Zuzana Sekeyová | Formulation Science | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Zuzana Sekeyová | Formulation Science | Best Researcher Award

Slovak Academy of Sciences | Slovakia

Mrs. Zuzana Sekeyová is a highly accomplished virologist and microbiologist with extensive expertise in the study, diagnosis, and prevention of rickettsial and intracellular pathogens. She obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Virology from Comenius University, Bratislava, and completed her Ph.D. at the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, focusing on the biology of Rickettsiae and related organisms at the Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences. She advanced her knowledge through postdoctoral training at the University of Maryland, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Baltimore, USA, and through multiple visiting research fellowships supported by the Deutsche Akademische Austauschdienst (DAAD) at Justus Liebig Universität, Giessen, Germany, and the WHO Collaborative Center for Rickettsial Reference and Research, CNRS UPRESA 6020, Marseille, France. She further enhanced her global expertise as a visiting research fellow with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science at Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Tokyo, Japan.Mrs. Sekeyová began her career as a scientific assistant and young scientist at the Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, progressing to senior research scientist and deputy head of the Department of Rickettsiology, where she currently oversees the Laboratory for Diagnosis and Prevention of Rickettsial and Chlamydial Infections. She serves as an expert verifier for the Slovak National Accreditation Service under the Good Laboratory Practice Compliance Program and is a key member of the National Reference Center for Surveillance and Laboratory Diagnostics of Rickettsiae. She is also an internationally recognized expert in synthetic biology, participating in the Open Ended Online Forum and the Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group under the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity.Her research emphasizes the molecular biology, epidemiology, and diagnostics of rickettsial and related intracellular microorganisms, contributing to innovative detection methods and preventive strategies. Notable publications include Evaluation of cytotoxic activity against A549 human lung cancer cells using green synthesized N-Cholyl D-Penicillamine encapsulated silver and gold nanoparticles, Mucoadhesive and drug release of cholic acid based thiomeric micelles and encapsulated silver and gold nanoparticles for anticancer studies, and C-type natriuretic peptide induces cell death and sensitizes the effect of cisplatin in human non-small cell lung cancer cells. Through decades of research, Mrs. Sekeyová has combined rigorous laboratory investigations with translational and global health applications, establishing herself as a leading authority in virology, rickettsial diseases, and synthetic biology, with a strong commitment to advancing international scientific collaboration and public health initiatives.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Špitalská, E., Sabaka, P., Komorníková, A., Minichová, L., Palkovičová, K., Fenollar, F., Škultéty, Ľ., Miková, E., Sekeyová, Z., & Fournier, P.-E. Abdominal manifestations of Q fever. International Journal of Infectious Diseases.

Danchenko, M., Benada, O., Škultéty, Ľ., & Sekeyová, Z. Culture Isolate of Rickettsia felis from a Tick. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Sekeyová, Z. Case studies of rickettsiosis, anaplasmosis and Q fever in Slovak population from 2011 to 2020. Biologia.

Sekeyová, Z. Detection of Rickettsia raoultii in Dermacentor reticulatus and Haemaphysalis inermis ticks in Slovakia. Biologia.

Sekeyová, Z. Hymenopteran Parasitoids of Hard Ticks in Western Africa and the Russian Far East. Microorganisms.

Basant Farag | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Basant Farag | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Zagazig University Faculty of Science | Egypt

Dr. Basant Farag is a distinguished organic chemist and assistant lecturer at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Egypt, with extensive expertise in the synthesis, biological evaluation, and computational studies of heterocyclic compounds. She completed her Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry at Zagazig University, building on her M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees in the same field, demonstrating a consistent commitment to advancing chemical sciences. Her academic career encompasses teaching, mentoring students, and conducting cutting-edge research while serving as a teaching assistant and assistant lecturer, preparing lectures, evaluating students, and engaging in independent research projects. Dr. Farag is also an accomplished international reviewer for numerous journals including Chemistry Select, Eurasian Journal of Chemistry, Journal of Molecular Structure, Bioorganic Chemistry, and International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, highlighting her broad expertise and recognition in the global scientific community.Her research portfolio includes pioneering studies in the design and synthesis of biologically active heterocyclic compounds, focusing on pharmacologically relevant molecules with anticancer, antimicrobial, and antitubercular properties. Her notable publications include Synthesis and Molecular Docking of Some Novel 3-Thiazolyl-Coumarins as Inhibitors of VEGFR-2 Kinase, Mechanochemical Synthesis and Molecular Docking Studies of New Azines Bearing Indole as Anticancer Agents, Green Synthesis and Molecular Docking Study of Some New Thiazoles Using Terephthalohydrazide Chitosan Hydrogel as Ecofriendly Biopolymeric Catalyst, Green Route Synthesis and Molecular Docking of Azines Using Cellulose Sulfuric Acid under Microwave Irradiation, Synthesis, Molecular Docking and Anticancer Activity of Some 5-Aryl-5,10-Dihydropyrido[2,3-d:6,5-d′]Dipyrimidine-2,4,6,8-Tetraone Derivatives and Pyrido[2,3-d], Synthesis, Molecular Docking Study, and Biological Evaluation of New Thiadiazole and Thiazole Derivatives Incorporating Isoindoline-1,3-Dione Moiety as Anticancer and Antimicrobial Agents, Green Biocatalyst for Ultrasound-Assisted Thiazole Derivatives: Synthesis, Antibacterial Evaluation, and Docking Analysis, Cyanauric Chloride as a Key Precursor and a Core Component for Three-Armed Triazolopyrimidines: Recent Finding About SARs and Docking Analyses, Chitosan–Sulfonic Acid-Catalyzed Green Synthesis of Naphthalene-Based Azines as Potential Anticancer Agents, Synthesis, Molecular Docking, In Silico Study, and Evaluation of Bis-Thiazole-Based Curcumin Derivatives as Potential Antimicrobial Agents, and Design and Synthesis of Novel Hybrids Incorporating Thiadiazole or Thiazole-Naphthalene: Anticancer Assessment and Molecular Docking Study.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Abolibda, T. Z., Fathalla, M., Farag, B., Zaki, M. E. A., & Gomha, S. M. (n.d.). Synthesis and molecular docking of some novel 3-thiazolyl-coumarins as inhibitors of VEGFR-2 kinase. Molecules.

