Laurine Lagache | Oncology | Innovative Research Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

 

Innovative Research Award

Laurine Lagache
PRISM – Inserm U1192, France

Laurine Lagache
Affiliation PRISM – Inserm U1192
Country France
Scopus ID 59161941000
Documents 6
Citations 12
h-index 3
Subject Area Oncology
Event World Cell Biologist Awards
ORCID 0009-0000-4442-6642

Laurine Lagache is a researcher affiliated with PRISM – Inserm U1192 in France, with a research profile situated within the field of oncology. Her documented scholarly record comprises 6 documents, 12 citations, and an h-index of 3 according to the supplied Scopus profile information. [1] Her research context is relevant to contemporary cell biology and cancer research, disciplines in which cellular mechanisms, molecular interactions, disease progression, and therapeutic responses are closely interconnected. [2]

Abstract

The Innovative Research Award profile for Laurine Lagache presents a concise academic overview of a researcher working in oncology at PRISM – Inserm U1192, France. The profile is based on the supplied researcher identification and bibliometric information, including six indexed documents, twelve citations, and an h-index of three. [1] The research domain is positioned within the broader scientific landscape of oncology and cell biology, where investigation of cellular and molecular mechanisms contributes to understanding disease biology and developing improved approaches to diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. [2]

Keywords

Laurine Lagache; Innovative Research Award; oncology; cell biology; cancer research; PRISM – Inserm U1192; biomedical research; molecular oncology; research impact; scientific innovation.

Introduction

Oncology is a multidisciplinary research field encompassing the biological mechanisms responsible for cancer development, progression, dissemination, and response to treatment. Modern cancer research increasingly integrates cellular biology, molecular biology, genetics, immunology, bioinformatics, and translational science to characterize disease processes at multiple levels. [2]

Research Profile

The supplied bibliometric profile identifies Laurine Lagache under Scopus Author ID 59161941000. The reported record contains 6 documents, 12 citations, and an h-index of 3. [1] These indicators provide quantitative information about indexed scholarly output and citation activity, but they should be interpreted in conjunction with publication quality, authorship contribution, research relevance, and the scientific context of the work.

Research Contributions

The available information establishes oncology as the principal subject area associated with the researcher profile. On this basis, the relevant contribution can be considered within the wider scientific objective of improving knowledge of cancer biology and its cellular and molecular foundations. However, the supplied data do not provide sufficient evidence to attribute a particular discovery, technique, therapeutic intervention, or clinical finding to Laurine LAGACHE. [4]

Publications

The supplied Scopus profile records 6 documents associated with the researcher identifier. [1] The available input does not provide individual publication titles, journals, publication years, author positions, or article-level DOI identifiers. Consequently, no specific publication is attributed to Laurine LAGACHE in this profile beyond the supplied bibliometric record.[3] [5]

Research Impact

The reported citation count of 12 and h-index of 3 indicate measurable scholarly citation activity within the supplied Scopus record. [1] Citation indicators can be useful for understanding the visibility of research outputs, although they do not independently establish the quality, originality, societal value, or practical significance of research. [3]

Award Suitability

Based on the supplied information, Laurine Lagache research profile is aligned with the scientific scope of an Innovative Research Award through its stated focus on oncology and its documented scholarly activity. The profile provides identifiable affiliation, research area, indexed documents, citations, h-index, and a persistent ORCID identifier, which together provide a basis for academic profile verification. [1] [3]

Conclusion

Laurine Lagache is presented as an oncology researcher affiliated with PRISM – Inserm U1192 in France. The supplied profile records 6 Scopus-indexed documents, 12 citations, and an h-index of 3, together with Scopus Author ID 59161941000 and ORCID 0009-0000-4442-6642. [1] [3]

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Laurine LAGACHE, Author ID 59161941000. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/pages/authors/59161941000
  2. L Lagache,D Simon, GS Horkovics-Kováts, et al. (2025). Subcellular-Resolution Molecular Pathology by Laser Ablation–Rapid Evaporative Ionization Mass Spectrometry.
    https://pubs.acs.org/ancham/article-abstract/97/32/17433/3622698
  3. L Lagache, J Salzet, I Fournier, M Salzet. (2026). Beyond Darwin: reactive heredity, burst-drift dynamics and eco‑evolutionary control of cancer.
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12943-026-02683-w
  4. A Goossen, L Lagache, et al. (2026). A Universal Modular High-Plex MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging Platform.
    https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-9525563/v1
  5. L Lagache, M Salzet. (2026). Metastasis as a breakdown of the multicellular social contract.
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10555-026-10352-z

Hongjin Liu | Cancer Cell Biology | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

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.

