Keon-Hyoung Song | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Keon-Hyoung Song | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Soonchunhyang University | South Korea

Prof. Dr. Keon-Hyoung Song is a distinguished researcher whose work bridges pharmaceutical sciences, drug delivery systems, and pharmacokinetics. With 708 citations, 27 scholarly publications, and an h-index of 13, his research has significantly advanced the understanding of membrane permeation enhancers, drug formulation, and solubilization strategies. His extensive portfolio includes high-impact studies on intestinal absorption mechanisms, cocrystal engineering, and pharmacokinetic optimization, published in reputed journals such as Pharmaceutics, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, and Journal of Controlled Release. Prof. Song’s innovations extend beyond academia, with over 25 international patents registered across the U.S., Europe, and Korea, focusing on permeation-enhancing peptides, liposomal carriers, and pharmaceutical formulations. His pioneering patents, including those on mucous membrane permeation peptides (EP 3875103, 2025) and sugar alcohol-based liposome compositions, underscore his role in translating laboratory discoveries into therapeutic applications. Licensed as both a Patent Attorney and a Pharmacist, he effectively integrates regulatory insight with scientific innovation. Prof. Song’s sustained contributions to quantitative drug analysis using LC-MS and formulation optimization have made him a leading figure in advancing next-generation drug delivery technologies and pharmaceutical development.

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Featured Publications

Jeong, D.-H., Kim, J.-W., & Song, K.-H. (2025). Improved intestinal permeation of cyclosporin A by FCIGRL-modified tight junction modulator in rats. Pharmaceutics, 17(11), 1395.

Park, G., Galdamez, A., Song, K.-H., Le, M., Kim, K., & Lin, J. H. (2024). Ethnic variation and structure–function analysis of tauopathy-associated PERK alleles. Israel Journal of Chemistry, 64(12).

Song, K.-H. (2024). Effect of tight junction-modulating FCIGRL-modified peptides on the intestinal absorption of doxorubicin in rats. Pharmaceutics, 16(5), 650.

Jiang, F.-L., Jeong, D.-H., Eom, S.-H., Lee, H.-M., Cha, B.-J., Park, J.-S., Kwon, R.-K., Nam, J.-Y., Yu, H.-S., Heo, S.-H., Kim, C.-H., & Song, K.-H. (2024). Effects of enteric-coated formulation of sodium bicarbonate on bicarbonate absorption and gastrointestinal discomfort. Nutrients, 16(5), 744.

Koo, N. R., Yoon, S., Song, K.-H., Baek, M. J., Jeon, S., & Im, J. (2024). Tumor-homing peptide iRGD-conjugate enhances tumor accumulation of camptothecin for colon cancer therapy. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 265, 116050.

Park, G., Xu, K., Chea, L., Kim, K., Safarta, L., Song, K.-H., Wu, J., Park, S., Min, H., Hiramatsu, N., Han, J., & Lin, J. H. (2023). Neurodegeneration risk factor EIF2AK3 (PERK) influences tau protein aggregation. The Journal of Biological Chemistry, 299(2), 102821.

Eom, Y. S., Jeong, D., Ryu, A.-R., Song, K.-H., Im, D. S., & Lee, M.-Y. (2022). Daphne odora exerts depigmenting effects via inhibiting CREB/MITF and activating AKT/ERK-signaling pathways. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 44(8), 3312–3323.

Kim, H., Song, K.-H., Ambegaonkar, J. P., Chung, S., Jeon, K., Jiang, F. L., Eom, J. J., & Kim, C.-H. (2022). Two-megahertz impedance index prediction equation for appendicular lean mass in Korean older people. BMC Geriatrics, 22(1), 385.

Jiang, F., Tang, S., Eom, J.-J., Song, K.-H., Kim, H., Chung, S., & Kim, C.-H. (2022). Accuracy of estimated bioimpedance parameters with octapolar segmental bioimpedance analysis. Sensors, 22(7), 2681.

Yoon, Y. M., Lee, J. H., Song, K.-H., Noh, H., & Lee, S. H. (2020). Melatonin-stimulated exosomes enhance the regenerative potential of chronic kidney disease-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells via cellular prion proteins. Journal of Pineal Research, 68(3), e12632.

Lee, J. H., Yoon, Y. M., Song, K.-H., Noh, H., & Lee, S. H. (2020). Melatonin suppresses senescence-derived mitochondrial dysfunction in mesenchymal stem cells via the HSPA1L-mitophagy pathway. Aging Cell, 19(3), e13111.

