Lijuan Deng | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Molecular Cell Biology Award

Mrs. Lijuan Deng | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Molecular Cell Biology Award

Mrs. Lijuan Deng , Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery , China

Lijuan Deng is a passionate graduate student researcher at the Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery in China, specializing in the molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic diseases. Her scientific curiosity centers on gene regulation, signaling pathways, and metabolic dysregulation in disease progression, particularly metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD). Her translational approach blends experimental models and bioinformatics to bridge basic science and therapeutic innovation. Lijuan has already co-authored a publication in The FASEB Journal, identifying CDKN1A as a key regulator in MASLD. She is also the inventor of a patent-pending technique for nascent RNA labeling in extracellular vesicles. Through collaborations with clinical researchers and a solid foundation in molecular biology techniques, she is positioning herself as a rising talent in cell biology. Her work promises to advance understanding and treatment of metabolic diseases.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Innovative Research: Lijuan Deng has significantly contributed to the understanding of MASLD (Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease) by identifying CDKN1A as a key regulatory gene through integrated transcriptomic analysis and experimental validation.

  2. Translational Focus: Her research bridges molecular biology and clinical application, enhancing its impact in drug discovery and disease diagnostics.

  3. Publication Record: She is the first author of a peer-reviewed article published in The FASEB Journal (SCI-indexed), showcasing her ability to conduct and communicate high-quality research.

  4. Patent Innovation: She holds a pending patent for a novel method involving nascent RNA labeling in extracellular vesicles, showing her drive toward technological advancement and biomedical innovation.

  5. Collaborative Approach: Active collaboration with the Department of Endocrinology at Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital reflects strong interdisciplinary and clinical integration.

🧩 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Expanded Publication Portfolio: Increasing the number of peer-reviewed articles will strengthen her academic visibility and impact.

  2. Professional Networking: Engagement in international cell biology societies or conferences and obtaining professional memberships can support broader recognition and growth.

  3. Editorial/Leadership Roles: Participation in editorial boards, review panels, or student leadership roles can enrich her professional development profile.

🎓 Education:

Lijuan Deng is currently pursuing her graduate studies in molecular biology at the Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, where she focuses on translational biomedical research. Her academic foundation includes advanced coursework in biochemistry, molecular genetics, and cellular signaling. Through structured academic training, she has acquired proficiency in modern laboratory methods, including RNA sequencing, qPCR, western blotting, and exosome analysis. Her education emphasizes critical thinking and scientific rigor, enabling her to design experiments, analyze data, and interpret biological outcomes. She regularly participates in academic seminars, journal clubs, and collaborative workshops to refine her scientific acumen. Her thesis research is centered around identifying novel molecular targets in MASLD, a field gaining global relevance. Lijuan’s education is not only shaping her technical capabilities but also nurturing her ambition to contribute to impactful, real-world medical solutions through cell biology research.

💼 Experience:

Lijuan Deng has gained extensive laboratory experience as a graduate student researcher at the Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery. Her hands-on work includes both cellular and animal models, with a strong focus on metabolic disease mechanisms. She played a key role in identifying CDKN1A as a potential MASLD progression factor, combining transcriptomic data analysis with molecular validation. Additionally, she has worked on exosome-based biomarker discovery and developed a patent-pending method for nascent RNA labeling. She collaborates with the Department of Endocrinology at Shenzhen Second People’s Hospital, providing a clinical dimension to her work. Though early in her career, her contributions to translational research are already making an impact. She is skilled in molecular biology, gene expression profiling, and therapeutic target screening. Her research experience has been shaped by interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific publications, and the ambition to innovate within the field of molecular cell biology.

🧬 Research Focus:

Lijuan Deng’s research is primarily focused on the molecular underpinnings of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), a key manifestation of metabolic syndrome. She investigates how dysregulated genes, signaling networks, and lipid metabolism contribute to disease initiation and progression. A major highlight of her work is identifying CDKN1A as a potential risk factor in MASLD using integrated bioinformatics and experimental techniques. Additionally, she explores the utility of extracellular vesicles as carriers of diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic molecules. Her patent-pending work involves a novel method for labeling nascent RNA within exosomes, opening possibilities for tracking dynamic RNA communication in disease contexts. Her research strategy merges molecular biology with disease modeling, aiming to bridge laboratory discoveries with potential therapeutic strategies. Through strong collaborations and a translational research outlook, Lijuan is dedicated to uncovering actionable insights that can inform drug development for complex metabolic disorders.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  • 🧾 “Identification of CDKN1A as a potential key risk factor in MASLD progression.”The FASEB Journal, 2025. DOI: 10.1096/fj.202402942R

🧾 Conclusion:

Lijuan Deng stands out as an emerging researcher with strong foundations in molecular cell biology and a clear orientation toward translational science. Her innovative work in MASLD, combined with an SCI publication and a pending patent, make her a highly suitable and promising candidate for the Molecular Cell Biology Award. While she is in the early stages of her career, her achievements thus far indicate substantial potential for future contributions to the field.