Dukagjin Blakaj | Radiation Oncology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dukagjin Blakaj | Radiation Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dukagjin Blakaj, The Ohio State University, United States

Dr. Dukagjin M. Blakaj, MD, PhD, is a distinguished physician-scientist and academic leader in radiation oncology, specializing in proton therapy. Currently serving as the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations and holding the prestigious Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Endowed Professorship at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, he brings visionary leadership in patient-centered oncology care. With dual degrees in medicine and biochemistry, Dr. Blakaj integrates clinical expertise with advanced translational research. He is renowned for developing innovative radiotherapy protocols, advancing artificial intelligence applications in oncology, and mentoring future clinician-scientists. His work significantly influences treatment outcomes for head and neck cancers, including HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, and is published in top-tier journals. A respected thought leader and collaborative partner, Dr. Blakaj embodies excellence in academic medicine, multidisciplinary team leadership, and compassionate patient care.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Scopus

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Blakaj’s educational path is both extensive and interdisciplinary. He earned his MD, PhD, and MS in Biochemistry from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, where he focused on molecular interactions in biological systems. Before that, he completed both a BA in Chemistry and Molecular Biology & Biophysics and an MA in Chemistry from Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. His doctoral work explored protein-RNA interactions, laying the groundwork for his scientific rigor and precision. This strong biochemical foundation supports his innovative clinical research in radiation oncology and immunotherapy. His education highlights a consistent pattern of academic excellence and intellectual curiosity, equipping him with a rare blend of clinical insight and research acumen that continues to impact cancer treatment paradigms worldwide.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Dukagjin Blakaj is the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations in Radiation Oncology and Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Endowed Professor in Proton Therapy at OSUCCC – James Cancer Hospital. As a senior faculty member, he has led transformative improvements in clinical care, quality assurance, and translational oncology research. His multidisciplinary collaboration extends across surgery, radiology, oncology, and data science, driving innovations such as AI-guided treatment protocols and digital health integration. Dr. Blakaj has also played a critical role in operationalizing proton therapy and implementing personalized cancer therapies. His background spans high-impact clinical trials, program development, and mentorship. The combination of clinical leadership and academic scholarship positions him as a strategic thinker with practical, evidence-driven execution. His commitment to precision medicine and patient-centered care distinguishes him among modern radiation oncologists.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Blakaj has received numerous accolades that reflect his clinical excellence, research innovation, and service to the academic community. Notably, he was awarded the Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Endowed Professorship in Radiation Oncology – Proton Therapy (effective June 2025), the highest honor granted by Ohio State University. His ABR Volunteer Service Award (July 2025) highlights his contributions to professional standards and education. He was selected for the James Outstanding Physician Peer Award for exemplary leadership, professionalism, and collaboration (August 2024). Additionally, his abstract ranked in the Top 7 of 146 presentations at ACRO, underscoring his research’s national impact. Dr. Blakaj’s consistent recognition across service, research, and teaching is a testament to his dedication, integrity, and influence in the field of oncology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Blakaj’s research is centered on optimizing cancer treatment outcomes through precision radiation therapy, immunotherapy integration, and the application of artificial intelligence in oncology. He focuses primarily on head and neck cancers, with additional emphasis on HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma, FLASH radiotherapy, and treatment response prediction using circulating tumor DNA and inflammatory indices. He co-leads interdisciplinary studies leveraging machine learning, big data, and digital health tools to personalize care and reduce treatment toxicity. His research is both translational and clinically grounded, often influencing national clinical practice guidelines and multi-center trials. As a key contributor to high-impact publications, Dr. Blakaj has established himself as a thought leader in adaptive radiotherapy and survivorship outcomes. His pioneering work in proton therapy protocols and patient-reported outcomes continues to bridge the gap between innovative science and practical oncology care.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. An integrated ML-based prognostic model in head and neck cancer using inflammatory markers and financial toxicity

  2. Vertebral endplate disruption and compression fracture risk: Expanded radiotherapy analysis

  3. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma in nonendemic regions: Characteristics and treatment outcomes

