Ruby Anto | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ruby Anto | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Centre of Excellence in Nutraceuticals | India

Dr. Ruby Anto is a distinguished biochemist and cancer researcher with an extensive career dedicated to advancing the fields of molecular oncology, bioimmunotherapy, and nutraceutical science. She currently serves as Chief Scientist at the Centre of Excellence in Nutraceuticals, KSCSTE, Government of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, and Honorary Scientist at the Institute of Advanced Virology, Thiruvananthapuram. Over her accomplished career, she has held numerous scientific positions at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, progressing from Research Associate to Scientist G, reflecting her consistent contributions and leadership in biomedical research.Dr. Anto earned her PhD in Biochemistry from Amala Cancer Research Centre, Thrissur, following her postgraduate studies in Chemistry and Education. Her multidisciplinary academic background—combining chemistry, biochemistry, and pedagogy—has been central to her innovative approach to cancer biology and molecular medicine. Her early academic achievements and later professional experiences at prestigious institutions such as the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, provided a strong foundation for her research on targeted cancer therapies, chemopreventive agents, and the role of natural products in disease modulation.Recognized nationally and internationally for her scientific excellence, Dr. Anto has received several prestigious honors, including the Young National Women Bio-Scientist Award from the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, and fellowships from the National Academy of Sciences, India, and the Academy of Sciences, Thiruvananthapuram. Her professional journey also includes global training experiences, such as her participation in the Clinical Trials Traineeship Program at INSERM, Paris, which broadened her expertise in translational research and clinical validation of nutraceutical interventions.As a mentor, Dr. Anto has nurtured a generation of young scientists, with her students and postdoctoral fellows earning numerous national and international awards for their work in cancer biology and nutraceutical research. Her leadership has fostered a thriving academic environment focused on the discovery and characterization of bioactive compounds from natural sources with therapeutic potential.Dr. Anto’s scientific publications have advanced understanding in areas such as natural compound-mediated cancer prevention, signaling pathway modulation, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of nutraceuticals. Through her research, she continues to bridge the gap between basic biochemistry and applied health sciences, promoting nutraceutical innovation as a cornerstone of preventive and personalized medicine. Her lifelong dedication to scientific inquiry and mentorship underscores her status as one of India’s leading voices in biochemistry and nutraceutical research.

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Featured Publications

Ruby, A. J., Kuttan, G., Babu, K. D., Rajasekharan, K. N., & Kuttan, R. (1995). Anti-tumour and antioxidant activity of natural curcuminoids. Cancer Letters, 94(1), 79–83.

Anto, R. J., Mukhopadhyay, A., Denning, K., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2002). Curcumin (diferuloylmethane) induces apoptosis through activation of caspase-8, BID cleavage and cytochrome c release: Its suppression by ectopic expression of Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl. Carcinogenesis, 23(1), 143–150.

Anto, R. J., Sukumaran, K., Kuttan, G., Rao, M. N. A., Subbaraju, V., & Kuttan, R. (1995). Anticancer and antioxidant activity of synthetic chalcones and related compounds. Cancer Letters, 97(1), 33–37.

Oommen, S., Anto, R. J., Srinivas, G., & Karunagaran, D. (2004). Allicin (from garlic) induces caspase-mediated apoptosis in cancer cells. European Journal of Pharmacology, 485(1–3), 97–103.*

Anto, R. J., Mukhopadhyay, A., Shishodia, S., Gairola, C. G., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2002). Cigarette smoke condensate activates nuclear transcription factor-κB through phosphorylation and degradation of IκBα: Correlation with induction of cyclooxygenase-2. Carcinogenesis, 23(9), 1511–1518.*

Bava, S. V., Puliappadamba, V. T., Deepti, A., Nair, A., Karunagaran, D., & Anto, R. J. (2005). Sensitization of taxol-induced apoptosis by curcumin involves down-regulation of nuclear factor-κB and the serine/threonine kinase Akt and is independent of tubulin polymerization. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 280(8), 6301–6308.*

Srinivas, G., Anto, R. J., Srinivas, P., Vidhyalakshmi, S., Senan, V. P., & Karunagaran, D. (2003). Emodin induces apoptosis of human cervical cancer cells through poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage and activation of caspase-9. European Journal of Pharmacology, 473(2–3), 117–125.*

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.

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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

Rahul K. Reddy – Pharmacology – Excellence in Research

Rahul K. Reddy - Pharmacology - Excellence in Research

Lautoka Hospital - Fiji

Introduction

Rahul K. Reddy is an accomplished researcher and medical professional specializing in urology, surgery, and trauma care. With a focus on advancing medical understanding and clinical outcomes in challenging cases, Dr. Reddy has contributed significantly to the fields of laparoscopic surgery, burn care, and acute surgical conditions. His work is characterized by its depth of clinical insight and dedication to improving patient outcomes in diverse healthcare settings, particularly in Fiji.

Laparoscopic Surgery in Urology

Dr. Reddy's pioneering work in the laparoscopic excision of seminal vesicle cystadenoma underscores his expertise in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Published in Urology Case Reports (2019), this study has provided valuable insights into rare urological conditions, offering innovative approaches to their management.

Burn Injury Characteristics and Outcomes

In collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, Dr. Reddy conducted an in-depth analysis of burn injury patterns and treatment outcomes at Lautoka Hospital. His findings, featured in Burns Open (2024), have contributed to the optimization of burn care protocols in resource-limited settings, enhancing recovery rates and patient care quality.

Acute Appendicitis Management

Through an observational retrospective study on acute appendicitis at Lautoka Aspen Hospital, Dr. Reddy explored the clinical characteristics and outcomes over a one-year period (2022–2023). Published in World Journal of Surgical Research (2024), this research offers evidence-based recommendations for improving appendicitis management in Pacific Island healthcare systems.

Rare Tumors and Pathologies

Dr. Reddy has also delved into the study of rare pathologies, such as primary epithelioid hemangioendothelioma of the kidney pelvis. His case report, published in the American Journal of Surgery and Clinical Case Reports (2020), adds to the limited literature on this rare tumor type, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and tailored surgical interventions.

Trauma and Emergency Medicine

With a holistic approach to trauma care, Dr. Reddy's research addresses the critical needs of patients in emergency settings. His work highlights the significance of multidisciplinary collaboration and protocol-driven management in achieving favorable outcomes for complex trauma cases.

Conclusion

Rahul K. Reddy’s extensive research portfolio reflects his unwavering commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient care. By addressing diverse challenges in urology, surgery, and trauma care, Dr. Reddy continues to contribute to the development of innovative treatments and clinical best practices, with a lasting impact on global and regional healthcare.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Laparoscopic excision of seminal vesicle cystadenoma 2019 (4)

Burns injury characteristics and outcomes at lautoka hospital, fiji 2024

Characteristics and Outcomes of Acute Appendicitis in Lautoka Aspen Hospital, Fiji: An Observational Retrospective Study (09/22–09/23) 2024

Primary Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma of the Kidney Pelvis 2020