Prof. Hui Shen | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award
China Pharmaceutical University | China
Author Profile
🎓 Early Academic Pursuits
Prof. Hui Shen embarked on his scientific journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering from Wuhan University of Science and Technology (2008–2012), laying a strong foundation in the life sciences. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the prestigious University of Science and Technology of China (2012–2017). His doctoral thesis focused on structural biology, specifically analyzing proteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Staphylococcus aureus, under the mentorship of Prof. Maikun Teng.
👨🔬 Professional Endeavors
Prof. Shen has steadily ascended the academic ladder. After completing his Ph.D., he undertook postdoctoral research at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine (2018–2023). Working in Prof. Kathy Fange Liu's lab, he focused on RNA biology and molecular mechanisms in human cells. In 2023, he returned to China and assumed the role of Professor at China Pharmaceutical University in Nanjing, where he continues to contribute to cutting-edge research in the School of Life Science and Technology.
🧬 Contributions and Research Focus
Prof. Shen's research centers on RNA biology, structural biochemistry, and epigenetic regulation. He has delved into RNA helicases, methyltransferases, and RNA-protein interactions, significantly expanding our understanding of sexually dimorphic RNA metabolism, ribosome assembly, and RNA modifications. His work has elucidated mechanisms of phase separation, methylation, and protein structure-function relationships, all of which are vital for both basic science and therapeutic development.
🏆 Accolades and Recognition
Prof. Shen’s scholarly output is remarkable. He has published over a dozen first-author papers in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications, Molecular Cell, Genes & Development, and Journal of Biological Chemistry. His co-authored works also feature in Science Advances, Nature Communications, and ACS Catalysis, underscoring his collaborative and interdisciplinary impact. His presence in top-tier international conferences, including the RNA Society Annual Meeting and the Global Congress of Chinese Biologists, reflects peer recognition of his contributions.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Prof. Shen’s work has influenced fields such as cancer biology, infectious disease research, and epigenetics. For instance, his studies on the DDX3X/DDX3Y helicases and DIMT1 methyltransferases provide novel insights into cell proliferation, translation regulation, and leukemia biology. His findings are not only academically significant but also open avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeting RNA and protein modification pathways.
🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions
As a rising star in molecular biology, Prof. Shen is well-positioned to leave a lasting legacy. With a strong publication track record, international training, and a leadership role in China, he is expected to mentor the next generation of scientists while continuing to pioneer research at the interface of structure and function in RNA biology. His work is likely to shape future innovations in biomedicine and pharmaceutical sciences, strengthening China’s global research footprint.
Publications
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📄 Specific catalytically impaired DDX3X mutants form sexually dimorphic hollow condensates
Authors: Owens MC*, Shen H*, Yanas A, Mendoza-Figueroa MS, Lavorando E, Wei XY, Shweta H, Tang HY, Goldman YE, Liu KF
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2024
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📄 Identification of an RNA-binding region in 18S dimethyladenosine methyltransferase DIMT1 essential for proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Gonskikh Y*, Stoute J*, Shen H*, Budinich K, Pingul B, Schultz K, Marmorstein R, Shi JW, Liu KF
Journal: Genes & Development
Year: 2023
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📄 Sexually dimorphic RNA helicases DDX3X and DDX3Y differentially regulate RNA metabolism through phase separation
Authors: Shen H*, Yanas A*, Owens MC, Zhang C, Fritsch C, Fare CM, Copley KE, Shorter J, Goldman YE, Liu KF
Journal: Molecular Cell
Year: 2022
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📄 Human DIMT1 generates N2⁶,6A-dimethylation-containing small RNAs
Authors: Shen H, Gonskikh Y, Stoute J, Liu KF
Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry
Year: 2021
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📄 TET-mediated 5-methylcytosine oxidation in tRNA promotes translation
Authors: Shen H*, Ontiveros RJ*, Owens MC, Liu MY, Ghanty U, Kohli RM, Liu KF
Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry
Year: 2021