Ioan Tomuta | Genetic Material | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Dr. Ioan Tomuta | Genetic Material | Research Excellence Award

University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iuliu Hatieganu Cluj-Napoca | Romania

Ioan Tomuță is a leading researcher in pharmaceutical technology with extensive expertise in the design, development, and optimization of modern dosage forms. His work focuses on understanding the physicochemical and mechanical properties of active substances and excipients, their processing behavior, and their influence on drug release kinetics and bioavailability. He has made significant contributions to advanced drug delivery systems, including liposomes, nanoparticles, polymeric films, and gastroretentive drug delivery platforms produced through 3D printing. His research also advances the use of NIR spectroscopy, chemometrics, and Quality-by-Design principles for pharmaceutical development and process analytical control. He has played key roles in national and European research projects involving process engineering, tissue regeneration technologies, and artificial intelligence–based prediction tools for 3D-printable medicines. His work spans formulation science, process optimization, GMP-oriented industrial applications, and innovation in personalized medicine manufacturing technologies.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications: 

Savencu, I., Iurian, S., Porfire, A., Bogdan, C., & Tomuță, I. (2021). Review of advances in polymeric wound dressing films. Reactive and Functional Polymers, 168, 105059.

Ilyés, K., Kovács, N. K., Balogh, A., Borbás, E., Farkas, B., Casian, T., Marosi, G., … & Tomuță, I. (2019). The applicability of pharmaceutical polymeric blends for the fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D technique: Material considerations, printability, process modulation, with particular interest in additive manufacturing applications. European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 129, 110–123.

Tefas, L. R., Sylvester, B., Tomuță, I., Sesarman, A., Licarete, E., Banciu, M., … & Porfire, A. (2017). Development of antiproliferative long-circulating liposomes co-encapsulating doxorubicin and curcumin through the use of a quality-by-design approach. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 1605–1621.

Tefas, L. R., Tomuță, I., Achim, M., & Vlase, L. (2015). Development and optimization of quercetin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles by experimental design. Clujul Medical, 88(2), 214.

Barbalata, C. I., Tefas, L. R., Achim, M., Tomuță, I., & Porfire, A. S. (2020). Statins in risk-reduction and treatment of cancer. World Journal of Clinical Oncology, 11(8), 573.

Bogdan, C., Iurian, S., Tomuță, I., & Moldovan, M. (2017). Improvement of skin condition in striae distensae: Development, characterization and clinical efficacy of a cosmetic product containing Punica granatum seed oil and Croton lechleri resin extract. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 521–531.

Rusu, M. E., Gheldiu, A. M., Mocan, A., Moldovan, C., Popa, D. S., Tomuță, I., … & Vlase, L. (2018). Process optimization for improved phenolic compounds recovery from walnut (Juglans regia L.) septum: Phytochemical profile and biological activities. Molecules, 23(11), 2814.

Colobatiu, L., Gavan, A., Potarniche, A. V., Rus, V., Diaconeasa, Z., Mocan, A., … & Tomuță, I. (2019). Evaluation of bioactive compounds-loaded chitosan films as a novel and potential diabetic wound dressing material. Reactive and Functional Polymers, 145, 104369.

Rusu, M. E., Fizeșan, I., Pop, A., Gheldiu, A. M., Mocan, A., Crișan, G., Vlase, L., … & Tomuță, I. (2019). Enhanced recovery of antioxidant compounds from hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) involucre based on extraction optimization: Phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity. Antioxidants, 8(10), 460

Francesca Santilli | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Francesca Santilli | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Research Excellence Award

Department of Medicine and Aging Science, University of Chieti-Pescara “G. d’Annunzio”Chieti | Italy

Francesca Santilli, MD, PhD, is a leading physician-scientist whose work has substantially advanced the understanding of platelet biology, thrombo-inflammation, and cardio-metabolic disease. Her research focuses on mechanisms of platelet activation, interindividual variability in response to low-dose aspirin, and the interplay between inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction. She has led major national and international projects, including studies on oxidative stress regulation in aspirin-treated diabetes, peripheral blood megakaryocyte maturation, and the effects of JAK inhibitors on thrombopoiesis in inflammatory disease. Her work has also contributed key insights into biomarkers—such as proteomic signatures, microRNAs, and extracellular vesicles—for cardiovascular and metabolic risk stratification. Additional research explores megakaryocyte biology, accelerated platelet turnover, and the impact of emerging therapies including GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, and PCSK9 inhibitors. Through extensive collaborations across molecular medicine, proteomics, rheumatology, cardiology, and infectious diseases, she has established interdisciplinary frameworks linking platelet function to diabetes, obesity, MASLD, and vascular disease. With over 160 high-impact publications and leadership roles in several scientific networks, her research continues to inform clinical translation and therapeutic optimization in thrombosis, hemostasis, and metabolic disorders.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications: 

