Marta Lopez de Diego | virus-host interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Marta Lopez de Diego | virus-host interactions | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Marta Lopez de Diego , Centro Nacional de Biotecnologia , Spain

Marta López de Diego is an Assistant Professor at the National Center for Biotechnology (CNB), part of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). She obtained her PhD from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid in 2008, under Prof. Luis Enjuanes, focusing on virus-host interactions. Following her PhD, she completed a postdoctoral term at CNB before moving to the University of Rochester, where she became an Assistant Professor in 2014. Since 2018, she has led her own research group at CNB. Her research is centered on viral pathogenesis, specifically studying respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, and the cellular mechanisms that influence viral replication and immune responses. Marta is a prominent figure in virology, recognized for her expertise in the molecular mechanisms of viral diseases and her collaboration with industry leaders.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Academic and Research Background: Dr. López de Diego has a strong academic foundation, with a PhD from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and postdoctoral experience at the University of Rochester. She has demonstrated leadership and scientific excellence, transitioning from a postdoctoral researcher to an Assistant Professor and leading her own research group at CNB-CSIC.
  2. Focused and Impactful Research: Her research is focused on important viral pathogenesis, particularly related to respiratory viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2. She explores virus-host interactions, innate immune responses, and viral replication, all of which are critical to understanding and combating viral diseases.
  3. Impressive Research Projects and Funding: Dr. López de Diego has successfully led and collaborated on multiple high-impact research projects funded by reputable agencies (e.g., the Ministry of Science and Innovation of Spain). She is the principal investigator (PI) of several notable projects, demonstrating strong leadership skills in research management. Her projects cover a wide range of issues, including immune responses, viral pathogenesis, and the development of antiviral treatments.
  4. High Citation and H-index: With an impressive H-index (42 according to Google Scholar) and significant citation count, Dr. López de Diego’s research is widely recognized within her field. Her work contributes significantly to understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral diseases and has been influential in the scientific community.
  5. Collaboration with Industry: Her collaboration with industry partners, such as Micromod Partikeltechnologie GmbH, Nanomag, and nanoPET-Pharma, showcases her ability to bridge academia and industry, a crucial aspect of advancing scientific discoveries into real-world applications. The antiviral research involving nanoparticles for respiratory virus treatment has practical implications, particularly for COVID-19 and influenza.
  6. Publication and Contributions to Books: Dr. López de Diego has contributed to several book chapters, showcasing her knowledge in areas of virology and nanoparticle-based antiviral strategies. This contributes to the education and dissemination of cutting-edge research to a broader audience.
  7. Patents and Novel Discoveries: She has multiple patents related to viral pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies, underlining the practical significance of her work in advancing new antiviral approaches.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader International Collaboration: While Dr. López de Diego has worked in international settings like the University of Rochester, increasing her collaborations with researchers from different parts of the world (outside of Europe and the US) could further expand the global impact of her work, especially in underrepresented regions.
  2. Focus on Translational Research: Although her research on virus-host interactions and antiviral strategies is impactful, a further emphasis on the clinical translation of her findings into treatment options could strengthen her overall contribution to the field. More clinical trials or collaboration with hospitals could help solidify her research’s real-world application.
  3. Public Engagement and Outreach: As an expert in the field of virology, Dr. López de Diego could engage more with the public, raising awareness about the importance of her research, especially in the context of public health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Involvement in science communication could further elevate her recognition.

Education:

Marta López de Diego completed her PhD in 2008 at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Spain. Under the mentorship of Prof. Luis Enjuanes at the CNB, her doctoral research focused on understanding virus-host interactions. Afterward, she continued her work at CNB as a postdoctoral researcher, contributing to various projects on viral pathogenesis. In 2013, she moved to the University of Rochester in the United States to join Prof. David Topham’s lab, where she was promoted to Assistant Professor in 2014 due to her significant contributions to the field. Marta’s solid academic background, coupled with her international experience, has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of virology and cellular biology. She has since returned to CNB, where she continues to investigate the complex relationships between viruses and host cells, particularly in the context of respiratory diseases.

