Romain Villéger | Host-bacteria interactions | Cell Metabolism Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Romain Villéger | Host-bacteria interactions | Cell Metabolism Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Romain Villéger , Université de Poitiers , France

Dr. Romain Villéger is an Assistant Professor at the University of Poitiers, France, in the Ecology & Biology of Interactions (EBI) lab, within the Microorganisms-Hosts-Environments (MHE) team. With a Ph.D. from the University of Limoges, his work explores the intricate interactions between probiotics and host cells. He has held postdoctoral positions at the University of Bordeaux and the University of Texas Medical Branch, USA, focusing on microbiota-host relationships and metabolomics. Dr. Villéger’s research aims to unravel the role of bacterial interactions, particularly in the context of gastrointestinal health, microbiota, and cancer. His research has led to significant advancements in understanding microbial pathogenesis, including the effects of probiotics and endocrine disruptors on host cell metabolism. A dedicated researcher, he has contributed to numerous scientific publications and currently leads several high-impact projects on bacteria-host interactions.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Expertise in Metabolomics: Dr. Romain Villéger’s extensive work in metabolomics, especially in the context of host-bacteria interactions, positions him as a strong candidate for the Cell Metabolism Award. His research on bacterial influence on host cellular metabolism and gut microbiota interactions contributes significantly to the field of cellular metabolism.
  2. Innovative Research Contributions: His research, particularly on the metabolic changes during amoeba-Legionella interactions, showcases a novel approach to understanding microbial pathogenesis. By identifying metabolic vulnerabilities in pathogens, his work has the potential for therapeutic applications, thus addressing fundamental questions in cell metabolism.
  3. Multidisciplinary Approach: Dr. Villéger combines microbiology, immunology, and metabolomics, which enriches his contributions to cellular metabolism. His research is collaborative, evidenced by numerous projects across different institutions and fields, indicating a broad and innovative approach to the subject.
  4. Publications and Impact: He has a strong publication record, with numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals (19 publications), with high visibility in top-tier journals such as British Journal of Cancer, Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, and Environmental Microbiology Reports. This demonstrates his influence and impact in the scientific community.
  5. Research Leadership: As the principal investigator of multiple projects, including those on the effects of phthalates on gut microbiota and cancer development, Dr. Villéger has demonstrated leadership in advancing scientific knowledge in areas that intersect with cell metabolism, host-microbe interactions, and metabolic changes in disease.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Clinical Translation: While his research shows deep insights into fundamental mechanisms, further work on translating these findings into practical clinical applications or therapeutic interventions would strengthen his impact in applied cellular metabolism.
  2. Interdisciplinary Team Development: While Dr. Villéger collaborates with many renowned researchers, fostering additional interdisciplinary partnerships could enrich his research by incorporating diverse techniques and perspectives from fields like drug development or personalized medicine.
  3. Expanding Metabolomic Toolkits: His research could benefit from exploring emerging and cutting-edge techniques in metabolomics, like single-cell analysis or multi-omics approaches, to gain deeper insights into cellular metabolism at the individual cell level.

Education:

Dr. Villéger completed his Ph.D. at the University of Limoges, where his thesis focused on the interactions between probiotics and host cells. His postdoctoral work spans institutions in France, the USA, and beyond, each contributing valuable insights into microbial-host dynamics and cellular microbiology. At the University of Bordeaux, he developed metabolomic approaches using GC/MS to study microbiota interactions. Later, at the University of Texas Medical Branch, he delved deeper into the effects of probiotics on intestinal homeostasis. Further postdoctoral experiences at the University of Clermont Auvergne involved examining the relationship between E. coli and colorectal cancer. Through these experiences, Dr. Villéger has gained expertise in microbiota research, cell biology, and metabolic analysis, providing a foundation for his ongoing work in the field. His education has provided a strong interdisciplinary framework, integrating microbiology, molecular biology, and toxicology into his research.

Experience:

Dr. Villéger has accumulated extensive experience in both academic and research settings. After earning his Ph.D. in 2014, he completed several postdoctoral positions, with notable work at the University of Bordeaux, where he pioneered metabolomics techniques for microbiota research. His tenure at the University of Texas Medical Branch expanded his focus to the effects of probiotics on intestinal homeostasis. Additionally, his work at the University of Clermont Auvergne involved exploring the connection between microbial interactions and cancer. Since joining the University of Poitiers in 2020 as an Assistant Professor, Dr. Villéger has led several research projects, including investigating the impact of endocrine disruptors on colorectal cancer development. He is also a leader in metabolomics and microbial pathogenesis, with a particular focus on bacteria-host interactions and microbiota modulation. His research has contributed to numerous publications and collaborations with institutions worldwide, showcasing his ability to manage complex research projects.