antilli, F., Vazzana, N., Liani, R., Guagnano, M. T., & Davì, G. (2012). Platelet activation in obesity and metabolic syndrome. Obesity Reviews, 13(1), 27–42.

Santilli, F., Rocca, B., De Cristofaro, R., Lattanzio, S., Pietrangelo, L., Habib, A., & Patrono, C. (2009). Platelet cyclooxygenase inhibition by low-dose aspirin is not reflected consistently by platelet function assays: Implications for aspirin “resistance.” Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 53(8), 667–677.

Rocca, B., Santilli, F., Pitocco, D., Mucci, L., Petrucci, G., Vitacolonna, E., … & Patrono, C. (2012). The recovery of platelet cyclooxygenase activity explains interindividual variability in responsiveness to low-dose aspirin in patients with and without diabetes. Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 10(7), 1220–1230.

Caricato, A., Conti, G., Della Corte, F., Mancino, A., Santilli, F., Sandroni, C., … & Antonelli, M. (2005). Effects of PEEP on the intracranial system of patients with head injury and subarachnoid hemorrhage: The role of respiratory system compliance. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 58(3), 571–576.

Santilli, F., Vazzana, N., Bucciarelli, L. G., & Davì, G. (2009). Soluble forms of RAGE in human diseases: Clinical and therapeutical implications. Current Medicinal Chemistry, 16(8), 940–952.

Di Castelnuovo, A., Bonaccio, M., Costanzo, S., Gialluisi, A., Antinori, A., … Santilli, F., … & Iacoviello, L. (2020). Common cardiovascular risk factors and in-hospital mortality in 3,894 patients with COVID-19: Survival analysis and machine learning-based findings from the multicentre Italian study. Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, 30(11), 1899–1913.

Vazzana, N., Santilli, F., Cuccurullo, C., & Davì, G. (2009). Soluble RAGE in internal medicine. Internal and Emergency Medicine, 4(5), 389–401.

Davì, G., Santilli, F., & Patrono, C. (2010). Nutraceuticals in diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Cardiovascular Therapeutics, 28(4), 216–226.

Chiarelli, F., Santilli, F., & Mohn, A. (2000). Role of growth factors in the development of diabetic complications. Hormone Research in Paediatrics, 53(2), 53–67.

Davì, G., Chiarelli, F., Santilli, F., Pomilio, M., Vigneri, S., Falco, A., … & Basili, S. (2003). Enhanced lipid peroxidation and platelet activation in the early phase of type 1 diabetes mellitus: Role of interleukin-6 and disease duration. Circulation, 107(25), 3199–3203.

Manigrasso, M. R., Ferroni, P., Santilli, F., Taraborelli, T., Guagnano, M. T., … & Davì, G. (2005). Association between circulating adiponectin and interleukin-10 levels in android obesity: Effects of weight loss. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 90(10), 5876–5879.

Junning Ma | Cell Surface Receptors | Best Research Article Award

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Dr. Junning Ma | Cell Surface Receptors | Best Research Article Award

Zhejiang University | China

Dr. Junning Ma has developed a multidisciplinary portfolio spanning neurosurgery, neural engineering, biomaterials, and nanomedicine. Their work integrates neural stem cell biology, targeted drug delivery, and tumor microenvironment modulation to create innovative therapeutic strategies for brain diseases. They have conducted advanced postdoctoral and doctoral research at major institutions, contributing to National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) Youth Fund projects and multiple US-funded NIH and AHA grants. Their research focuses on biomimetic nanocarriers, including cell membrane-coated nanoparticles, PLGA-based delivery systems, and fusion-membrane technologies designed for precision therapy of glioma, pituitary adenoma, and ischemic stroke.

