Wenhu Liu | Pharmacology | Excellence in Research

Prof. Wenhu Liu | Pharmacology | Excellence in Research 

Prof. Wenhu Liu, at North Sichuan Medical College, China.

Wenhu Liu, born in February 1980, is a dedicated professor and researcher in the field of cancer pharmacology. He currently serves as the Director of the Medicinal Chemistry Teaching and Research Section at the School of Pharmacy, North Sichuan Medical College. A proud member of the Communist Party of China, Liu has made significant strides in understanding cancer pharmacology, particularly focusing on drug resistance mechanisms. His career reflects a balance of academic rigor, international exposure, and innovation-driven research. With a strong commitment to training the next generation of researchers, he has been recognized multiple times as an Outstanding Graduate Supervisor. Wenhu Liu’s contributions to both education and cancer pharmacology highlight his dedication to advancing the field, while also fostering an environment of collaboration and innovation. He remains committed to addressing the challenges of cancer treatment through his in-depth scientific explorations and academic mentorship.

Professional Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Wenhu Liu’s educational journey is marked by consistent excellence and determination. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Lanzhou University (2000–2004), followed by a Master’s degree in the same field from the same institution (2006–2009). Seeking to deepen his expertise, he pursued a Ph.D. at the School of Pharmacy, Chongqing University (2014–2017), where he was recognized as an outstanding student. His academic path reflects a steadfast commitment to pharmacology and cancer research. Liu’s focus on advanced studies laid the foundation for his current research in cancer drug resistance. His educational experiences, coupled with a global perspective gained from his visiting scholarship in the USA, have equipped him with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills necessary for breakthroughs in cancer pharmacology. Liu’s dedication to lifelong learning and knowledge-sharing is evident in his mentorship and teaching roles, shaping the next generation of scientists.

💼 Experience

Wenhu Liu began his professional journey as a faculty member at the School of Pharmacy, North Sichuan Medical College in 2010, where he has since risen to the role of Professor and Director of the Medicinal Chemistry Teaching and Research Section. His academic career has been marked by continuous learning and global exposure, including a visiting scholarship at the University of Toledo, USA (2013). Liu further enhanced his research capabilities through a postdoctoral fellowship at the Molecular Metabolism Research Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University (2019–2022). His extensive experience includes pioneering work on cancer drug resistance and metabolic signaling pathways, resulting in multiple publications and research grants. As a leader, Wenhu Liu fosters an environment of innovation and excellence, guiding students and colleagues alike. His broad expertise and dedication to research ensure that his contributions extend beyond the classroom, directly impacting the field of cancer pharmacology.

🔬 Research Interests

Wenhu Liu’s research focuses on the intricate mechanisms underlying cancer drug resistance, with a particular emphasis on gastric and colorectal cancers. His work delves into the signaling pathways that drive resistance to drugs like trastuzumab and oxaliplatin, aiming to overcome these hurdles in cancer therapy. Projects such as the investigation of HES1-mediated regulation via the TP53/SLC7A11/GPX4 axis and the RUNX3/E2F1/CHK1 signaling pathway highlight his commitment to unraveling these complex biological processes. Liu also explores the potential of natural compounds, like Panax Notoginseng saponins, in metabolic regulation and cancer treatment. His research integrates advanced methods such as quantitative proteomics, metabolomics, and bioinformatics to identify novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers. Through these efforts, Liu contributes to the global fight against cancer by seeking innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes and reduce the impact of drug resistance in cancer treatment.

🏆 Awards 

Wenhu Liu’s dedication to excellence in cancer pharmacology has earned him numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 2016 and 2017, he was recognized as an Outstanding Graduate Student by Chongqing University for his academic achievements and innovative research. His commitment to mentorship and nurturing young scientists has been celebrated with the Outstanding Graduate Supervisor award by the School of Pharmacy, North Sichuan Medical College in both 2023 and 2024. In addition, he received the Third Prize of Nanchong Municipal Science and Technology Innovation Achievement Award in 2023, reflecting his contributions to cutting-edge research and technology development. That same year, Liu’s collaborative efforts were further acknowledged with the Nanchong Top Ten Innovative Team Achievement Award. These accolades underscore Liu’s passion for discovery, mentorship, and impact, cementing his reputation as a leader and role model in cancer pharmacology research and education.

