Lingmin Zhang | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Book of Award

Prof. Lingmin Zhang | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Guangzhou Medical University | China

Prof. Lingmin Zhang is a leading researcher whose work integrates pharmaceutics, biomedical materials, and gene delivery, contributing significantly to advanced therapeutic strategies, particularly in lung cancer and inflammatory diseases. With 3,077 citations , 79 publications, and an h-index of 27, the researcher's scholarly impact is widely recognized. The work focuses on innovative nano-based and biomimetic delivery platforms, including nano-PROTACs, exosomes, microfluidic nanovesicles, and CRISPR/Cas9 carriers, offering transformative possibilities for targeted and precision medicine. Supported by major grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (projects 82572415, 82072047, 81700382), the researcher has developed cutting-edge strategies such as reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages, overcoming drug resistance in lung cancer, and reversing epigenetic silencing through nanoparticle-mediated gene delivery. Influential publications in high-impact journals—including Journal of Controlled Release, Drug Resistance Updates, ACS Nano, Angewandte Chemie, Advanced Science, and Molecular Cancer—highlight breakthroughs in nano-therapeutics, PROTAC technologies, artificial exosomes, and nucleic-acid delivery systems. Collectively, these contributions position the researcher at the forefront of translational nanomedicine, with ongoing work offering new directions for precision oncology, regenerative strategies, and next-generation drug delivery platforms.

Profile : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publication

He, M., Peng, Q., Yang, Q., Guan, X., Liu, Q., Chen, R., Zhou, D., Wang, L., Zhang, Y., Li, S., Su, J., & Zhang, L. (2026). In situ reprogramming of tumor associated macrophages with versatile nano-epigenetic inhibitor for lung cancer therapy. Journal of Controlled Release, 2026, 114497.

Zhang, L., He, L., Lin, Y., Wei, J., Tang, S., Lei, X., Lin, X., Zhou, D., Fu, L., Li, Y., He, J., Liang, L., & Yu, X. (2026). The novel strategy to overcome drug-resistant lung cancer: Dual targeting delivery of PROTAC to inhibit cancer-associated fibroblasts and lung cancer cells. Drug Resistance Updates, 84, 101316.

Chen, S., Chen, E., Su, J., Gong, Y., Tang, S., Qin, A., Shen, A., Tang, S., & Zhang, L. (2025). Magnetically navigated nano-PROTAC ameliorates acute lung injury. Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 23, 622.

Li, X., Qin, Z., Wang, S., Zhang, L., & Jiang, X. (2025). Microfluidics-assembled nanovesicles for nucleic acid delivery. Accounts of Chemical Research, 58, 570–582.

Liang, L., Peng, W., Qin, A., Zhang, J., Chen, R., Zhou, D., Zhang, X., Zhou, N., Yu, X., & Zhang, L. (2024). Intracellularly synthesized artificial exosome treats acute lung injury. ACS Nano, 18(32), 21009–21023.

Guan, X., Xu, X., Tao, Y., Deng, X., He, L., Lin, Z., Chang, J., Huang, J., Zhou, D., Yu, X., Wei, M., & Zhang, L. (2024). Dual targeting and bioresponsive nano-PROTAC induced precise and effective lung cancer therapy. Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 22, 692.

Zhang, L., Lin, Y., Li, S., Guan, X., & Jiang, X. (2023). In situ reprogramming of tumor-associated macrophages with internally and externally engineered exosomes. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 62(11), e202217089.

Liang, L., Cen, H., Huang, J., Qin, A., Xu, W., Wang, S., Chen, Z., Tan, L., Zhang, Q., Yu, X., Yang, X., & Zhang, L. (2022). The reversion of DNA methylation-induced miRNA silence via biomimetic nanoparticles-mediated gene delivery for efficient lung adenocarcinoma therapy. Molecular Cancer, 21(1), 186.

Zhang, H., Peng, R., Chen, S., Shen, A., Zhao, L., Tang, W., Wang, X., Li, Z., Zha, Z., Yi, M., & Zhang, L. (2022). Versatile nano-PROTAC-induced epigenetic reader degradation for efficient lung cancer therapy. Advanced Science, 9(29), 2202039.

Zhang, L., Wang, L., Xie, Y., Wang, P., Deng, S., Qin, A., Zhang, J., Yu, X., Zheng, W., & Jiang, X. (2019). Triple-targeting delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 58(36), 12404–12408.