Ibrahim, M. S., Farag, B., Al-Humaidi, J. Y., Zaki, M. E. A., Fathalla, M., & Gomha, S. M. (n.d.). Mechanochemical synthesis and molecular docking studies of new azines bearing indole as anticancer agents. Molecules.

Gomha, S. M., Riyadh, S. M., Alharbi, R. A. K., Zaki, M. E. A., Abolibda, T. Z., & Farag, B. (n.d.). Green route synthesis and molecular docking of azines using cellulose sulfuric acid under microwave irradiation. Crystals.

Al-Humaidi, J. Y., Gomha, S. M., El-Ghany, N. A. A., Farag, B., Zaki, M. E. A., et al. (n.d.). Green synthesis and molecular docking study of some new thiazoles using terephthalohydrazide chitosan hydrogel as ecofriendly biopolymeric catalyst. Catalysts.

Hussein, A. M., Gomha, S. M., El-Ghany, N. A. A., Zaki, M. E. A., Farag, B., et al. (n.d.). Green biocatalyst for ultrasound-assisted thiazole derivatives: Synthesis, antibacterial evaluation, and docking analysis. ACS Omega.

Mokbel, W. A., Hosny, M. A., Gomha, S. M., Zaki, M. E. A., Farag, B., El Farargy, A. F., et al. (n.d.). Synthesis, molecular docking study, and biological evaluation of new thiadiazole and thiazole derivatives incorporating isoindoline-1,3-dione moiety as anticancer and antimicrobial agents. Results in Chemistry.

Katiane – Medicinal Chemistry – Best Researcher Award

Katiane - Medicinal Chemistry - Best Researcher Award

UFPE - Brazil

Introduction

Katiane Cruz Magalhães Xavier is a dedicated researcher in the field of chemistry, with a particular focus on inorganic chemistry, materials science, and environmental applications. Her academic journey has led her to explore a wide range of topics, including the activation of clays for industrial applications, the use of natural materials for oil clarification, and the development of sustainable solutions for biotechnological purposes. Currently pursuing a PhD in Chemistry at the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), her work continues to push the boundaries of chemical research with an emphasis on both academic and practical outcomes.

Inorganic Chemistry and Clay Activation

Katiane's research on the thermal activation of palygorskite, a natural clay mineral, has contributed significantly to the field of inorganic chemistry. Her work on using thermally activated palygorskite to clarify soybean oil, published in Applied Clay Science (2016), has garnered attention for its potential to improve industrial processes related to oil purification. This study not only highlights the utility of clay materials but also presents an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional oil clarification methods.

Materials Science and Surface Modifications

Katiane has also made substantial contributions to materials science, particularly in understanding the effects of acid treatment on clay minerals. Her collaborative research, featured in Materials Research (2014), examined how acid treatment alters the surface area, morphology, and chemical composition of palygorskite, paving the way for more efficient applications of clays in various industries. These insights are crucial for the development of enhanced materials that are both functional and sustainable.

Environmental and Biotechnological Applications

As part of her doctoral research at UFPE, Katiane is exploring the use of macroalgae from the Pernambuco coast. Her project, titled Macroalgae from the Pernambuco Coast: From the Use of Crude Extracts to Electrospun Films for Biotechnological Applications, focuses on harnessing the biotechnological potential of marine resources. By creating electrospun films from macroalgae extracts, she aims to develop innovative materials for use in various biotechnological fields, including medicine, environmental science, and materials engineering.

