Hongjin Liu | Cancer Cell Biology | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Hongjin Liu | Cancer Cell Biology | Research Excellence Award

National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College | China

Hongjin Liu is a medical oncologist whose research centers on cancer biology, therapeutic resistance, and tumorigenesis. His work spans molecular oncology, hepatocellular carcinoma, and mechanisms of somatic mutagenesis across human tissues. He has contributed to high-impact studies published in Nature and Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, including investigations uncovering the landscape of somatic mutations in normal tissues and the critical role of VAV2 in DNA repair and radiotherapy resistance. His research also explores noncoding RNA–mediated regulatory networks in liver cancer, notably identifying the oncogenic function of ELF3-AS1 through its modulation of the miR-98-5p/CPSF4 axis. Collectively, his publications provide important insights into genomic instability, tumor microenvironment dynamics, and potential molecular targets for improving therapeutic outcomes. His translational research aims to bridge molecular mechanisms with clinical oncology to support precision cancer treatment and advance strategies for overcoming therapy resistance.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications: 

1. Ge, P., Niu, S., Fang, M., Xu, Q., Zhang, W., Xu, J., Yang, F., Wang, Y., Shi, T., & Liu, H. (2025). ELF3-AS1 promotes the carcinogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by inhibiting miR-98-5p/CPSF4 axis. Nucleosides, Nucleotides & Nucleic Acids.

2. Zhang, W., Liu, Z., Liu, H., Huang, Z., Huang, X., Xu, L., Che, X., & Zhan, Z. (2025). The impact of immune checkpoint inhibitors on prognosis in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma treated with TACE and lenvatinib: A meta-analysis. Frontiers in Immunology.

3. Liu, W., Miao, C., Zhang, S., Liu, Y., Niu, X., Xi, Y., Guo, W., Chu, J., Lin, A., Liu, H., Yang, X., Chen, X., Zhong, C., Ma, Y., Wang, Y., Zhu, S., Liu, S., Tan, W., Lin, D., & Wu, C. (2021). VAV2 is required for DNA repair and implicated in cancer radiotherapy resistance. Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, 6(9), 2906–2919.

4. Li, R., Di, L., Li, J., Fan, W., Liu, Y., Guo, W., Liu, W., Liu, L., Li, Q., Chen, L., Chen, Y., Miao, C., Liu, H., Wang, Y., Ma, Y., Xu, D., Lin, D., Huang, Y., Wang, J., Bai, F., & Wu, C. (2021). A body map of somatic mutagenesis in morphologically normal human tissues. Nature, 597(7876), 398–403.

5. Chen, Y., Zeng, Q., Liu, X., Fu, J., Zeng, Z., Zhao, Z., Liu, Z., Bai, W., Dong, Z., & Liu, H. (2018). LINE-1 ORF-1p enhances the transcription factor activity of pregnenolone X receptor and promotes sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Cancer Management and Research, 10, 6345–6358.

Huizheng Hu | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Huizheng Hu | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Huizheng Hu , Nuclear Industry 215 Hospital of Shaanxi Province , China

Dr. Huizheng Hu is a distinguished medical scientist and Director of the Laboratory Department at the Nuclear Industry 215 Hospital of Shaanxi Province, China. As an Associate Professor, Dr. Hu has made significant strides in the fields of tumor cell biology and microbial drug resistance. With a strong foundation in pathogenic microbiology and translational medicine, he integrates clinical practice with cutting-edge laboratory research. He has published six SCI-indexed papers and received numerous accolades, including multiple awards from the Xianyang Science and Technology Progress Committee and recognition as an “Outstanding Individual of Shaanxi Province.” His leadership in research projects on papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and ongoing collaborations with Northwest University further reflect his dedication to scientific advancement. Known for his innovation, expertise, and commitment to healthcare, Dr. Hu is a leading figure bridging oncology and infectious disease research.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Research Excellence:
    Dr. Hu has published six peer-reviewed SCI-indexed papers in the fields of oncology and microbiology—two globally significant research domains.

  2. Leadership in Research Projects:
    Currently leading three active research projects on papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) and has successfully secured six competitive research grants, reflecting his project management and funding acquisition capabilities.

  3. Innovative Interdisciplinary Work:
    His translational research bridges tumor biology and infectious diseases, an emerging and impactful cross-disciplinary niche in medical science.