Giovanni Smaldone | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Book of Award

Dr. Giovanni Smaldone | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

IRCCS Synlab SDN | Italy

Dr. Giovanni Smaldone is a highly accomplished researcher whose work spans molecular biology, structural biochemistry, oncology, immunology, and advanced diagnostic technologies. With 1,037 citations, 83 published works, and an h-index of 18, his contributions reflect both productivity and strong scientific impact. His research integrates structural biology, NMR spectroscopy, molecular interactions, and translational oncology, with a particular emphasis on childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). He has led and contributed to numerous funded research projects, including competitive grants focused on long non-coding RNAs, epigenetic markers, and the KCTD protein family in pediatric leukemia. His studies also extend into protein delivery systems, nanogels, cellular imaging, and biobank development for rare pediatric disorders. Dr. Smaldone’s recent publications highlight advancements in 3D refractive index tomography for leukemia cell analysis, targeted drug-delivery platforms, diagnostic biomarkers such as circular RNAs and LINC00958, and the structural mechanisms underlying KCTD–Cullin 3 interactions. His work frequently appears in high-impact journals across molecular sciences, biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, and clinical research. Additionally, he has presented widely at national and international scientific conferences, contributing to knowledge dissemination in cellular biophysics, protein structure, pediatric oncology, and advanced molecular diagnostics.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Bianco, V., Pirone, D., Schiavo, M., Bianco, V., Miccio, L., Memmolo, P., Smaldone, G., Pecoraro, G., Altieri, F., Salvatore, M., et al. (2026). Quantitative mapping of leukemia cells and intracellular lipid droplets using 3D refractive index tomography in flow cytometry. IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics.

Pizzella, M., Accardo, A., Mercurio, F. A., Sibillano, T., Gallo, E., Morelli, G., Smaldone, G., Giannini, C., Leone, M., Balasco, N., et al. (2025). Structural and functional characterization of self-assembling fragments identified from the transthyretin amyloid-like structure. Nanoscale.

Leone, I., Costabile, V., Smaldone, G., Franzese, M., Soricelli, A., & D’Agostino, A. (2025). Arthrospira platensis attenuates endothelial inflammation and monocyte activation. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Gallo, E., Smaldone, G., Cimmino, L., Braile, M., Orlandella, F. M., Luciano, N., Accardo, A., & Salvatore, G. (2025). Fmoc-FF nanogel-mediated delivery of doxorubicin and curcumin in thyroid cancer cells. Pharmaceutics.

Balasco, N., Esposito, L., Smaldone, G., Salvatore, M., & Vitagliano, L. (2024). A comprehensive analysis of the structural recognition between KCTD proteins and Cullin 3. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Bianco, V., Wang, Z., Brancato, V., Coppola, L., Smaldone, G., D’Aiuto, M., Mossetti, G., Maffettone, P. L., Salvatore, M., & Ferraro, P. (2024). Adaptive space-time digital holography for imaging flow cytometry and tissue slide analysis. In Digital Holography and Three-Dimensional Imaging (DH 2024).

Coppola, L., Grimaldi, A. M., Sarnacchiaro, G., Di Fasano, M. S., Smaldone, G., & Salvatore, M. (2024). An overview of Synlab SDN Biobank’s quality control system. Scientific Reports.

De Martino, L., Mirabelli, P., Quaglietta, L., Ferrara, U. P., Picariello, S., De Gennaro, D. V., Aiello, M., Smaldone, G., Aliberti, F., Spennato, P., et al. (2024). Biobank for craniosynostosis and faciocraniosynostosis: A study protocol. Child’s Nervous System.

Bianco, V., Valentino, M., Pirone, D., Miccio, L., Memmolo, P., Brancato, V., Coppola, L., Smaldone, G., D’Aiuto, M., & Mossetti, G. (2024). Classifying breast cancer and fibroadenoma tissue biopsies using fractal biomarkers in Fourier ptychographic microscopy. Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal.

De Martino, L., Mirabelli, P., Quaglietta, L., Ferrara, U. P., Picariello, S., De Gennaro, D. V., Aiello, M., Smaldone, G., Aliberti, F., Spennato, P., et al. (2024). Correction: Biobank for craniosynostosis and faciocraniosynostosis. Child’s Nervous System.

