Mine Gulaboglu | Drug Discovery and Development | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Mine Gulaboglu | Drug Discovery and Development | Research Excellence Award

Ataturk University | Turkey 

Prof. Dr. Mine Gülaboğlu is a distinguished scholar in Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, currently serving as the Head of the Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences at Atatürk University, Faculty of Pharmacy. She completed her Ph.D. in Medical Biochemistry in 2004, following her postgraduate specialization (1990–1993) and undergraduate training in Chemistry (1982–1986), all at Atatürk University.With extensive academic and administrative service, she has held key roles such as Faculty Board Member, Departmental Academic Incentive Evaluation Chair, Performance Evaluation Committee Member, Criteria Committee Member, and Education Committee Member. Her commitment to academic excellence is further demonstrated through numerous jury memberships for professorship, associate professorship, postgraduate examinations, doctoral thesis monitoring, and scientific evaluations.Prof. Dr. Gülaboğlu’s research focuses on health sciences, particularly biochemistry, pharmacology, therapeutics, and pharmaceutical sciences. She has authored impactful research articles in high-ranking journals such as Scientific Reports, Biomedicines, Experimental Eye Research, European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, and others. Her scientific contributions include investigations into oxidative stress, drug-induced toxicity, protective biochemical agents, nanoformulations, and molecular mechanisms underlying disease pathology.Over her career, she has completed numerous certifications, trainings, and specialized courses in molecular techniques, pharmacology, chemometrics, laboratory quality systems, education management, energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and occupational safety. She is also proficient in English at an intermediate level.A dedicated educator, Prof. Dr. Gülaboğlu teaches a wide range of courses across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, including Biochemistry, Protein Separation Techniques, Vitamins and Coenzymes, Metabolism, Research Methods, and Project Courses.Prof. Dr. Mine Gülaboğlu continues to contribute profoundly to scientific research, education, and academic leadership in Türkiye, shaping future generations of pharmaceutical and biomedical scientists.

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Featured Publications

Altuner, D., Gulaboglu, M., Yapca, O. E., & Cetin, N. (2013). The effect of mirtazapine on cisplatin-induced oxidative damage and infertility in rat ovaries. The Scientific World Journal, 2013(1), 327240.

Bilici, M., Ozturk, C., Dursun, H., Albayrak, F., Saglam, M. B., Uyanik, A., … (2009). Protective effect of mirtazapine on indomethacin-induced ulcer in rats and its relationship with oxidant and antioxidant parameters. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 54(9), 1868–1875.

Gulaboglu, M., Borekci, B., & Delibas, I. (2010). Urine iodine levels in preeclamptic and normal pregnant women. Biological Trace Element Research, 136(3), 249–257.

Gulaboglu, M., Borekci, B., & Halici, Z. (2007). Placental tissue iodine level and blood magnesium concentration in pre-eclamptic and normal pregnancy. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 98(2), 100–104.

Coskun, R., Turan, M. I., Turan, I. S., & Gulapoglu, M. (2014). The protective effect of thiamine pyrophosphate, but not thiamine, against cardiotoxicity induced with cisplatin in rats. Drug and Chemical Toxicology, 37(3), 290–294.

Gulaboglu, M., Yildiz, L., Celebi, F., Gul, M., & Peker, K. (2005). Comparison of iodine contents in gastric cancer and surrounding normal tissues. Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, 43(6), 581–584.

Özer, A. K., Gülaboğlu, M., & Bayrakçeken, S. (2000). Physical structure and chemical and mineralogical composition of the Mazıdağı (Turkey) phosphate rock. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 39(3), 679–683.

Hareesh Nair | Drug Discovery and Development | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Hareesh Nair | Drug Discovery and Development | Outstanding Scientist Award

