Varsha Rathore | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Varsha Rathore | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100233 | Taiwan

Dr. Varsha Rathore’s research focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer cell migration, invasion, and survival, with a particular emphasis on the role of CASK (Calcium/Calmodulin-dependent Serine Protein Kinase) in prostate cancer progression. Her doctoral work explores how CASK promotes tumor cell motility and invasiveness independent of TGF-β signaling, contributing to a deeper understanding of tumor metastasis. Additionally, she investigates the involvement of NLRX1 in regulating proliferation, invasion, and survival pathways in prostate cancer cells, offering insights into novel therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Her expertise spans cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemical assays, including protein expression, purification, ubiquitination, kinase, and PARylation assays, as well as metabolic analysis using Seahorse technology. She has presented her findings at international conferences, including the 19th World Congress of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and the 38th Joint Academic Conference on Biomedicine. Through her research, Dr. Rathore contributes significantly to the field of molecular oncology and pharmacology, advancing knowledge on how signaling proteins orchestrate cancer progression and identifying potential molecular targets for therapeutic intervention.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Rathore, V., Cheng, C.-Y., Lin, C.-Y., Chang, C.-R., & Lin, W.-W. (2025). CASK promotes prostate cancer progression via kinase-dependent activation of AKT. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 311(Pt 2), 143965.

Rathore, V., & Lin, W.-W. (2025). Decoding SIGLEC12 in bladder cancer: In silico profiling of expression, tumor–immune interactions, and prognostic impact. Medicina, 61(11), 1894.

Mishra, M., Rathore, V., Sahu, S., & Sahoo, H. (2019). The contribution of nanostructures towards the wing patterning of yellow Catopsilia pomona: How it differs from the lime. Microscopy, 68(4), 289–300.

Mohammad reza Atashzar | Cancer stem cell | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammad reza Atashzar | Cancer stem cell | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammad reza Atashzar, Dep of immunology, Fasa university of medical sciences ( FUMS ), Iran

Dr. Mohammad Reza Atashzar is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Immunology at Fasa University of Medical Sciences (FUMS), Iran. With an enduring passion for tumor immunology, stem cells, vaccine design, and immunotherapy, he has made significant contributions through both basic and translational research. Dr. Atashzar earned his PhD in Immunology from Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences and has since engaged in teaching, mentoring, and publishing extensively in high-impact journals such as The Lancet Oncology, Frontiers in Immunology, and Current Molecular Medicine. His innovative research spans exosome-based therapy, cancer biomarkers, cytokine profiling, and radiogenomics. Dr. Atashzar has also contributed to international collaborations across Germany, Finland, and the UK, showcasing a global outlook in biomedical science. An awardee of the KAI 2022 International Travel Grant and recognized as the Top Researcher at FUMS in 2021, he remains deeply committed to advancing immunological sciences for clinical and therapeutic benefit.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions
    Dr. Atashzar has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals including The Lancet Oncology, Frontiers in Immunology, Current Molecular Medicine, and Computers in Biology and Medicine. His work spans critical fields like cancer immunology, exosome therapy, stem cell immunomodulation, and vaccine research.

  2. High-Impact Publications
    Several of his papers have significant citation counts—556 for Frontiers in Immunology, 284 for Journal of Cellular Physiology, and 207 for The Lancet Oncology, reflecting strong influence and relevance in the scientific community.

  3. International Recognition and Collaborations
    He has participated in international conferences (UK, China, Korea, Denmark, Spain, Italy) and collaborated with global institutions such as the University of Helsinki, University of Kiel, and GBD Collaborators, demonstrating a global research footprint.

  4. Innovation and Patents
    He has contributed to translational science through a published book on immunopharmacology and a pending patent for a microbiology loop sterilizer device, showing practical application of his research.

  5. Awards and Editorial Involvement
    Recognized with the International Travel Award (KAI 2022) and Top Researcher of FUMS (2021), and serving on editorial boards of scientific journals—further affirming his active role in academic development and peer review.