Research Focus:

Dr. Villéger’s research primarily focuses on bacteria-host interactions, gut microbiota, and cellular microbiology, with a special interest in how microbial populations affect host metabolism. His work integrates metabolomics, a powerful tool for studying metabolic processes, to better understand microbial influence on host cells. Dr. Villéger’s recent studies explore the role of oxidative stress in microbial infections, including Legionella pneumophila’s subversion of host immune defenses during infection. He has also investigated the impact of endocrine disruptors on microbial virulence, providing insights into the potential links between environmental factors and microbial pathogenesis. His contributions to understanding the microbiota-gut-brain axis, particularly in the context of colorectal cancer, emphasize the metabolic changes induced by bacterial interactions. Dr. Villéger’s research aims to identify biomarkers for disease and therapeutic interventions, with a broader goal of advancing precision medicine through a better understanding of the cellular and metabolic processes that underlie microbial-host dynamics.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Legionella pneumophila subverts the antioxidant defenses of its amoeba host Acanthamoeba castellanii 💥🦠
  2. Increased Activity of MAPKAPK2 within Mesenchymal Cells as a Target for Inflammation-Associated Fibrosis in Crohn’s Disease 🔬🧬
  3. Exposure to endocrine disruptors promotes biofilm formation and contributes to increased virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa 💧🦠
  4. Loss of alcohol dehydrogenase 1B in cancer-associated fibroblasts: contribution to the increase of tumor-promoting IL-6 in colon cancer 🧬🦠
  5. Effect of endocrine disruptors on bacterial virulence 🌿🧪
  6. Proteomic analysis of Acanthamoeba castellanii response to Legionella pneumophila infection 🔬🦠
  7. Disruption of retinol-mediated IL-6 expression in colon cancer-associated fibroblasts: new perspectives on the role of vitamin A metabolism 🧬🍊
  8. Microbiota medicine: towards clinical revolution 🌍💊
  9. Deletion of cystathionine-γ-lyase in bone marrow-derived cells promotes colitis-associated carcinogenesis 🔬🦠
  10. Prebiotic Isomaltooligosaccharide Provides an Advantageous Fitness to the Probiotic Bacillus subtilis CU1 🍞🦠

Conclusion:

Dr. Romain Villéger is a highly qualified candidate for the Cell Metabolism Award. His research contributions in understanding microbial influence on cellular metabolism and gut health, combined with his innovative approach to metabolomics, make him stand out in the field. His work bridges basic science and potential clinical applications, positioning him as a key figure in the ongoing exploration of microbial and metabolic influences on host physiology. With some expansion into clinical applications and further exploration of new metabolomics techniques, his contributions could significantly impact both scientific knowledge and medical practice.

 

 

 

Mona Soliman | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Mona Soliman | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Awards

Prof. Mona Soliman , Taibah University , Saudi Arabia

Dr. Mona Hassan Soliman Hussein is an Associate Professor in the Biology Department, Plant Physiology Division at Taibah University, Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, and holds a permanent position as Associate Professor at Cairo University, Egypt. She was born on October 19, 1968, in Maadi, Cairo, Egypt. Dr. Hussein holds a PhD in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry from Cairo University, where she specializes in natural products and biochemical plant ecology. She has extensive experience in plant stress physiology, especially in the context of allelopathy, stress alleviation, and the use of bio-stimulants and natural compounds to improve plant productivity. Dr. Hussein has published numerous research papers and book chapters and is actively involved in academic committees and research initiatives in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic and Professional Background:
    • Dr. Soliman holds advanced degrees in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, including a Master’s and a Ph.D. from Cairo University, with a focus on biochemical plant ecology and allelopathic potential in plants. This deep scientific expertise in both the theoretical and applied aspects of plant physiology makes her a leader in the field.
    • She has held prominent positions at various institutions, including Associate Professor in both Taibah University (KSA) and Cairo University (Egypt), along with leadership roles such as Dean of Academic Affairs and Head of Exam Committees.
  2. Research Contributions:
    • Dr. Soliman has an impressive research portfolio, with multiple journal articles and book chapters on plant stress tolerance, bio-stimulants, and allelopathy. Her studies focus on innovative methods to enhance crop resilience to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and heavy metals.
    • She has contributed to high-impact journals, with a diverse research output that addresses both theoretical and applied scientific issues, offering practical solutions for crop improvement.
    • Her research also bridges plant physiology with practical agricultural solutions, such as improving soil quality with biochar or enhancing plant tolerance to environmental stresses, which is highly relevant for sustainable agriculture.
  3. Global Recognition:
    • Dr. Soliman has global recognition through her profiles on platforms like Google Scholar, Scopus, ResearchGate, and ORCID, reflecting her international presence and collaboration. Her research has been cited in multiple studies, suggesting that her work is widely acknowledged by peers in the field.
  4. Leadership and Collaboration:
    • As an active collaborator in multiple projects and publications, she has demonstrated strong leadership in managing interdisciplinary research teams, which is crucial for large-scale research initiatives. Her involvement in various academic committees further emphasizes her leadership skills.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Research Visibility and Outreach:
    • While Dr. Soliman has a strong publication record, increasing the visibility of her research through more frequent presentations at international conferences and public outreach could help in disseminating her findings to a broader audience, particularly in regions that face the environmental challenges her research addresses.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaborations:
    • Although her research spans across plant physiology, biochemistry, and applied agricultural sciences, fostering collaborations with industries and organizations working on sustainable agricultural technologies could enhance the practical impact of her research.
  3. Innovation in Research Focus:
    • Dr. Soliman could consider expanding her research to include cutting-edge technologies such as genomics, plant-based biotechnology, or climate change mitigation strategies in agriculture, which would enhance the novelty and potential impact of her future studies.

