Judith Röske | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Women Research Award

Mrs. Judith Röske | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Women Research Award

University of Luebeck | Germany

Mrs. Judith Röske is a dedicated researcher with a strong focus on molecular virology, antiviral drug discovery, and protease-targeted therapeutic development, contributing to 13 scientific publications across high-impact journals. Her work explores the binding behavior of small-molecule inhibitors to viral 3C proteases, including SARS-CoV-2, EV-D68, EV-A71, and HAV, as well as host proteases such as cathepsins and calpain-1. With expertise in photometry, nanoDSF, MST, and SPR, she has optimized methods for determining key biochemical parameters such as IC₅₀, Tm, and Kᴅ, enabling the effective screening of lead compounds for broad-spectrum antivirals. Her research further investigates RNA-binding mechanisms in HAV 3C protease, shedding light on dual-targeting strategies that may advance anti-picornaviral drug development. She has contributed to influential studies on SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitors, including work on novel warhead chemistries, α-ketoamide derivatives, and diastereomeric optimization, reinforcing her impact in antiviral medicinal chemistry. Additionally, earlier contributions in transplant biology and liver preservation highlight her versatility in biochemical and molecular research. Through rigorous structural, kinetic, and biophysical analyses, her body of work adds valuable insight into protease inhibition and therapeutic innovation, supported by a growing citation record within the scientific community.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Theodoropoulou, M. A., El Kilani, H., Mantzourani, C., Jochmans, D., Neyts, J., Zhang, K., Röske, J., Kokotou, M. G., Hilgenfeld, R., & Kokotos, G. (2025). Thiazolyl 4-carboxylate ketone as a new warhead for a highly potent SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitor. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 25(11), 118436.

Akula, R. K., El Kilani, H., Metzen, A., Röske, J., Zhang, K., Göhl, M., Arisetti, N., Marsh, G. P., Maple, H. J., Cooper, M. S., et al. (2025). Structure-based optimization of pyridone α-ketoamides as inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 68(1).

Cooper, M. S., Zhang, L., Ibrahim, M., Zhang, K., Sun, X., Röske, J., Göhl, M., Brönstrup, M., Cowell, J. K., Sauerhering, L., et al. (2022). Diastereomeric resolution yields highly potent inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 main protease. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry.

Bernard, V., Gebauer, N., Dinh, T., Stegemann, J., Feller, A. C., & Merz, H. (2014). Applicability of next-generation sequencing to decalcified formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia samples. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Pathology.

Le Minh, K., Berger, A., Eipel, C., Kuhla, A., Minor, T., Stegemann, J., & Vollmar, B. (2011). Uncoupling protein-2 deficient mice are not protected against warm ischemia/reperfusion injury of the liver. Journal of Surgical Research, 167.

Stegemann, J., Hirner, A., Rauen, U., & Minor, T. (2010). Use of a new modified HTK solution for machine preservation of marginal liver grafts. Journal of Surgical Research.

Koetting, M., Stegemann, J., & Minor, T. (2010). Dopamine as additive to cold preservation solution improves postischemic integrity of the liver. Transplant International, 23.

Minor, T., Stegemann, J., Hirner, A., & Koetting, M. (2009). Impaired autophagic clearance after cold preservation of fatty livers correlates with tissue necrosis upon reperfusion and is reversed by hypothermic reconditioning. Liver Transplantation.

Stegemann, J., & Minor, T. (2009). Energy charge restoration, mitochondrial protection and reversal of preservation-induced liver injury by hypothermic oxygenation prior to reperfusion. Cryobiology.

Stegemann, J., Hirner, A., Rauen, U., & Minor, T. (2009). Gaseous oxygen persufflation or oxygenated machine perfusion with Custodiol-N for long-term preservation of ischemic rat livers? Cryobiology.

Le Minh, K., Kuhla, A., Abshagen, K., Minor, T., Stegemann, J., Ibrahim, S., Eipel, C., & Vollmar, B. (2009). Uncoupling protein-2 deficiency provides protection in a murine model of endotoxemic acute liver failure. Critical Care Medicine.

Manekeller, S., Seinsche, A., Stegemann, J., & Hirner, A. (2008). Optimising post-conditioning time of marginal donor livers. Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery.