Key projects include engineered neural stem cell membrane-coated nanoparticles for stroke targeting, biomimetic nanoplatforms for cancer immunotherapy, and tumor microenvironment–responsive delivery systems. They have also contributed to studies on neuromodulation, neurotrophic factor-based therapy, neural stem cell transplantation, and photothrombotic stroke models. Their publication record includes high-impact journals such as Materials Today Bio, Biomaterials, Nano Letters, Small, and Cell Reports Physical Science, covering topics like vascular-targeting nanoclusters, polyphenol nanoparticles, and membrane-engineered carriers.

Overall, their research advances translational nanomedicine and regenerative neuroscience, with an emphasis on targeted therapies capable of overcoming the challenges of brain tumor heterogeneity, the blood–brain barrier, and ischemic neural injury.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications: 

Ma, J., Win, Y., Xiaojian, Z., et al. (2023). Enhanced EPR effects by folliculostellate cell membrane–coated nanoparticles on invasive pituitary adenoma. Materials Today Bio.

Ma, J., Dai, L., Jianbo, Y., et al. (2023). Tumor microenvironment targeting system for glioma treatment via fusion cell membrane coating nanotechnology. Biomaterials.

Ma, J., Liu, F., Wendy, C., et al. (2020). Co-presentation of tumor antigens with costimulation via biomimetic nanoparticles for effective cancer immunotherapy. Nano Letters.

Ma, J., Zhang, S., Jun, L., et al. (2019). Targeted drug delivery to stroke via chemotactic recruitment of nanoparticles coated with membranes of engineered neural stem cells. Small.

Ilaria Cossu | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Research Excellence Award

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Ms. Ilaria Cossu | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Research Excellence Award

University of Sassari | Italy

Ilaria Cossu is a motivated PhD candidate in Life Sciences and Biotechnologies with a specialization in Microbiology and Immunology. Their work focuses on understanding the role of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in cancer, integrating molecular biology, immunology, and virology approaches to explore how retroviral elements may influence tumorigenesis. Their doctoral project involves conducting indirect ELISA assays, maintaining and analyzing cell cultures, processing blood samples, performing RNA extraction and reverse transcription, and carrying out quantitative PCR for gene expression profiling. The researcher is actively engaged in experimental design, data analysis, scientific writing, and collaborative research activities at both national and international levels.

Prior academic training includes Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Biology, each completed with top distinction, and research internships in microbiology, virology, and biochemistry laboratories. These experiences provided hands-on expertise in electrophoretic methods such as cellulose acetate electrophoresis, C-PAGE, fluorescent 2-aminoacridone probe (FACE) analysis, and SDS-PAGE, contributing to a solid foundation in protein and nucleic acid characterization. Their current research aims to advance understanding of retroviral contributions to cancer biology and supports the development of innovative molecular approaches for disease investigation and potential therapeutic insights.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Cossu, I., Ruberto, S., Filippi, E., Simula, E. R., Noli, M., Mottula, A., & others. (2025). HERV-K envelope induces a humoral response in Non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients. Current Microbiology, 82(12), 574.

Jasemi, S., Molicotti, P., Fais, M., Cossu, I., Simula, E. R., Sechi, L. A., & others. (2025). Biological mechanisms of enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis toxin: Linking inflammation, colorectal cancer, and clinical implications. Toxins, 17(6), 305.

Simula, E. R., Jasemi, S., Cossu, D., Fais, M., Cossu, I., Chessa, V., & others. (2025). Human endogenous retroviruses as novel therapeutic targets in neurodegenerative disorders. Vaccines, 13(4), 415. h

Ruberto, S., Santovito, A., Caviglia, G. P., Noli, M., Cossu, D., Ribaldone, D. G., & others. (2025). Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis and human endogenous retrovirus in Italian patients with inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Immunology.

Esmaa Bouhamida | Molecular and Cellular Biology | Cell Biology Research Award

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Dr. Esmaa Bouhamida | Molecular and Cellular Biology | Cell Biology Research Award

Fondazione Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata (VIMM) | Italy

The candidate’s research centers on understanding how mitochondrial signaling, hypoxia-responsive pathways, and cell-cycle regulatory networks collectively influence cardiac regeneration and cardiovascular disease. Their work investigates how hypoxia-inducible factors, particularly HIF-1α, modulate mitochondrial function during ischemic injury, with the broader goal of identifying mechanisms that could restore or enhance the regenerative potential of adult cardiac tissue. Through advanced molecular and cellular approaches, their studies explore how metabolic rewiring, mitochondrial stress responses, and oxygen-sensing pathways govern cardiomyocyte survival, proliferation, and reprogramming.