Raphaël Rodriguez | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Raphaël Rodriguez | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Raphaël Rodriguez , CNRS, Institut Curie, France

Raphaël Rodriguez, born October 27, 1978, in Avignon, France, is a pioneering chemical biologist and Research Director at CNRS, Principal Investigator at Institut Curie, and holder of the Skłodowska-Curie Chair of Chemical Biology. A French citizen with two children, Lucía del Mar and Aramis, Rodriguez is renowned for bridging chemistry and biology to unlock the molecular secrets of cancer and inflammation. Trained in the UK under legendary scientists Sir J. E. Baldwin, Sir S. Balasubramanian, and Sir S. P. Jackson, he returned to France to launch groundbreaking research on ferroptosis and metal regulation in cell adaptation. His entrepreneurial and academic excellence earned him numerous accolades, including the National Order of Merit. With more than 130 publications and several successful biotech ventures, Rodriguez continues to shape the future of medical science with bioactive molecules like Ironomycin and Pyridostatin. He is an editorial board member, reviewer, teacher, and a public voice on science.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Pioneering Scientific Impact:
    Dr. Rodriguez has contributed over 130 high-impact publications in top-tier journals like Nature, Science, JACS, Nature Chemistry, and Cell Metabolism. His work has helped define ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death, and metal regulation in cancer—a game-changing area in molecular medicine.

  2. Innovation & Translation:
    He discovered and commercialized small molecules such as Pyridostatin, Ironomycin, and Supformin, directly impacting both science and therapeutics. His work bridges fundamental science and drug discovery.

  3. Leadership & Mentorship:
    From mentoring under renowned scientists to leading his own lab at Institut Curie, he has shaped France’s next generation of researchers in chemical biology.

  4. Recognition & Awards:
    His extensive list of prestigious awards, including the CNRS Silver Medal, Liliane Bettencourt Prize, and Knight of the National Order of Merit, reflect peer recognition on national and international levels.

  5. Entrepreneurship:
    As a co-founder of biotech companies (e.g., Adrestia Therapeutics, later acquired), he has demonstrated a rare capacity to translate discoveries into clinical and commercial value.

  6. Scientific Influence:
    Editorial board memberships and frequent invitations to over 160 major conferences show his reputation as a global thought leader in his field.

🔧 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Public Engagement Scaling:
    Although Dr. Rodriguez is active in media (radio, TV, print), expanding international science outreach (e.g., global science festivals, public lectures, social media presence) could help further democratize his scientific message.

  2. Clinical Translation:
    While several molecules from his lab are commercialized, more direct clinical trials or FDA approvals tied to his molecules would elevate his impact from bench to bedside.

  3. Collaborative Diversity:
    Encouraging more global South collaborations or mentorships could help broaden his lab’s international footprint and contribute to equitable science capacity building.

🎓 Education:

Raphaël Rodriguez’s academic journey is marked by elite training and impactful credentials across Europe. He earned his PhD in Chemistry (2002–2005) through a joint program between Marseille and Oxford. He then pursued postdoctoral research as a Senior Research Associate at Cambridge’s Department of Chemistry and Gurdon Institute (2005–2012), where he developed skills at the interface of chemistry and biology. In 2012, he obtained the prestigious Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches from the University of Paris-Saclay, enabling him to supervise PhD candidates and lead independent research. His rise through the academic ranks was rapid: he became a CNRS Group Leader in 2012, then Principal Investigator at Institut Curie in 2015. In 2017, he was promoted to Research Director (DR1) at CNRS. In 2020, he was awarded the Skłodowska-Curie Chair of Chemical Biology at Institut Curie. His interdisciplinary training under world-renowned mentors has uniquely positioned him at the forefront of chemical biology research.

