Marco Leitzke | immunology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Marco Leitzke | immunology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marco Leitzke, Helios clinics, Germany

Dr. Marco Leitzke, born in 1970 in Karl-Marx-Stadt, Germany, is a senior anesthesiologist and pioneering researcher in neuromodulation and post-viral syndromes. He has served as Senior Consultant in Anesthesiology and Intensive Care at Helios Clinic Leisnig since 2015 and has extensive experience in pain therapy and palliative medicine. Renowned for his innovative studies on autonomic dysfunction, Dr. Leitzke has published extensively on cholinergic neurotransmission, COVID-19 coagulopathy, and vagus nerve stimulation. His recent focus on Long COVID as a disorder of disrupted acetylcholine signaling has gained significant scientific attention. With a dual career in clinical practice and experimental research, he bridges the gap between bedside and bench. His work earned him accolades, including a Poster Award at the 1st Long COVID Congress in Jena. Passionate about translational medicine, Dr. Leitzke continues to drive forward the understanding and treatment of complex neuroimmune disorders.

Publication Profile: 

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Scopus

Education:

Dr. Leitzke’s medical education and specialization reflect a deep commitment to anesthesiology and neurobiological research. He became a board-certified specialist in anesthesiology in 2006 and has built on this foundation with focused training in advanced pain management, ultrasound-guided interventions, and emergency medicine. He undertook specialized pain therapy training in 2015 and interventional pain techniques in 2014. In 2019, he began training as an Antibiotic Stewardship (ABS) expert physician, further demonstrating his holistic approach to patient safety and infection control. He also completed a transthoracic echocardiography course in 2018, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and cross-disciplinary skills. This diverse academic background provides the basis for his translational research into neuroimmune and autonomic disorders, with a strong emphasis on clinical application. His combination of anesthesiology, ultrasound, pain therapy, and experimental neurobiology positions him as a uniquely skilled researcher bridging clinical practice and neuroscience.

Experience:

Dr. Marco Leitzke brings over two decades of clinical experience, predominantly in anesthesiology, intensive care, pain therapy, and palliative medicine. Since 2015, he has held the position of Senior Consultant at the Helios Clinic in Leisnig, where he leads interdisciplinary efforts in patient care and clinical innovation. Prior to this, he served as Senior Consultant at Asklepios Clinic Weißenfels from 2011 to 2014, while also operating as a freelance physician in Zeitz. His professional focus spans acute and chronic pain, complex anesthesia procedures, and critical care management, underpinned by a solid emergency medicine foundation gained since 2001. His hands-on experience with ultrasound-guided interventions, vagal modulation therapies, and autonomic diagnostics directly informs his research into the pathophysiology of post-viral syndromes. The integration of clinical insight and scientific exploration marks him as a dual-domain expert, fostering new therapeutic approaches rooted in both laboratory evidence and patient outcomes.

Research Focus:

Dr. Leitzke’s research centers on cholinergic neurotransmission and its impairment in acute and chronic post-viral conditions, particularly Long COVID. His central hypothesis suggests that autonomic dysfunction and neuromodulatory imbalance—specifically, disruption of the vagus nerve and acetylcholine pathways—underlie many post-viral symptoms. Through translational models using animal studies and human imaging, he explores therapeutic modulation, including vagal nerve stimulation and nicotine administration, to restore autonomic balance. His research extends to the role of NF-κB activation in COVID-19-associated coagulopathy, suggesting molecular pathways that link inflammation, clotting, and neuroimmune dysfunction. A hallmark of his work is the use of advanced imaging techniques (e.g., PET scans) to quantify cerebral receptor activity, particularly α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. This integrative and experimental approach offers new perspectives on diagnostics and treatment in neuroimmune conditions, making his work highly relevant to both the scientific and medical communities in the era of post-COVID syndromes.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📖 Long COVID – A Critical Disruption of Cholinergic Neurotransmission? (Springer Nature, 2025)

  2. 📖 Is the Post-COVID-19 Syndrome a Severe Impairment of Acetylcholine-Orchestrated Neuromodulation That Responds to Nicotine Administration? (Springer Nature, 2023)