Education:

Dr. Mona Hussein’s educational journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Botany with Honors from Cairo University in 1990, followed by a Master’s degree in Biochemical Plant Ecology from Cairo University in 1996. Her Master’s thesis focused on “Allelopathic Potential of Lupinus termis Seeds,” exploring the use of secondary metabolites for enhancing plant production. She earned her PhD in Plant Physiology and Biochemistry in 2003, specializing in the allelopathic effects of sunflower residues on wild oat and wheat. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Hussein has excelled in her studies and research, contributing significantly to the fields of plant stress physiology and natural product chemistry.

Experience:

Dr. Mona Hussein has over three decades of experience in plant physiology and biochemistry. She began her career as an Instructor at Cairo University, later progressing to Assistant Lecturer, Lecturer, and Associate Professor. In addition to her work in Egypt, Dr. Hussein has served in leadership roles at Taibah University, Saudi Arabia, including Dean of Academic Affairs, Head of Exam Committees, and Coordinator of the Biology Department. Her administrative and academic leadership has contributed to enhancing educational programs and research. She has also coordinated academic guidance and played a key role in shaping scientific committees. Throughout her career, she has supervised graduate students, collaborated on numerous research projects, and made substantial contributions to improving agricultural practices and plant stress resilience.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Mona Hussein has received several recognitions for her academic and research contributions. She has been acknowledged for her pioneering work in plant physiology, particularly in understanding the biochemical and physiological responses of plants under abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity. Her research on using natural compounds like allelopathic agents has earned her acclaim in the scientific community. Dr. Hussein has been a recipient of multiple grants and awards for research excellence and innovation. Additionally, her leadership roles in academic committees, including the Faculty of Science and various universities in both Egypt and Saudi Arabia, have earned her recognition for outstanding service in higher education. Her contribution to environmental sustainability and agricultural development has also been celebrated by professional societies in the field of botany and plant physiology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Mona Hussein’s research focus lies at the intersection of plant physiology, biochemistry, and stress biology. Her work investigates the role of natural compounds and secondary metabolites in enhancing plant resilience to environmental stress, such as drought, salinity, and other abiotic factors. She is particularly interested in allelopathy and how plants produce chemicals that can control weeds and enhance crop productivity. Her research involves exploring bio-stimulants and natural products, including alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, and terpenoids, to improve plant growth and health. Dr. Hussein’s recent studies have explored the use of biochar and bio-stimulants in mitigating the effects of stress on crops like soybeans, sunflower, and wheat. She also investigates the molecular and biochemical pathways underlying stress tolerance, aiming to develop sustainable agricultural practices that promote higher crop yields in challenging environments.

Publications Top Notes:

  • “Investigating the combined effects of β-sitosterol and biochar on nutritional value and drought tolerance in Phaseolus vulgaris under drought stress” 🌱
  • “Eco-Physiological and Morphological Adaptive Mechanisms Induced by Melatonin and Hydrogen Sulphide Under Abiotic Stresses in Plants” 🌿
  • “Mentha piperita and Stressful Conditions” 🌿
  • “Role of Ascorbic Acid in Alleviating Abiotic Stress in Crop Plants” 🍊
  • “Integrated usage of Trichoderma harzianum and biochar to ameliorate salt stress on spinach plants” 🌱
  • “Exogenous Nitric Oxide Reinforces Photosynthetic Efficiency, Osmolyte, Mineral Uptake, Antioxidant, Expression of Stress-Responsive Genes and Ameliorates the Effects of Salinity Stress in Wheat” 🌾
  • “Alleviation of copper phytotoxicity by acetylsalicylic acid and nitric oxide application in mung bean” 🌿
  • “Exogenous Myo-Inositol Alleviates Salt Stress by Enhancing Antioxidants and Membrane Stability” 🍃

Conclusion:

Dr. Mona Hassan Soliman Hussein is undoubtedly a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She has demonstrated consistent excellence in research, contributing valuable insights into plant physiology, biochemistry, and their applications in agricultural sciences. Her leadership roles, vast publication record, and international collaborations further strengthen her case for the award. With continued growth in research visibility and engagement in cutting-edge collaborations, Dr. Soliman could make even greater strides in the field of plant science and agricultural sustainability.