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

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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.

Bin Zheng | Biomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Bin Zheng | Biomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Tianjin University | China

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Early Academic Pursuits 🌱

Prof. Dr. Bin Zheng’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in medical engineering and translational medicine. He further honed his expertise as a postdoctoral fellow at the Caroline School of Medicine, Sweden, laying the groundwork for a prolific career. His early pursuits in biomaterials and nanotechnology provided a strong base for his subsequent innovations and contributions to biomedical sciences.

Professional Endeavors 🏢

As a professor at Tianjin University's Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Dr. Zheng has led numerous research projects, including 10 completed and 6 ongoing endeavors. With over 30 impactful SCI publications, his work has gained recognition on a global scale. His collaborations with leading companies have fostered breakthroughs in cellular manufacturing and delivery technologies, enhancing both academic and industrial applications.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Zheng’s work spans a wide range of fields, including biomaterials, cancer research, cellular microbiology, immunity, and nanobiotechnology. He has developed innovative therapeutic agents, including a nebulizable anti-bacterial spray targeting exosomes and stem cell extracts. His patents—70 published and 14 in progress—reflect his commitment to bridging the gap between laboratory research and clinical application.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Zheng’s outstanding contributions have earned him numerous awards, such as the Excellent Doctoral Dissertation of Tianjin Municipality and the First Prize for Innovative Achievements from the China Industry-University-Research Cooperation Association. Under his mentorship, graduate students have garnered over 20 prestigious awards, solidifying his role as an influential academic leader.

Impact and Influence 🌍

His research has been clinically translated and widely reported by media outlets like Science and Technology Daily and Science Net. As an editorial board member of prestigious journals, Dr. Zheng also influences the direction of global biomedical research. His international collaborations and contributions to standards like the Belt and Road LSEA 0006-2022 standard underscore his global impact.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Prof. Dr. Bin Zheng’s legacy lies in his innovative methodologies and translational focus, which continue to inspire the next generation of researchers. With ongoing projects in cutting-edge fields like optogenetics and cellular precision manufacturing, his future contributions are set to redefine the boundaries of medical engineering and translational medicine.

 

Publications


📄 Microorganism microneedle micro-engine depth drug delivery
Author(s): Zheng, B., Li, Q., Fang, L., Cheng, S.-X., Zhang, X.
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2024


📄 Near-infrared remote triggering of bio-enzyme activation to control intestinal colonization by orally administered microorganisms
Author(s): Sun, W., Yun, F., Guo, Q., Zheng, B., Ruan, X.
Journal: Acta Biomaterialia
Year: 2024


📄 Surface nanocoating-based universal platform for programmed delivery of microorganisms in complicated digestive tract
Author(s): Du, Y., Guo, H.L., Su, X., Wang, T., Zheng, B.
Journal: Journal of Colloid and Interface Science
Year: 2024


📄 A self-assembling bioactive oligopeptide hydrogel for the treatment of edema following prepuce surgery
Author(s): Liu, J., Pei, Y., Huang, Y., Chen, L., Zhou, Y.
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry B
Year: 2024


📄 NIR-Remote Selectively Triggered Buprenorphine Hydrochloride Release from Microneedle Patches for the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain
Author(s): Han, H., Li, B., Yang, R., Bai, Y., Yu, Y.
Journal: ACS Biomaterials Science and Engineering
Year: 2024


 

Ylenia Della Rocca | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ylenia Della Rocca | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Chieti | Italy