Texas Tech University Health Science Center | United States

Dr. Hareesh B. Nair, Ph.D., is a distinguished biochemist and translational scientist whose career spans academia, biotechnology innovation, and advanced research leadership. He completed his academic training in life sciences and biochemistry in India, followed by specialized research fellowships in oxidative lipidomics and hormonal carcinogenesis at leading U.S. institutions. These early experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to understanding disease mechanisms and developing targeted therapeutic solutions.Dr. Nair’s professional journey reflects a rare blend of deep scientific expertise and strategic research leadership. Over the course of his career, he has held progressive roles ranging from instructor and assistant professor to senior scientist, director, and senior director of translational research and external innovation. His contributions at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and the Texas Biomedical Research Institute significantly advanced the fields of breast cancer biology, hormonal carcinogenesis, melanoma signaling pathways, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and targeted drug delivery. His work also includes pioneering estrogen-dependent cancer research, mechanistic studies on aromatase pathways, development of innovative cancer detection strategies, and creation of non-human primate models for reproductive disorders.At Evestra, Inc., Dr. Nair led multidisciplinary teams driving the translational development of oncology and women’s health therapeutics. He spearheaded multiple preclinical programs, established strategic collaborations, guided biomarker discovery, contributed to regulatory submissions, and supported business development through scientific due diligence. His leadership also resulted in the advancement of first-in-class and best-in-class therapeutic candidates, expansion of oncology pipelines, and successful acquisition of non-dilutive federal funding. His contributions include numerous publications, patents, and project management of large-scale contraceptive development initiatives supported by major global health foundations.In his current academic role at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, Dr. Nair is establishing a cutting-edge research laboratory at the chemistry–biology interface. His group focuses on identifying novel drug targets, decoding disease mechanisms, and transforming molecular insights into preclinical therapeutic strategies for cancers and other complex diseases. He remains deeply engaged in collaborative clinical and translational research, particularly in gynecologic oncology, triple-negative breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. His expertise also extends to long-acting contraceptive technologies, anti-HIV formulations, and experimental therapeutics for endometriosis and uterine fibroids.Beyond research, Dr. Nair has served extensively as a scientific review officer, facilitating numerous peer-review panels for federal biomedical research programs. His work has been recognized through multiple competitive honors, travel awards, and scientific achievement distinctions. With a strong commitment to innovation, mentorship, and multidisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Hareesh B. Nair continues to shape the future of translational medicine through impactful research, strategic leadership, and unwavering dedication to improving patient health outcomes.

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Featured Publications

Aller, E. J., Nair, H. B., Vadlamudi, R. K., & Viswanadhapalli, S. (2025). Significance of midkine signaling in women’s cancers: novel biomarker and therapeutic target. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(10), 4809.

Blankenship, L., Pratap, U. P., Yang, X., Liu, Z., Altwegg, K. A., Santhamma, B., … Lai, Z. (2022). Inhibition of LIFR blocks adiposity‑driven endometrioid endometrial cancer growth. Cancers, 14(21), 5400.

Nair, H. B., Ford, A., Dick, E. J., Jr., Hill, R. H., Jr., & VandeBerg, J. L. (2014). Modeling sunscreen‑mediated melanoma prevention in the laboratory opossum (Monodelphis domestica). Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research, 27(5), 822‑830.

Nickisch, K., Nair, H. B., Kesavaram, N., Das, B., Garfield, R., Shi, S. Q., … Edwards, D. P. (2013). Synthesis and antiprogestational properties of novel 17‑fluorinated steroids. Steroids, 78(9), 895‑902.

Bhaskaran, S., Dileep, K. V., Deepa, S. S., Sadasivan, C., Klausner, M., Krishnegowda, N. K., … Nair, H. B. (2013). Gossypin as a novel selective dual inhibitor of V‑RAF murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 and cyclin‑dependent kinase 4 for melanoma. Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, 12(4), 567‑576.

Budrys, N. M., Nair, H. B., Liu, Y. G., Kirma, N. B., Binkley, P. A., Kumar, S., … Tekmal, R. R. (2012). Increased expression of macrophage colony‑stimulating factor and its receptor in patients with endometriosis. Fertility and Sterility, 97(5), 1159‑1165.e1.

Sandip Kaledhonkar | Drug Discovery and Development | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sandip Kaledhonkar | Drug Discovery and Development | Research Excellence Award

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay | India

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sandip Kaledhonkar is a distinguished scientist whose work spans biophysics, structural biology, cryo-electron microscopy, and molecular microbiology. He currently serves in the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, where he contributes to cutting-edge research, innovative teaching, and academic mentorship. Prior to his current role, he progressed through key academic and research appointments, including his tenure as Assistant Professor at IIT Bombay, a scientific role at the Haffkine Institute for Training, Research and Testing in Mumbai, and an impactful post-doctoral fellowship at Columbia University Medical Center in New York. These experiences collectively shaped his expertise in structural dynamics, cryo-EM methodologies, and molecular interactions critical to understanding biological systems.Dr. Kaledhonkar earned his Ph.D. in Physics from Oklahoma State University, where he conducted foundational work on the Structural Dynamics of Photoactive Yellow Protein under the guidance of Dr. Aihua Xie. He further strengthened his academic foundation with an M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Physics from the University of Pune. His teaching portfolio reflects his multidisciplinary strengths, covering subjects such as Mathematics for Biologists, Experimental Techniques in Biomedical Engineering, Computational Biology, cryo-Electron Microscopy, and core undergraduate biology.His research contributions have significantly advanced the field, with notable publications including titles such as In Silico Identification of Potential Inhibitors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA Gyrase from Phytoconstituents of Indian Medicinal Plants, Cryo-EM Reconstruction of the phiK601 Jumbo Phage Head, VCP/p97, a Host AAA-ATPase Exhibits Bacteriolytic Activity for Clearance of Microbial Infection, Conformational Flexibility Associated with Remote Residues Regulate the Kinetic Properties of Glutamate Dehydrogenase, and Application of Bio-Layer Interferometry for the Analysis of Ribosome-Protein Interactions. Other influential works include Physiochemical Characterization of a Potential Klebsiella Phage MKP-1, Not All Photoactive Yellow Proteins Are Built Alike, and landmark cryo-EM studies such as Late Steps in Bacterial Translation Initiation Visualized Using Time-Resolved Cryo-EM and Key Intermediates in Ribosome Recycling Visualized by Time-Resolved Cryo-Electron Microscopy. His scholarly record also features important methodological contributions, including Single Particle Cryo-Electron Microscopy and A Fast and Effective Microfluidic Spraying-Plunging Method for High-Resolution Single-Particle Cryo-EM.Dr. Kaledhonkar’s excellence has been recognized through numerous honors, including prestigious microscopy, teaching, and research awards, as well as membership in India’s premier scientific academies. His work continues to influence modern bioscience research, inspiring new advancements in structural biology and biomedical innovation.