Building on expertise in molecular biology, signal transduction, and genetics, the researcher has expanded their focus to include the interplay between mitochondrial homeostasis and protein-quality control mechanisms in muscle tissues. Their postdoctoral work examines signaling pathways that regulate proteostasis and their impact on muscle integrity under physiological and pathological conditions. This integrated approach bridges cardiac regeneration, mitochondrial dynamics, and muscle biology, enabling the identification of therapeutic targets relevant to heart failure, ischemia, and degenerative muscle disorders.

Their long-term vision is to develop interventions that combine mitochondrial modulation, gene therapy, and cellular reprogramming strategies to promote tissue repair and functional recovery in cardiovascular disease. Their contributions have been recognized through competitive scientific evaluations at international cardiovascular and stem-cell research forums.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Bouhamida, E., Vadakke-Madathil, S., Mathiyalagan, P., Ranjan, A. K., Khan, A., Sherman, M. P., & others. (2025). Single nucleus transcriptomics supports a role for CCNA2-induced human adult cardiomyocyte cytokinesis. bioRxiv.

Bouhamida, E., Vadakke-Madathil, S., Mathiyalagan, P., Ranjan, A. K., Sherman, M. P., & others. (2025). Cyclin A2 induces cytokinesis in human adult cardiomyocytes and drives reprogramming in mice. npj Regenerative Medicine, 10(1), 47.

Arzu Yay | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Arzu Yay | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Erciyes University | Turkey

Prof. Arzu Yay is a distinguished researcher in the Department of Histology and Embryology at Erciyes University, Turkey. Her work focuses on cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying tissue development, injury, and repair, with emphasis on immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analyses. Her M.Sc. research examined E-cadherin expression during renal development in the prenatal period, contributing to the understanding of epithelial differentiation in organogenesis. Her Ph.D. focused on nestin expression across different grades of meningiomas and glioblastomas, highlighting neural stem cell marker dynamics in tumor progression. She has conducted significant studies on oxidative stress, neurobiology, and tissue damage, including investigations into the effects of melatonin and vitamin C on alcohol-induced lung injury and nitric oxide synthase immunoreactivity. Her research has also explored tissue-level alterations in diabetes and the histological impacts of hormonal and anesthetic agents. Prof. Yay’s postdoctoral work at the University of Lübeck, Germany, further advanced her expertise in dermatological histopathology. Her contributions have been recognized through multiple national and international awards for excellence in experimental and translational research, particularly in antioxidant mechanisms and radioprotection. Her body of work reflects a strong integration of histological, molecular, and ultrastructural approaches in biomedical sciences.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Yıldız, K., Efesoy, S. N., Ozdamar, S., Yay, A., Bicer, C., Aksu, R., & Kılıc, E. (2011). Myotoxic effects of levobupivacaine, bupivacaine and ropivacaine in a rat model. Clinical Investigation in Medicine, 34(5), 273–280.

Sarıozkan, S., Bucak, M. N., Canturk, F., Ozdamar, S., Yay, A., Tuncer, P. B., Ozcan, S., Sorgucu, N., & Caner, Y. (2012). The effects of different sugars on motility, morphology and DNA damage during the liquid storage of rat epididymal sperm at 4°C. Cryobiology, 65(2), 93–97.

Sarıozkan, S., Canturk, F., Yay, A., & Akçay, A. (2012). The effect of different storage temperature on sperm parameters and DNA damage in liquid stored New Zealand rabbit spermatozoa. Kafkas Üniversitesi Veteriner Fakültesi Dergisi, 18(3), 475–480.*

Yay, A., Ozdamar, S., Canoz, O., Tucer, B., & Baran, M. (2013). Nestin expression in meningiomas of different grades. Journal of Neurological Sciences (Turkish), 30, 532–540.