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🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ylenia Della Rocca’s academic journey began with exceptional achievements in biotechnology. In 2018, she earned her degree in Biotechnology with a perfect score of 110/110 cum laude from the University of L'Aquila. Her thesis, centered on "Hairy Cell Leukemia," set the stage for her future in oncohematological genetics. She continued to excel with a Master’s degree in Medical Biotechnology, again graduating with academic praise. Her research on the HLA-G 3' UTR region in kidney transplantation at the National Research Center solidified her expertise in medical biotechnology.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Currently, Dr. Della Rocca serves as a Researcher Technologist and Subject Expert in Histology and Embryology at the University of Chieti. Her impressive academic trajectory culminated in a Ph.D. in "Innovative Technologies in Clinical Medicine & Dentistry" in 2024. As part of her doctoral research, she developed a new iPS cell line during her tenure at the University of Barcelona and Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute. Beyond her role as a researcher, Dr. Della Rocca has been a prominent speaker at numerous international conferences, where her work has garnered significant recognition.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Della Rocca’s research is at the forefront of biotechnology and regenerative medicine. Her completed and ongoing projects include the development of three-dimensional disease models, studies on tissue differentiation, and the establishment of new iPS cell lines. She has also been pivotal in creating innovative models for carcinogenesis research. Her current patent under review—"Pluripotent Stem Cells Induced by Autologous Gingival Stem Cells and Extracellular Vesicles: A Novel Approach for Cardiac Regeneration"—underscores her groundbreaking contributions to stem cell therapies and regenerative medicine.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Della Rocca’s research career has been marked by numerous accolades, including two prestigious awards for her scientific achievements. She has been a Guest Editor for special issues in renowned journals like the International Journal of Molecular Sciences and has served as a Review Editor for Frontiers in Genetics and Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology. Her citation index of 10 reflects the growing impact of her research in the scientific community.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Della Rocca’s work transcends academic research, as evidenced by her collaborations with top universities and research institutes worldwide, including the University of Barcelona, IRCCS Sicily, and the University of Montreal. She is an active member of the Italian Society of Anatomy and Histology and the Sigma Xi Scientific Research Honor Society. Dr. Della Rocca’s commitment to healthcare is further exemplified by her founding of Associazione Sorrisi in Ospedale (A.S.I.O.), a third-sector organization aimed at improving patient care in hospitals.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a leader in the fields of stem cells, bioengineering, and regenerative medicine, Dr. Ylenia Della Rocca continues to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge. Her contributions to cell-free therapies and the development of three-dimensional models hold immense promise for future medical applications. With her ongoing work in stem cell regeneration and epigenetic research, Dr. Della Rocca is poised to shape the next frontier of clinical and research tools, leaving a lasting legacy in biotechnology.

 

Publications


📄 Autologous hGMSC-Derived iPS: A New Proposal for Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Ylenia Della Rocca, Francesca Diomede, Fanì Konstantinidou, Valentina Gatta, Liborio Stuppia, Umberto Benedetto, Marco Zimarino, Paola Lanuti, Oriana Trubiani, Jacopo Pizzicannella
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Year: 2024


📄 Biological Effects of PMMA and Composite Resins on Human Gingival Fibroblasts: An In Vitro Comparative Study
Authors: Ylenia Della Rocca, Enrico Matteo Traini, Oriana Trubiani, Tonino Traini, Antonella Mazzone, Guya Diletta Marconi, Jacopo Pizzicannella, Francesca Diomede
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Year: 2024


 

Dong Hee Kim | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Research Award

Dr. Dong Hee Kim | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Research Award