Cha, S. J., Choi, H.-J., Kim, H.-J., Choi, E. J., Song, K.-H., Im, D. S., & Kim, K. (2020). Parkin expression reverses mitochondrial dysfunction in fused in sarcoma-induced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Insect Molecular Biology, 29(1), 56–65.*

John Matsoukas | Chemistry | Excellence in Innovation Award

Prof. John Matsoukas | Chemistry | Excellence in Innovation Award

University of Patras | Greece

Professor John Matsoukas is a distinguished scholar in the field of chemistry and drug discovery, with over four decades of academic and research contributions spanning peptide chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and rational drug design. He has served as Professor of Chemistry at the University of Patras since 1995 and has held multiple visiting and adjunct appointments internationally, reflecting his global academic influence. His pioneering work in the design of non-peptide mimetics for peptide hormones and immune-related targets has significantly advanced research in hypertension, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and antiviral therapeutics. A prolific author, he has published 189 peer-reviewed papers, 50 book chapters, and numerous conference proceedings, bringing his total scholarly outputs to more than 600. His research has been widely recognized, accumulating over 5,500 citations and an h-index of 42, underscoring both productivity and impact within the scientific community. In addition, his innovative contributions are reflected in multiple patents, editorial roles, and his leadership in founding the Graduate Program in Medicinal Chemistry: Drug Discovery and Design, the first Euromaster-awarded program in Greece. Beyond academia, he has also established spin-offs and startups, securing over €15 million in grants, and continues to shape international biomedical networks, cementing his legacy as a leading figure in drug discovery and medicinal chemistry.

Profile : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

"Docking Simulations of G-Protein Coupled Receptors Uncover Crossover Binding Patterns of Diverse Ligands to Angiotensin, Alpha-Adrenergic and Opioid Receptors: Implications for Cardiovascular Disease and Addiction"

"Gating Mechanism for Biased Agonism at Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptors"

"Semi-Supervised Learning for Predicting Multiple Sclerosis"

"Computational Evidence for Bisartan Arginine Blockers as Next-Generation Pan-Antiviral Therapeutics Targeting SARS-CoV-2, Influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Viruses"

"A methamphetamine vaccine using short monoamine and diamine peptide linkers and poly-mannose"

"Density functional theory and enzyme studies support interactions between angiotensin receptor blockers and angiotensin converting enzyme-2: Relevance to coronavirus 2019"

"Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG)35–55 Mannan Conjugate Induces Human T-Cell Tolerance and Can Be Used as a Personalized Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis"

"Structural Features Influencing the Bioactive Conformation of Angiotensin II and Angiotensin A: Relationship between Receptor Desensitization, Addiction, and the Blood–Brain Barrier"

Uzma Parveen Shaikh | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Uzma Parveen Shaikh | Chemistry | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Rafiq Zakaria College for Women | India

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Uzma Parveen Shaikh built her academic foundation in chemistry, earning both a master’s degree and a doctorate in the discipline. Her early education was marked by a strong inclination toward analytical and inorganic chemistry, with a particular focus on solvent extraction, spectrophotometric methods, and separation techniques for precious and transition metals. This academic grounding, coupled with a passion for research, positioned her to explore complex chemical phenomena and develop innovative solutions in analytical chemistry.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Shaikh serves as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Dr. Rafiq Zakaria College for Women, Aurangabad, where she has been dedicated to teaching and guiding students for over a decade. Her teaching career is seamlessly integrated with her research pursuits, enabling her to create a dynamic learning environment that blends theoretical knowledge with experimental practice. She has also presented her research at several national and international conferences, contributing to scholarly discussions and scientific advancements in her field.

Contributions and Research Focus

Her research is centered on the synthesis of novel extractants and their application in the separation and determination of precious and rare metals such as palladium, rhodium, platinum, and gold. She has extensively studied Schiff base ligands, sulphur-containing extractants, and their spectrophotometric applications. Beyond metal extraction, her work extends to environmental chemistry, including physico-chemical studies of water quality and the isolation of catalytic materials from industrial waste. Her publications also cover bio-evaluation, thermodynamic studies, and the role of information technology in education, reflecting a multi-disciplinary approach.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Shaikh has earned recognition through numerous publications in reputed national and international journals. Her research has been presented at prestigious conferences, often earning appreciation for its originality and applicability. She has been invited to share her expertise on various academic platforms, reinforcing her status as a respected figure in the chemistry research community.

Impact and Influence

Her scientific contributions have significantly advanced methods of metal extraction, offering more efficient and selective processes for industrial and analytical applications. Her studies on environmental monitoring have also influenced best practices in water quality analysis and sustainable chemical usage. In academia, she has inspired students to pursue research-oriented careers, thus extending her impact beyond her direct scholarly work.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Shaikh’s legacy lies in her meticulous research methodology, her ability to bridge theoretical chemistry with practical applications, and her dedication to mentoring the next generation of chemists. Moving forward, she aims to expand her research in green chemistry, develop more sustainable extraction processes, and contribute to the broader field of material science, catalysis, and environmental protection.

