Wei Zhang | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Wei Zhang | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Wei Zhang | Central South University | China

Dr. Wei Zhang, born on December 29, 1977, is a leading expert in clinical pharmacology and pharmacogenomics at the Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, China. With over two decades of dedication to personalized medicine and drug-gene interaction research, Dr. Zhang has advanced the fields of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and gut microbiome-pharmacology interactions. His global experience includes a research stint at the University of Maryland, USA. As a professor, scientific secretary, and associate dean, he contributes significantly to clinical research, translational pharmacogenomics, and academic leadership. Dr. Zhang has led multiple national research grants and published in top-tier journals like The Lancet, Nature Communications, and Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy. His research bridges clinical pharmacology and precision medicine, with a particular focus on diabetes, cancer immunotherapy, and microbiome-drug interactions.

Publication profile:

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Research Leadership
    Dr. Wei Zhang has served as a principal investigator for over 7 nationally funded projects, including China’s prestigious 863 Program and multiple NSFC grants. These projects span pharmacogenomics, clinical pharmacology, and personalized medicine, highlighting his leadership in cutting-edge translational research.

  2. Pioneering Work in Pharmacogenomics & Microbiome
    He has contributed significantly to the drug-gene-microbiota interaction field, especially in type 2 diabetes, cancer immunotherapy, and nephrotoxicity. His discoveries on SLCO1B1, TRIB3, OATP1B1, and CYP2A6 variations have direct implications for individualized therapy.

  3. Global Research Recognition
    His work is published in high-impact journals such as The Lancet, Nature Communications, Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, and Advanced Science. These publications attest to both quality and international relevance.

  4. Interdisciplinary Innovation
    Dr. Zhang bridges clinical pharmacology, bioinformatics, and microbial science, addressing unmet needs in precision medicine. His focus on gut microbiota’s role in drug efficacy and toxicity represents a visionary, interdisciplinary approach.

  5. Academic Mentorship & Leadership
    He has held senior academic roles (Professor, Associate Dean, Scientific Secretary), contributing to the development of academic programs and mentoring the next generation of clinical pharmacologists.

  6. Award-Winning Profile
    With over 9 prestigious national awards, including the New Century Talent Award, Henry Fok Young Teacher Award, and honors from the Chinese Ministry of Education, his contributions are officially recognized at the national level.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Collaboration Expansion
    While Dr. Zhang has completed a visiting scholar stint in the U.S., expanding ongoing multi-national clinical collaborations (e.g., with EU or U.S. precision medicine centers) would further globalize his impact.

  2. Public Communication & Outreach
    His work is academically impactful but could benefit from greater visibility in public health or policymaking arenas, translating research findings into clinical guidelines or patient-accessible formats.

  3. Patents & Industry Translation
    While his academic output is prolific, increased technology transfer—e.g., pharmacogenetic diagnostics or drug screening tools—would further boost his profile as a translational scientist.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Wei Zhang obtained his entire academic education from Central South University in Changsha, Hunan, China. He earned his Ph.D. in Pharmacology (2003–2006) under the mentorship of Professor Hong-Hao Zhou, a member of the China Engineering Academy. His doctoral work centered on clinical pharmacology, with strong emphasis on drug assays and clinical trials. Prior to this, he received his M.A. in Pharmacology (2001–2003), focusing on pharmacogenomics and drug metabolism, gaining hands-on expertise in pyrosequencing and human DNA analysis. Dr. Zhang began his academic journey with a B.A. in Clinical Medicine (1996–2001) from XiangYa Medical School, where he built a solid foundation in pharmacology, physiology, and clinical medicine. This comprehensive academic trajectory laid the groundwork for his research in personalized therapy, pharmacogenetics, and pharmacokinetics, making him a key contributor in China’s pharmacological landscape.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Wei Zhang currently serves as Professor at the Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, since 2013. Since 2009, he has also held the post of Associate Dean at the Institute of Clinical Pharmacology. Previously, he was an Associate Professor (2008–2013), Head of the Genetic Testing Laboratory (2007–2013), and Lecturer (2006–2008). He also contributes administratively as the Scientific Secretary of the National Key Discipline of Pharmacology since 2005. Dr. Zhang gained international experience as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Maryland, USA (2012–2013), further broadening his research expertise. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in pharmacogenomic translation, clinical trials, and precision medicine development, mentoring students and managing large research teams. His leadership and administrative skills have contributed to elevating China’s presence in global pharmacology research.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Wei Zhang’s distinguished career has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards. As a student, he received the “Class I Scholarship” and “Outstanding Postgraduate Student” awards in 2004 and 2005, followed by the “Excellent Report Award” from the Chinese Pharmacological Society in 2005. In 2006, he was named an Outstanding Graduate by Central South University. His research excellence earned him the “New Century Excellent Talents” award from the Chinese Ministry of Education in 2010 and the Science and Technology Prize of the Chinese Society of Pharmacy. He received international recognition in 2012 with a foreign fund from the China Scholarship Council. He was also honored as an “Outstanding Young Talent” by the Organization Department of China in 2013, and in 2014 received the esteemed “Henry Fok Young Teacher Award.” These accolades underscore his influential contributions to pharmacogenomics and clinical research in China.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Wei Zhang’s research is centered around clinical pharmacology, pharmacogenomics, and drug-microbiome interactions, with a mission to enable personalized medicine. His work investigates the genetic and microbial determinants of drug efficacy, toxicity, and metabolism, especially in type 2 diabetes, cancer immunotherapy, and nephrotoxic drugs like cisplatin. He has led major national projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the 863 Program, exploring the pharmacogenomic landscape and the gut microbiota’s impact on drug response. Dr. Zhang’s translational focus bridges laboratory findings to clinical application, utilizing genomic tools and bioinformatics to optimize therapy. His innovative research has unveiled how bacterial metabolites and transporters influence drug absorption and immune modulation, contributing significantly to the understanding of precision pharmacology. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, his work pushes boundaries in oncology, endocrinology, and microbiome science.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 SLCO1B1 variants and enalapril-induced cough – The Lancet (2015)