  4. Emerging paradigms in radiation oncology: Evolution and patient-centric care

  5. FLASH radiotherapy: From in vivo data to clinical translation

  6. Digital health tools in radiation oncology: Development and implementation review

  7. ctDNA as a response marker in HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma: A pilot study

  8. AI, machine learning, and big data in radiation oncology

  9. Predicting cisplatin tolerability in elderly head and neck cancer patients

  10.  Tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol use impact on survival in metastatic head and neck cancer

Conclusion:

Dr. Dukagjin M. Blakaj is a highly qualified, forward-thinking researcher whose body of work exemplifies excellence in translational oncology. He brings together advanced clinical practice, cutting-edge research, and visionary leadership to improve cancer care outcomes and drive future innovations in radiation therapy.

Given his sustained productivity, multidisciplinary leadership, and contributions to patient-centered care models, Dr. Blakaj is a deserving and outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

Raul Valenzuela | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Raul Valenzuela | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Raul Valenzuela , MD Anderson Cancer Center , United States

Dr. Raul F. Valenzuela Perez is a highly accomplished Assistant Professor of Musculoskeletal Imaging at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. With over two decades of medical experience, he combines expertise in radiology, oncology, and advanced imaging techniques. Originating from Chile, Dr. Valenzuela earned his MD from Universidad de Chile and pursued advanced training in health administration and imaging sciences. His global perspective and collaborative research efforts have made him a prominent figure in musculoskeletal tumor imaging. He is board-certified in radiology in both the U.S. and Chile and is actively licensed in Texas and Florida. Dr. Valenzuela’s dedication to oncologic imaging, radiomics, and MRI innovations has resulted in numerous peer-reviewed publications, especially in the field of sarcoma imaging. Through ongoing work in developing and validating novel imaging biomarkers, he continues to shape the future of cancer diagnostics and personalized treatment approaches.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Prolific Research Output 📚
    Dr. Valenzuela has published extensively in high-impact journals like Scientific Reports, JCO Clinical Cancer Informatics, and Journal of Radiology & Oncology, with recent work in 2023–2025 focusing on radiomics, MRI biomarkers, and musculoskeletal oncology.

  2. Innovation in Imaging Techniques 💡
    He has pioneered the use of contrast-enhanced susceptibility-weighted imaging (CE-SWI) and quantitative diffusion-weighted MRI to evaluate soft tissue sarcomas and treatment response — advancing imaging beyond traditional RECIST criteria.

  3. Collaborative Multidisciplinary Work 🤝
    Dr. Valenzuela consistently co-authors with surgical oncologists, pathologists, and radiologists, highlighting his collaborative research approach that bridges disciplines.

  4. International Clinical Credibility 🌎
    He is licensed in the U.S. (Texas & Florida) and Chile, and board-certified in both American and Chilean radiology boards, reflecting his global expertise and trust in varied medical systems.

  5. Academic Leadership at MD Anderson 🎓
    As an Assistant Professor at one of the world’s top cancer centers, he contributes to education, clinical care, and high-level cancer imaging research.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Recognition and Awards Disclosure 🏅
    While the publication record is impressive, public listing of prior individual awards, fellowships, or grants would strengthen his profile further for award consideration.

  2. Principal Investigator Roles 🧪
    Although highly involved in collaborative projects, leading major multi-center trials or imaging consortia as principal investigator would elevate his leadership status.

  3. Expanded Public Science Communication 🗣️
    Increasing outreach via conferences, keynote talks, or educational platforms (like webinars or radiology workshops) could enhance his visibility in the broader scientific community.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Raul F. Valenzuela Perez holds an MD from Universidad de Chile (1993), where he laid the foundation for his distinguished medical and academic career. Alongside his medical training, he pursued further specialization in healthcare management, earning two certificates from the University of Chile Business School: one in Business and Health Administration (2003) and another in Process Management and Health Administration (2005). This unique blend of medical and administrative education empowers Dr. Valenzuela with a strategic understanding of healthcare systems and leadership. His academic journey highlights a commitment to continuous learning and cross-disciplinary excellence. As a thought leader in radiologic sciences, Dr. Valenzuela has integrated his business knowledge with clinical expertise to enhance imaging workflows and patient-centered care, especially in high-impact cancer institutions like MD Anderson. His education reflects both clinical proficiency and managerial insight, laying the groundwork for his contributions to musculoskeletal oncology imaging.