Pusan national university | South Korea

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Dong Hee Kim began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Ulsan, Korea, in 2004. He continued at the same institution for his M.S.-Ph.D. in Biological Sciences under the mentorship of Professor Byung Ju Lee, completing his doctorate in 2012. His thesis, "Studies on the role of NELL2 in neuroprotection and neural differentiation," laid the foundation for his future research endeavors.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Kim has held various prestigious positions throughout his career. He is currently a Research Fellow at Pusan National University Hospital since November 2022. Previously, he served as a Research Professor at the University of Ulsan from January 2019 to May 2022, and as a Research Fellow at the same university from January 2015 to October 2016. His early postdoctoral work was conducted at UNIST from March 2013 to December 2014.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Kim's research primarily revolves around neuroprotection, neural differentiation, and the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases. His notable grants include funding from WISET for studying the function of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in the brain, and multiple grants from the NRF of Korea, including studies on TonEBP function in hypothalamic leptin resistance and its role in degenerative brain disorders.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Dr. Kim has received significant recognition for his contributions to biomedical research. His projects have been supported by prestigious grants, highlighting the impact and importance of his work in understanding brain functions and disorders. His research has also resulted in numerous publications in high-impact journals, further establishing his reputation in the field.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Kim's research has significantly advanced the understanding of neural mechanisms and their implications in neurodegenerative diseases. His work on the transcription regulation of key genes involved in brain function and inflammation has provided new insights into potential therapeutic targets. His publications have been widely cited, indicating the influence of his research on the scientific community.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Kim's ongoing research continues to push the boundaries of our understanding of the brain. His current projects, funded by substantial grants, promise to uncover new mechanisms of brain function and disease. As he progresses in his career, Dr. Kim is poised to make further groundbreaking discoveries that will contribute to the field of biomedical science and technology.

 

Publications 📘

📄 Effects of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Transcription Regulation of AgRP and POMC Genes

👩‍🔬 Authors: Kim DH*, Lee MJ, Kang D, Khang AR, Bae JH, Kim JY, Kim SH, Kang YH, Yi D.

📕 Journal: Curr Issues Mol Biol.

📅 Year: 2024


📄 Bridging Energy Need and Feeding Behavior: The Impact of eIF2α Phosphorylation in AgRP Neurons

👩‍🔬 Authors: Kim KK, Lee TH, Park BS, Kang D, Kim DH, Jeong B, Kim JW, Yang HR, Kim HR, Jin S, Back SH, Park JW, Kim JG, Lee BJ.

📕 Journal: Diabetes

📅 Year: 2023


📄 Sirtuin 1-Mediated Deacetylation of Hypothalamic TTF-1 Contributes to Energy Deficiency Response

👩‍🔬 Authors: Kang D, Yang HR, Kim DH, Kim KK, Jeong B, Park BS, Park JW, Kim JG, Lee BJ.

📕 Journal: Int J Mol Sci.

📅 Year: 2023


📄 Inhibition of LPAR1 Signaling in PDLSCs Reduces the Inflammatory Paracrine Effect on Primary Astrocyte Cells

👩‍🔬 Authors: Kim DH*, Seo EJ*, Kim YH, Jang IH.

📕 Journal: Int J Oral Biol.

📅 Year: 2022


📄 Transcriptional Regulatory Role of NELL2 in Preproenkphalin Gene Expression

👩‍🔬 Authors: Ha CM*, Kim DH*, Lee TH, Kim HR, Choi JI, Kim Y, Kang DS, Park JW, Oieda S, Jeong JK, Lee BJ.

📕 Journal: Mol Cells

📅 Year: 2022

Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Regenerative Research Sciences Private Limited | India

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan began her academic journey with a B.Sc. in Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry, achieving First Class with Distinction. She pursued her passion further with an M.Sc. in Biochemistry, securing the second rank in the university. Her academic pursuit culminated in a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the National Institute of Nutrition/Osmania University. Following this, she engaged in postdoctoral research at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan's professional journey has been marked by significant roles in academia and research. She served as the Director-Grade Scientist and Head of Cell & Molecular Biology and Stem Cell Research at the National Institute of Nutrition, ICMR, Hyderabad. Currently, she holds the position of Director-Research at Movva Health Care LLP, RegenOrthoSport, where she continues to contribute to cutting-edge research in biochemistry and stem cell research.