Experience:

Marta López de Diego has a distinguished career as a researcher and academic in the field of virology. She began her career with a PhD in 2008, followed by postdoctoral work at the CNB, where she developed expertise in respiratory viruses and viral pathogenesis. In 2013, she joined the University of Rochester as a postdoctoral researcher, and by 2014, she was promoted to Assistant Professor. During her tenure, she led innovative research on the cellular factors influencing viral replication and immune responses. In 2018, Marta returned to Spain and established her own research group at the CNB, focusing on virus-host interactions, particularly the immune responses to respiratory viruses. Marta has secured multiple research grants and has become a key collaborator with both academic and industry partners. Her leadership and contributions to viral research have established her as a leading scientist in the field of cellular and molecular virology.

Research Focus:

Marta López de Diego’s research primarily investigates the interaction between respiratory viruses and host cellular mechanisms, with a particular focus on the pathogenesis of viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Her studies explore how cellular proteins influence viral entry, replication, and the induction of immune responses. Marta is also investigating the role of interferon-stimulated genes in antiviral responses and how these interactions contribute to disease severity. Her research aims to uncover the molecular processes that determine the outcome of viral infections, which is crucial for developing targeted therapies and vaccines. Furthermore, Marta’s work extends to exploring how host factors can be leveraged to prevent viral replication and modulate immune responses. Her ongoing projects, which are well-funded by Spanish and international agencies, reflect her leadership in virology. Marta also collaborates with industry partners to develop novel antiviral strategies using nanoparticles, reinforcing her commitment to translational research.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Antiviral Activity of Iron Oxide and Iron Oxyhydroxide Nanoparticles in Respiratory Infections 📚🦠
  2. Emergencia del síndrome respiratorio agudo y grave y protección frente al coronavirus causante del mismo 📖🌍
  3. Emergencia de virus. Evolución y protección frente al coronavirus de la neumonía atípica SARS-CoV 📘🦠
  4. Vaccines for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Virus and Other Coronaviruses 📙💉
  5. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Envelope Protein Ion Channel Activity Promotes Virus Fitness and Pathogenesis 🔬🦠
  6. A Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus that Lacks the E Gene is Attenuated In Vitro and In Vivo 💥🔬
  7. Inhibition of NF-κB-Mediated Inflammation in SARS-CoV-Infected Mice Increases Survival 💡🦠
  8. Subcellular Location and Topology of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Envelope Protein 🔬🧬
  9. Whole-Genome Sequencing Reveals Host Factors Underlying Critical COVID-19 📊🧬
  10. Engineering a Replication-Competent, Propagation-Defective Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus as a Vaccine Candidate 🧬💉

Conclusion:

Dr. Marta López de Diego is an outstanding researcher whose work is not only scientifically rigorous but also has profound implications for global health, particularly in understanding and combating respiratory viruses. She has demonstrated leadership in research, secured substantial funding, and contributed to significant scientific advancements in virology. Her strengths in scientific research, international collaboration, and engagement with the industry make her an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a little more emphasis on clinical applications and public outreach, Dr. López de Diego’s work could have even greater societal impact.

 

 

 

Isabelle Brigaud | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Isabelle Brigaud | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Isabelle Brigaud , CNRS IS2M , France