  3. 🏅 COVID-19 – The Ultimate NF-κB Rush and the Crucial Importance of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors (Poster Award, Long COVID Congress, 2022)

  4. 🔬 Experimental Design for PET Detection of α7nAChR Under Gastric Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Piglets (DAS PLUS AN SCHUTZ, 2022)

  5. 🧠 The Viral Accelerated NF-κB Pathway and COVID-19-Associated Coagulopathy – A Case Report (Fortune Journals, 2021)

  6. 🧪 Afferent Vagal Stimulation via Gastric Electrical Stimulation Alters Sympathetic-Vagal Balance in Pigs – A Pilot Trial (Journal of Biological Regulators, 2021)

  7. ⚖️ Autonomic Balance Determines the Severity of COVID-19 Courses (Springer Nature, 2020)

  8. 🧮 A Semi-Automated Algorithm for Hypothalamus Volumetry in 3 Tesla MRI (Psychiatry Research: Neuroimaging, 2018)

  9. 🧬 Image-Derived Input Function for (-)-[18F]Flubatine Using a Digital PET System (European Journal of Nuclear Medicine, 2024)

  10. 💊 What Is the Impact of Nicotine on the Post-COVID-19 Syndrome? – A Case Series (Preprint, 2025)

Conclusion:

Dr. Marco Leitzke is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his pioneering contributions to understanding and treating Long COVID and neuroimmune disorders. His strong publication record, interdisciplinary approach, and clinical insight mark him as a leading figure in his field. With enhanced international collaboration and clinical validation of his findings, his impact could be even greater. Overall, his research is timely, innovative, and of substantial scientific and societal importance.

Muhammad Junaid Anwar | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Mr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar , Bahauddin Zakariya Univeristy Multan Pakistan , Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar is a dedicated food scientist specializing in Food Science and Technology. With a Ph.D. from Bahauddin Zakariya University (BZU), Multan, he has established himself as a researcher with expertise in food safety, nanotechnology, and functional foods. His work focuses on developing innovative solutions for food security, nutrition, and disease prevention. Having authored multiple high-impact research publications, Dr. Anwar’s contributions span across nanotechnology-based food encapsulation, food safety enhancement, and alternative protein sources. He has also participated in prestigious conferences and workshops, further showcasing his commitment to advancing food science. His research has significantly contributed to tackling food-related health challenges such as cow milk allergies, microbial contamination, and nutraceutical applications. With his profound knowledge, industry experience, and research excellence, Dr. Anwar stands out as a promising scholar in the field. His dedication to food innovation makes him a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Strong Academic Background – Dr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar has an exceptional academic record with a Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology, a strong CGPA, and an extensive research focus.

  2. High-Impact Research Publications – He has authored multiple research articles in reputable, high-impact factor journals (Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, Food Science & Nutrition, Food Bioscience, etc.). His contributions cover diverse areas, including nanotechnology, food safety, and immunomodulation.

  3. Diverse Research Contributions – His research spans crucial topics such as nano-encapsulation, diabetes management, functional foods, and nutraceuticals, demonstrating interdisciplinary expertise.

  4. Industry Experience – His experience as an Officer in Quality Enhancement and Laboratory at S.M. Food Makers highlights his applied knowledge and practical contribution to food science.

  5. Conference Participation – He has actively contributed to scientific discussions through multiple national conferences, particularly on food security and food safety.

  6. Published Abstracts & Workshops – His engagement in published abstracts and workshops reflects an effort to bridge academia with real-world food technology applications.

Areas for Improvement

  1. International Collaboration – While his research is strong, expanding collaborations with international institutions and researchers could further enhance global impact.

  2. Patent & Commercialization – Translating research into patents or commercial food innovations would strengthen his practical contributions to the industry.

  3. Citations & Recognition – As some of his latest research articles have yet to gain citations, increasing visibility through academic networks and outreach can boost recognition.