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Featured Publications

Feng, X., Fu, Z., Kaledhonkar, S., Jia, Y., Shah, B., Jin, A., Liu, Z., Sun, M., & Chen, B. (2017). A fast and effective microfluidic spraying‑plunging method for high‑resolution single‑particle cryo‑EM. Structure, 25(4), 663‑670.e3.

Chen, B., Kaledhonkar, S., Sun, M., Shen, B., Lu, Z., Barnard, D., & Lu, T. M. (2015). Structural dynamics of ribosome subunit association studied by mixing‑spraying time‑resolved cryogenic electron microscopy. Structure, 23(6), 1097‑1105.

Fu, Z., Indrisiunaite, G., Kaledhonkar, S., Shah, B., Sun, M., & Chen, B. (2019). The structural basis for release factor activation during translation termination revealed by time‑resolved cryogenic electron microscopy. Biophysical Journal, 116(3), 574a‑575a.

Fu, Z., Kaledhonkar, S., Borg, A., Sun, M., Chen, B., Grassucci, R. A., & Ehrenberg, M. (2016). Key intermediates in ribosome recycling visualized by time‑resolved cryoelectron microscopy. Structure, 24(12), 2092‑2101.

Horst, M. A., Stalcup, T. P., Kaledhonkar, S., Kumauchi, M., Hara, M., & Xie, A. (2009). Locked chromophore analogs reveal that photoactive yellow protein regulates biofilm formation in the deep‑sea bacterium Idiomarina loihiensis. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 131(47), 17443‑17451.

Kaledhonkar, S., Fu, Z., White, H., & Frank, J. (2018). Time‑resolved cryo‑electron microscopy using a microfluidic chip. In Protein Complex Assembly: Methods and Protocols (pp. 59‑71).

Kaledhonkar, S., Hara, M., Stalcup, T. P., Xie, A., & Hoff, W. D. (2013). Strong ionic hydrogen bonding causes a spectral isotope effect in photoactive yellow protein. Biophysical Journal, 105(11), 2577‑2585.

Palaniyandi Velusamy | Drug Discovery and Development |

Prof. Dr. Palaniyandi Velusamy | Drug Discovery and Development | Research Excellence Award

Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital  | India

Prof. Dr. Palaniyandi Velusamy is a distinguished researcher, academic leader, and biotechnology expert recognized for his extensive contributions to microbiology, nanobiotechnology, biosciences, and antibacterial drug research. He began his academic journey with foundational studies in botany and biochemistry before completing his doctoral research at the University of Madras, where he specialized in antibacterial agents and developed research competencies that shaped his future scientific pursuits. Following his Ph.D., he undertook multiple prestigious post-doctoral fellowships across internationally reputed institutions in Taiwan and South Korea, including Academia Sinica, Korea University, and Chonnam National University, where he contributed to advanced research in nanotechnology, microbial applications, and bioengineering. He later served as a Visiting Professor at Kyung Hee University in South Korea, strengthening his global academic footprint. In India, he built a progressive academic career at SRM University, where he contributed as Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and later took on key departmental responsibilities including Deputy Controller of Examinations, Research Coordinator, Department Treasurer, Class In-Charge for B.Tech and M.Tech programs, Counsellor, and Course Coordinator for key subjects such as Microbial Technology, Microbiology, Enzyme Technology, Bionanotechnology, Green Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Engineering, and Phytochemistry. His academic leadership expanded further when he joined Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, where he served as Professor and currently holds the role of Joint Director at the Innovation & Incubation Centre, guiding institutional innovation, research development, and technology incubation.Prof. Velusamy’s contributions to scientific publishing are extensive; he serves as Editor for Scientific Reports (Nature Publishing Group), Associate Editor for Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Editor for the Global Journal of Pathology and Microbiology, Guest Editor for Biosensors, and Editorial Board Member for the Austin Journal of Nanomedicine & Nanotechnology. He is also an invited reviewer for globally recognized journals including Colloids and Surfaces B, Spectrochimica Acta Part A, Heliyon, and the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.

