)

  3. p53-regulated lncRNAs in cancers: from proliferation and metastasis to therapy – Cancer Gene Therapy (2023)

  4. Long non-coding RNA HIF1A-As2 and MYC form a double positive feedback loop in NSCLC – Cell Death & Differentiation (2023)

  5. Long non-coding RNAs in virus-related cancers – Reviews in Medical Virology (2022)

  6. Prognostic and immunotherapeutic roles of KRAS in Pan-Cancer – Cells (2022)

  7. A KRAS-responsive long non-coding RNA controls microRNA processing – Nature Communications (2021)

  8. Diverse roles of long non-coding RNA in viral diseases – Reviews in Medical Virology (2020)

  9. Vulnerability of drug-resistant EML4-ALK lung cancer to transcriptional inhibition – EMBO Mol Med (2020)

  10. KRAS induces lung tumorigenesis through microRNAs modulation – Cell Death & Disease (2018)

  11. The immunological and prognostic landscape of TFAP4 in cancer (scRNA-seq study) – Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics (2025)

Conclusion:

Dr. Lei Shi is highly suitable for the Distinguished Scientist Award in Tumorigenesis Research. His exceptional publication record, international training, leadership in cancer biology, and dedication to translational science make him a standout candidate. With ongoing contributions and future expansion into cross-disciplinary domains, his research trajectory is aligned with the highest standards of scientific distinction.

Mohammad reza Atashzar | Cancer stem cell | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mohammad reza Atashzar | Cancer stem cell | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammad reza Atashzar, Dep of immunology, Fasa university of medical sciences ( FUMS ), Iran

Dr. Mohammad Reza Atashzar is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Immunology at Fasa University of Medical Sciences (FUMS), Iran. With an enduring passion for tumor immunology, stem cells, vaccine design, and immunotherapy, he has made significant contributions through both basic and translational research. Dr. Atashzar earned his PhD in Immunology from Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences and has since engaged in teaching, mentoring, and publishing extensively in high-impact journals such as The Lancet Oncology, Frontiers in Immunology, and Current Molecular Medicine. His innovative research spans exosome-based therapy, cancer biomarkers, cytokine profiling, and radiogenomics. Dr. Atashzar has also contributed to international collaborations across Germany, Finland, and the UK, showcasing a global outlook in biomedical science. An awardee of the KAI 2022 International Travel Grant and recognized as the Top Researcher at FUMS in 2021, he remains deeply committed to advancing immunological sciences for clinical and therapeutic benefit.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions
    Dr. Atashzar has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals including The Lancet Oncology, Frontiers in Immunology, Current Molecular Medicine, and Computers in Biology and Medicine. His work spans critical fields like cancer immunology, exosome therapy, stem cell immunomodulation, and vaccine research.

  2. High-Impact Publications
    Several of his papers have significant citation counts—556 for Frontiers in Immunology, 284 for Journal of Cellular Physiology, and 207 for The Lancet Oncology, reflecting strong influence and relevance in the scientific community.

  3. International Recognition and Collaborations
    He has participated in international conferences (UK, China, Korea, Denmark, Spain, Italy) and collaborated with global institutions such as the University of Helsinki, University of Kiel, and GBD Collaborators, demonstrating a global research footprint.

  4. Innovation and Patents
    He has contributed to translational science through a published book on immunopharmacology and a pending patent for a microbiology loop sterilizer device, showing practical application of his research.

  5. Awards and Editorial Involvement
    Recognized with the International Travel Award (KAI 2022) and Top Researcher of FUMS (2021), and serving on editorial boards of scientific journals—further affirming his active role in academic development and peer review.

  6. Interdisciplinary Research Scope
    His research merges clinical immunology, oncology, AI-based prognostic tools, and cellular therapy, making his work not only innovative but also future-oriented.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Increase in First or Senior Author Publications
    While his contributions are numerous, strengthening his authorship role in key studies would amplify his recognition as a principal investigator.

  2. Patent Commercialization & Technology Transfer
    Moving from patent design to real-world implementation or licensing could significantly raise the translational value of his research.

  3. Higher Grant Involvement
    More participation in national/international grant-funded programs or consortiums would enhance the scale and visibility of his research.