💼 Experience:

Raphaël Rodriguez’s professional experience is a blend of high-level research, leadership, and innovation. He began his postdoctoral career at the University of Cambridge (2005–2012), working in the Department of Chemistry and the Gurdon Institute. In 2012, he became a CNRS Group Leader at ICSN, Gif-sur-Yvette, launching his independent research career. In 2015, he transitioned to Institut Curie as a Principal Investigator, where he deepened his focus on cancer and inflammation. His promotion to Research Director (DR1) at CNRS in 2017 reflects his impact and leadership. Awarded the Skłodowska-Curie Chair of Chemical Biology in 2020, Rodriguez oversees a productive lab that investigates ferroptosis, DNA structure, and metal ion regulation in disease. He is also an entrepreneur, co-founding Adrestia Therapeutics and OrbiThera. He teaches at PSL University, organizes international conferences, and contributes to editorial boards and scientific advisory boards worldwide, maintaining a strong presence in both academia and biotech.

🏆 Awards and Honors:

Raphaël Rodriguez has received an impressive array of honors, showcasing his impact on science and innovation. In 2024 alone, he won the CNRS Silver Medal and the Ligue Contre le Cancer Duquesne Prize. His earlier recognition includes the prestigious Liliane Bettencourt Prize for Life Sciences (2023), the Knight of the National Order of Merit (2022, presented by Nobel Laureate Jean-Marie Lehn), and the Klaus Grohe Prize (2022). He has also been awarded the Antoine Lacassagne Prize (Collège de France, 2019), the Sunrise Cancer Stem Cell Award (2019), the Charles Defforey–Institut de France Prize (2019), and the Tetrahedron Young Investigator Award (2019). Rodriguez is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (2018) and won the Pierre Fabre Award for Therapeutic Innovation (2015). These accolades affirm his contributions across cancer research, chemical biology, and molecular therapeutics, as well as his success in translating science into societal benefit through entrepreneurship.

🔍 Research Focus:

Raphaël Rodriguez’s research lies at the cutting edge of chemical biology, with a focus on understanding how cells adapt to stress, particularly in the contexts of cancer and inflammation. His laboratory explores the role of metal ions—especially iron—as regulators of cellular plasticity and fate. Notably, his team discovered mechanisms underlying ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death linked to iron metabolism, and how this can be exploited for anti-cancer therapies. He also investigates non-canonical DNA structures like G-quadruplexes, using small molecules to study and manipulate gene regulation. His lab has developed and commercialized several potent bioactive compounds, including Pyridostatin, Remodelin, Ironomycin, and Supformin, which are used both as research tools and potential therapeutics. Rodriguez combines molecular design, cell biology, and translational strategies, making his work a blueprint for chemical biology-driven precision medicine. He continues to raise significant research funding and actively collaborates across academia and biotech.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Small-molecule–induced DNA damage identifies alternative DNA structures in human genesNature Chemical Biology

  2. ⚙️ Salinomycin kills cancer stem cells by sequestering iron in lysosomesNature Chemistry

  3. 🛡️ A novel small molecule that alters shelterin integrity and triggers a DNA-damage response at telomeresJACS

  4. 🧫 Chemical inhibition of NAT10 corrects defects of laminopathic cellsScience

  5. 🧠 The transcription factor FOXM1 is a cellular target of the natural product thiostreptonNature Chemistry

  6. 🧪 Trisubstituted isoalloxazines as a new class of G-quadruplex binding ligandsJACS

  7. 🔥 PML-regulated mitochondrial metabolism enhances chemosensitivity in human ovarian cancersCell Metabolism

  8. 🔬 A single-molecule platform for investigation of G-quadruplex interactions with small-molecule ligandsNature Chemistry

  9. 🧲 Small-molecule-mediated G-quadruplex isolation from human cellsNature Chemistry

  10. 🧬 CD44 regulates epigenetic plasticity by mediating iron endocytosisNature Chemistry

  11. 🧷 Selective RNA vs DNA G-Quadruplex Targeting by In Situ Click ChemistryAngewandte Chemie

  12. 🧬 G-Quadruplex-Binding Benzo[a]phenoxazines Down-Regulate c-KIT Expression in Gastric Carcinoma CellsJournal of Medicinal Chemistry

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Raphaël Rodriguez exhibits exceptional merit and impact across the entire research ecosystem—fundamental science, innovation, mentorship, and commercialization. His trailblazing work in chemical biology, coupled with a record of scientific leadership and entrepreneurship, makes him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His career reflects a rare blend of depth, vision, and cross-disciplinary innovation. Minor enhancements in global public engagement and clinical integration could further elevate his already stellar profile.