  6. Interdisciplinary Research Scope
    His research merges clinical immunology, oncology, AI-based prognostic tools, and cellular therapy, making his work not only innovative but also future-oriented.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Increase in First or Senior Author Publications
    While his contributions are numerous, strengthening his authorship role in key studies would amplify his recognition as a principal investigator.

  2. Patent Commercialization & Technology Transfer
    Moving from patent design to real-world implementation or licensing could significantly raise the translational value of his research.

  3. Higher Grant Involvement
    More participation in national/international grant-funded programs or consortiums would enhance the scale and visibility of his research.

  4. Focused Research Niche
    Narrowing focus slightly (e.g., prioritizing tumor immunology or exosome-based therapies) could help build a globally recognized brand in a specialized field.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Atashzar completed his undergraduate and master’s studies in Immunology at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS), Shiraz, Iran. Building on his foundational expertise, he pursued his PhD in Immunology at Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran. His doctoral thesis—“Investigation of the Effects of B16F10 Derived Exosomes Enriched with miRNA-211 in Induction of Antitumor Response in the Mouse Model of Melanoma”—reflected his early interest in cancer immunotherapy and translational research. Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Atashzar displayed a strong inclination toward exploring novel immune pathways and cell-based therapies. His formal education has laid a robust foundation for his ongoing work in immunological sciences, particularly in relation to tumor microenvironment, cytokine profiling, exosomes, and vaccine innovation. He has also undertaken continuous learning through collaborations and international scientific conferences, allowing him to integrate cutting-edge methodologies into his research and teaching repertoire.

🧪 Professional Experience:

Dr. Mohammad Reza Atashzar currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Immunology at Fasa University of Medical Sciences, with additional teaching responsibilities at Larestan University of Medical Sciences. He has accumulated over a decade of experience in academic instruction and biomedical research. His research portfolio includes multiple funded projects, notably in cancer immunology, cytokine regulation, diabetes-related immune responses, and exosome-based therapeutics. Dr. Atashzar has worked closely with international teams in Germany, Finland, and the UK, facilitating interdisciplinary approaches and innovations in clinical immunology. He is an editorial board member for reputed journals such as The International Journal of Neuroscience and Journal of International Medical Research. In parallel, he actively contributes to conference presentations worldwide, covering topics from cancer stem cells to immune biomarkers. His hands-on laboratory experience, combined with a global research network, enables him to lead and mentor in advanced areas like CAR-T cell therapy and personalized immunotherapy.

🧬 Research Focus:

Dr. Atashzar’s research is centered on tumor immunology, exosome-based therapies, cancer stem cells, CAR-T cell technology, cytokine profiling, and immunopharmacology. He has a keen interest in how immune cells—particularly T cells, NK cells, and regulatory B cells—can be harnessed for cancer therapy. His notable projects have explored the immunomodulatory effects of miRNA-enriched exosomes, the role of TLR4 polymorphisms in diabetes, and cytokine alterations in addiction and radiation-exposed individuals. He is also pioneering in translational research areas such as vaccine design, radiogenomics, and bio-immune device development. Dr. Atashzar integrates bioinformatics and machine learning for predictive modeling, evident in his contributions to COVID-19 prognostic modeling using CT radiomics. His work is driven by the goal of personalized immunotherapy and the identification of novel biomarkers for cancer progression and immune regulation. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, he aims to bridge the gap between immunological research and clinical application.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Cancer stem cells: A review from origin to therapeutic implicationsJournal of Cellular Physiology

  2. 🧪 Tumor‐Derived Exosomes Enriched by miRNA‐211a Promote Antitumor Immune Response in B16F10 Tumor‐Bearing MiceAPMIS

  3. 🔬 The effects of tumor-derived exosomes enriched with miRNA-211a on B16F10 cellsContemporary Oncology

  4. 💉 The effects of type 2 diabetes mellitus on organ metabolism and the immune systemFrontiers in Immunology