Isabelle Brigaud is an experienced research engineer at CNRS IS2M, Mulhouse, France. With a strong foundation in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and bioinformatics, she specializes in the study of biomaterials, tissue engineering, and immunology. Brigaud has made significant contributions to understanding the foreign body response to materials such as silicone breast implants and injectable hydrogels. Her expertise spans molecular cloning, protein analysis, and the development of study models using ex vivo, animal models (e.g., zebrafish, Drosophila, and Spodoptera littoralis), and advanced imaging techniques like confocal microscopy. Passionate about collaborative research, she is involved in managing cross-functional projects, fundraising, and mentoring students. Brigaud holds CNU qualifications in cell biology and physiology and is an advocate for continuous technical training. Her research has resulted in numerous high-impact publications in the field of biomaterials and molecular biology.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Diverse and High-Impact Research Focus: Isabelle Brigaud’s research spans multiple biological disciplines, including molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and biophysics, showing a broad and in-depth understanding of biological processes. This is particularly demonstrated through her contributions to studies in immunogenic responses in breast implant tissue, the molecular mechanisms of endometriosis, and cellular interactions with biomaterials, indicating her versatility in tackling diverse biological challenges.
  2. Strong Publication Record: Brigaud has a consistent publication history in high-impact journals, such as Biomaterials, Nature Communications, Acta Biomater, and PRS. These publications focus on important topics like cellular migration, biomaterial interaction, and regenerative medicine, all of which are at the forefront of current biomedical research. Her work on the interaction of biomaterials with tissues, especially focusing on inflammatory responses, positions her as a leading researcher in the field.
  3. Expertise in Advanced Techniques: She is proficient in a wide range of cutting-edge techniques, from molecular biology techniques like RNAseq and PCR to cell biology methods, including cell differentiation and functional pharmacology. This technical expertise is key for producing reliable, reproducible results, which is crucial for advancing scientific knowledge.
  4. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Brigaud’s experience in collaborating across various research teams, institutions, and international boundaries highlights her ability to contribute effectively to multidisciplinary research projects. She has also demonstrated leadership in supervising and training students and researchers, underscoring her role as a mentor and leader in the research community.
  5. Management and Funding Expertise: As a research engineer and project manager, she has led several important projects, such as those related to soft tissue reactions to implants and muscle regeneration. Her experience in fundraising and project management indicates strong organizational and leadership skills, both of which are crucial for steering complex research initiatives toward success.
  6. Commitment to Health-Related Research: Her work on health-related issues, such as the effects of silicone breast implants on immune responses and the management of endometriosis symptoms through exercise, shows a direct impact on improving human health. Her research addresses real-world health challenges, making it highly relevant and applicable to clinical settings.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Dissemination of Findings: While Brigaud has an impressive publication record, there is a potential for more dissemination of her findings to the broader scientific community, especially through high-visibility conferences and workshops. Increased visibility could attract more collaborative opportunities and funding for her projects.
  2. Expanding Research Focus on Novel Therapeutic Applications: Brigaud’s research has already significantly contributed to understanding biomaterials and cell interactions. Further expansion into therapeutic applications, such as designing and testing novel drug delivery systems or regenerative therapies, could strengthen her profile as a researcher with direct clinical and pharmaceutical applications.
  3. Increased Focus on Large-Scale Collaborative Projects: While Brigaud has demonstrated leadership in individual projects, engaging in larger, multi-institutional collaborative projects could provide even more resources and amplify the impact of her research on a global scale.
  4. Enhancing Outreach to Broader Audiences: Given her expertise in addressing important clinical and biomedical issues, there may be an opportunity for Brigaud to engage with broader non-specialist audiences, including through public science communication platforms, to make her work more accessible to the general public.

Education:

Isabelle Brigaud holds a PhD in Molecular Biology and Insect Physiology from Jussieu, Paris VI, awarded with first-class honors in 2008. She also completed a Master 2 in Integrative Biology and Physiology, specializing in adaptation to the environment, and a Master 1 in Population and Ecosystem Biology and Ecophysiology, both from Jussieu, Paris VI, with honors. Brigaud has expanded her academic credentials with postdoctoral research experiences at the University of Freiburg, Germany (2012-2014), focusing on the cytoskeleton organization in zebrafish development. Prior to that, she conducted research at CNRS/INSERM in Lyon, France (2009-2011), where she studied the plasticity of cell morphology during Drosophila oogenesis. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry, which has shaped her research trajectory and expertise in biomaterials and tissue engineering.

Experience:

Isabelle Brigaud has extensive experience in molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry. She has worked at CNRS IS2M, Mulhouse, France, since 2019 as a research engineer, managing biomolecule platforms and leading studies on the foreign body response to silicone implants and injectable hydrogels. Brigaud previously held postdoctoral research positions at the University of Freiburg, Germany, and CNRS/INSERM, Lyon, France, where she investigated cytoskeletal dynamics in zebrafish lateral line development and cell morphology plasticity during Drosophila oogenesis. During her PhD at INRAE, Versailles, she focused on pheromone detection mechanisms in pest moths, an experience that formed her expertise in molecular biology and insect physiology. In addition to her hands-on research, Brigaud is involved in cross-functional project management, collaborative teamwork, and student supervision, demonstrating strong leadership skills and a passion for advancing scientific knowledge.