Gallo, E., Diaferia, C., Smaldone, G., Rosa, E., Pecoraro, G., Morelli, G., & Accardo, A. (2024). Fmoc-FF hydrogels and nanogels for improved and selective delivery of dexamethasone in leukemic cells. Scientific Reports.

Gallo, E., Diaferia, C., Smaldone, G., Rosa, E., Pecoraro, G., Morelli, G., & Accardo, A. (2024). Fmoc-FF hydrogels and nanogels for improved and selective delivery of dexamethasone in leukemic cells. Research Square.

Filomena, A., Smaldone, G., Ginevra, S., Santiago, N., Di Fasano, M. S., Peppino, M., Alessandra, C., Antonia, D. M., Giuliana, B., Rosanna, P., et al. (2024). Identification of a circular RNA isoform of WASHC2A as a prognostic factor for high-risk pediatric B-ALL. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy.

Raymundo, J. R., Zhang, H., Smaldone, G., Zhu, W., Daly, K. E., Glennon, B. J., Pecoraro, G., Salvatore, M., Devine, W. A., Lo, C. W., et al. (2024). KCTD1/KCTD15 complexes control ectodermal and neural crest cell functions. Journal of Clinical Investigation.

Altieri, F., Buono, L., Lanzilli, M., Mirabelli, P., Cianflone, A., Beneduce, G., De Matteo, A., Parasole, R., Salvatore, M., & Smaldone, G. (2024). LINC00958 as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of childhood B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Frontiers in Oncology.

Pawan Gupta | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Book of Award

Dr. Pawan Gupta | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Innovative Cancer Care and Rehabilitation Pvt. Ltd | India

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Pawan Gupta’s academic journey reflects his passion for excellence in oncology and surgical practice. He graduated with an MBBS degree in 1991 from SCB Medical College, Cuttack, followed by an MS in General Surgery in 1996. In 2001, he completed his M.Ch. in Onco-Surgery at Gujarat University, further enhancing his skills with training at the Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai. His international exposure includes earning the FRCS I from the Royal College of Surgeons, Glasgow, and advanced training in voice rehabilitation and photodynamic therapy. These formative years laid the foundation for his groundbreaking career in cancer care.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

As the Senior Director of Head and Neck Cancer Surgery at MAX Institute of Cancer Care, Dr. Gupta has made significant strides in oncology. He is the visionary founder of ICanCaRe, a pioneering platform dedicated to cancer care and tobacco deaddiction. Through innovative tools like the ICanCaRe App, Virtual Clinics, and the National Quitline, his work has revolutionized patient rehabilitation. Additionally, his leadership roles include serving as National President and Senior Vice Chairman of the I CAN WIN Foundation, where he champions cancer prevention and treatment initiatives.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Gupta’s research and contributions are pivotal in advancing cancer care. With over 30 publications in esteemed journals and authorship of six influential books, he has enriched both the academic and practical fields of oncology. His patented instrument, TrisCaRe, demonstrates his commitment to innovation, addressing specific challenges in oral cancer treatment. As a master trainer for tobacco cessation under Gujarat University, Dr. Gupta has trained more than 1,000 specialists, cementing his role in global health initiatives.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Gupta’s impactful work has earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the ICD International Award (2007), the Vivekananda Sister Margarette Award (2017), and the Inspiring Oncologist 2024 Award by Times Network. These accolades honor his relentless dedication to cancer care, tobacco cessation, and public health advocacy.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Gupta’s influence extends far beyond clinical practice. His motivational talk, "Making of Cancer Winners," delivered at the Livestrong Global Summit in Dublin, inspired a global audience. His campaigns, such as "Win Over Cancer" and "Save the Youth – Win Over Tobacco," have garnered widespread recognition, transforming public attitudes toward cancer prevention and tobacco deaddiction.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Gupta’s holistic approach to oncology and his visionary projects, such as ICanCaRe, ensure his lasting legacy in the fight against cancer. As he continues to innovate and inspire, his work paves the way for a healthier, cancer-free future. His dedication to research, public education, and compassionate care underscores a career marked by transformative achievements and unwavering commitment to humanity.

