Lingyan Zhou | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Lingyan Zhou | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lingyan Zhou , Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University , China

Dr. Lingyan Zhou is a dedicated neuroscientist and clinician specializing in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Currently serving in the Department of Neurology at Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated with Shandong First Medical University, Dr. Zhou holds a doctorate and has made notable contributions to neurodegeneration research through high-impact publications and cutting-edge studies. Her work focuses on molecular mechanisms such as protein aggregation, homocysteinylation, and neuroprotection, with particular attention to α-synuclein and DJ-1. Dr. Zhou has co-authored more than 15 peer-reviewed articles in top-tier journals like Nature Communications, Science Advances, and Aging Cell, earning recognition for her insights into disease-modifying pathways. A researcher with a strong translational focus, she bridges the gap between bench and bedside, aiming to develop therapeutic strategies that can mitigate or reverse neurodegenerative processes. Her commitment to science and patient-centered research makes her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Publication Record in High-Impact Journals
    Dr. Zhou has consistently published in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Science Advances, Aging Cell, and Movement Disorders, reflecting the significance and innovation of her work. Many of these are Q1 journals with high impact factors.

  2. Focused Research on Neurodegeneration
    Her core focus on the molecular basis of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, especially novel mechanisms like N-homocysteinylation, STAT1-PARP1, and microRNA signaling, demonstrates depth and relevance to global health priorities.

  3. Translational Impact
    Her research bridges basic science and clinical application, particularly through studies on neuroprotection, early disease biomarkers, and potential therapeutic targets.

  4. Early Career Excellence
    Despite being in the early stages of her career, Dr. Zhou has already authored or co-authored over 17 peer-reviewed publications, many as first or corresponding author, which is exceptional at this stage.

  5. Multidisciplinary Collaborations
    Dr. Zhou’s collaborations with experts across genetics, immunology, bioinformatics, and neurology highlight her integrative approach to complex diseases.

  6. International Visibility
    Multiple articles are indexed in PubMed, Crossref, and DOIs, showing her research has international academic presence and reach.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Greater International Exposure
    While her publication record is strong, further participation in international neuroscience conferences, workshops, or global consortia would enhance visibility and foster leadership roles.

  2. Grant Leadership and Independent Funding
    As she progresses, securing independent research funding and leading grant-funded projects will further demonstrate research independence and strengthen her candidacy for top-tier awards.

  3. Mentorship and Teaching Roles
    Involvement in structured mentorship or supervision of Ph.D./postdoctoral researchers could be better highlighted to show contributions to research training and capacity building.

  4. Innovation Translation Pathway
    Filing patents or initiating translational collaborations with biotech/pharma could underline the practical applicability of her findings.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Lingyan Zhou received her doctorate from Wuhan University, one of China’s leading research institutions, between September 2020 and June 2023. During her Ph.D. training, she developed expertise in molecular neuroscience and translational medicine, with a specific focus on the pathological mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Her research explored cellular stress pathways, protein misfolding, and epigenetic regulation in neurodegeneration, leading to multiple first-author publications in high-impact journals. Her academic background provided a solid foundation in experimental techniques such as immunohistochemistry, gene expression analysis, and in vivo disease modeling. The interdisciplinary approach at Wuhan University enriched her understanding of both clinical neurology and basic neuroscience. This rigorous academic training has equipped Dr. Zhou with the analytical and research skills necessary for advancing innovation in neurodegenerative disease treatment.

🧪 Experience:

Since July 2023, Dr. Lingyan Zhou has been serving in the Department of Neurology at Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated with Shandong First Medical University, where she engages in both clinical practice and translational neuroscience research. Prior to that, she completed her doctoral studies at Wuhan University, where she developed a deep interest in the role of homocysteine metabolism and genetic regulation in Parkinson’s disease. Over her career, she has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurodegeneration and published extensively in internationally recognized journals. Her current position allows her to continue high-impact research while mentoring junior colleagues and participating in multi-center studies. Her combined experience in basic research, clinical neurology, and academic collaboration has established her as a key contributor in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, positioning her well for leadership roles and research recognition such as the Best Researcher Award.