📚Top Noted Publications

Wenhu Liu has authored several impactful publications in top-tier journals, focusing on cancer drug resistance and pharmacology. His recent work includes:

1️⃣ Ponicidin Triggered Ferroptosis in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

  • Journal: Phytomedicine

  • Year: 2025 (In press)

  • Impact Factor: 6.7

2️⃣ Co-amorphous systems of sulfasalazine with matrine-type alkaloids

  • Journal: European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics

  • Year: 2024

  • Volume: 203

  • Article Number: 114475

  • Impact Factor: 4.4

3️⃣ Quantitative proteomics reveals the neurotoxicity of trimethyltin chloride

  • Journal: Neurotoxicology

  • Year: 2023

  • Volume: 99

  • Pages: 162–176

  • Impact Factor: 3.4

4️⃣ Serum proteomics unveil characteristic protein biomarkers

  • Journal: Clinical Proteomics

  • Year: 2022

  • Volume: 19

  • Article Number: 18

  • Impact Factor: 5.0

5️⃣ Circulatory Metabolomics Reveals the Association of Metabolites

  • Journal: Frontiers in Physiology

  • Year: 2022

  • Impact Factor: 4.0

6️⃣ Metabolic pathways underlying GATA6 regulation

  • Journal: International Journal of Medical Sciences

  • Year: 2020

  • Volume: 17

  • Issue: 18

  • Pages: 3146–3164

  • Impact Factor: 3.7

7️⃣ Label-free quantitative proteomics

  • Journal: Chinese Journal of Analytical Chemistry

  • Year: 2020

  • Volume: 48

  • Issue: 2

  • Pages: 187–196

  • Impact Factor: 1.2

Conclusion

Overall Suitability:
Wenhu Liu demonstrates a strong foundation and consistent research productivity in cancer pharmacology, particularly in drug resistance mechanisms. His role as a director and his awards for mentorship indicate strong leadership. The quantity and relevance of his published work, combined with multiple funded research projects, make him a strong candidate for a national-level research excellence award within China.

Prof. Anca Oana Hermenean |Pharmacology |Best Innovation Award

Prof. Anca Oana Hermenean|Pharmacology |Best Innovation Award|

Prof. Anca Oana Hermenean at Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, Romania

PROFILE  

scopus

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Prof. Dr. Anca Hermenean began her academic journey at Babes-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca, Romania, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from 1989 to 1994. This foundational education set the stage for her extensive career in biochemistry and molecular biology. Her academic prowess continued to shine as she pursued a PhD in Biology from 1997 to 2003, focusing on electron microscopy, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. This period of intense study was marked by rigorous research and a commitment to understanding the microscopic and molecular mechanisms underlying various biological processes.

Professional Endeavors 🏛️

Prof. Hermenean’s professional career is distinguished by her roles in academia and research management. Since 2010, she has served as a Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad (VGWU), where she has made significant contributions to the fields of histology and cell biology. Her expertise in these areas is evidenced by her ongoing research and teaching responsibilities.

In 2016, Prof. Hermenean was appointed Director of the VGWU Doctoral Studies Council, a role in which she has overseen the management and strategic development of doctoral programs in Medicine and Biology. Her leadership extended further in 2017 when she joined the Faculty of Engineering in Foreign Languages at Politehnica University of Bucharest, contributing to the Master Program in Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering. She has taught various courses related to cell and tissue biology, tissue regeneration, and debilitating diseases of tissue.

In 2020, Prof. Hermenean became the Director of the Life Science Institute and Principal Investigator at the Institute of Life Sciences, VGWU. Here, she manages research projects and oversees activities in microscopy labs and the animal facility, reflecting her deep engagement in both research and administration.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Prof. Hermenean’s research contributions are broad and impactful, focusing on several key areas:

  1. Histology and Histopathology: Her work in these fields explores the microscopic structure of tissues and the pathological changes associated with various diseases. This includes significant contributions to understanding how cellular and tissular alterations can affect health.
  2. Phytomedicine: Prof. Hermenean has researched the modulation of signal transduction pathways by phytochemicals, their molecular regulation of anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic responses, and their interactions with drugs and chemicals.
  3. Nanobiotechnology: She has been involved in the characterization of bio-interfaces and in vivo biocompatibility studies of nanomaterials. Her work includes assessing the interactions between nanomedicines and biological systems, as well as evaluating structural and ultrastructural toxicological effects.
  4. Regenerative Medicine: Prof. Hermenean’s research also covers tissue repair and regeneration pathways, focusing on molecular signals, growth factors, and the mechanisms of tissue regeneration.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Prof. Hermenean’s work has garnered significant recognition within the scientific community. She holds a habilitation in Biology, a postdoctoral qualification that allows her to supervise PhD candidates. Her research has led to numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, with an H-index of 30 on Scopus and 34 on Google Scholar. Additionally, she has been awarded several patents for her innovations in pharmaceutical compositions and drug delivery systems, underscoring her contributions to practical and applied sciences.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Prof. Hermenean’s influence extends beyond her research and teaching. Her roles in managing research councils and institutes highlight her ability to shape research strategies and educational programs. Her contributions have had a tangible impact on the advancement of biomedical sciences, particularly in the fields of histology, nanobiotechnology, and regenerative medicine.