🏥 Experience:

Since September 2019, Dr. Valenzuela has served as an Assistant Professor in Musculoskeletal Imaging at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, one of the world’s leading cancer research institutions. Prior to his tenure in the U.S., he developed a robust clinical background in Chile, where he practiced and taught radiology. With licenses from the Texas Medical Board, Florida Medical Board, and Chilean Medical Association, his clinical credentials span internationally. He is also certified by the American Board of Radiology and the Chilean Radiology Board. At MD Anderson, Dr. Valenzuela plays a key role in advancing diagnostic imaging for musculoskeletal tumors, particularly soft tissue sarcomas. His responsibilities include patient care, teaching, research, and contributing to the development of advanced imaging protocols. Known for his collaborative style and interdisciplinary approach, he is a respected mentor and a valued contributor in the field of cancer imaging.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

While specific named awards are not detailed in the provided data, Dr. Raul F. Valenzuela Perez’s growing publication record, leading research in radiomics, and collaborative work at MD Anderson suggest a strong reputation in his field. His continuous publication in high-impact journals, such as Scientific Reports, JCO Clinical Cancer Informatics, and Journal of Radiology & Oncology, indicate recognition by peers and ongoing contributions to advancing cancer imaging. His role in multidisciplinary research teams and innovative use of advanced MRI techniques position him as a strong candidate for awards like Best Researcher. His efforts in improving imaging criteria beyond RECIST and validating AI-based radiomic frameworks show both vision and leadership. Though a detailed list of awards isn’t cited, his contributions to musculoskeletal oncology, particularly in sarcoma treatment response evaluation, reflect a track record of academic excellence and clinical impact, meriting honor and distinction in his specialty.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Valenzuela’s primary research focus lies in advanced imaging for musculoskeletal oncology, particularly the integration of radiomics, perfusion-weighted MRI, and contrast-enhanced susceptibility-weighted imaging (CE-SWI) for tumor characterization and treatment monitoring. His work is centered on improving diagnosis and predicting response in soft-tissue sarcomas, such as undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) and desmoid fibromatosis. He actively collaborates on multi-institutional studies, applying quantitative imaging biomarkers and AI-driven radiomic models to identify tumor behavior patterns and personalize therapy. A key aspect of his research is the evaluation of multiparametric MRI features, including diffusion-weighted and dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging. His publications reveal a commitment to pushing boundaries in functional imaging and improving imaging response criteria beyond traditional RECIST methods. Through his research, Dr. Valenzuela aims to contribute to precision medicine in oncology, bridging radiology and data science to enhance patient outcomes and streamline therapeutic decision-making.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧠 Perfusion-weighted imaging features predicting UPS treatment response – Sci Rep, 2024

  2. 🧬 Radiomics by diffusion-weighted MRI for extremity UPS prediction – J Radiol Oncol, 2024

  3. 🧲 Contrast-enhanced SWI for musculoskeletal oncologic pathology – J Radiol Oncol, 2024

  4. 💉 Perfusion imaging of the musculoskeletal system – Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am, 2024

  5. 🤖 Cancer radiomic and perfusion imaging automated framework – JCO Clin Cancer Inform, 2024

  6. 🧠 Idiopathic intracranial hypertension: MRI vs venous sinus pressure – Rev Chil Radiol, 2023

  7. 📊 CE-SWI in desmoid fibromatosis response assessment – Tumor Discov, 2023

  8. 📈 Multiparametric MRI for treatment and recurrence in sarcoma – J Radiol Oncol, 2023

  9. 🔍 ADC map-based radiomics for sacral tumor differentiation – JCO Precis Oncol, 2023

  10. 📐 Advanced imaging in musculoskeletal oncology (ABASTI Part I) – Semin Ultrasound CT MR, 2021

  11. 🧪 Radiomic features of CE-SWI in UPS treatment response – JCO Clin Cancer Inform, 2025

📝 Conclusion:

Dr. Raul F. Valenzuela Perez is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His innovative contributions to musculoskeletal oncologic imaging, especially in applying radiomic models and advanced MRI techniques, place him at the forefront of translational cancer imaging. His interdisciplinary collaborations and growing body of work have strong clinical impact, particularly for sarcoma management.

With additional visibility through PI roles and recognition through formal honors, Dr. Valenzuela’s already impressive profile is on a trajectory toward international distinction. Based on the current accomplishments and ongoing impactful research, he is highly recommended for this award.