  5. 🧠 Pyrin and hematopoietic interferon-inducible nuclear protein domain proteins: innate immune sensors for cytosolic and nuclear DNACritical Reviews in Immunology

  6. 🧪 Reduced levels of T-helper 17-associated cytokines in serum of breast cancer patientsCentral European Journal of Immunology

  7. 🧫 The Role of IL‐6, IL‐10 and CRP in Gastrointestinal CancersCell Biology International

  8. 🌍 The global burden of adolescent and young adult cancer in 2019The Lancet Oncology

  9. 🖥️ COVID-19 prognostic modeling using CT radiomic features and ML algorithmsComputers in Biology and Medicine

  10. 🌡️ Mesenchymal stromal cells in bone marrow niche of multiple myelomaCancer Cell International

📌 Conclusion:

Dr. Mohammad Reza Atashzar is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His body of work reflects a deep commitment to scientific advancement in cancer immunology, immunotherapy, and bio-innovation. He combines strong academic output with international engagement, cross-disciplinary impact, and teaching contributions. With growing influence in both research and translational domains, Dr. Atashzar is poised to further elevate biomedical research in Iran and globally.

Yan Jiao | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yan Jiao | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yan Jiao, First Hospital of Jilin University, China

Dr. Yan Jiao is an accomplished Attending Physician and clinical researcher at the First Hospital of Jilin University, specializing in hepatobiliary and pancreatic diseases. With dual degrees—a Bachelor of Medicine and a Ph.D. from Jilin University—Dr. Jiao has combined clinical acumen with deep expertise in bioinformatics and statistical analysis. A prolific researcher, Dr. Jiao has published extensively on topics ranging from liver cancer and immunotherapy to the adverse effects of diagnostic dyes and post-surgical complications. Notably, Dr. Jiao has contributed to scientific integrity through independent verification of published data and has reported anomalies that led to editorial actions. Skilled in R programming and mining public health datasets, Dr. Jiao blends analytical precision with a commitment to improving patient outcomes. Recognized for a meticulous approach to research, Dr. Jiao’s work exemplifies scientific rigor and ethical responsibility, making a compelling case for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Publication Record:
    Dr. Jiao has co-authored over 20 peer-reviewed journal articles in high-impact journals like Scientific Reports, International Journal of Nanomedicine, and World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery. The research spans critical fields like liver cancer, gastric cancer, bioinformatics, and surgical safety, demonstrating multidisciplinary excellence.

  2. High Ethical Standards:
    A rare and commendable contribution is Dr. Jiao’s work in scientific integrity—verifying published studies, detecting image manipulation, and triggering investigations into misconduct. This highlights not only academic rigor but also moral responsibility in research.

  3. Bioinformatics Expertise:
    Proficient in R programming and analysis of large public datasets (FAERS, NHANES, TCGA), Dr. Jiao merges clinical insight with data science to generate real-world impact. The capacity to handle complex data with statistical precision is vital in modern medical research.

  4. Clinical & Research Integration:
    As a practicing Attending Physician in hepatobiliary and pancreatic diseases, Dr. Jiao directly applies research outcomes to clinical settings. This dual competency strengthens translational research and improves patient-centered outcomes.

  5. Collaborative Network:
    Dr. Jiao has worked with a wide range of co-authors, showing adaptability and a collaborative spirit. This not only strengthens individual studies but also reflects influence within a broader research community.

🛠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Global Research Visibility:
    While Dr. Jiao has a strong publication portfolio, more engagement with global conferences, keynote presentations, and international collaborations would enhance international recognition.

  2. Grant Leadership:
    There is limited information on independent research funding or grant leadership. Applying for and leading funded projects could further establish Dr. Jiao’s credentials as a principal investigator.