Gang Wang | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Gang Wang | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Gang Wang , the First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China

Professor Wang Gang, MD, Ph.D., is a renowned general surgeon, postdoctoral researcher, and director of the Department of Oncology and Laparoscopy Surgery at The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China. Specializing in pancreatic diseases, he is a prominent researcher and educator, with a focus on acute pancreatitis. He has contributed extensively to translational research, bridging molecular mechanisms to clinical innovations. As a high-level talent in Heilongjiang Province, he has published 166 works, including high-impact studies on ferroptosis and necroptosis in pancreatic diseases. With multiple editorial roles and leadership in various academic associations, Professor Wang continues to drive interdisciplinary advances in pancreatic disease management and surgery.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Professor Wang Gang has demonstrated exceptional contributions to the field of pancreatic diseases, particularly in acute pancreatitis. His groundbreaking research on ferroptosis, necroptosis, and mitochondrial autophagy has resulted in a significant body of work with over 166 publications, many of which are high-impact studies. As a Principal Investigator, he has successfully led multiple National Natural Science Foundation projects, contributing innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that have advanced the management of pancreatic diseases. His editorial roles in prominent journals and his collaborations with pharmaceutical companies reflect his recognition as a leader in the field. Moreover, his numerous provincial awards, including the Heilongjiang Science & Technology Progress First Prizes, further affirm his leadership and expertise.

Areas for Improvements:

While Professor Wang has achieved great success in pancreatic disease research, his work could benefit from expanding into interdisciplinary collaborations with other medical specialties to further enhance the clinical translation of his findings. Additionally, increasing the international visibility of his work through more international collaborations or partnerships could amplify its impact.

Education:

Professor Wang Gang holds both an MD and a Ph.D., specializing in general surgery. He completed his advanced postdoctoral training focusing on pancreatic diseases and advanced laparoscopic techniques. His rigorous academic journey has laid a strong foundation for his successful career in research, clinical practice, and teaching. Professor Wang’s educational experience reflects his deep commitment to advancing both his academic qualifications and medical expertise, leading to his leadership roles in multiple professional organizations and the development of several groundbreaking research projects in pancreatic health.

Experience:

Professor Wang has extensive clinical and research experience in pancreatic diseases. He serves as the Director of the Department of Oncology and Laparoscopy Surgery at The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University. His research interests revolve around the pathogenesis and treatment of acute pancreatitis and other pancreatic disorders. In addition to his clinical role, he is a prolific academic leader, mentoring doctoral and postdoctoral researchers. With over 166 publications, he has led significant projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation and has collaborated with top pharmaceutical companies. He has also served in prominent editorial and peer reviewer roles for many scientific journals, solidifying his influence in the research community.

Awards and Honors:

Professor Wang Gang has received numerous prestigious awards, including multiple Heilongjiang Science & Technology Progress First Prizes (2024, 2021). As a High-Level Talent of Heilongjiang Province and Outstanding Talent of Heilongjiang New Century, he is recognized for his outstanding contributions to medical research. His work has also earned him multiple accolades for his leadership and research excellence. As a principal investigator, he has received several National Natural Science Foundation grants, marking him as a leading figure in the field of pancreatic diseases. His success reflects his commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes, particularly in pancreatic diseases.

Research Focus:

Professor Wang’s research primarily focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying pancreatic diseases, including acute pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. His work has identified key molecular pathways, such as ferroptosis and necroptosis, in the progression of these diseases. His translational research connects basic science with clinical applications, optimizing surgical protocols and diagnostic tools. His studies on mitochondrial dysfunction, autophagy imbalance, and exosomal crosstalk provide novel insights into disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies. As a leading researcher, he has contributed significantly to the understanding of pancreatic diseases and continues to push boundaries in both basic and clinical research.