  2. 💉 TRIB3 Gln84Arg and vascular complications in T2DM – Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology (2016)

  3. 🧠 Pharmacogenomics of hERG potassium channels – Trends in Molecular Medicine (2013)

  4. 🌱 Eubacterium rectale enhances anti-PD1 immunotherapy – Research (2023)

  5. 💊 Bacteroides ovatus and metformin-induced B12 deficiency – NPJ Biofilms Microbiomes (2023)

  6. 🧨 Cancer nanobombs enhancing PD-L1 expression – Advanced Science (2024)

  7. 🌿 Regulatory effects of herbal compounds on gut bacteria – Pharmacological Research (2023)

  8. 🔄 Drug–microbiota interactions in precision medicine – Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy (2023)

  9. 🧫 Microbiota variation and ICI response – Nature Communications (2023)

  10. 🔬 Peptides from Sutterella potentiate PD-1 blockade – Gut (2024)

🧾 Conclusion:

✅ Recommendation: Highly Suitable for Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wei Zhang exemplifies the ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His robust scientific portfolio, pioneering work in pharmacogenomics and drug–microbiota interaction, along with his leadership in both academia and national projects, demonstrate excellence, innovation, and long-term impact. While further expansion into international policy or industry translation could enhance his reach, his current achievements already position him at the forefront of clinical pharmacology and personalized medicine in China and globally.

Zhirong Tan | Gene Regulation Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zhirong Tan | Gene Regulation Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zhirong Tan  , Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , China

Professor Zhirong Tan is a leading Chinese expert in pharmacogenomics and clinical pharmacology. Currently a professor at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, he also serves as the Director of the Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacokinetics Research Laboratory and Deputy Director of the Drug Analysis Center. He has been instrumental in over 300 clinical trials, pushing forward the frontiers of precision medicine, especially in colorectal cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. With over 20 SCI papers, multiple patents, and co-authorship of four books, he’s widely recognized for his work in pharmacokinetics and biomarker discovery. A national GCP and GMP inspector, Prof. Tan actively contributes to pharmaceutical regulation and innovation in China. His academic and industry partnerships reflect a robust foundation in translational research and real-world drug development.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions
    Prof. Zhirong Tan has made outstanding contributions to clinical pharmacology, pharmacogenetics, and metabolomics over two decades. His research has provided critical insights into drug metabolism, biomarker discovery, and precision medicine, especially in colorectal cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

  2. Prolific Publication Record
    With over 22 SCI-indexed publications (first or corresponding author) and 6 CSCD papers, Prof. Tan’s research has achieved over 3550 citations and an H-index of 33 on Web of Science—evidence of the high impact and recognition of his work.

  3. Strong National & Industry Collaborations
    He has participated in or led 300+ clinical trials and secured 5 “Million+” industry-funded projects, reflecting strong ties with both academia and industry. His leadership in national-level projects, such as the “Major New Drug Development” program, showcases his influence in China’s healthcare innovation.

  4. Intellectual Property and Innovation
    With 3 granted patents and 3 under review, Prof. Tan’s ability to translate research into practical applications is evident. His individualized esomeprazole dosing regimen highlights innovation at the clinical level.

