Philippe Menasché | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Philippe Menasché | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Philippe Menasché, AP-HP, France

Prof. Philippe Menasché, born on August 10, 1950, is a pioneering French cardiovascular surgeon and regenerative medicine researcher. Renowned globally for his work in cell therapy and heart failure, he performed the world’s first fetal stem cell transplantation in a human heart. With over four decades in medicine, he has blended surgical excellence with translational research, bridging the gap between bench and bedside. A professor since 1988, his leadership spans multiple roles—from senior hospital surgeon to director of major research teams at INSERM and the Carpentier Foundation. He has served as scientific advisor to health authorities and remains an active contributor to high-impact publications and international collaborations. A recipient of prestigious honors such as the Prix Galien and the Earl Bakken Award, Prof. Menasché continues to shape the future of cardiovascular regenerative therapy.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Pioneering Clinical Innovation

    • Performed the first-in-man fetal stem cell transplantation for cardiac repair.

    • Led translational research turning basic stem cell science into clinical applications.

  2. Extensive Academic and Research Leadership

    • Over four decades of experience as a cardiovascular surgeon and academic leader.

    • Directed major units at INSERM, Carpentier Foundation, and Paris Hospitals.

  3. Global Recognition and Awards

    • Recipient of highly prestigious scientific prizes such as the Prix Galien (2016) and Earl Bakken Award (2011).

    • Recognized by top French and international medical societies.

  4. Recent and Relevant Research Impact

    • Active contributor to multicenter trials including ISCHEMIA, STROMA-CoV-2, and TRAUMACELL.

    • Publications in high-impact journals on cardiac regeneration, cell therapy, and stem cell-derived secretomes.

  5. Leadership in Science Policy and Ethics

    • President of the Medical and Scientific Council at France’s Agency of Biomedicine.

    • Advisor to the French Minister of Health (2005–2007), influencing national bioethics and translational policy.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader International Integration

    • While internationally recognized, deeper ongoing collaboration with North American and Asian biomedical consortia could further elevate global influence.

    • The upcoming visiting professorship at Columbia University (2025) is a strong step in this direction.

  2. Integration of AI & Digital Health

    • Limited evidence of work in AI-guided regenerative medicine, machine learning in cardiac diagnostics, or digital health integration in therapeutic development.

    • These areas represent major future growth potential in cardiac care.

  3. Mentorship Visibility

    • While his scientific contributions are vast, greater emphasis on training and mentoring the next generation of clinician-scientists would bolster his legacy.

📚 Education:

Prof. Menasché’s academic foundation is rooted in two pillars of French higher education. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the Faculté de Médecine de Paris in 1979, graduating with honors, including the coveted Internship Golden Medal. He then pursued deeper inquiry into biomedical science, culminating in a Doctorate in Science (PhD) from Université Paris-Orsay in 1987. His dual training in clinical medicine and scientific research provided the ideal springboard for a career that integrates patient care with innovation. In 1988, he became a Professor of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, reflecting his command of both technical skill and academic leadership. His scholarly progression has also led to visiting roles abroad, including a forthcoming appointment as Visiting Professor in Biomedical Engineering at Columbia University in 2025. This cross-disciplinary education empowers his unique contribution to both surgical practice and regenerative cardiovascular therapies.

🏥 Experience:

Prof. Menasché began his medical journey in 1973 as an intern in Paris hospitals, ascending to Senior Staff Surgeon in 1988—a position he still holds. From 1995 to 2007, he served as Director of Research at the Surgical School of the Greater Paris Academic Hospitals. His research leadership extended to INSERM, where he directed Unit U633 and co-led regenerative therapy teams. He headed the Laboratory of Biosurgical Research at the Carpentier Foundation from 2002 to 2018. In parallel, he has played influential roles on regulatory and advisory boards, including as President of the Medical and Scientific Council of France’s Agency of Biomedicine. A dedicated member of multiple medical and scientific societies, Prof. Menasché has edited prestigious journals and contributed to over a dozen major clinical trials and collaborative studies. His experience combines clinical excellence, institutional leadership, and innovative research in heart failure and cell therapy.

🧬 Research Focus:

Prof. Menasché’s research is centered on regenerative medicine for cardiovascular diseases, particularly using stem cells and secretomes to repair damaged heart tissue post-myocardial infarction. His team explores therapeutic strategies involving pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes, mesenchymal stromal cells, and extracellular vesicles to promote myocardial regeneration and immune modulation. He has led pioneering first-in-human trials, including the use of cell-derived secretomes in heart failure patients. His investigations bridge fundamental science with translational application, often conducted in multicenter randomized controlled trials. His work also intersects with neurological conditions, such as traumatic brain injury, using cell-based therapies to address neuroinflammation. Prof. Menasché is also involved in evaluating the safety and efficacy of stem cell-based interventions in ARDS, including COVID-19-associated cases. A central member of the European Society of Cardiology’s regenerative medicine group, he is advancing personalized and precise treatments for heart failure through novel biologics and bioengineering tools.