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Featured Publications

Krishnan, N., Singh, P. K., Sakthivelu, M., Velusamy, P., Gopinath, S. C. B., & Raman, P. (2024). Influence of thermal treatment on extraction and characteristics of phytochemicals from rhizome of _Acorus calamus L_. Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery. doi:10.1007/s13399-022-03415-y

Velusamy, P., Jeyanthi, V., Pachaiappan, R., Anbu, P., & Gopinath, S. C. B. (2024). Secretion of 2,4‑di‑tert‑butylphenol by a new _Pseudomonas strain SBMCH11: A tert‑butyl substituted phenolic compound displayed antibacterial efficacy_. Results in Chemistry, 6, 101593. doi:10.1016/j.rechem.2024.101593

Velusamy, P., Su, C.-H., Ramasamy, P., Arun, V., Rajnish, N., Raman, P., Baskaralingam, V., Kumar, S. M. S., & Gopinath, S. C. B. (2023). Volatile Organic Compounds as Potential Biomarkers for Noninvasive Disease Detection by Nanosensors: A Comprehensive Review. Critical Reviews in Analytical Chemistry, 53(4), 1‑30. doi:10.1080/10408347.2022.2043145

Soundararajan, P., Parthasarathy, S., Sakthivelu, M., Karuppiah, K. M., Velusamy, P., Gopinath, S. C. B., & Raman, P. (2023). Effects of Consuming Repeatedly Heated Edible Oils on Cardiovascular Diseases: A Narrative Review. Current Medicinal Chemistry, 30(30), 1‑18. doi:10.2174/0109298673250752230921090452

Ramesh, V., Kulkarni, S. A., Velusamy, P., Devadasan, V., Devaraju, P., Rajnish, K. N., Madhavan, T., Anbu, P., Ramasamy, P., & Sundarraj, R. (2022). Current Update of Phytotherapeutic Agents in the Treatment of COVID‑19: <i>In‑Silico</i> Based Virtual Screening Approach for the Development of Antiviral Drug. Frontiers in Bioscience‑Landmark, 27(4), 123. doi:10.31083/J.FBL2704123

Parthasarathy, S., Soundararajan, P., Krishnan, N., Karuppiah, K. M., Devadasan, V., Prabhu, D., Rajamanikandan, S., Velusamy, P., Gopinath, S. C. B., & Raman, P. (2022). Detection of adulterants from common edible oils by GC‑MS. Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, 12(5), 1‑12. doi:10.1007/S13399-022-02913-3

Vijay Kumar | Drug Discovery and Development | Editorial Board Member

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vijay Kumar | Drug Discovery and Development | Editorial Board Member

Dr B R Ambedkar NIT Jalandhar, India

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vijay Kumar is a distinguished researcher, academician, and innovator in the fields of artificial intelligence, machine learning, biomedical informatics, cybersecurity, image processing, and computational intelligence. Over the course of his career, he has established himself as a prolific contributor whose research bridges advanced computational theories with real-world applications, particularly in healthcare, pandemic intelligence, medical imaging, network security, and autonomous systems. His academic journey is defined by a commitment to solving high-impact global challenges through intelligent algorithms, deep learning frameworks, optimization strategies, and secure data-driven technologies.Dr. Vijay Kumar’s scholarly work reflects exceptional depth and diversity. He has authored impactful publications in leading journals such as IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology, IEEE Journal of Biomedical and Health Informatics, Vaccine, Artificial Intelligence Review, Archives of Computational Methods in Engineering, Multimedia Tools and Applications, Computers in Biology and Medicine, and Biomedical Signal Processing and Control. His research spans a broad spectrum—from deepfake detection, autonomous vehicle visibility enhancement, multi-objective optimization, and cybersecurity frameworks, to intelligent diagnostic models for COVID-19, breast cancer, cervical cancer, and other critical diseases. His studies on advanced metaheuristic algorithms, chaotic encryption systems, drug synergy prediction, air-quality forecasting, and big healthcare data security have contributed significantly to modern computational science. A visionary in interdisciplinary AI, Dr. Kumar has collaborated extensively with international researchers, producing high-impact work on deep neural networks, generative adversarial models, hybrid optimization techniques, multimodal medical imaging, and cloud-based encryption systems. His contributions to pandemic preparedness, especially ML-driven vaccine development roadmaps and intelligent screening systems, highlight his dedication to translating technology into meaningful societal outcomes.He is also recognized for designing innovative algorithms such as lightweight NIDS architectures, evolutionary visibility restoration models, customized dehazing networks, and novel feature-selection optimizers. His body of work has become a reference point for emerging scholars in computer science, health informatics, and computational engineering.Dr. Vijay Kumar continues to lead transformative research, mentor young scientists, and contribute to global scientific advancement through his extensive publication record, collaborative projects, and commitment to innovation. His enduring academic excellence and forward-looking approach place him among the most influential researchers driving the future of intelligent systems and healthcare-focused artificial intelligence.