Publications


Article: Solvent extraction of Nickel (II) from hydrochloric acid media using DMABIMTT
Authors: Uzma P. Shaikh, Vinod Shelke, Sarika Jadhav
Journal: Journal of Engineering and Technology Management
Year: 2024


Conference Paper: Solvent extraction of Zn(II) from hydrochloric acid media using DMABIMTT
Authors: Uzma P. Shaikh (presenter)
Conference: National Conference on IISTCS 23, Department of Chemistry, Deogiri College, Aurangabad, MS, India
Year: 2023


Article: Complexation, Bio-evaluation, Magnetic Susceptibility and Thermodynamic study of Newly Synthesized Pharmacologically active Schiff base with La(III), Ce(III) and Sm(III)
Authors: Zamzam Taher Omar, Shivaji Jadhav, Rashmi Pathrikar, Shaikh Uzma, Megha Rai
Journal: Asian Journal of Research in Chemistry
Year: 2022


Article: Ternary complex formation equilibria of tetradentate Schiff base ligand with Zn(II) and dipeptides
Authors: Sarika M. Jadhav, Vinod A. Shelke, Uzma P. Shaikh
Journal: International Journal of All Research Education and Scientific Methods
Year: 2021


Conference Paper: Determination of tannins in tea and coffee samples
Authors: Uzma P. Shaikh (presenter)
Conference: National Convention of Chemistry Teachers (NCCT 2020)
Year: 2020


Conclusion

Through her dedication to research, teaching, and knowledge dissemination, Dr. Shaikh has strengthened the link between advanced chemical research and its practical applications. Her focus on precious metal extraction, environmental chemistry, and novel analytical techniques ensures her continued relevance in addressing both industrial and environmental challenges. She stands as a role model for aspiring researchers and remains committed to advancing the frontiers of chemistry.

 

Simon Bernard Iloki Assanga | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Simon Bernard Iloki Assanga | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

University of Sonora | Mexico

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Simon Bernard Iloki Assanga embarked on his academic journey by obtaining a Bachelor's degree from the Pre-University Institute February 5 in Isle of Youth, Cuba, followed by a Graduate degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Havana, Cuba. His academic pursuits culminated with a Doctorate in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a specialty in Immunology from the same institution in 2005.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Assanga's professional career has been marked by a diverse array of roles, spanning from teaching to research. Noteworthy positions include his tenure as a Subject Teacher at the University of Sonora in Mexico, where he contributed to the Science department's Chemical-Biological sector. Additionally, he served as an Associate Full-Time Research Professor at the Department of Research and Postgraduate Studies in Food (DIPA) at the University of Sonora.

Contributions and Research Focus

Throughout his career, Dr. Assanga has made significant contributions to the field of pharmaceutical sciences and immunology. He has led various research projects, such as investigating the therapeutic potential of natural products for age-related macular degeneration and scaling up pilot plant production for nutraceuticals. His research interests also include exploring the chemical and nutritional composition of medicinal plants and their potential applications in healthcare.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Assanga's dedication and contributions have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. Notably, he received recognition for Outstanding Foreign Graduate from the Pharmacy Institute and Food at the University of Havana. He is also a member of prestigious scientific societies like the Society for Redox Biology and Medicine, highlighting his standing in the academic community.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Assanga's research, teaching, and participation in academic events have had a profound impact on the field of pharmaceutical sciences and immunology. His work in elucidating the therapeutic properties of natural products and mentoring students has contributed to advancements in healthcare and inspired future generations of researchers.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As a respected academic and researcher, Dr. Assanga's legacy lies in his extensive body of work, mentorship of aspiring scientists, and active participation in scientific discourse. His commitment to advancing knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences and immunology ensures that his contributions will continue to shape the field for years to come. In the future, he aims to further explore the therapeutic potential of natural products and collaborate on interdisciplinary research projects aimed at addressing pressing healthcare challenges.

Notable Publications

Targeting beta-catenin signaling for prevention of colorectal cancer – Nutraceutical, drug, and dietary options 2023

Nutraceutical and dietary resources for breast cancer prevention – Highlighting strategies for suppressing breast aromatase expression 2023 (1)

Nutraceuticals/Drugs Promoting Mitophagy and Mitochondrial Biogenesis May Combat the Mitochondrial Dysfunction Driving Progression of Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration 2022 (10)

Targeting Sirt1, AMPK, Nrf2, CK2, and Soluble Guanylate Cyclase with Nutraceuticals: A Practical Strategy for Preserving Bone Mass 2022 (11)

Ferulic acid and berberine, via Sirt1 and AMPK, may act as cell cleansing promoters of healthy longevity 2022 (20)