Sarıozkan, S., Türk, G., Canturk, F., Yay, A., Eken, A., & Akçay, A. (2013). The effect of bovine serum albumin and fetal calf serum on sperm quality, DNA fragmentation and lipid peroxidation of liquid stored rabbit semen. Cryobiology, 67(1), 1–6.*

Ernst, N., Yay, A., Bíró, T., Tiede, S., Humphries, M., Paus, R., & Kloepper, J. E. (2013). β1 integrin signaling maintains human epithelial progenitor cell survival in situ and controls proliferation, apoptosis and migration of their progeny. PLoS ONE, 8(12), e84356.*

Yay, A., Ozdamar, S., Canoz, O., Baran, M., Tucer, B., & Sonmez, M. F. (2014). Intermediate filament protein nestin is expressed in developing meninges. Bratislava Medical Journal, 115(11), 718–722.*

Lin Teng | Cell Junction Complexes | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Lin Teng | Cell Junction Complexes | Best Researcher Award

Yichang Central People’s Hospital | China

Dr. Lin Teng is a distinguished cardiovascular researcher whose work focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac electrophysiological dysfunction and vascular remodeling. His research primarily explores the pathophysiological basis of heart rhythm disorders and ischemic heart disease, emphasizing the roles of ion channels and cellular stress responses in cardiac function. One of his major studies investigates the mechanism of HCN4-mediated electrophysiological dysfunction in acute sinoatrial node ischemia, contributing to a deeper understanding of arrhythmogenesis and potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, his research on C/EBP homologous protein-10 elucidates its role in vascular remodeling and restenosis following percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), providing insights into post-interventional vascular repair mechanisms. Another key area of his investigation involves the glutamate autocrine circuit in embryonic stem cells and its regulatory role in cardiomyocyte differentiation, offering potential applications in regenerative cardiology. Supported by multiple provincial and municipal grants, Dr. Teng’s studies integrate pharmacological, molecular, and clinical perspectives to advance cardiovascular medicine. His contributions have been recognized through prestigious science and technology awards, underscoring his impact on translational cardiovascular research and clinical innovation.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Zhou, Z., Qin, Q., Dong, C., & Teng, L. (2025). The dual guardians of cellular stability: Exploring nesprin and lamin in senescence. Cell Death & Disease, 16, 757.

Liu, Y., Qin, Q., Zhou, Z., Zhou, F., & Teng, L. (2025). Treatment of coronary arteriovenous fistula with patent ductus arteriosus occluder: A case report. British Journal of Hospital Medicine (London), 86(5), 1–9.

Yang, Y., Min, Z., Ye, Y., Teng, L., Cao, C., Li, W., Wen, T., Li, S., Ding, J., Yang, J., & Zhou, F. (2025). A new model for the prediction of intramyocardial hemorrhage in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients after emergency percutaneous coronary intervention. Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions. Advance online publication. ht

Qin, Q., Zhou, Z. Y., Liu, Y., Zhou, F., Cao, C., & Teng, L. (2024). Unraveling the nexus of nesprin in dilated cardiomyopathy: From molecular insights to therapeutic prospects. Life Sciences, 358, 123126.

Teng, L., Zhou, F., Xiong, X., Zhang, H., Qiao, L., Zhang, Z., Qin, Q., & Song, X. (2024). Minimally invasive palliative treatment of malignant tracheoesophageal fistula using cardiac septal occluder. Langenbeck’s Archives of Surgery, 409(1), 169.

Nestor Garcia | Cellular Stress Response | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Nestor Garcia | Cellular Stress Response | Best Academic Researcher Award

CONICET | Argentina

Dr. Néstor Horacio García, MD, PhD, is a physician-scientist specializing in nephrology and vascular research with a strong focus on renal physiology, hypertension, and phosphate homeostasis. He earned his medical and doctoral degrees from the National University of Córdoba, complemented by advanced research training at the Henry Ford Hospital in the United States, where he investigated mechanisms related to hypertension and vascular regulation. His postdoctoral fellowship at the Mayo Foundation in Rochester, Minnesota, further deepened his expertise in phosphate metabolism and kidney function. Dr. García has served as a Research Clinical Associate in the Nephrology Department at Sanatorium Mayo, Córdoba, where he has acted as Principal Investigator for multiple pharmaceutical protocols and clinical studies. He has also contributed to Inspiranox Therapeutics Corporation as a medical scientist and clinical research consultant, engaging in translational and therapeutic innovation. His research explores the pathophysiology of kidney disease, the molecular regulation of blood pressure, and protective mechanisms against diabetic renal dysfunction. Recognized nationally and internationally, Dr. García has received multiple awards for excellence in basic nephrology research, including honors from the Argentine Society of Hypertension and the Latin American Society of Nephrology and Hypertension (SLANH).