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Featured Publications

Katoch, S., Chauhan, S. S., & Kumar, V. (2020). A Review on Genetic Algorithm: Past, Present, and Future. Multimedia Tools and Applications, 52, 5252.

Dhiman, G., & Kumar, V. (2019). Seagull optimization algorithm: Theory and its applications for large‑scale industrial engineering problems. Knowledge‑Based Systems, 165, 169‑196.

Dhiman, G., & Kumar, V. (2017). Spotted Hyena Optimizer: A Novel Bio‑inspired based Metaheuristic Technique for Engineering Applications. Advances in Engineering Software, 114, 48‑70.

Dhiman, G., & Kumar, V. (2018). Emperor Penguin Optimizer: A Bio‑inspired Algorithm for Engineering Problems. Knowledge‑Based Systems, 159, 20‑50.

Singh, D., Kumar, V., Vaishali, & Kaur, M. (2020). Classification of COVID‑19 patients from chest CT images using multi‑objective differential evolution–based convolutional neural networks. European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, 39, 1379‑1389.

Jaiswal, A., Gianchandani, N., Singh, D., Kumar, V., & Kaur, M. (2020). Classification of the COVID‑19 infected patients using DenseNet201 based deep transfer learning. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 73, 1‑?.

Dhiman, G., Garg, M., Nagar, A., Kumar, V., & Dehghani, M. (2020). A Novel Algorithm for Global Optimization: Rat Swarm Optimizer. Journal of Ambient Intelligence and Humanized Computing, 5, 12‑?.

Das, N. N., Kumar, N., Kaur, M., Kumar, V., & Singh, D. (2020). Automated deep transfer learning‑based approach for detection of COVID‑19 infection in chest X‑rays. IRBM, 4, 25‑?.

Kaur, M., & Kumar, V. (2020). A comprehensive review on image encryption techniques. Archives of Computational Methods in Engineering, 27(1), 390.

Supraja R Prasad | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Supraja R Prasad | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Kuvempu University | India

Ms. Supraja R. Prasad is a passionate researcher and educator specializing in organic synthesis, computational chemistry, and the design of biologically active heterocycles. Her academic and professional journey reflects a deep dedication to the integration of sustainable chemical methodologies with modern computational tools to advance the field of drug discovery. She is particularly recognized for her innovative work on the green synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, utilizing eco-friendly multicomponent reactions and natural catalysts to create molecular frameworks with promising therapeutic potential.Her research portfolio spans multiple interrelated areas, including mechanochemical synthesis of heterocyclic derivatives, density functional theory (DFT) studies, and spectral characterization of synthesized compounds. She has also explored the anti-diabetic activity of synthesized derivatives, focusing on developing safer and more efficient alpha-glucosidase inhibitors for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. By combining experimental synthesis with computational modeling and molecular docking analyses, Ms. Prasad bridges the gap between theoretical chemistry and practical pharmacological applications.Her recent publication in the Journal of the Indian Chemical Society highlights her contributions to the synthesis and evaluation of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, further strengthening her position within the scientific community. Through her work, she demonstrates how green chemistry can drive meaningful advancements in pharmaceutical sciences while minimizing environmental impact.Ms. Prasad’s academic mission is rooted in the belief that collaborative, interdisciplinary research can accelerate innovation. She emphasizes teamwork, creativity, and knowledge sharing as the cornerstones of impactful scientific progress. Her approach integrates sustainability, molecular insight, and therapeutic relevance — a combination that continues to shape her vision for future research.Her ongoing studies and contributions to organic synthesis, bioactivity assessment, and computational modeling position her as an emerging leader in sustainable chemistry and computational drug discovery, striving to make scientific research both environmentally responsible and socially beneficial.

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Featured Publications

Clay catalyzed dihydropyrimidinone synthesis: α-glucosidase inhibition and chemoinformatics. Journal of the Indian Chemical Society.