Awards and Honors:

Isabelle Brigaud’s work has been recognized through several prestigious publications and her contributions to the fields of biomaterials and molecular biology. Her research on the foreign body response to silicone breast implants and injectable hydrogels has made significant strides in understanding tissue regeneration and inflammatory responses. As an active member of the research community, she has been involved in multiple high-impact journal articles published in prominent scientific journals such as Biomaterials, Acta Biomaterialia, and Nature Communications. Although specific awards are not detailed in her profile, her extensive publication record, including multiple first-author and co-author contributions, highlights her ongoing influence in the scientific community. Brigaud’s commitment to advancing knowledge in biomaterials, molecular biology, and tissue engineering is further demonstrated through her leadership roles in cross-disciplinary projects, mentoring students, and managing research collaborations.

Research Focus:

Isabelle Brigaud’s research focuses on the intersection of molecular biology, biomaterials, and tissue engineering, with a specific interest in understanding the foreign body response to implants and regenerative therapies. Her work explores the immune reactions induced by materials like silicone breast implants and injectable hydrogels, aiming to improve tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation. Brigaud’s expertise includes molecular cloning, protein analysis, cell culture, and advanced imaging techniques, all of which she applies to study cell behavior, tissue interactions, and the effects of materials on cellular processes. She uses animal models, including zebrafish and Drosophila, to investigate cell morphology plasticity and mechanotransduction. Her focus also extends to the development of drug delivery systems and the role of extracellular matrix in inflammation and tissue healing. Brigaud’s collaborative approach to research has led to significant advances in the study of immunology, regenerative medicine, and biomaterials.

Publications Top Notes:

  • Brigaud I et al., 2024. Breast implant silicone exposure induces immunogenic response and autoimmune markers in human periprosthetic tissues. Biomaterials 🔬💉
  • Ouedraogo C et al., 2024. Fabrication and characterization of thin self-rolling film for anti-inflammatory drug delivery. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 💊🧬
  • Escriva-Boulley G et al., 2023. Effects of physical activity and endometriosis-based education program delivered by videoconference on endometriosis symptoms: the CRESCENDO program. Trials 🏃‍♀️🩺
  • Brigaud I et al., 2020. Surface texturization of breast implants impacts extracellular matrix and inflammatory gene expression in asymptomatic capsules. PRS 🦠🔬
  • Wakhloo NT et al., 2019. Actomyosin, vimentin and LINC complex pull on osteosarcoma nuclei to deform on micropillar topography. Biomaterials 🦴🔬
  • Pieuchot L et al. 2018. Curvotaxis directs cell migration through cell-scale curvature landscapes. Nature Commun. 🌍🧬
  • Brigaud I et al. 2017. Synergistic effects of BMP-2, BMP-6 or BMP-7 with human plasma fibronectin onto hydroxyapatite coatings: A comparative study. Acta Biomater. 🧫
  • Brigaud I et al., 2015. TGFbeta/activin signaling induces epithelial cell flattening during Drosophila oogenesis. Biol Open 🦗💡
  • Montagné N et al., 2012. Functional characterization of a sex pheromone receptor in the pest moth Spodoptera littoralis by heterologous expression in Drosophila. European Journal of Neuroscience 🦋👃
  • Montagne N et al.,2011. Functional characterization of a sex pheromone receptor in the pest moth Spodoptera littoralis. Chemical Senses 🦋💨
  • Brigaud I et al., 2009. Identification of an atypical insect olfactory receptor subtype highly conserved within noctuids. FEBS Journal 🦗👃
  • Brigaud I et al. 2009. Cloning and expression pattern of a putative octopamine/tyramine receptor in antennae of the noctuid moth Mamestra brassicae. Cell and Tissue Research 🦋🧬

Conclusion:

Isabelle Brigaud is undoubtedly a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her multifaceted expertise, robust publication record, and impactful contributions to molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry, particularly in the context of health applications, position her as a leader in her field. With her proven ability to manage large-scale research projects and mentor the next generation of scientists, she continues to make significant strides in biomedical research. By focusing on increasing the visibility of her findings and expanding her research into therapeutic domains, Brigaud could further elevate her already outstanding career.