Publications Top Notes:

  • Ferroptosis: Past, Present, and Future 📚, Cell Death & Disease, 2020

  • Long Noncoding RNA MALAT1 Promotes Aggressive Pancreatic Cancer Proliferation and Metastasis via Autophagy 📚, Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, 2016

  • A New Algorithm of Blind Color Image Watermarking Based on LU Decomposition 📚, Multidimensional Systems and Signal Processing, 2018

  • Early Prediction of Infected Pancreatic Necrosis Secondary to Necrotizing Pancreatitis 📚, Medicine, 2017

  • A Three-Dimensional Failure Criterion for Hard Rocks Under True Triaxial Compression 📚, Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 2020

  • Plasma and Tumor Levels of Linc-pint as Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers for Pancreatic Cancer 📚, Oncotarget, 2016

  • The Effect of Emodin-Assisted Early Enteral Nutrition on Severe Acute Pancreatitis 📚, Mediators of Inflammation, 2007

  • Hydrogen Sulphide Exacerbates Acute Pancreatitis by Over-Activating Autophagy via AMPK/mTOR Pathway 📚, Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, 2016

  • Necroptosis: A Potential, Promising Target in Acute Pancreatitis 📚, Apoptosis, 2016

  • Effects of Carbon Monoxide Releasing Molecule-Liberated CO on Severe Acute Pancreatitis in Rats 📚, Cytokine, 2010

  • A Novel Blind Color Image Watermarking Based on Contourlet Transform and Hessenberg Decomposition 📚, Multimedia Tools and Applications, 2018

Conclusion:

Professor Wang Gang is an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his impressive academic achievements, groundbreaking contributions to pancreatic disease research, and his ongoing efforts to bridge basic science and clinical practice. His work has not only advanced our understanding of acute pancreatitis but has also paved the way for potential therapeutic advancements. His leadership in research, publications, and collaboration highlights his remarkable contributions to the medical and scientific community.

Xueru Li | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Cell Microenvironment Award

Ms. Xueru Li | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Cell Microenvironment Award

Ms. Xueru Li , Chongqing Medical University , China

Li Xueru is an accomplished researcher and scientist with expertise in clinical laboratory diagnostics. He obtained his Ph.D. in Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics from Chongqing Medical University. Xueru has contributed extensively to scientific research, particularly in the field of cell microenvironment, fibrosis, and oxidative stress. His research has involved collaborations with prestigious organizations, such as the Chongqing Education Commission and Chongqing Natural Science Foundation. Through his academic journey, he has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in biomedical sciences, particularly in the areas of lung fibrosis and cellular response to environmental stress. Li Xueru is an active participant in research projects and has co-authored several influential publications that have contributed to the advancement of molecular biology and clinical diagnostics.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Li Xueru’s expertise in clinical laboratory diagnostics, combined with his research in the field of cell microenvironment and fibrosis, positions him as a strong candidate for the Research for Cell Microenvironment Award. His work, especially the study on “Pharmaceutical targeting of succinate dehydrogenase in fibroblasts to control bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis,” highlights his contributions to understanding cellular mechanisms in fibrosis and oxidative stress. His involvement in high-impact research funded by organizations like the Chongqing Education Commission and the Chongqing Natural Science Foundation shows a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and contributing to both academic and practical advancements in biomedical sciences. Moreover, his ability to bridge fundamental research with clinical applications demonstrates a strength that aligns with the goals of the Research for Cell Microenvironment Award.

Areas for Improvements:

While Li Xueru’s research focus is promising, there is potential to expand his exploration of cellular microenvironment to include other disease models and extend beyond lung fibrosis. Diversifying his research topics could provide a broader understanding of cellular behavior across different tissues and disease states. Additionally, there could be more emphasis on the development of therapeutic interventions, potentially accelerating the translation of his discoveries into clinical practices. Increasing collaboration with international research teams may also offer new perspectives and further enhance the impact of his work.

Education:

Li Xueru earned his Ph.D. degree in Clinical Laboratory Diagnostics from Chongqing Medical University, one of China’s leading medical institutions. His academic background has provided him with in-depth knowledge of diagnostic technologies, clinical pathology, and molecular biology. During his doctoral studies, he developed expertise in understanding cellular behavior and disease mechanisms at the molecular level, with a particular focus on how environmental stress impacts cellular functions. This education laid the foundation for his career in the biomedical field. He has further strengthened his research skills by participating in various projects funded by the Chongqing Education Commission and the Chongqing Natural Science Foundation. His education has been instrumental in shaping his approach to scientific inquiry, fostering a comprehensive understanding of clinical diagnostics, and equipping him to lead innovative research in the cellular microenvironment and disease mechanisms.