  5. Regulatory & Policy Contributions
    As a national GCP/GMP inspector, he plays a pivotal role in drug trial ethics and compliance in China. He also holds leadership roles in pharmacogenomics committees, further demonstrating his commitment to public health advancement.

  6. Academic Mentorship and Editorial Work
    In addition to research, Prof. Tan contributes as a journal reviewer, co-author of four textbooks, and mentor to the next generation of scientists, reinforcing his role as a thought leader in the field.

🔍 Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Visibility
    While Prof. Tan’s national presence is remarkable, further international collaborations, invited keynotes at global conferences, or leading roles in global consortia could enhance his visibility and expand the influence of his work.

  2. Broader Publication Range
    Publishing more frequently in top-tier international journals (e.g., Nature, The Lancet, NEJM) would increase the global academic reach of his findings.

  3. Open Science & Data Sharing
    As the field moves toward transparency, incorporating open-access publications and shared data repositories could boost both reproducibility and citations.

🎓 Education:

Professor Zhirong Tan obtained his Ph.D. from Central South University, a premier Chinese institution, where he laid the groundwork for his expertise in clinical pharmacology and pharmacogenomics. He later pursued postdoctoral research at the School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, one of the top pharmaceutical research institutions in the United States. This international experience enabled him to gain a global perspective in drug metabolism, biomarker identification, and translational pharmacology. His academic training focused on cutting-edge methodologies such as metabolomics, pharmacokinetics, and precision medicine. Through continuous education and research, he has built a reputation as a highly skilled pharmacologist whose work bridges basic research and clinical applications.

💼 Experience:

With a research career spanning over two decades since 1998, Professor Zhirong Tan has led and participated in numerous national-level and provincial-level projects, including China’s National Science and Technology Major Projects. He currently holds multiple leadership positions at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University. Over the years, he has completed major research grants from NSFC, the Hunan Province, and the Ministry of Science and Technology. As a GCP and GMP inspector, Prof. Tan has overseen more than 300 clinical trials, ensuring drug development meets regulatory and ethical standards. His experience also extends to industry collaboration, with successful execution of 5 “Million+” funded projects and influential roles in pharma-academic alliances. A frequent peer reviewer and contributor to international journals, his work influences both the scientific community and regulatory frameworks.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Tan’s primary research focus lies in clinical pharmacology, pharmacogenomics, and metabolomics, particularly for colorectal cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. His work aims to identify and validate biomarkers for disease diagnosis, drug efficacy, and toxicity prediction. A major contributor to China’s “Major New Drug Development” initiative, he has developed personalized esomeprazole dosing regimens by studying genetic polymorphisms, SNPs, and microRNA interactions. His research also explores the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease using metabolomic profiling, offering insights into early detection and potential therapeutics. He applies advanced bioanalytical methods to understand inter-individual variability in drug metabolism and therapeutic response. His projects have real-world clinical implications, transforming how drugs are prescribed, regulated, and monitored. Through his pioneering work, Prof. Tan contributes significantly to the evolution of precision medicine in China.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 📊 Role of BCRP 421C>A polymorphism on rosuvastatin pharmacokinetics in healthy Chinese males

  2. ❤️ Gly389Arg polymorphism of β1‐adrenergic receptor and cardiovascular response to metoprolol

  3. 💊 CYP2C19 ultra-rapid metabolizer genotype affects voriconazole pharmacokinetics

  4. 🧬 HLA‐B35:01 allele as biomarker for Polygonum multiflorum–induced liver injury*

  5. 🌿 Repeated berberine administration inhibits cytochromes P450 in humans

  6. 💉 Effect of SLCO1B1 polymorphism on pharmacokinetics of nateglinide

  7. 🧪 Assessment of cytochrome P450 activity by five‐drug cocktail approach

  8. ☕ Plasma caffeine metabolite ratio linked to CYP1A2 polymorphisms

  9. 🔬 Inducibility of CYP1A2 by omeprazole associated with genetic polymorphism

  10. 🧫 Ile118Val polymorphism of CYP3A4 affects simvastatin lipid-lowering efficacy

📝 Conclusion:

Professor Zhirong Tan is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His record of scientific excellence, clinical innovation, and regulatory leadership clearly positions him as a key contributor to modern pharmacology. His integrated approach—spanning basic science, clinical trials, and health policy—has had a measurable impact on patient care and drug development in China.

While there is room to further expand his global footprint, his accomplishments to date already demonstrate the caliber, commitment, and consistency expected of a world-class researcher.