Oil Purification and Environmental Sustainability

Katiane's work on oil clarification extends beyond traditional chemical methods and emphasizes environmentally sustainable approaches. Her research into using thermally activated clays, particularly in the context of soybean oil purification, offers a green alternative to chemical treatments. This work aligns with global trends in minimizing the environmental impact of industrial processes and contributes to the development of cleaner technologies in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Interdisciplinary Research in Chemistry

Katiane's research is rooted in the intersection of several disciplines, including inorganic chemistry, materials science, and environmental chemistry. Her ability to bridge these areas allows for a holistic approach to problem-solving, addressing both practical and theoretical challenges. This interdisciplinary methodology has equipped her with the skills to develop solutions that are not only scientifically sound but also applicable in real-world scenarios.

Conclusion

Katiane Cruz Magalhães Xavier’s academic and research career has been defined by her commitment to advancing the fields of inorganic chemistry, materials science, and biotechnological applications. Through her innovative work on clay activation, oil clarification, and macroalgae-based materials, she continues to contribute valuable knowledge that could have far-reaching implications in both industrial and environmental sectors. As a doctoral candidate at UFPE, her research promises to further enhance our understanding of natural materials and their potential for sustainable development.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Thermally activated palygorskites as agents to clarify soybean oil

Effects of acid treatment on the clay palygorskite: XRD, surface area, morphological and chemical composition

Zhao-Jie Wang – Medicinal Chemistry – Best Researcher Award

Zhao-Jie Wang - Medicinal Chemistry - Best Researcher Award

Yunnan Normal University - China

Introduction

Dr. Zhao-Jie Wang is an eminent researcher in the field of natural products, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology. With an extensive portfolio of over 33 SCI-indexed publications, Dr. Wang has made substantial contributions to understanding antimicrobial compounds, drug development, and therapeutic strategies against multidrug-resistant pathogens. His research bridges phytochemistry and pharmacology, offering innovative solutions to pressing challenges in infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance.

Antimicrobial Natural Products

Dr. Wang has extensively studied bioactive compounds derived from plants and fungi to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria and fungi. His work, featured in leading journals like Journal of Ethnopharmacology and Food Chemistry: X, provides a comprehensive analysis of plant-based antimicrobial agents, their chemical compositions, and mechanisms of action. His studies on Zanthoxylum species and Sigesbeckia orientalis are pivotal in discovering new therapeutic agents.

Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Infections

A significant aspect of Dr. Wang's research focuses on developing novel strategies to address multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial infections. His study on light-controllable chitosan micelles for bacterial biofilm treatment, published in Carbohydrate Polymers (IF=11.2), exemplifies his innovative approach. This research provides a promising avenue for combating MDR bacteria using advanced nanotechnology.

Phytochemical Analysis and Bioactivity

Dr. Wang has explored the phytochemistry of various herbs and their bioactivity against pathogens. His work includes detailed characterization of chemical constituents using LC-MS and their evaluation for antibacterial, antifungal, and nematicidal activities. Studies published in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry and Heliyon highlight his expertise in bridging traditional herbal medicine with modern pharmacology.

Therapeutic Strategies for Infectious Diseases

With a focus on infectious diseases, Dr. Wang has proposed innovative therapeutic strategies to combat intracellular MDR bacteria. His study published in the Journal of Controlled Release (IF=10.8) offers groundbreaking insights into targeted drug delivery systems and their potential to improve therapeutic efficacy against challenging infections.

Bioactivity-Driven Drug Development

Dr. Wang’s research on bioactivity-driven isolation and characterization of antifungal and antibacterial compounds has significantly contributed to drug development. Studies on compounds such as diterpenoids, ent-kaurane diterpenes, and formononetin derivatives underscore his efforts in identifying potential therapeutic agents for osteoclast regulation and bacterial resistance management.

Conclusion

Dr. Zhao-Jie Wang's diverse and impactful research continues to advance the understanding of natural products, antimicrobial pharmacology, and innovative therapeutic approaches. His multidisciplinary expertise and commitment to addressing global health challenges have established him as a leading figure in the field of pharmacology and medicinal chemistry. Through his work, Dr. Wang aims to contribute to the development of safer and more effective treatments for drug-resistant pathogens, ensuring a brighter future for global healthcare.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Siegesoxylipin A‒J, previously undescribed phyto-oxylipins inhibition of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci from Sigesbeckia orientalis

Diterpenoids of Caryopteris trichosphaera W. W. Sm. inhibiting MRSA and VRE in vitro and in vivo.

Oleanolic acid derivatives against drug-resistant bacteria and fungi by multi-targets to avoid drug resistance

Phytocannabinoid-like meroterpenoids from twigs and leaves of Rhododendron spinuliferum

New resorcylic acid derivatives of Lysimachia tengyuehensis against MRSA and VRE by interfering with bacterial metabolic imbalance