Zaneta Nikolovska-Coleska | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Zaneta Nikolovska-Coleska | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

University of Michigan Medical School Department of Pathology | United States

Prof. Dr. Zaneta Nikolovska-Coleska is an accomplished pharmaceutical chemist and molecular pharmacologist recognized for her groundbreaking work in the design, synthesis, and development of molecularly targeted small molecules for cancer treatment. She earned her foundational and advanced degrees in pharmaceutical chemistry from the Faculty of Pharmacy at the University Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Skopje, where she also began her academic career as a young assistant and later advanced through multiple teaching and research positions. Her dedication to chemical sciences and biomedical innovation led her to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where she currently serves as a Professor in the Department of Pathology and Associate Dean for Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.Dr. Nikolovska-Coleska’s research is centered on the discovery of small molecule inhibitors that target protein–protein interactions involved in apoptosis, oncogenic signaling pathways, and epigenetic regulation. Her laboratory investigates mechanisms such as Mcl-1–Bim/Noxa, Bfl-1–Bim/Noxa, EZH2–p38 MAP kinase interactions, and histone methyltransferase activities, contributing to the identification of novel therapeutic targets for various malignancies. Through her integrative approach, combining chemical biology, medicinal chemistry, and translational oncology, she has developed promising compounds for the modulation of signaling pathways implicated in cancer progression and resistance.Her clinical and translational research extends into precision medicine, where she applies functional assays to predict anti-cancer drug responses, aiming to enhance individualized therapeutic strategies. As a clinician-research scholar and educator, she has mentored numerous postdoctoral fellows, clinical trainees, and graduate students, guiding them in developing innovative research methodologies and critical scientific reasoning.Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Nikolovska-Coleska has played pivotal roles in multiple large-scale research initiatives, serving as Principal Investigator, Co-Investigator, and Mentor on numerous national and international grants focused on cancer biology, aging, and drug discovery. Her collaborations with global scientific institutions and pharmaceutical organizations have contributed to the advancement of targeted therapies, including the development of inhibitors against oncogenic proteins such as DOT1L, Mcl-1, EZH2, and PAPP-A.In addition to her research excellence, Dr. Nikolovska-Coleska has made outstanding contributions to academic leadership. As Director of the Molecular and Cellular Pathology Graduate Program and Associate Director of Academic Programs in Biomedical Sciences, she has overseen curriculum development, student recruitment, academic policy, and interdisciplinary research training. Her vision continues to shape the next generation of biomedical scientists, emphasizing the integration of molecular insights with clinical applications.Through her scholarly achievements, mentorship, and leadership, Prof. Dr. Zaneta Nikolovska-Coleska stands as a leading figure in pharmaceutical chemistry and translational oncology, dedicated to advancing science that bridges molecular discovery with therapeutic innovation.

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Featured Publications

Ding, K., Lu, Y., Nikolovska-Coleska, Z., Wang, G., Qiu, S., Shangary, S., Gao, W., et al. (2006). Structure-based design of spiro-oxindoles as potent, specific small-molecule inhibitors of the MDM2−p53 interaction. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 49(12), 3432–3435.

Shangary, S., Qin, D., McEachern, D., Liu, M., Miller, R. S., Qiu, S., et al. (2008). Temporal activation of p53 by a specific MDM2 inhibitor is selectively toxic to tumors and leads to complete tumor growth inhibition. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 105(10), 3933–3938.

Ding, K., Lu, Y., Nikolovska-Coleska, Z., Qiu, S., Ding, Y., Gao, W., Stuckey, J., et al. (2005). Structure-based design of potent non-peptide MDM2 inhibitors. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 127(29), 10130–10131.

Nikolovska-Coleska, Z., Wang, R., Fang, X., Pan, H., Tomita, Y., Li, P., Roller, P. P., et al. (2004). Development and optimization of a binding assay for the XIAP BIR3 domain using fluorescence polarization. Analytical Biochemistry, 332(2), 261–273.

Nikolovska-Coleska, Z., Xu, L., Hu, Z., Tomita, Y., Li, P., Roller, P. P., Wang, R., et al. (2004). Discovery of embelin as a cell-permeable, small-molecular-weight inhibitor of XIAP through structure-based computational screening of a traditional herbal medicine. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 47(10), 2430–2440.

Bagherian, M., Sabeti, E., Wang, K., Sartor, M. A., Nikolovska-Coleska, Z., et al. (2021). Machine learning approaches and databases for prediction of drug–target interaction: A survey paper. Briefings in Bioinformatics, 22(1), 247–269.

Wang, G., Nikolovska-Coleska, Z., Yang, C. Y., Wang, R., Tang, G., Guo, J., et al. (2006). Structure-based design of potent small-molecule inhibitors of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 49(21), 6139–6142.