  4. Focused Research Niche
    Narrowing focus slightly (e.g., prioritizing tumor immunology or exosome-based therapies) could help build a globally recognized brand in a specialized field.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Atashzar completed his undergraduate and master’s studies in Immunology at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS), Shiraz, Iran. Building on his foundational expertise, he pursued his PhD in Immunology at Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran. His doctoral thesis—“Investigation of the Effects of B16F10 Derived Exosomes Enriched with miRNA-211 in Induction of Antitumor Response in the Mouse Model of Melanoma”—reflected his early interest in cancer immunotherapy and translational research. Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Atashzar displayed a strong inclination toward exploring novel immune pathways and cell-based therapies. His formal education has laid a robust foundation for his ongoing work in immunological sciences, particularly in relation to tumor microenvironment, cytokine profiling, exosomes, and vaccine innovation. He has also undertaken continuous learning through collaborations and international scientific conferences, allowing him to integrate cutting-edge methodologies into his research and teaching repertoire.

🧪 Professional Experience:

Dr. Mohammad Reza Atashzar currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Immunology at Fasa University of Medical Sciences, with additional teaching responsibilities at Larestan University of Medical Sciences. He has accumulated over a decade of experience in academic instruction and biomedical research. His research portfolio includes multiple funded projects, notably in cancer immunology, cytokine regulation, diabetes-related immune responses, and exosome-based therapeutics. Dr. Atashzar has worked closely with international teams in Germany, Finland, and the UK, facilitating interdisciplinary approaches and innovations in clinical immunology. He is an editorial board member for reputed journals such as The International Journal of Neuroscience and Journal of International Medical Research. In parallel, he actively contributes to conference presentations worldwide, covering topics from cancer stem cells to immune biomarkers. His hands-on laboratory experience, combined with a global research network, enables him to lead and mentor in advanced areas like CAR-T cell therapy and personalized immunotherapy.

🧬 Research Focus:

Dr. Atashzar’s research is centered on tumor immunology, exosome-based therapies, cancer stem cells, CAR-T cell technology, cytokine profiling, and immunopharmacology. He has a keen interest in how immune cells—particularly T cells, NK cells, and regulatory B cells—can be harnessed for cancer therapy. His notable projects have explored the immunomodulatory effects of miRNA-enriched exosomes, the role of TLR4 polymorphisms in diabetes, and cytokine alterations in addiction and radiation-exposed individuals. He is also pioneering in translational research areas such as vaccine design, radiogenomics, and bio-immune device development. Dr. Atashzar integrates bioinformatics and machine learning for predictive modeling, evident in his contributions to COVID-19 prognostic modeling using CT radiomics. His work is driven by the goal of personalized immunotherapy and the identification of novel biomarkers for cancer progression and immune regulation. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, he aims to bridge the gap between immunological research and clinical application.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Cancer stem cells: A review from origin to therapeutic implications – Journal of Cellular Physiology

  2. 🧪 Tumor‐Derived Exosomes Enriched by miRNA‐211a Promote Antitumor Immune Response in B16F10 Tumor‐Bearing Mice – APMIS

  3. 🔬 The effects of tumor-derived exosomes enriched with miRNA-211a on B16F10 cells – Contemporary Oncology

  4. 💉 The effects of type 2 diabetes mellitus on organ metabolism and the immune system – Frontiers in Immunology

  5. 🧠 Pyrin and hematopoietic interferon-inducible nuclear protein domain proteins: innate immune sensors for cytosolic and nuclear DNA – Critical Reviews in Immunology

  6. 🧪 Reduced levels of T-helper 17-associated cytokines in serum of breast cancer patients – Central European Journal of Immunology

  7. 🧫 The Role of IL‐6, IL‐10 and CRP in Gastrointestinal Cancers – Cell Biology International

  8. 🌍 The global burden of adolescent and young adult cancer in 2019 – The Lancet Oncology

  9. 🖥️ COVID-19 prognostic modeling using CT radiomic features and ML algorithms – Computers in Biology and Medicine

  10. 🌡️ Mesenchymal stromal cells in bone marrow niche of multiple myeloma – Cancer Cell International

📌 Conclusion:

Dr. Mohammad Reza Atashzar is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His body of work reflects a deep commitment to scientific advancement in cancer immunology, immunotherapy, and bio-innovation. He combines strong academic output with international engagement, cross-disciplinary impact, and teaching contributions. With growing influence in both research and translational domains, Dr. Atashzar is poised to further elevate biomedical research in Iran and globally.