📄 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🫀 Revitalizing the heart: strategies and tools for cardiomyocyte regeneration post-myocardial infarction

  2. 💉 Trials and tribulations of cell therapy for heart failure: an update on ongoing trials

  3. 🫀📊 Evaluating the Appropriate Use Criteria for Coronary Revascularization in Stable Ischemic Heart Disease Using Randomized Data From the ISCHEMIA Trial

  4. 🧠🧪 Effects of intravascular administration of mesenchymal stromal cells…after traumatic brain injury (TRAUMACELL)

  5. 💓🧫 Relationship Between Severity of Ischemia and Coronary Artery Disease for Different Stress Test Modalities in the ISCHEMIA Trial

  6. 🦠🫁 Treatment of COVID-19-associated ARDS with umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (STROMA-CoV-2)

  7. 🧬💗 Head-to-head comparison of relevant cell sources of small extracellular vesicles for cardiac repair

  8. 🫀💉 First-in-man use of a cardiovascular cell-derived secretome in heart failure – Case report

  9. 🧬🫀 Human PSC-derived cardiac cells and their products: therapies for cardiac repair

  10. 🫀🫄 Impact of Complete Revascularization in the ISCHEMIA Trial

📝 Conclusion:

Prof. Philippe Menasché is exceptionally qualified for the Best Researcher Award. His groundbreaking work in cardiac regeneration, commitment to translational medicine, and lasting contributions to surgical science and healthcare policy make him a uniquely impactful figure. His track record is not only defined by scientific innovation but also by societal relevance, particularly in addressing heart failure—a leading global health burden.

Hatice Yesim Karasulu | Cell Differentiation Processes | Best Innovation Award

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Prof. Dr. Hatice Yesim Karasulu | Cell Differentiation Processes | Best Innovation Award

Prof. Dr. Hatice Yesim Karasulu , Ege University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Technology , Turkey

Prof. Dr. H. Yeşim Karasulu is a distinguished academic and researcher in pharmaceutical technology, based at Ege University in Turkey. With a career spanning decades, she earned her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Technology from Ege University, where she became an Associate Professor in 2006 and a full Professor in 2011. Prof. Karasulu has held numerous positions, including consultant for the Ege University Center for Drug Research & Development (ARGEFAR) and member of the pharmaceutical technology commission at Turkey’s Ministry of Health from 2006 to 2024. She has contributed extensively to drug delivery systems and pharmaceutical formulations, especially focusing on colloidal drug delivery. Over the years, she has published over 50 research papers, authored five book chapters, and is the holder of two patents related to nano-drug delivery systems. Her work has advanced both academic knowledge and pharmaceutical industry practices.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Experience: Prof. Dr. H. Yeşim Karasulu has an exceptional track record with more than 50 publications, multiple patents, and ongoing research projects. Her innovative work in colloidal drug delivery systems, including liposomes, nano/microparticles, nano/microemulsions, and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS), positions her as a leading researcher in the pharmaceutical field.
  2. High Impact and Collaboration: Her research is widely cited with an H-index of 16 (WoS) and 18 (Scopus). She has collaborated with prestigious institutions such as the University of Vienna and the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, further enhancing the global impact of her work.
  3. Patent and Industry Collaboration: Prof. Karasulu’s research has led to two patents and several patent applications, showcasing the practical and commercial value of her innovations. Additionally, her collaborative efforts with the pharmaceutical industry in developing drug delivery systems highlight her ability to bridge academia and industry, enhancing the potential for real-world applications.
  4. Ongoing Research Projects: Prof. Karasulu is involved in multiple research projects, both academic and industry-sponsored, demonstrating her continuous commitment to advancing pharmaceutical sciences. Her ongoing projects include drug delivery systems targeting specific organs and improving drug bioavailability and stability.
  5. Awards and Recognition: Prof. Karasulu’s achievements are recognized through awards such as the Ege ArGe First Prize and the Ege ArGe Innovation Award, confirming the innovative nature of her research.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader International Visibility: While Prof. Karasulu has a strong track record within her field, expanding her international visibility by increasing collaborations with leading global pharmaceutical companies could further enhance the global reach and impact of her innovations.
  2. Diversity of Published Works: Though Prof. Karasulu has an impressive number of publications, exploring opportunities for publication in high-impact journals outside her primary research focus could enhance her visibility in other areas of pharmaceutical sciences.
  3. Focus on Translational Research: While there is a strong emphasis on preclinical studies and formulation development, further focus on clinical trials and commercialization of her innovations could enhance the practical application of her work, especially with regard to regulatory approval processes for new drug delivery systems.