🧠 Research Focus:

Dr. Lingyan Zhou’s research is centered on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive neurodegenerative diseases, with an emphasis on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Her work has shed light on pathological protein modifications, such as N-homocysteinylation of α-synuclein and DJ-1, which contribute to protein aggregation and neurotoxicity. Additionally, she investigates the neuroprotective roles of vitamins, retinoic acid, and microRNAs in slowing disease progression. Dr. Zhou is also exploring how infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2 may trigger or exacerbate neurological disorders, expanding the understanding of systemic factors in brain health. Her studies leverage both in vitro and in vivo models to unravel pathways involving STAT1, PARP1, and Notch signaling. By identifying potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers, her research aims to guide the development of novel treatment strategies that could improve outcomes for patients suffering from movement disorders and cognitive decline.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧪 N-homocysteinylation of alpha-synuclein promotes its aggregation and neurotoxicity – Aging Cell (2022)

  2. 🧠 Association of vitamin B2 intake with cognitive performance in older adults: a cross-sectional study – J Transl Med (2023)

  3. 🧬 Homocysteine and Parkinson’s disease – CNS Neurosci Ther (2023)

  4. 🧴 Retinoic Acid Prevents alpha-Synuclein Preformed Fibrils-Induced Toxicity via Inhibiting STAT1-PARP1 Signaling – Mol Neurobiol (2023)

  5. 🧫 N-homocysteinylation of DJ-1 promotes neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease – Aging Cell (2024)

  6. 🦠 SARS-CoV-2: Underestimated damage to nervous system – Travel Med Infect Dis (2020)

  7. 💊 Potential therapeutic drugs for ischemic stroke based on bioinformatics analysis – Int J Neurosci (2019)

  8. 🧬 PTPN22 Gene Polymorphisms and Stroke Susceptibility – Dis Markers (2019)

  9. 🧪 IL-18 Gene Polymorphisms and Risk of Ischemic Stroke: A Meta-analysis – Neuroreport (2019)

  10. 🚬 Aromatic hydrocarbon receptor links smoking and rheumatoid arthritis – Clin Exp Rheumatol (2020)

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Lingyan Zhou demonstrates an exceptional trajectory for a young neuroscience researcher. Her deep and original contributions to unraveling molecular mechanisms in neurodegeneration, particularly Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, make her highly deserving of recognition. The breadth and quality of her publication record—combined with her translational outlook—signal a rising star in neurodegenerative disease research.

Chen Huang | Cellular Bioenergetics Metabolism | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Chen Huang | Cellular Bioenergetics Metabolism | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Chen Huang , Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT) Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) , China

Dr. Chen Huang is an Associate Researcher at the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. She earned her Ph.D. in 2018 from the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Her primary research lies at the intersection of female reproductive endocrinology and metabolic diseases, focusing on how adverse intrauterine environments impact long-term offspring health. Dr. Huang has authored over 20 SCI-indexed papers and holds 18 published patents with one under review. She has played significant roles in national and regional projects funded by the NSFC and Shenzhen Innovation Commission. Her notable contributions include identifying novel peptides with therapeutic potential in NAFLD and TNBC, and exploring molecular mechanisms behind pregnancy complications. Her impactful work, especially on metabolitin (MTL) and chemerin/GPR1 signaling pathways, has earned recognition in high-impact journals like Journal of Hepatology. Dr. Huang’s commitment to translational research places her at the forefront of biomedical innovation in women’s health.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Chen Huang exemplifies academic and scientific excellence through her impactful research in the fields of female reproductive endocrinology and metabolic diseases. Her contributions have led to meaningful advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern maternal-fetal health and associated disorders such as NAFLD, pregnancy complications, and cancer.

Key strengths include:

  • Scientific Innovation: She has identified and characterized novel peptide hormones such as metabolitin (MTL) and explored their therapeutic roles, a groundbreaking approach in targeting metabolic and oncological diseases.

  • High-Quality Publications: With around 20 SCI-indexed journal articles, including those in high-impact journals like Journal of Hepatology and Molecular Therapy – Oncolytics, her work is widely recognized in the scientific community.

  • Patent Portfolio: Dr. Huang has published 18 patents, with another under review, demonstrating her strong translational focus and commitment to real-world biomedical applications.

  • Research Leadership: She has successfully led multiple competitive national and regional research projects funded by the NSFC and Shenzhen Innovation Commission.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Huang’s research output and contributions are impressive, certain enhancements could further elevate her global profile:

  • International Exposure: Engaging in more international collaborative projects or joint publications with global institutes could broaden the impact of her research.

  • Editorial and Professional Roles: Participation in editorial boards, peer review panels, or scientific committees would enhance her leadership presence in the scientific ecosystem.