  3. First-Author Publications:
    Though a frequent contributor, a higher proportion of first-author or corresponding-author roles would solidify recognition as a lead researcher, particularly in high-impact original studies.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Yan Jiao pursued both undergraduate and doctoral studies at Jilin University, one of China’s top research institutions. From 2011 to 2016, Dr. Jiao earned a Bachelor of Medicine, laying the groundwork in clinical sciences and human biology. Continuing seamlessly into advanced research, Dr. Jiao completed a Ph.D. at the same university from 2016 to 2019, with a focus on hepatobiliary diseases and translational bioinformatics. The doctoral training combined clinical exposure with robust coursework in molecular biology, epidemiology, and data science. This dual qualification reflects a rare integration of frontline medical experience and deep academic inquiry, preparing Dr. Jiao for a career at the intersection of medicine, research, and technological innovation. Throughout academic training, Dr. Jiao demonstrated a strong aptitude for evidence-based medicine and statistical modeling, gaining recognition for a disciplined and inquisitive approach. The education path reflects a trajectory of consistent excellence and interdisciplinary competence.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Yan Jiao currently serves as an Attending Physician at the First Hospital of Jilin University, where the clinical focus lies in hepatobiliary and pancreatic diseases. In this role, Dr. Jiao combines patient care with research initiatives, particularly in liver cancer. Beyond clinical duties, Dr. Jiao is actively engaged in bioinformatics research, utilizing datasets like FAERS, TCGA, and NHANES to uncover patterns in disease and treatment outcomes. With expert-level proficiency in R programming, Dr. Jiao conducts complex statistical analyses and visualizations. A distinct part of Dr. Jiao’s experience involves auditing the scientific literature for data anomalies and image manipulation, contributing anonymously to investigations into research misconduct. This dual role as a clinician and data scientist uniquely positions Dr. Jiao to address both practical and theoretical challenges in healthcare. Dr. Jiao’s professional journey underscores a rare blend of technical skills, ethical vigilance, and medical expertise, reinforcing eligibility for prestigious research awards.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Yan Jiao’s research is deeply rooted in hepatobiliary oncology, with a specific focus on liver cancer diagnosis, treatment strategies, and prognosis modeling. Integrating clinical insights with computational analysis, Dr. Jiao utilizes large public datasets like TCGA, FAERS, and NHANES to examine treatment efficacy, drug safety, and genetic risk factors. A significant thrust of the research lies in immunotherapy, chemoembolization techniques, and the safety of diagnostic agents like Indocyanine Green. Dr. Jiao also explores post-operative complications and gastrointestinal disorders, broadening the scope of clinical relevance. Equally important is the investigation into scientific integrity, where Dr. Jiao’s efforts in identifying manipulated data and statistical inconsistencies have led to editorial scrutiny in major journals. By bridging bioinformatics with hands-on medical practice, the research offers both theoretical advancements and actionable clinical solutions. Dr. Jiao’s focus is future-facing, centered on personalized treatment and real-world data analysis to optimize patient outcomes.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📉 Obesity-Surgery is not the end.

  2. 💉 Landscape of transarterial chemoembolization for hepatocellular carcinoma.

  3. 🧬 Immunotherapy for metastatic gastric cancer.

  4. ⚠️ Exploring the dark side of diagnostic dyes – Indocyanine green.

  5. 🧬 Long non-coding RNA HOTAIR in liver cancer cell behavior.

  6. 🧪 Abraxane-related adverse events – FAERS decade-long analysis.

  7. 🧬 Personalized treatment of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma.

  8. 💊 Impact of immunotherapy on liver metastasis.

  9. 🏥 Incisional hernia after laparoscopic colorectal surgery.

  10. 🔍 Intestinal Behçet’s disease: Diagnosis and treatment.

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Yan Jiao is a highly qualified and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With an exceptional combination of clinical experience, research productivity, ethical vigilance, and bioinformatics expertise, Dr. Jiao stands out as a well-rounded and impactful medical scientist. While there is room to further elevate global visibility and leadership in grant-funded research, the current portfolio already reflects excellence in translational science and data-driven healthcare. In conclusion, Dr. Jiao’s contributions are not only prolific but principled—making this nomination both timely and justified.