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

García, N. H. (2021). An intensive follow-up in subjects with cardiometabolic high-risk. Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases.

García, N. H. (2021). Effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on stroke and atrial fibrillation in diabetic kidney disease. Stroke, 52(5), e125–e132.

García, N. H. (2020). Monosialoganglioside GM1 reduces toxicity of Ptx and increases anti-metastatic effect in a murine mammary cancer model. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 10645.

García, N. H. (2020). Ibuprofen, a traditional drug that may impact the course of COVID-19: New effective formulation in nebulizable solution. Medical Hypotheses, 144, 110079.

García, N. H. (2020). Eicosapentaenoic acid prevents salt sensitivity in diabetic rats and decreases oxidative stress. Nutrition, 79–80, 110644.

Luminita Paraoan | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Luminita Paraoan | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Manchester Metropolitan University | United Kingdom

Professor Luminita Paraoan is a leading molecular and ocular cell biologist whose research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) function, degeneration, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Her pioneering work integrates omics-based analyses, molecular genetics, and cell biology to uncover how cellular stress responses, proteostasis, and intercellular communication contribute to retinal aging and disease. Paraoan has made significant discoveries on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathways, particularly the PERK/EIF2AK3 axis, and the regulation of apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy in RPE cells. Her studies have also revealed novel insights into p53/p63 effector PERP, Cystatin C, and visual cycle gene regulation in aging and disease contexts. Through collaborative research, she has explored stem cell protection mechanisms, PI3K/AKT signaling inhibition, and multi-omic signatures of aging across cancers and ocular tissues. Supported by over £4 million in external funding, her work has advanced understanding of molecular targets for retinal and neurodegenerative diseases. Professor Paraoan leads the Ocular Molecular Biology and Mechanisms of Disease Group, mentoring numerous postdoctoral and doctoral researchers internationally, and continues to shape the field of vision science and molecular ophthalmology.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Suwanmanee, G., Kheolamai, P., Tantrawatpan, C., Grimes, D., Matei, I. V., Paraoan, L., & Manochantr, S. (2025). Fucoxanthin protects placenta-derived human mesenchymal stem cells against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis by modulating genes involved in DNA damage repair, ER stress response, and p53-induced apoptosis. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 16(1), 497.

Jantalika, T., Manochantr, S., Kheolamai, P., Tantikanlayaporn, D., Pinlaor, S., Saijuntha, W., Paraoan, L., & Tantrawatpan, C. (2025). Human chorion and placental mesenchymal stem cells conditioned media suppress cell migration and invasion by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway in cholangiocarcinoma. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 31472.

Matei, I. V., & Paraoan, L. (2024). Aging retinal pigmented epithelium: Omics-based insights into vision decline. Aging (Albany NY), 16(12), 10201–10202.

Carlsson, E., Sharif, U., Supharattanasitthi, W., & Paraoan, L. (2023). Analysis of wild type and variant B cystatin C interactome in retinal pigment epithelium cells reveals variant B. Cells, 12(5), 713.

Dhirachaikulpanich, D., Lagger, C., Chatsirisupachai, K., de Magalhães, J. P., & Paraoan, L. (2022). Intercellular communication analysis of the human retinal pigment epithelial and choroidal cells predicts pathways associated with aging, cellular senescence, and age-related macular degeneration. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 14, 1016293.

Saptarshi, N., Porter, L. F., & Paraoan, L. (2022). PERK/EIF2AK3 integrates endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy responses in immortalised retinal pigment epithelial cells. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 13324.

Yuxin Peng | Cell Adhesion Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Yuxin Peng | Cell Adhesion Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yuxin Peng | Zhejiang University | China

Dr. Yuxin Peng is a distinguished researcher and educator in the field of biomedical and exercise science engineering. Currently serving as a ZJU 100 Young Professor at Zhejiang University, China, he has made significant strides in developing flexible sensors, smart wearable systems, and human–machine interaction technologies. With a Ph.D. and postdoctoral training at the National University of Singapore, his research integrates cutting-edge materials science, biomechanics, and AI-driven health monitoring systems. His work has been consistently published in high-impact journals like Science Advances, Advanced Science, IEEE Transactions, and Soft Robotics, reflecting both depth and innovation. Dr. Peng’s contributions are not only academic but also practical, with several of his innovations applied in rehabilitation, sports science, and robotics. His dedication and cross-disciplinary expertise make him a strong candidate for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profiles: 