  • Industry Engagement: Establishing collaborations with biotech or pharmaceutical industries could increase the translational value of her work and open pathways for clinical applications.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Chen Huang received her Ph.D. in 2018 from the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Her doctoral research laid the foundation for her interest in female reproductive endocrinology and metabolic disorders, combining clinical insight with molecular research. Throughout her academic training, she focused on identifying the mechanistic links between endocrine disruptions during pregnancy and their long-term effects on offspring health. She has continually built upon this expertise through advanced training and interdisciplinary collaborations. Her educational background provided her with a robust understanding of molecular biology, endocrine physiology, and metabolic pathways, which she has applied in various research contexts—from liver disease to cancer biology. Her academic excellence was further highlighted by her early co-first authorship in high-impact journals during her Ph.D., demonstrating her ability to lead and innovate in collaborative research projects even in early stages of her career.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Chen Huang is currently serving as an Associate Researcher at the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Since completing her Ph.D. in 2018, she has led and contributed to several key research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Commission. Her experience spans both basic and translational science, with an emphasis on hormonal regulation and metabolic diseases during pregnancy. She has collaborated with renowned scientists like Dr. Teng and Dr. Enkui Duan, contributing to the discovery of new peptide hormones such as metabolitin (MTL). Her professional experience is enriched by her ability to translate complex molecular findings into therapeutic strategies, especially in contexts like NAFLD and triple-negative breast cancer. With over 20 peer-reviewed SCI publications, her work reflects a consistent commitment to advancing biomedical research with clinical relevance.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Chen Huang’s research focuses on the molecular underpinnings of female reproductive endocrinology and metabolic diseases, particularly within the context of pregnancy. She investigates how adverse intrauterine environments affect fetal development and contribute to long-term health issues in offspring. Her work explores key hormone-receptor interactions, such as the role of novel peptides (e.g., metabolitin) in liver disease and cancer. A major thread of her research also addresses the function of adipokines and their signaling pathways in pregnancy complications such as miscarriage and preeclampsia. Using both in vivo and in vitro models, she studies the regulatory mechanisms of trophoblast invasion, spiral artery remodeling, and immune cell interactions in the placenta. Her work integrates endocrinology, immunology, and developmental biology to identify new therapeutic targets. With an h-index of 12, she is recognized for her impactful publications and innovation in peptide-based treatments.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Metabolitin (MTL) as a GPRC6A ligand improves NAFLD – Journal of Hepatology, 2020 (Co-first author)

  2. 🧪 Peptide blocks chemerin/GPR1 signaling to inhibit TNBC growth – Molecular Therapy – Oncolytics, 2020 (First author)

  3. 🔍 Adipokine promotes placental trophoblast invasion and vascular remodeling – Am J Physiol-Endocrinol Metab, 2019 (Co-first author)

  4. 🔬 mTOR hypoactivity causes trophectoderm failure via lysosomal activation – Cell and Bioscience, 2023

Conclusion:

Dr. Chen Huang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her research contributions stand out in both innovation and societal impact, especially in the crucial domains of reproductive health and metabolic diseases. With a consistent publication record, numerous patents, and demonstrated research leadership, she is poised to make even greater scientific contributions in the years ahead. Recognizing her with this a

Wen Li | Tissue Engineering Regeneration | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Wen Li | Tissue Engineering Regeneration | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Wen Li , State key laboratory of supramolecular structure and materials, college of chemistry, Jilin University , China

Professor Wen Li is a leading scientist at the College of Chemistry, Jilin University, recognized for his contributions to peptide- and protein-based bioactive materials. Earning his Ph.D. from Jilin University in 2006, he rapidly advanced through academic ranks—from lecturer to full professor by 2013. His academic journey also includes postdoctoral research at Seoul National University, South Korea. Professor Li’s interdisciplinary research integrates chemistry, materials science, and biomedical applications, positioning him as a pioneering figure in supramolecular chemistry and bioinspired adhesives. With numerous high-impact publications and innovations in antimicrobial peptides, tissue sealants, and soft electronics, he has significantly contributed to both scientific knowledge and real-world biomedical applications. His commitment to translating fundamental research into functional materials continues to drive breakthroughs in sustainable, degradable, and biocompatible materials.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Academic Progression

    • From Ph.D. completion in 2006 to full professorship by 2013, Professor Wen Li has shown rapid and consistent academic advancement.

    • He has international research exposure through his postdoctoral work at Seoul National University.

  2. High-Impact Research Contributions

    • Published extensively in top-tier journals such as Angewandte Chemie, Biomaterials, Advanced Healthcare Materials, Langmuir, and Journal of Materials Chemistry.

    • His research is highly interdisciplinary, linking peptide self-assembly, biomaterials, antimicrobial systems, and energy devices.

  3. Real-World Impact & Innovation

    • Developed cutting-edge bioadhesives, nano-antimicrobial systems, and biodegradable materials with significant medical and environmental relevance.

    • Strong emphasis on sustainability, biocompatibility, and smart responsive materials like redox or photo-controlled systems.

  4. Leadership and Collaboration

    • Leads a productive research group, mentoring young scientists and collaborating across multiple institutions.

    • His publications include a large network of co-authors, showing evidence of team science and academic collaboration.

  5. Diverse Research Outputs

    • Contributions span various formats: fundamental studies, applied innovations, material designs, and medical applications.