Experience:

Li Xueru’s experience spans a wide range of research activities focused on clinical laboratory diagnostics and cell microenvironment. His involvement in multiple high-impact research projects, supported by institutions like the Chongqing Education Commission and the Chongqing Natural Science Foundation, showcases his leadership in advancing scientific knowledge. Xueru has worked closely with interdisciplinary teams to address complex problems in the biomedical field, particularly lung fibrosis and oxidative stress. His research contributions include identifying novel cellular mechanisms involved in disease pathogenesis, improving diagnostic methodologies, and exploring therapeutic strategies for disease management. He has demonstrated a remarkable ability to apply scientific research in real-world contexts, ensuring that his findings have practical applications in medical diagnostics and treatment. His collaborative approach and innovative thinking have positioned him as a key figure in his field, contributing significantly to both academic literature and clinical advancements.

Research Focus:

Li Xueru’s primary research focus revolves around the molecular mechanisms of diseases, particularly lung fibrosis and cellular responses to environmental stressors. He is dedicated to understanding the impact of oxidative stress on cellular functions and its role in disease progression. His research explores the microenvironment of cells in response to various stimuli, including chemical agents like bleomycin. A significant area of his research is the role of succinate dehydrogenase in fibroblasts and its potential as a pharmaceutical target to control lung fibrosis. Through his work, Xueru has contributed to a better understanding of how cells interact with their microenvironment, which is crucial for developing new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. His innovative studies on cell signaling pathways, fibrosis, and oxidative stress have the potential to transform treatment strategies for diseases related to chronic inflammation and tissue fibrosis.

Publications Top Notes:

  • Pharmaceutical targeting of succinate dehydrogenase in fibroblasts controls bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis 🧬

  • Corrigendum to “Pharmaceutical targeting of succinate dehydrogenase in fibroblasts controls bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis” 🔬

Conclusion:

Li Xueru is a promising candidate for the Research for Cell Microenvironment Award. His significant contributions to the understanding of cellular mechanisms in fibrosis and oxidative stress have led to valuable insights into the pathophysiology of diseases. By focusing on the cell microenvironment and its role in disease progression, his work is advancing scientific knowledge with important implications for diagnostics and therapy. With further diversification of his research and expanded collaborations, Li Xueru has the potential to make even greater strides in the field, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing the application of his findings in clinical settings.

Ranran Li | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ranran Li | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Ranran Li , Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine , China

Dr. Ranran Li is an associate researcher at Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine in Shanghai, China. She earned her Ph.D. from the University Medical Center of Groningen, Netherlands, in 2015, before returning to Shanghai to focus on critical care medicine. Her research centers on sepsis-associated endothelial dysfunction and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Over the years, Dr. Li’s work has provided valuable insights into the role of metabolic disorders and post-translational modifications in regulating endothelial inflammation and coagulation during sepsis. She has published extensively in reputable journals and holds several patents. Her recent findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of sepsis and related complications, including endothelial dysfunction and organ injury.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Ranran Li is a distinguished researcher with notable expertise in the mechanisms of sepsis-associated endothelial dysfunction. Her work in identifying the role of metabolic disorders and post-translational modifications in sepsis has been pivotal in advancing the understanding of vascular inflammation and coagulation during critical illness. Her research has led to several high-impact publications and patents, showcasing her contributions to the field. Furthermore, Dr. Li’s interdisciplinary approach, combining metabolic biology, cell signaling, and translational medicine, has provided valuable therapeutic targets for the treatment of sepsis and endothelial dysfunction. Her collaborations with international experts enhance her work’s impact and broaden the scope of her research.

Areas for Improvements:

While Dr. Li’s research has been extensive and groundbreaking, future improvements could include increased collaborations with industry partners to accelerate the translation of her findings into clinical therapies. Expanding her professional network through international collaborations in other areas of critical care medicine could also provide new perspectives and avenues for innovation. Additionally, engaging in larger-scale clinical studies might help further validate her findings in human models.

Education

Dr. Ranran Li obtained her Ph.D. in Medical Sciences from the University Medical Center of Groningen, Netherlands, from 2011 to 2015. During her doctoral studies, she focused on the molecular mechanisms of sepsis and its impact on vascular endothelial dysfunction. Her Ph.D. research laid the foundation for her ongoing investigations into the pathophysiology of sepsis and endothelial injury. Following her Ph.D., she joined Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, in 2016 as an associate researcher in the Department of Critical Care Medicine. Here, Dr. Li furthered her research into sepsis, vascular inflammation, and metabolic disorders. She has developed an expertise in endothelial dysfunction and coagulation, specifically in the context of sepsis-induced organ injuries. Dr. Li’s comprehensive academic training, both in Europe and China, has significantly contributed to her innovative research work and international collaborations.