 

Publications

📝 Advantages of pooling of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells from different donors versus single-donor MSCs
Authors: Kannan, S., Gokul Krishna, S., Gupta, P.K., Kolkundkar, U.K.
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2024

📝 Label extension, single-arm, phase III study shows efficacy and safety of stempeucel® in patients with critical limb ischemia due to atherosclerotic peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Gupta, P.K., Shivashankar, P., Rajkumar, M., Manjuprasad, M.S., Udaykumar, K.
Journal: Stem Cell Research and Therapy
Year: 2023

📝 Efficacy and Safety of Stempeucel in Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Phase 3 Randomized, Double-Blind, Multicenter, Placebo-Controlled Study
Authors: Gupta, P.K., Maheshwari, S., Cherian, J.J., Verma, N.N., Kumar, U.
Journal: American Journal of Sports Medicine
Year: 2023

📝 Comparison of guidelines for biological ancillary materials used for the manufacture of gene and cellular therapy products in Asia
Authors: Tanaka, T., Yoshimura, K., Chang, R., Zhao, X., Takakura, K.
Journal: Cytotherapy
Year: 2023

 

Jillian Perry | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Book of Award

Assist Prof Dr. Jillian Perry | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill | United States

Author Profile

Google Scholar

🧠 Early Academic Pursuits

Assist. Prof. Dr. Jillian Perry's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, awarded Cum Laude from the University of Florida in 2004, with a minor in Chemistry. Building on her solid foundation, she pursued a PhD in Biomedical Engineering at the same university, where she conducted pioneering research on chitosan nanotube synthesis for drug delivery applications. Her dissertation, supervised by Dr. John D. Steward and Dr. Charles R. Martin, laid the groundwork for a career focused on innovative solutions in drug delivery and nanotechnology.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently an Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina’s Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Dr. Perry also contributes to the Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery. Since joining UNC in 2010 as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, she has been mentored by renowned researchers like Dr. Joseph M. DeSimone. Over the years, she progressed from a Research Associate Scientist to her current position, collaborating on high-impact research in pharmacoengineering and molecular pharmaceutics.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Perry’s research explores 3D-printed microneedles, transdermal drug delivery systems, and nanoparticle-based cancer immunotherapies. She has authored numerous impactful publications, contributing extensively to fields such as tumor targeting and transdermal vaccination techniques. Her work includes significant studies on hydrogel-based cancer treatments and PRINT nanoparticle technology for enhanced therapeutic delivery.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Perry has been honored with several awards, such as the 2020 Junior Faculty Development Award and the NanoDDS Poster Award in 2018. Her 3D-printed vaccine patch technology received global attention and won the Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Award in 2022. She was also recognized for her academic excellence with prestigious scholarships like the University Scholars Scholarship and Bright Futures Scholarship during her undergraduate years.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With an H-index of 19 and over 2,130 citations, Dr. Perry’s research has influenced the scientific community's understanding of nanomedicine and drug delivery technologies. Her innovative approaches in microneedle design and 3D printing for vaccine delivery have potential applications beyond academia, transforming practical healthcare delivery methods and advancing public health initiatives worldwide.

📜 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a thought leader in nanotechnology and biopharmaceuticals, Dr. Perry is expected to continue making groundbreaking contributions to transdermal vaccine development and targeted cancer therapies. Her active role in patenting novel drug delivery systems and designing biocompatible materials solidifies her legacy as a researcher committed to pioneering health solutions. Future contributions will likely include further advancements in non-invasive drug delivery and enhanced treatment efficacy in challenging medical fields, paving the way for transformative healthcare solutions.

 

Publications

📄  Development of 3D printed microneedles of varied needle geometries and lengths, designed to improve dermal delivery of topically applied psoriasis treatments

Authors: Pünnel LC, Palmtag M, Lunter DJ, Perry JL
Journal: European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics
Year: 2024

📄  3D-printed Lattice Microneedle Array Patches for Tunable and Versatile Intradermal Delivery

Authors: Rajesh NU, Hwang J, Xu Y, Saccone MA, Hung A, Hernandez RAS, Coates IA, Driskill MM, Dulay MT, Jacobson GB, Tian S, Perry JL#, DeSimone JM
Journal: Advanced Materials
 Year: 2024

📄  Development of a biocompatible 3D hydrogel scaffold using CLIP for the delivery of cell therapy to treat recurrent glioblastoma

Authors: Kass L, Morrent T, Zhang Y, DeVane C, Logan J, Tessema A, Perry JL#, Hingtgen SD
 Journal: Bioengineering and Translational Medicine
Year: 2024