Orcid
Scopus

Education:

Dr. Yuxin Peng received his doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in an engineering-related discipline, laying a strong foundation in biomedical engineering, biomechanics, and sensor technologies. His early academic pursuits were rooted in multidisciplinary innovation, merging engineering principles with human physiology and robotics. To further deepen his scientific understanding, he pursued postdoctoral research at the prestigious National University of Singapore, focusing on biomedical systems and smart rehabilitation. During his academic training, Dr. Peng built expertise in wearable sensors, motion tracking systems, and soft robotics—technologies that play a crucial role in personalized healthcare and intelligent rehabilitation. His education trajectory demonstrates both depth and diversity, preparing him to address complex biomedical challenges with integrated, high-tech solutions. It also laid the groundwork for his future leadership roles and impactful research career at Zhejiang University, where he now mentors young researchers and leads innovation in health engineering.

Experience:

Dr. Yuxin Peng has built an impressive academic and research career spanning over a decade. He has been a ZJU 100 Young Professor at Zhejiang University, affiliated with the Institute of Exercise Science and Health Engineering. In this role, he leads interdisciplinary research projects in wearable technology, flexible sensors, and human motion analysis. Prior to this, he served as a Research Fellow at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, where he focused on intelligent health systems and rehabilitation technologies. His hands-on experience in global, high-tech research environments has allowed him to develop collaborations with experts in robotics, materials science, and medical engineering. He has supervised numerous projects and students, while continuously publishing in high-impact journals. His experience demonstrates a rare blend of academic rigor and real-world application, making him a leader in human-centered biomedical innovation and smart rehabilitation systems.

Research Focus:

Dr. Yuxin Peng’s research focuses on wearable systems, smart sensors, soft robotics, and biomedical signal processing for human motion monitoring and rehabilitation. His work addresses real-world problems such as gait analysis, joint motion detection, force sensing, and rehabilitation assistance. By integrating AI, flexible electronics, and biocompatible materials, he develops high-performance sensors and intelligent exosuits for applications in sports science, elderly care, and physical therapy. Notable innovations include graphene-based aerogels, hydrogel biosensors, and multi-feature neural networks for gesture recognition. His lab has also contributed to optical waveguide sensors, virtual reality rehabilitation, and MI-controlled exoskeletons. The overarching goal of his work is to enable non-invasive, real-time, and personalized health monitoring through smart technology. By pushing the boundaries of soft, adaptive, and human-interactive systems, Dr. Peng’s research is at the forefront of the next generation of intelligent biomedical engineering solutions.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Hydroplastic Foaming of Graphene Aerogels and AI Tactile Sensors – Science Advances

  2. Underwater Instant Adhesive Hydrogel Interfaces for Robust Biosensing – Advanced Science

  3. Flexible Segmented Assemblable Fiber Optic Sensor for Multi-Joint Monitoring – Soft Robotics (Accepted)

  4. Calibration-Free Optical Waveguide Bending Sensor for Soft Robots – Soft Science

  5. Distributed Plantar 3D Force Measurement System – Sensors and Actuators A

  6. Superelastic Graphene Nanofibrous Aerogels for Intelligent Sign Language – Small

  7. Omnidirectional Soft Bending Sensor for Joint Monitoring – IEEE TIE

  8. Shank-RIO: Ranging-Inertial Odometry for Gait and Positioning – IEEE TIM

  9. Exosuit with Bidirectional Hand Support via Gesture Recognition – IEEE TNSRE

  10.  Advances in Flexible Bending Sensors and Applications – IJ Smart & Nano Materials

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Yuxin Peng exhibits all the qualities of a top-tier, award-worthy researcher. His work is characterized by scientific rigor, high-impact publication, and a vision for solving real-world healthcare challenges using cutting-edge sensor and robotics technologies. As a respected academic at Zhejiang University with a solid international research background, Dr. Peng has already contributed significantly to wearable health tech and rehabilitation sciences. His ability to combine soft material innovation, artificial intelligence, and biomechanics into novel human-machine interaction systems places him at the forefront of biomedical engineering research. While there is room for growth in the areas of commercialization and global academic engagement, his career trajectory, research excellence, and societal relevance of his innovations make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.