Yucheng Lu | Neuroscience | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Yucheng Lu | Neuroscience | Research Excellence Award

Linyi People's Hospital | China

Prof. Yucheng Lu is a distinguished researcher whose scholarly contributions span cancer biology, immunology, and translational biomedical sciences. With 352 citations, 26 indexed publications, and an h-index of 13, he has established a strong research footprint in molecular oncology and disease pathology. Over his academic career, he has published 40 peer-reviewed papers, including 25 as first or corresponding author, reflecting consistent leadership in scientific inquiry. His work encompasses cutting-edge topics such as tumor-associated macrophage regulation in glioma, prognostic biomarkers in low-grade glioma, colorectal cancer therapeutics, and single-cell transcriptomics in esophageal cancer. In addition, he has explored metabolic and immunological disease interactions, cancer proliferation mechanisms, and neural electrophysiological responses. As a principal investigator, he has led 7 provincial and municipal research projects and contributed to 8 national and ministerial-level initiatives, demonstrating strong project management and interdisciplinary collaboration. His research excellence has earned 3 Science and Technology Achievement Awards, alongside innovations represented by 1 invention patent and 6 software copyrights. Through these achievements, Prof. Lu continues to advance biomedical research with significant scientific, clinical, and technological impact.

Profile : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Shi, H., Cheng, Y., Chao, D., Song, Q., Han, L., Li, H., Lu, Y., & Wang, M. (2025). Spatiotemporal profiling of endocytic regulators in the immunosuppressive TAM microenvironment of glioma. Brain Research, 150086. (In press)

Author names not provided. (2025). Identification of CDKN3 overexpression as a marker of poor prognosis and potential therapeutic target in low-grade glioma. Scientific Reports.

Author names not provided. (2025). Okanin suppresses the growth of colorectal cancer cells by targeting Peroxiredoxin 5. Advanced Science.

Shi, K., Li, Y., Yang, L., Zhang, Z., Guo, D., Zhang, J., & Lu, Y. (2022). Profiling transcriptional heterogeneity of epithelium, fibroblasts, and immune cells in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by single-cell RNA sequencing. The FASEB Journal, 0892-6638.

Zhao, J. Z., Lu, Y. C., Wang, Y. M., Xiao, B. L., Li, H. Y., Lee, S. C., & Wang, L. J. (2022). Association between diabetes and acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries, 0973-3930.

Shi, K., Zhang, J. Z., Yang, L., Li, N. N., Yue, Y., Du, X. H., Zhang, X. Z., Lu, Y. C., & Guo, D. (2021). Protein deubiquitylase USP3 stabilizes Aurora A to promote proliferation and metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Cancer, 1471-2407.

Lu, Y., Lv, B., & Song, Q. (2019). Transcranial electrical stimulation motor-evoked potentials in a spinal cord ischaemia rabbit model. Chinese Neurosurgical Journal, 2057-4967.

Lu, Y. C., Wang, P., Wang, J., Ma, R., & Lee, S. C. (2019). PCNA and JNK1-Stat3 pathways respectively promote and inhibit diabetes-associated centrosome amplification by targeting the ROCK1/14-3-3σ complex in human colon cancer HCT116 cells. Journal of Cellular Physiology.

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

Sophie Grigolo | Immunology and Microbiology | Young Researcher Award

Mrs. Sophie Grigolo | Immunology and Microbiology | Young Researcher Award

University of Fribourg | Switzerland

Mrs. Sophie Grigolo is an emerging researcher specializing in cellular and molecular biology, with a strong focus on cancer research, particularly clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Her work encompasses extensive laboratory expertise in cell culture using human kidney cancer cell lines (A-498, ACHN, Caki-1, and Caki-2) and a range of analytical assays including BrdU Cell Proliferation, MTT, LDH, and Live-or-Dye™ Fixable Viability Staining. She is proficient in advanced molecular biology techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), agarose gel electrophoresis, western blotting, genotyping, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry (IHC), which she applies to elucidate cancer cell behavior and therapeutic responses. Her publications, including studies on immunotherapy in ccRCC and the role of IL-2 receptor expression in renal carcinoma cells, contribute to advancing understanding of tumor immunology and targeted therapies. Sophie has also shared her findings at prestigious scientific forums, including the International Student Congress of (bio)Medical Sciences and the Annual European Student Symposium on Anatomical Research, where her work has earned recognition for excellence. Through her research and technical acumen, she continues to contribute to the evolving field of cancer biology and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Grigolo, S., Fellay, I., & Filgueira, L. (2025). IL-2 receptor expression in renal cell carcinoma cells: IL-2 influences cell survival and induces cell death. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 47(10), 830.

Grigolo, S., & Filgueira, L. (2024). Immunotherapy of clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma. Cancers, 16, 2092.

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

Author Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Jairus Nandwa's academic journey commenced with a Bachelor's in Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology from The Technical University of Mombasa, Kenya. He pursued his passion further with a Master's in Biosciences from COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan, where he delved into cancer genetics. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. 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

Jairus has garnered diverse professional experiences, from his tenure as a Laboratory Analyst at the Regional Veterinary Investigation Laboratory, Kenya, to his role as the Head of Public Needs Research at the Integrated Cancer Research Foundation of Kenya. He has contributed significantly to cancer education and research, both as a volunteer and in leadership positions, demonstrating his commitment to advancing cancer management in Kenya.

Contributions and Research Focus

With a strong background in biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology, Jairus has dedicated his research efforts to elucidating the roles of non-coding RNAs in gene expression regulation, tumor microenvironment, biomarker discovery, and DNA repair mechanisms. His research spans both experimental and computational domains, aiming to unravel the complexities of cancer genetics and improve therapeutic strategies.

Accolades and Recognition

Jairus's contributions to the field of cancer genetics have been recognized internationally. He has been awarded prestigious scholarships, including the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarship, and has received honors for his academic achievements. Additionally, his research publications in reputable journals underscore his growing influence in the scientific community.

Impact and Influence

Through his research, leadership roles, and volunteer activities, Jairus has made a significant impact on cancer education, awareness, and research in Kenya. His work has contributed to the understanding of cancer pathogenesis and has paved the way for innovative approaches to cancer management and treatment.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Jairus continues his doctoral studies and pursues his research interests in cancer genetics, he aims to leave a lasting legacy in the field through groundbreaking discoveries and transformative contributions. His multidisciplinary approach, coupled with his passion for scientific inquiry, positions him as a promising leader in cancer research with the potential to drive positive change in the global fight against cancer.

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