📄  3D-Printed Microarray Patches for Transdermal Applications

Authors: Rajesh NU, Coates I, Driskill MM, Dulay MT, Hsiao K, Ilyn D, Jacobson GB, Kwak JW, Lawrence M, Perry JL, Shea CO, Tian SM, DeSimone JM
 Journal: JACS Au
 Year: 2022

📄  Transdermal Vaccination via 3D Printed Microneedles Induces Potent Humoral and Cellular Immunity

Authors: Caudill CL, Perry JL, Illiadis K, Tessema AT, Lee BJ, Mecham BS, Tian S, DeSimone JM
Journal: PNAS
 Year: 2021

 

Rengui Saxu | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Book of Award

Dr. Rengui Saxu | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

China Pharmaceutical University | China                    

Author Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Rengui Saxu began his academic journey at Shenyang Medical College, where he pursued a degree in Clinical Medicine Science from 2012 to 2017. During his studies, he completed an internship at Shenyang Central Hospital in 2017, gaining hands-on experience in clinical practice. His academic dedication earned him the National Encouragement Scholarship and the title of Outstanding Graduate, marking his potential as a rising scholar in the field of medicine. Continuing his academic path, Dr. Saxu pursued a Master of Pharmacy Engineering at Tianjin University of Science & Technology from 2017 to 2020. During this time, he took on leadership roles, notably serving as the Head of the Academic Department of the University Graduate Association. His work in pharmacy engineering was recognized with the Zhixing Scholarship for Postgraduate Students.

Professional Endeavors 🏅

Dr. Saxu is currently engaged in advanced research as a Ph.D. candidate in Pharmacology at China Pharmaceutical University (2021-2025). He works under the supervision of Yong Yang, a prominent figure in pharmacological research, and Harvest F. Gu, Chief Scientist at Karolinska Medical School in Sweden. His research spans crucial areas in pharmacology, focusing on drug development and the mechanisms of disease, particularly in relation to diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Saxu's research contributions are vast, with a focus on pharmacological innovations and therapeutic interventions for diseases like diabetes and cancer. One of his notable patents is a Chinese patent for a method involving selenium-substituted axitinib, which offers anti-tumor applications. His academic publications reflect his deep involvement in cutting-edge research:

  • His studies on asymmetries in adrenal glands and their role in glucocorticoid production provide insights into diabetes-related obesity.
  • He has explored the therapeutic potential of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) in treating diabetic nephropathy via the gut-kidney axis, contributing to the advancement of herbal medicine in disease management.
  • Dr. Saxu has also investigated how Huangkui capsules inhibit aldosterone synthesis in diabetic kidney disease, a promising direction for traditional Chinese medicine.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Saxu's academic excellence has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards:

  • National Encouragement Scholarship
  • Zhixing Scholarship for Postgraduate Students
  • Doctoral Research Incentive Scholarship
  • Outstanding Doctoral Scholarship

These accolades reflect his commitment to research and innovation in the field of pharmacology.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Saxu's research has had a considerable impact on the medical and pharmacological fields, particularly in the treatment of diabetes and kidney disease. His work on drug therapy and natural compound-based treatments has opened new avenues for understanding and combating complex diseases. His research not only influences medical practices in China but also has international implications, especially in areas related to drug efficacy and safety.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Dr. Saxu’s future contributions are poised to advance pharmacological research significantly, especially in the areas of cancer therapy and chronic disease management. As a researcher under highly esteemed mentors like Yong Yang and Harvest F. Gu, his ongoing work will likely lead to breakthroughs in targeted therapies and personalized medicine. In the years to come, Dr. Saxu's work will continue to shape the landscape of pharmaceutical sciences, offering hope for more effective and less harmful treatment options. His contributions to medical research, especially in oncology and diabetes, will leave a lasting legacy in global healthcare.

 

Publications

📜 Higher Steroid Production in the Right Adrenal Gland Compared to the Left One in db/db Mice, a Model of Type 2 Diabetic Obesity

  • Authors: Rengui Saxu, Qiming Luo, Yong Yang, Harvest F. Gu
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • Year: 2024

📜 Asymmetries of Left and Right Adrenal Glands in Neural Innervation and Glucocorticoids Production

  • Authors: Rengui Saxu, Yong Yang, Harvest F. Gu
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • Year: 2023