Contributions and Research Focus

Her research focuses on regenerative medicine, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, obesity, and knee osteoarthritis. Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan's work involves understanding the pathophysiology of these diseases at the cellular and molecular levels. She has made significant strides in the isolation, characterization, and therapeutic application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from various sources, including placenta and bone marrow. Additionally, her research explores the potential of nutraceuticals in managing these conditions, highlighting the beneficial effects of compounds like stigmasterol, gingerol, and shogaol.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan's contributions to the field have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. She has been felicitated with awards such as the Woman of Excellence Award, Venus International Award for Excellence in Biochemistry and Stem Cell Research, and the Dr. S.N. Acharya Felicitation Award. Her expertise has also earned her fellowship status in prestigious organizations like the National Academy of Medical Sciences and the Telangana Academy of Sciences.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan's research has left a significant impact on both academia and clinical practice. Her findings have been published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, with over 100 scientific articles and several book chapters to her credit. She has also been granted multiple patents for her innovative research in liver cell therapy and mesenchymal stem cell transplantation. Moreover, she actively participates in various professional societies and serves on the editorial boards of esteemed journals in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Venkatesan's legacy lies in her pioneering work at the intersection of biochemistry, genetics, and regenerative medicine. Her ongoing efforts in translational research aim to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications, with a focus on improving healthcare outcomes for patients with metabolic disorders and musculoskeletal conditions. As she continues to lead research initiatives and mentor future scientists, her contributions are poised to shape the future of regenerative medicine and personalized healthcare.

Notable Publications

Alleviation of diabetes mellitus through the restoration of β-cell function and lipid metabolism by Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. extract in obesogenic WNIN/GR-Ob rats  2021 (19)

Elevated ATP, cytokines and potential microglial inflammation distinguish exfoliation glaucoma from exfoliation syndrome 2022 (7)

The role of Lp-PLA2 and biochemistry parameters as potential biomarkers of coronary artery disease in Asian South-Indians: a case-control study 2017 (10)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jairus Nandwa | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jairus Nandwa | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Hebrew University of Jerusalem | Israel

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Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Jairus Nandwa embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor of Technology in Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology from The Technical University of Mombasa, Kenya. He further pursued a Master of Science in Biosciences at COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Genetics at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, focusing on circular RNAs, SNORDS, and miRNAs in cancer under the guidance of Professor Ruth Sperling.

Professional Endeavors

With a robust academic background, Mr. Nandwa engaged in various research experiences, including his role as a Graduate Student/Research Student at the Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics Lab, COMSATS University, Pakistan. He also served as a Laboratory Analyst during his BTech internship at the Regional Veterinary Investigation Laboratory, Kenya.

Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Nandwa's research interests span non-coding RNAs in gene expression regulation, tumor microenvironment, biomarker/therapeutic discovery, DNA repair mechanisms, and biological data analysis. He has authored several publications and presented his research at esteemed conferences globally.

Accolades and Recognition

His notable publications include research on miRNA-4716–3p and its association with blood cancer pathogenesis, earning recognition in Non-Coding RNA Research. He has also received awards such as the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship and First Class Honors in BTech Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology.

Impact and Influence

Mr. Nandwa's contributions extend beyond academia, with leadership roles in cancer education initiatives and community service engagements. His research and volunteer efforts demonstrate a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing societal challenges.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Mr. Nandwa continues his doctoral studies and research pursuits, his dedication to understanding the intricacies of cancer biology and contributing to innovative solutions positions him as a promising researcher in the field of genetics. His leadership, academic achievements, and community impact foreshadow a legacy of scientific excellence and social responsibility.

Notable Publications

miR-4716–3p and the target AKT2 Gene/rs2304186 SNP are associated with blood cancer pathogenesis in Pakistani population 2024

In silico analysis of RPS4X (X-linked ribosomal protein) with active components from black seed (Nigella sativa) for potential treatment of multiple sclerosis 2024

Therapeutic capability of selected medicinal plants' bioactive constituents against the mutant ovarian TP53 gene; a computational approach 2023

Targeting allosteric sites on PDK-1 and PLK-1 with bioactive compounds from Daucus carota as a potential therapy for triple-negative breast cancer 2023