Experience:

Dr. Ranran Li has been serving as an associate researcher at Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, since 2016. Prior to this, she earned her Ph.D. from the University Medical Center of Groningen in the Netherlands, where she focused on sepsis and endothelial dysfunction. In her current position, Dr. Li has worked extensively on understanding the mechanisms underlying sepsis-associated endothelial dysfunction, with a particular focus on metabolic disorders and post-translational modifications. Her work has provided critical insights into the role of fatty acid metabolism, insulin resistance, and histone modifications in regulating endothelial inflammation and coagulation activation in sepsis. Dr. Li’s research has led to multiple publications in high-impact journals and the filing of patents for innovative therapeutic approaches. She collaborates with leading researchers in the Netherlands and has contributed significantly to the understanding of vascular injury and its therapeutic targets in sepsis.

Research Focus:

Dr. Ranran Li’s research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of sepsis-associated endothelial dysfunction, with a particular emphasis on metabolic disorders and post-translational modifications. She has been exploring how fatty acid metabolism, glucose-lipid metabolism, and protein acetylation influence endothelial cells during sepsis, leading to organ injury. Her research has highlighted the role of metabolic shifts, including the activation of pathways like AMPK/PKA, in endothelial inflammation and coagulation activation. Dr. Li has also studied the role of histone modifications, including lactylation, in promoting endothelial ferroptosis and dysfunction during sepsis-induced lung injury. She has been pioneering the exploration of metabolic signaling pathways and their potential as therapeutic targets for managing sepsis-related endothelial damage. Her work aims to identify novel strategies to prevent or mitigate vascular injury in septic patients. Dr. Li’s findings have led to both patents and high-impact publications in critical care and translational medicine.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Shiyuan He et al., Fatty acid synthesis promotes mtDNA release via ETS1-mediated oligomerization of VDAC1 facilitating endothelial dysfunction in sepsis-induced lung injury 🧬🫁 Cell Death and Differentiation, 2025
  2. Ranran Li et al., ATP-citrate lyase controls endothelial gluco-lipogenic metabolism and vascular inflammation in sepsis-associated organ injury 💉🧪 Cell Death and Disease, 2023
  3. Jie Liu et al., Designed microchannel-based lipid nanoparticles encapsulated siRNA targeting gasdermin D for sepsis management via pulmonary delivery 🧬💉 Nano Today, 2025
  4. Fangchen Gong et al., H3K14la drives endothelial dysfunction in sepsis-induced ARDS by promoting SLC40A1/transferrin-mediated ferroptosis 🧬🔥 MedComm, 2025
  5. Jiayin Cui et al., Herbal-based Xuebijing injection ameliorated vascular endothelial dysfunction via inhibiting ACLY/MYB/RIG-I axis in sepsis-associated lung injury 🌱💊 Phytomedicine, 2025
  6. Shasha Lu et al., GDF15 ameliorates sepsis-induced lung injury via AMPK-mediated inhibition of glycolysis in alveolar macrophage 💨🧪 Respiratory Research, 2024
  7. Rui Tian et al., Shenfu injection ameliorates endotoxemia-associated endothelial dysfunction and organ injury via inhibiting PI3K/Akt-mediated glycolysis 💉🫀 Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2024
  8. Yupeng Zhao et al., H3K18 lactylation-mediated VCAM1 expression promotes gastric cancer progression and metastasis via AKT-mTOR-CXCL1 axis 🎗️🧬 Biochemical Pharmacology, 2024
  9. Rui Tian et al., Metformin ameliorates endotoxemia-induced endothelial pro-inflammatory responses via AMPK-dependent mediation of HDAC5 and KLF2 💊💉 BBA-Molecular basis of disease, 2019
  10. Lei Pei et al., MSCs-derived extracellular vesicles alleviate sepsis-associated liver dysfunction by inhibiting macrophage glycolysis-mediated inflammatory response 🧬🩸 International Immunopharmacology, 2024

Conclusion:

Dr. Ranran Li is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award due to her outstanding contributions to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying sepsis-related endothelial dysfunction. Her innovative research has not only provided deep insights into the pathophysiology of sepsis but has also uncovered potential therapeutic targets for treating this devastating condition. Her exceptional track record of high-quality publications, patents, and collaborative research, combined with her dedication to advancing critical care medicine, makes her an excellent candidate for this prestigious award.