    • From self-healing hydrogels to stretchable supercapacitors, his portfolio is both deep and diverse.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Commercial and Clinical Translation

    • While the foundational work is strong, more efforts toward industrial partnerships and clinical trials would increase real-world adoption.

    • Filing patents or working with biotech/medical device companies could help scale his research outcomes.

  2. Global Visibility

    • Greater involvement in international conferences, editorial boards, or global initiatives can further enhance his global academic footprint.

    • Collaborative projects with top labs outside Asia could diversify perspectives and increase influence.

📘 Education:

Wen Li received his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Jilin University in 2006, a prestigious institution known for its advanced research in materials and chemical sciences. His doctoral studies focused on supramolecular structures, laying the foundation for his career in peptide and polymer-based materials. The rigorous academic environment at Jilin University equipped him with deep insights into molecular interactions, material fabrication, and biomedical chemistry. After completing his Ph.D., he expanded his academic perspective by pursuing postdoctoral research at Seoul National University (2010–2011), one of South Korea’s top-tier research universities. There, he collaborated on interdisciplinary projects that fused chemistry with nanotechnology and biomaterials. This international experience enriched his scientific worldview and further refined his expertise in designing functional peptide-based assemblies. His academic training bridges the gap between molecular chemistry and real-world applications, particularly in the biomedical and environmental sectors.

👨‍🔬 Experience:

Professor Wen Li began his academic career as a lecturer at the State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structures and Materials, Jilin University, immediately after receiving his Ph.D. in 2006. By 2008, he was promoted to Associate Professor due to his early contributions to peptide-based material science. Between 2010 and 2011, he broadened his research capabilities as a postdoctoral fellow at Seoul National University, where he engaged in collaborative research on supramolecular assemblies and nano-biotechnology. Returning to Jilin University, he became a full professor in September 2013, leading a dynamic research group dedicated to cutting-edge biomaterials and soft electronics. With over 15 years of academic and research experience, Professor Li has mentored numerous graduate students, secured significant research grants, and maintained a strong publication record. His career trajectory reflects continuous advancement in leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation in bioinspired materials.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Wen Li’s research centers on the design and fabrication of peptide- and protein-based bioactive materials with applications in healthcare and sustainability. His work explores self-assembling nano-antimicrobial peptides, biomimetic underwater adhesives, tissue sealants, and flexible hydrogel electronics, integrating supramolecular chemistry with biomedical engineering. A notable strength of his research lies in creating multifunctional materials that are not only biocompatible and degradable but also smart and responsive, such as photo-switchable or redox-reactive assemblies. His group develops materials that perform complex biological tasks—like sealing tissues, healing wounds, or delivering antimicrobial activity—while maintaining eco-friendly characteristics. Recent efforts also include bio-plastics and adhesive tapes for surgical and environmental use. Professor Li’s innovations address pressing challenges in medical technology and sustainability, aiming for materials that are both high-performing and environmentally conscious. His work bridges disciplines and has wide-ranging impact across chemistry, medicine, and green materials science.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Polyoxometalate-Driven Self-Assembly of Short Peptides into Multivalent Nanofibers with Enhanced Antibacterial Activity – Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. (2016)

  2. 🔦 Host–Guest Interaction Driven Peptide Assembly into Photoresponsive 2D Nanosheets with Switchable Antibacterial Activity – CCS Chem. (2021)

  3. 🧪 Nano-Antimicrobial Peptides Based on Constitutional Isomerism-Dictated Self-Assembly – Biomacromolecules (2022)

  4. 🧲 Exploiting Redox-Complementary Peptide/Polyoxometalate Coacervates for Spontaneously Curing into Antimicrobial Adhesives – Biomacromolecules (2022)

  5. 💧 Wet and Functional Adhesives from One-Step Self-Assembly of Amino Acids and Polyoxometalates – Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. (2017)

  6. 🩹 Peptide/Glycyrrhizic Acid Supramolecular Polymer: A Medical Adhesive for Dural Sealing – Biomaterials (2023)

  7. 🌿 Plant Protein-Peptide Supramolecular Polymers for Surgical Sealing – Adv. Healthcare Mater. (2023)

  8. ⚙️ Protein-Based Supramolecular Adhesive with On-Demand Adhesion for Preventing Tissue Adhesion – Chem. Eng. J. (2025)

  9. 🔋 Embedding Hydrogel Electrodes for Stretchable High-Performance Supercapacitors – Chem. Eng. J. (2024)

  10. 🧼 Advances in Peptide/Polymer Antimicrobial Assemblies – J. Mater. Chem. B (2025)

🧾 Conclusion:

Professor Wen Li is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research addresses critical scientific and societal challenges, such as antimicrobial resistance, surgical innovation, and eco-friendly material development. He combines rigorous chemistry with creative engineering, producing solutions that are both scientifically novel and practically viable.