Manekeller, S., Schuppius, A., Stegemann, J., Hirner, A., & Minor, T. (2007). Role of perfusion medium, oxygen and rheology for endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced cell death after hypothermic machine preservation of the liver. Transplant International.

Zhuowei Luo | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Mr. Zhuowei Luo | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Hubei University of Chinese Medicine | China

Mr. Zhuowei Luo is an emerging researcher recognized for effectively integrating classical Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory with modern biomedical science, demonstrating strong expertise in molecular mechanism analysis and advanced metabolomics for chronic disease research. His notable scientific contribution is a co-authored publication in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Q2, IF 5.14), where he helped elucidate how Allium macrostemon delays chronic renal failure by modulating the IL-17 signaling pathway and altering tryptophan and glycerophospholipid metabolism. This work represents the first comprehensive study connecting immunological regulation with multi-omics profiling to explain the therapeutic mechanisms of this TCM herb, providing a meaningful model for modernizing traditional medicine through systems biology. His role in the project included designing and validating qPCR primers, conducting network pharmacology to identify key molecular targets, performing metabolomics and transcriptomics data analyses, and carrying out histopathological assessments. Through these contributions, he demonstrated an advanced ability to apply interdisciplinary approaches—combining immunology, pharmacology, and bioinformatics—to uncover mechanistic insights into natural product–based interventions. His research reflects scientific maturity beyond typical early-stage experience and contributes to the growing evidence supporting data-driven modernization of TCM in chronic disease treatment.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publication

Zhao, Y., Ge, J. X., Zhang, N., Lei, Z. X., Sun, S. Y., Luo, Z. W., Yang, Y. F., & Wu, H. Z. (2025). Allium macrostemon Bge. delays chronic renal failure by modulating IL-17 signaling pathway and affecting tryptophan/glycerophospholipid metabolism. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 120946.

Valentina Mihaylova | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Valentina Mihaylova | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Medical University-Plovdiv | Bulgaria

Mrs. Valentina Mihaylova is a dedicated researcher and specialist in medical chemistry with a strong focus on cellular metabolism, mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, and autoimmune diseases. With an h-index of 2, she has authored five scientific publications, which have collectively garnered 14 citations, reflecting her growing impact in medical biology and clinical research. Her work encompasses the study of markers of oxidative stress and insulin resistance in chronic autoimmune Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, cellular metabolic profiling in children with autism spectrum disorders, and the evaluation of therapeutic effects in rheumatoid arthritis through mitochondrial function and bioenergetic metabolism. Mrs. Mihaylova’s research also explores intestinal permeability, systemic inflammation, and the pharmacological effects of treatments such as methotrexate and JAK inhibitors on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress. She has actively contributed to numerous national and international conferences, presenting pioneering findings on the role of mitochondria, autophagy, and inflammation in autoimmune and rheumatologic conditions. Her academic and professional trajectory, spanning positions from clinical chemist to Master of Medical Chemistry at the Medical University of Plovdiv, is marked by a commitment to advancing knowledge in medical biology and translational research. Through her multidisciplinary approach, Mrs. Mihaylova continues to elucidate complex biochemical mechanisms underlying disease pathology and therapeutic responses, establishing herself as an emerging contributor to the field of medical and clinical biochemistry.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Mihaylova, V., Tomov, D., Karalilova, R., Batalov, Z., Batalov, A., Sarafian, V., & Kazakova, M. (2025). Effects of methotrexate and tofacitinib on mitochondrial function and oxidative stress in human synovial cells in vitro. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(17), 8173.

Tomov, D. G., Levterova, B. A., Mihaylova, V. N., Troev, D. M., Miteva, M. Z., Uzunova, Y. I., & Orbetzova, M. M. (2024). Influence of the increase in intestinal permeability and microbiota change in the development of Hashimoto's thyroiditis: A systematic review. Endocrine and Metabolic Science, 100195.

Mihaylova, V., Kazakova, M., Batalov, Z., Karalilova, R., Batalov, A., & Sarafian, V. (2023). JAK inhibitors improve ATP production and mitochondrial function in rheumatoid arthritis: A pilot study. Rheumatology International.