Education:

Dr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar has an exceptional academic background in Food Science and Technology. He is currently completing his Ph.D. (2021-2025) at the Department of Food Science and Technology, BZU Multan, with a stellar CGPA of 3.87/4.00. Previously, he completed his M.Sc. (Hons.) in Food Science & Technology (2018-2020) from the same institution, securing a CGPA of 3.76/4.00. His undergraduate journey began with a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture (Food Science & Technology) (2014-2018), again with a CGPA of 3.76/4.00. His solid foundation in sciences started with F.Sc. (Pre-Medical) in 2014 from Muslim Public Higher Secondary School, Multan, achieving 840/1100 marks, followed by Matriculation in 2012 from Govt. M.A Jinnah High School, Multan, with 863/1050 marks. His consistent academic excellence highlights his dedication to food science research and technological advancements, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Experience:

Dr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar has a diverse professional background in food science research and industry. He completed a 7-week internship at Bunny’s Limited, Lahore, where he gained hands-on experience in food processing and quality control. He later served as an Officer (Quality Enhancement and Lab) at S.M. Food Makers for two years (2018-2020), where he worked on ensuring food safety standards and enhancing product quality. His industry experience has provided him with a deep understanding of food technology applications, quality assurance, and research methodologies. In addition to his industry roles, he has contributed to academia through extensive research on food nanotechnology, functional foods, and microbial safety. His experience spans both applied and theoretical research, making him an asset to the food science community. His professional achievements, combined with his research excellence, make him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Research Focus:

Dr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar’s research revolves around food nanotechnology, functional foods, and food safety. His recent work focuses on the nano-encapsulation of bioactive compounds, such as casein-based encapsulation for managing cow milk allergies. His contributions extend to food safety enhancements using ultrasonication and calcium chloride treatments to reduce microbial contamination in fresh produce. Dr. Anwar has also explored the nutraceutical applications of medicinal plants like fenugreek and Tribulus terrestris to develop functional foods with health benefits. His studies have highlighted the role of alternative protein sources, such as Moringa oleifera-derived proteins, in plant-based meat substitutes. Additionally, he has worked on the impact of ozone treatment in mitigating mycotoxin contamination in food. His multi-disciplinary approach to food science integrates biotechnology, food engineering, and health sciences, making his research valuable for global food security and human health. His outstanding contributions make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Notes:

📌 Casein-Based Nano-Encapsulation for Cow Milk Allergy Management 🥛🔬 (Food Bioscience, 2025)
📌 Ultrasonication & Calcium Chloride Pre-Treatment for Microbial Load Reduction in Carrots 🥕🦠 (Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 2025)
📌 Isoflavones: Natural Agents for Cancer Prevention & Treatment 🎗️🍃 (Food Science & Nutrition, 2025)
📌 Functional Yogurt with Cinnamon & Stevia for Diabetes Management 🍦🍯 (Food & Agricultural Immunology, 2024)
📌 Nutritional & Physico-Chemical Profiling of Tribulus terrestris for Nutraceutical Applications 🌿💊 (Journal of Population Therapeutics & Clinical Pharmacology, 2024)
📌 The Multifaceted Potential of Fenugreek Seeds in Health & Nanotechnology 🌱⚗️ (Food Science & Nutrition, 2024)
📌 Protein Extraction from Moringa Leaves as a Plant-Based Meat Alternative 🍃🥩 (Regulatory Toxicology & Pharmacology, 2024)
📌 Role of Ozone in Mycotoxin Management for Food Safety ⚡🍞 (PSFST Conference, 2023)
📌 Potential of Anaerobic Digestion in Food Waste Management 🔄♻️ (PSFST Conference, 2023)
📌 Addressing Food Price Fluctuations: A Global Priority 📈🌍 (PSFST Conference, 2023)
📌 Strengthening Local Food Systems for Food Security 🌾🍽️ (PSFST Conference, 2023)

Conclusion:

Dr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar has demonstrated exceptional research contributions in food science, particularly in functional foods, nanotechnology, and food safety. His high-impact publications, active participation in conferences, and industry experience make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Strengthening international collaborations and focusing on patents or commercialization could further enhance his research impact.