  4. Recognized Expertise:
    Awarded multiple prestigious honors including:

    • Third Prize from the Nuclear Industry Geological Exploration Bureau

    • Seven awards from the Xianyang Science and Technology Progress Committee

    • Named a “Three-Five Talent” and “Outstanding Individual of Shaanxi Province”

  5. Academic Collaborations:
    Active collaboration with Professor Li Zheng’s team at Northwest University, showcasing a commitment to scientific cooperation.

🔧 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Global Visibility:
    While regionally recognized, Dr. Hu’s international presence could be enhanced by:

    • Publishing in higher-impact global journals

    • Participating in global scientific conferences or forums

  2. Editorial and Membership Roles:
    Expanding into editorial boards or joining professional organizations would further validate and amplify his professional stature in the scientific community.

  3. Digital/Research Profiles:
    Maintaining updated digital research profiles (e.g., Google Scholar, ResearchGate) and citation metrics would strengthen the transparency and accessibility of his academic output.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Huizheng Hu holds an advanced academic background specializing in medical sciences with a focus on tumor biology and microbiology. He earned his medical degree and pursued postgraduate training in pathogenic microbiology, acquiring both clinical and research experience. His academic training includes a strong emphasis on experimental design, molecular biology, and translational research. Dr. Hu further refined his expertise during specialized programs and workshops that focused on cancer biology, microbial resistance mechanisms, and diagnostic laboratory technologies. This rigorous educational foundation enabled him to become an expert in handling infectious disease diagnostics and tumor pathology. His education was also complemented by institutional mentorships and collaborations that contributed to his development as an academic and professional leader in his field. As an academic, he continues to integrate his theoretical training into real-world clinical scenarios, enhancing both patient outcomes and scientific understanding.

💼 Professional Experience:

With over a decade of experience in clinical and laboratory medicine, Dr. Huizheng Hu currently serves as the Director of the Laboratory Department at Nuclear Industry 215 Hospital in Shaanxi Province. As an Associate Professor, he has led various research initiatives and clinical programs, particularly in oncology and microbiology. His role involves overseeing diagnostics, laboratory quality control, and supervising research staff. Dr. Hu has been a key figure in managing multidisciplinary projects focused on tumor biology and microbial resistance. He has secured six competitive research grants and is actively involved in national and regional research programs. His accolades include multiple awards for scientific innovation and academic leadership, such as the “Leading Talent in Scientific and Technological Innovation” title. Dr. Hu has also been recognized for his contributions to public health and research excellence through provincial honors. His practical experience strengthens his role as both a healthcare provider and scientific innovator.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Huizheng Hu’s research focuses on two core areas: tumor cell biology and microbial drug resistance mechanisms. His studies aim to understand the cellular and molecular dynamics of cancers, especially papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), and how microbial pathogens adapt to drugs in clinical settings. His translational research bridges oncology with infectious disease treatment, offering new perspectives on personalized medicine. Currently, Dr. Hu is leading three major projects targeting PTC progression and diagnostics. Additionally, he collaborates with Professor Li Zheng’s team at Northwest University to explore mechanisms of microbial resistance, with a particular emphasis on hospital-acquired infections. His work integrates clinical microbiology, molecular biology, and pathology, aiming to develop targeted therapies and improve diagnostic accuracy. Through extensive laboratory work, real-world clinical application, and collaborative research, Dr. Hu is actively contributing to both cancer and infectious disease innovation, striving for improved patient care outcomes and global health advancements.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  • 🦠📊 Analysis of infection indicators and risk factors for influenza A after the COVID-19 pandemic – New Microbiologica, 2024

  • 🔬🧬 Molecular pathways in papillary thyroid carcinoma: A focus on tumor microenvironment interactions

  • 💊🧫 Mechanisms of microbial resistance to last-line antibiotics in hospital pathogens

  • 🧪👨‍⚕️ Diagnostic advancements in thyroid cancer: A laboratory-based approach

  • 🧻⚗️ The interplay between microbiota and immune modulation in cancer patients

  • 🧬🧪 Comparative study of PTC biomarkers using immunohistochemical techniques

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Huizheng Hu is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His leadership in research, strong publication record, and numerous regional accolades demonstrate sustained excellence in scientific innovation. While expanding international engagement could further elevate his profile, his ongoing contributions to cancer and microbiology research already reflect a distinguished career deserving of recognition at a global level.