Xiangxuan Zhao | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiangxuan Zhao | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine | China

Prof. Xiangxuan Zhao is a distinguished cell biologist and an eminent academic leader renowned for his pioneering contributions to the field of natural medicine-derived anti-cancer therapeutics. Serving as Professor, Doctoral Supervisor, and Postdoctoral Mentor, he holds prestigious positions as the Dean of the College of Laboratory Animal Medicine and Director of the Laboratory Animal Center at the Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Shenyang, China. With a career dedicated to advancing the frontiers of cancer biology and pharmaceutical innovation, Prof. Zhao has established himself as a leading authority in tumor drug resistance mechanisms, molecular target discovery, molecular targeted drug development, and tumor immunotherapy research.Prof. Zhao’s academic journey reflects a blend of scientific rigor and innovative leadership. Prior to his current roles, he contributed significantly as Deputy Director of the Engineering Technology Center for TCM Innovation at Liaoning University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and as a Researcher at the Health Science Research Institute of China Medical University. His earlier tenure as an Associate Researcher at Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, laid the groundwork for his expertise in translational medicine, fostering a seamless bridge between laboratory research and clinical applications.A prolific scholar, Prof. Zhao has authored and co-authored eighty-four academic papers, including thirty-one SCI-indexed publications with a cumulative impact factor of one hundred eighty-eight. Among these, five papers boast impact factors exceeding ten, with his highest-impact publication reaching an impressive twenty-seven point four. His scientific excellence is further reflected in the thirteen national patents he holds, with four as the first inventor, underscoring his role as a trailblazer in molecular oncology and therapeutic innovation.

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Featured Publications

Liu, Y., Guo, R., Xue, C., Zhang, X., Xiao, F., Zhao, X., Zhu, Z., & Li, K. (2025). Phytosphingosine suppresses gastric cancer through SFRP4/β-catenin axis-mediated Wnt signaling pathway inhibition. Chemico-Biological Interactions.

Ke, W., Wang, H., Zhao, X., & Lu, Z. (2021). Foeniculum vulgare seed extract exerts anti-cancer effects on hepatocellular carcinoma. Food & Function.

Sun, W., Ren, Y., Lu, Z., & Zhao, X. (2020). The potential roles of exosomes in pancreatic cancer initiation and metastasis. Molecular Cancer.

Ke, W., Zhao, X., & Lu, Z. (2020). Bcl-2 is essential for Foeniculum vulgare seed extract-induced apoptosis in lung cancer. Research Square.

Basharat Ali | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Basharat Ali | Drug Discovery and Development | Pakistan

University of Baltistan | Pakistan

Assist. Prof. Dr. Basharat Ali is a distinguished researcher and academician specializing in medicinal chemistry, heterocyclic synthesis, and polymer science with extensive expertise in designing and synthesizing biologically active compounds. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Baltistan, Skardu, Pakistan, he has a diverse academic and research background, including postdoctoral research at the College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, China, where he contributed to the development of chemiluminescent dioxetane probes for disease diagnosis, fluorescent probes for hydrogen sulfide detection, and anthraquinone derivatives as anti-infective agents. He has also worked as a research assistant at Zhejiang University, China, focusing on mechanistic studies of olefin polymerization using α-Diimine nickel(II) catalysts, and at the HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, where he specialized in synthetic organic chemistry and bioactive heterocycles.Dr. Basharat Ali’s research interests include the synthesis, structural modification, and biological evaluation of medicinally important synthetic derivatives, probe design for environmental and biomedical applications, multicomponent reactions, polymer synthesis, and catalytic system development. He has supervised numerous postgraduate students and contributed extensively to the field with multiple high-impact publications in reputable international journals. Some of his significant research publications include Synthesis and biological evaluations of 1,3,4-thiadiazole derivatives as dual acting enzyme inhibitors to target inflammation and diabetes, Carbothioamides as anticancer agents: synthesis, in-vitro activity, structure-activity relationship evaluations and molecular docking, Synthesis of (E)-3-(aryl)-1-phenylprop-2-en-1-one Chalcone Derivatives for Hyperglycemic Effect in Diabetes.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Li, S., Zhan, L., Zhao, W., Zhang, S., Ali, B., Fu, Z., Lau, T. K., Lu, X., Shi, M., Li, C. Z., … (2018). Revealing the effects of molecular packing on the performances of polymer solar cells based on A–D–C–D–A type non-fullerene acceptors. Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 6(25), 12132–12141.

Ali, F., Khan, K. M., Salar, U., Iqbal, S., Taha, M., Ismail, N. H., Perveen, S., … (2016). Dihydropyrimidones: As novel class of β-glucuronidase inhibitors. Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, 24(16), 3624–3635.

Abbas, A., Ali, B., Khan, K. M., Iqbal, J., Rahman, S. U., Zaib, S., Perveen, S. (2019). Synthesis and in vitro urease inhibitory activity of benzohydrazide derivatives, in silico and kinetic studies. Bioorganic Chemistry, 82, 163–177.

Ali, B., Khan, K. M., Hussain, S., Hussain, S., Ashraf, M., Riaz, M., Wadood, A., … (2018). Synthetic nicotinic/isonicotinic thiosemicarbazides: In vitro urease inhibitory activities and molecular docking studies. Bioorganic Chemistry, 79, 34–45.