Guobin Li | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Guobin Li | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Northwest A&F University | China

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Guobin Li embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in agricultural science. He earned his Ph.D. from Huazhong Agricultural University in 2021, focusing on the intricate molecular mechanisms governing plant development. His doctoral research laid the groundwork for his later contributions to horticultural genomics and plant stress physiology.

Professional Endeavors 🎓

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Northwest A&F University, Dr. Li is dedicated to unraveling the complexities of tomato fruit development and their responses to environmental stresses. His research delves into temperature and salinity stress tolerance, functional genomics, and the application of biotechnological tools to enhance the resilience of horticultural crops.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬 

Dr. Li’s work has significantly advanced our understanding of plant molecular responses. His primary research interests include:

  • Investigating the molecular pathways governing tomato fruit development and quality traits.
  • Exploring the genetic and biochemical responses of tomatoes to abiotic stress, including extreme temperatures and salinity.
  • Applying functional genomics and biotechnology to improve crop yield and stress resilience.

His notable studies have identified key regulatory proteins, such as the chloroplast metalloproteinase L2, that influence ethylene-mediated fruit ripening, and DC1 domain proteins that interact with critical regulatory pathways in flower and root development.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Li’s impactful research has been published in prestigious journals, including Journal of Experimental Botany, New Phytologist, Plant Science, and Environmental and Experimental Botany. His findings on polyamine biosynthesis and ionic homeostasis have provided new insights into improving plant stress tolerance, earning him recognition among plant scientists and biotechnologists.

Impact and Influence 🌍

By bridging molecular biology with practical agricultural applications, Dr. Li’s research contributes to global food security and sustainable agriculture. His studies on stress resilience mechanisms are instrumental in developing climate-resilient tomato varieties, addressing challenges posed by climate change and soil degradation.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Dr. Li’s future endeavors aim to expand the frontiers of plant biotechnology. His work will continue to shape the understanding of plant-environment interactions, with a vision to develop genetically improved crops that thrive under adverse conditions. His contributions hold immense potential for revolutionizing modern horticulture and ensuring agricultural sustainability in the face of environmental challenges.

Publications


  • 📄SlCHP16 promotes root growth and enhances saline-alkali tolerance of tomato
    Author(s): Zhen Kang, Xiangguang Meng, Zhijun Fang, Chunyu Shang, Rihan Wu, Junhong Zhang, Xiaohui Hu, Guobin Li
    Journal: Environmental and Experimental Botany
    Year: 2024


  • 📄The SlWRKY42–SlMYC2 module synergistically enhances tomato saline–alkali tolerance by activating the jasmonic acid signaling and spermidine biosynthesis pathway
    Author(s): Xiaoyan Liu, Chunyu Shang, Pengyu Duan, Jianyu Yang, Jianbin Wang, Dan Sui, Guo Chen, Xiaojing Li, Guobin Li, Songshen Hu, et al.
    Journal: Journal of Integrative Plant Biology
    Year: 2025


  • 📄Genome-Wide Analysis of the DC1 Domain Protein Gene Family in Tomatoes under Abiotic Stress
    Author(s): Guobin Li, Jiao Dang, Jiaqi Pan, Jingyi Liu, Tieli Peng, Guo Chen, Rongqun Wang, Songshen Hu, Xiaojing Li, Xiaohui Hu
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2023


  • 📄SlGH3.15, a member of the GH3 gene family, regulates lateral root development and gravitropism response by modulating auxin homeostasis in tomato
    Author(s): Guobin Li
    Journal: Plant Science
    Year: 2023


  • 📄Over-expression of spermidine synthase 2 (SlSPDS2) in tomato plants improves saline-alkali stress tolerance by increasing endogenous polyamines content to regulate antioxidant enzyme system and ionic homeostasis
    Author(s): Guobin Li
    Journal: Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
    Year: 2022


 

Ridwan Salaam | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Editorial Board Member

Mr. Ridwan Salaam | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Editorial Board Member

University of Ibadan | Nigeria

Author Profile

Orcid

Google Scholar

🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

Ridwan Salaam’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to scientific excellence. His Bachelor’s degree from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) laid the foundation for his expertise in molecular genetics, with a thesis focused on the chromosomal studies of Arvicanthis niloticus. He graduated with a Second Class Upper degree, achieving a remarkable GPA of 4.19/5.0. Building on this, he pursued a Master’s degree at the University of Ibadan, earning a distinction (GPA: 6.2/7.0). His thesis investigated the antiplasmodial activity of phytocompounds using in silico pharmacology, supervised by esteemed scholars like Dr. Afolayan Funmilayo I.D.