Education:

Prof. Dr. H. Yeşim Karasulu pursued her academic studies at Ege University in Izmir, Turkey. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy at the Faculty of Pharmacy before obtaining a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Technology from the same institution. Her education continued with postdoctoral research at the University of Vienna, focusing on Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Franz Gabor. This international research experience allowed her to expand her expertise in colloidal drug delivery systems, setting the foundation for her career as a researcher. Throughout her education, Prof. Karasulu’s work has concentrated on the development of drug delivery systems, with an emphasis on enhancing the bioavailability and targeting of drugs using innovative methods like liposomes, nano/microparticles, and microemulsions. Her academic background has enabled her to contribute significantly to both research and industry practices in pharmaceutical sciences.

Experience:

Prof. Dr. H. Yeşim Karasulu has a distinguished career in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry. She began her academic career as a faculty member at Ege University, where she progressed from an Assistant Professor to a full Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology. Additionally, she has been an active consultant at the Ege University Center for Drug Research & Development (ARGEFAR) since 2011. Prof. Karasulu also served as a member of the Pharmaceutical Technology Commission at the Turkish Ministry of Health’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency between 2006 and 2024, helping shape national pharmaceutical policies. Her extensive research has led to breakthroughs in nano-drug delivery systems, contributing to the development of two patents and several industry projects. She has worked on numerous national and international projects focusing on drug formulation, bioavailability enhancement, and targeting systems, particularly for cancer therapy and chronic diseases.

Research Focus:

Prof. Dr. H. Yeşim Karasulu’s research primarily focuses on the development and evaluation of advanced colloidal drug delivery systems. Her work spans liposomes, nano/microparticles, nano/microemulsions, and self-emulsifying drug delivery systems (SEDDS). These innovative systems aim to enhance the bioavailability, stability, and targeted delivery of pharmaceutical compounds. Prof. Karasulu has led several high-impact research projects funded by both national (TUBİTAK) and international bodies, such as the European Union. Her research is dedicated to improving the therapeutic efficacy of drugs, particularly in challenging areas like cancer treatment and chronic diseases. Prof. Karasulu’s work is closely aligned with real-world applications, as evidenced by her ongoing collaboration with the pharmaceutical industry to bring new drug delivery systems to market. Her goal is to create formulations that not only improve patient outcomes but also contribute to the overall advancement of pharmaceutical technology.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. “Degradation and gastrointestinal stability of nitrofurantoin in acidic and alkaline media” 📉💊
  2. “Sustained-release dosage form of nitrofurantoin: Part 1. Preparation of microcapsules and in vitro release kinetics” 💊🔬
  3. “33 factorial design-based optimization of the formulation of nitrofurantoin microcapsules” 🔬📊
  4. “In vitro-in vivo correlations of nitrofurantoin matrix tablet formulation” 💊⚖️
  5. “A New In Vitro/In Vivo Kinetic Correlation Method for Nitrofurantoin Matrix Tablet Formulations” 🧪💡
  6. “Sustained release bioadhesive effervescent ketoconazole microcapsules tabletted for vaginal delivery” 💊💥
  7. “Different geometric shaped hydrogel theophylline tablets: Statistical approach for estimating drug release” 💊📐
  8. “Extended release lipophilic indomethacin microspheres: formulation factors and mathematical equations fitted drug release rates” 💊🔢
  9. “Improving of the accuracy of in vitro-in vivo linear correlation using kinetic models for ultra sustained release theophylline tablets” 🧪📊
  10. “Efficacy of a new ketoconazole bioadhesive vaginal tablet on Candida Albicans” 💊🦠
  11. “Preparation of arsenic trioxide-loaded microemulsion and its enhanced cytotoxicity on MCF-7 breast carcinoma cell line” 🔬🧪
  12. “In vitro permeation of diclofenac sodium from novel microemulsion formulations through rabbit skin” 💊🐇
  13. “Arsenic trioxide-loaded, microemulsion-enhanced cytotoxicity on MDAH 2774 ovarian carcinoma cell line” 🔬💉
  14. “Transdermal delivery of diclofenac sodium through rat skin from various formulations” 💊🦷
  15. “Controlled release of methotrexate from W/O microemulsion and its in vitro anti-tumor activity” 🧪💥

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. H. Yeşim Karasulu is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Innovation Award. Her groundbreaking research in colloidal drug delivery systems has significantly contributed to advancements in pharmaceutical sciences. With numerous publications, patents, and collaborations, her work not only pushes the boundaries of scientific research but also has a profound impact on drug development. By focusing on broader international collaborations and further developing translational research strategies, Prof. Karasulu’s contributions to the pharmaceutical industry and academic community will continue to grow, solidifying her place as a leader in innovation.