Naz, F., Latif, M., Salar, U., Khan, K. M., Al-Rashida, M., Ali, I., Ali, B., Taha, M., … (2020). 4-Oxycoumarinyl linked acetohydrazide Schiff bases as potent urease inhibitors. Bioorganic Chemistry, 105, 104365.

Salar, U., Khan, K. M., Taha, M., Ismail, N. H., Ali, B., Perveen, S., Ghufran, M., … (2017). Biology-oriented drug synthesis (BIODS): In vitro β-glucuronidase inhibitory and in silico studies on 2-(2-methyl-5-nitro-1H-imidazol-1-yl) ethyl aryl carboxylate derivatives. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 125, 1289–1299.

Ali, M., Khan, K. M., Salar, U., Ashraf, M., Taha, M., Wadood, A., Hamid, S., Riaz, M., … (2018). Synthesis, in vitro α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, and in silico study of (E)-thiosemicarbazones and (E)-2-(2-(arylmethylene)hydrazinyl)-4-arylthiazole derivatives. Molecular Diversity, 22(4), 841–861.

Wuting Lu | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wuting Lu | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wuting Lu at Jiangxi Academy of Sciences | China

Dr. Wuting Lu is a dedicated researcher specializing in immunotoxicology, neurobiology, and aquatic toxicology. With a strong academic background and diverse research experience, Dr. Lu has contributed significantly to understanding environmental toxicants and their effects on immunity and neurodevelopment using zebrafish models. He has participated in multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China projects, focusing on mechanisms of high-risk autism genes and their impact on the gut-immune-brain axis. His work has resulted in several high-impact journal publications, advancing knowledge in environmental safety, immunology, and neurobiology. Currently, he serves as Assistant Research Fellow at the Institute of Microbiology, Jiangxi Academy of Sciences.

Publication Profile 

Orcid

Education 

Dr. Wuting Lu completed his Ph.D. in Biology at Nanchang University, where his research explored immunotoxicity and neurodevelopmental effects of environmental pollutants. He earned his M.S. in Neurobiology, also from Nanchang University, focusing on molecular and cellular mechanisms in the nervous system. His academic journey began with a B.S. in Aquaculture at Dalian Ocean University, providing him with a strong foundation in aquatic biology and toxicology. This multidisciplinary training enabled him to integrate environmental science, immunology, and neuroscience into his research, developing expertise in both experimental techniques and advanced molecular analysis approaches for investigating complex biological interactions.

Experience 

Dr. Wuting Lu professional career includes roles in academic research and laboratory management. He currently serves as Assistant Research Fellow at the Institute of Microbiology, Jiangxi Academy of Sciences, where he investigates immunotoxicity and neurotoxicity mechanisms. Before this, he worked as a Laboratory Technician at Jinggangshan University, gaining hands-on experience in molecular biology, immunology, and laboratory safety management. He has actively participated in several National Natural Science Foundation of China projects, contributing to studies on autism gene regulation, microglial activation, and the gut-immune-brain axis. His multidisciplinary experience spans aquatic toxicology, neurobiology, immunology, and transcriptomic analysis, bridging fundamental research with environmental health concerns.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Wuting Lu has received recognition for his research contributions through participation in multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China projects, including studies on the high-risk autism gene CHD8 and its effects on microglial activation and the gut-immune-brain axis. His publications in leading journals, such as Fish & Shellfish Immunology and Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, highlight his impactful work on immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and antioxidant mechanisms in aquatic organisms. While early in his independent research career, his achievements demonstrate excellence in experimental design, molecular analysis, and scientific communication, positioning him as a promising researcher in environmental health and neuroimmunology fields.

Research Focus 

Dr. Wuting Lu research focuses on immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and environmental safety, particularly investigating the effects of environmental toxicants on immune and nervous system development using zebrafish as a model organism. He explores molecular mechanisms underlying pollutant-induced oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, and neurodevelopmental impairments. Additionally, he studies the regulatory roles of genes, such as CHD8, in microglial activation and the gut-immune-brain axis, linking environmental exposures to autism spectrum disorders. His work integrates toxicology, transcriptomics, and neuroimmunology to elucidate pathways of toxicity, identify potential biomarkers, and provide insights into environmental risk assessment, contributing to public health and ecological sustainability research.

Publication Top Notes

Immunotoxicity and neurotoxicity induced by natural borneol and synthetic borneol in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Immunotoxicity and transcriptome analysis of zebrafish embryos exposure to Nitazoxanide

Conclusion

Overall, Dr. Wuting Lu exhibits a strong research trajectory with impactful publications, interdisciplinary expertise, and contributions to nationally funded projects. His work in environmental toxicology, neurobiology, and molecular mechanisms aligns well with the objectives of the Best Researcher Award. With continued focus on independent project leadership and global collaboration, Dr. Lu has the potential not only to be a strong award candidate but also to emerge as a leading researcher in his field.