🚀 Professional Endeavors

With hands-on research experience spanning academia and industry, Ridwan has excelled in roles such as Research Intern at Hackbio, Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Ibadan, and Research Assistant at OAU. He has mastered advanced bioinformatics tools, molecular docking, and statistical analysis, actively contributing to cancer and infectious disease studies. His contributions extend to mentoring students, conducting DNA extractions, and organizing independent research groups like the Computer-Aided Biological Research Group (COMBReG).

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Ridwan’s research spans Cell Biology, Molecular Genetics, Drug Discovery, and Immunotherapy, with an emphasis on cancer and infectious diseases. He has published extensively on computational drug discovery, molecular docking, and network pharmacology. Notable works include elucidating antiplasmodial mechanisms and exploring phytocompounds for cancer treatments. He has participated in groundbreaking projects, such as developing multipotent antivenom under the 2023 TETFUND National Research Fund.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Ridwan’s achievements have garnered national and international recognition. His certificate of commendation from Government Secondary School, Maina, acknowledges his teaching contributions, while multiple workshop certifications highlight his expertise in computer-aided drug design and vaccine development. His collaborative research efforts have been showcased at prestigious conferences like the Zoological Society of Nigeria Annual Conference and the International Conference on Scientific Research in Nigeria.

🌍 Impact and Influence

As a convener of COMBReG and a research team coordinator, Ridwan has demonstrated exceptional leadership by fostering collaborative environments and driving innovation. He has trained over 40 participants in bioinformatics and spearheaded projects addressing global health challenges like malaria and cancer. His ability to work across diverse cultural and professional backgrounds has solidified his reputation as a team player and mentor.

📜 Legacy and Future Contributions

Ridwan Salaam’s robust academic background and research endeavors position him as a trailblazer in molecular genetics and bioinformatics. His work not only addresses pressing global health issues but also inspires future generations of scientists. With ongoing research in computational drug discovery and molecular pathways, Ridwan’s contributions are poised to leave a lasting impact on the fields of cancer therapy and infectious disease treatment. His journey exemplifies the spirit of innovation and dedication, promising a legacy of transformative research.

 

Publications


📄 A Review of Selected Parasitic Plants in Nigeria: Converting Harms to Benefits

Authors: Funmilayo I. D. Afolayan, Ridwan A. Salaam, Ebenezer S. Oladokun, Samson D. Adesoye
Journal: Natural Therapy Advances
Year: 2024


📄 Antiplasmodial Mechanism of Lawsonia inermis: An In Silico-Based Investigation

Authors: Ridwan Abiodun Salaam, Funmilayo I. D. Afolayan
Journal: Infectious Diseases Research
Year: 2024


📄 In Silico Discovery of Potential Androgen Receptor and Cytochrome P450 17A1 Inhibitors from Camellia sinensis for Prostate Cancer Treatment

Authors: Ridwan Abiodun Salaam, Christopher Terseer Tarkaa, Rachael Pius Ebuh, Damilare Adebayo Olaniyi, Sayo Ebenezer Oladokun, Rodiat Omotola Sowemimo, Oluwaponmile Florence Ajayi, Olusola Abayomi Akangbe
Journal: Next Research
Year: 2024


📄 In Silico and In Vivo Evaluations of Multistage Antiplasmodial Potency and Toxicity Profiling of n-Hexadecanoic Acid Derived from Vernonia amygdalina

Authors: Funmilayo I. D. Afolayan, R. A. Odeyemi, Ridwan A. Salaam
Journal: Frontiers in Pharmacology
Year: 2024


📄 Elucidating the Molecular Targets of Curcuma longa for Breast Cancer Treatment Using Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation

Authors: Christopher Terseer Tarkaa, Damilare Adebayo Oyaniyi, Ridwan Abiodun Salaam, Rachael Pius Ebuh, Olusola Abayomi Akangbe, Sayo Ebenezer Oladokun, Rodiat Omotola Sowemimo, Oluwaponmile Florence Ajayi
Journal: Precision Medicine Research
Year: 2023