Her work on phytomedicine and nanobiotechnology is particularly notable for its potential applications in developing new therapeutic approaches and improving existing medical treatments. Her patents and research projects reflect her commitment to translating scientific discoveries into practical solutions.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Prof. Hermenean’s legacy is marked by her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and training the next generation of researchers. Her leadership in establishing and managing research infrastructures, such as the animal facility and microscopy labs at VGWU, demonstrates her commitment to fostering a supportive environment for cutting-edge research.

Looking ahead, Prof. Hermenean is poised to continue making significant contributions to her fields of expertise. Her ongoing research and collaborations are expected to yield further advancements in phytomedicine, nanobiotechnology, and regenerative medicine. Her role as a mentor and educator will also play a crucial part in shaping future research and development in these areas.

🎓Publication 

Chrysin-loaded calixarene-cyclodextrin ternary drug delivery system inhibits TGF-β and galectin-1 mediated pathways in diabetic liver

  • Authors   :Balta, C., Herman, H., Ciceu, A., D’Amico, M., Hermenean, A..
  • Journal    :Biochemical Pharmacology
  • Year         :2024

Dexmedetomidine improves the circulatory dysfunction of the glymphatic system induced by sevoflurane through the PI3K/AKT/ΔFosB/AQP4 pathway in young mice

  • Authors   :Wang, S., Yu, X., Cheng, L., Lu, Y., Wu, X..
  • Journal    :Cell Death and Disease
  • Year         :2024

Exploring In Vivo Pulmonary and Splenic Toxicity Profiles of Silicon Quantum Dots in Mice

  • Authors   :Cristian, R.-E., Balta, C., Herman, H., Dinischiotu, A., Stan, M.S..
  • Journal    :Materials.
  • Year         :2024

Ketamine administration causes cognitive impairment by destroying the circulation function of the glymphatic system

Colloidal and Biological Characterization of Dual Drug-Loaded Smart Micellar Systems

  • Authors   :Herman, H., Rata, D.M., Cadinoiu, A.N., Atanase, L.I., Hermenean, A..
  • Journal    :Polymers
  • Year         :2024

Prof Dr. Elaine Leung|Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Elaine Leung |Pharmacology|Best Researcher Award|

Prof Dr. Elaine Leung at Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Science, Macau

PROFILE  

scopus

 

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Elaine Lai-Han Leung embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in biological sciences, obtaining her BSc in Biology and Biochemistry from The Chinese University of Hong Kong in 2001. Her deep interest in biomedical sciences led her to pursue further studies, earning an MPhil in Biochemistry in 2003, followed by a PhD in Physiology in 2006 from the same institution. Her early academic pursuits laid the groundwork for a career marked by significant contributions to biomedical research, particularly in the fields of cancer biology and traditional Chinese medicine.

Professional Endeavors 🧬

Professor Leung’s professional career has been centered at the University of Macau, where she is a prominent figure in the Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health Science. Over the years, she has established herself as a leading researcher, focusing on the intersection of modern biomedical sciences and traditional Chinese medicine. Her work has involved both academic research and collaborations with industry, where she has taken on numerous consultancy projects, contributing to the development of new therapies and drug discoveries.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Professor Leung’s research is primarily focused on cancer biology, with an emphasis on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). She has been the principal investigator (PI) or co-investigator (Co-I) on numerous research projects, many of which are aimed at understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance and the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Her ongoing research includes studies on KRAS resistance mechanisms, the role of gut microbiota in cancer immunomodulation, and the use of traditional Chinese medicine in treating various forms of cancer.

Some of her key projects include:

  • The relationship between KRAS resistance mechanisms and the immune microenvironment: An ongoing project at the University of Macau aimed at uncovering how KRAS mutations affect immune responses in cancer.
  • High-dimensional single-cell analysis of Sotorasib resistance clinical samples: This research seeks to identify new small molecule inhibitors for treating NSCLC.
  • Investigation of the anti-tumor effect of microbial valeric acid in NSCLC: Completed in 2023, this study explored how microbial byproducts can influence tumor immunity.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Professor Leung’s contributions to biomedical science have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her career, reflecting her standing in the scientific community. Her work has been cited extensively in leading scientific journals, with her citation index reflecting her influence in the fields of cancer biology and traditional Chinese medicine. Her collaboration with Nobel Laureate Erwin Neher on drug research further underscores her prominence in the field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

The impact of Professor Leung’s work extends beyond academia. Her research has significant implications for the development of new cancer therapies, particularly in the context of drug resistance. By bridging the gap between traditional Chinese medicine and modern biomedical research, she has opened new avenues for treatment that could benefit patients worldwide. Her work on gut microbiota and its role in cancer treatment, for instance, is pioneering in its approach and has the potential to revolutionize how cancer is treated.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

As Professor Leung continues her work at the University of Macau, her legacy is already taking shape. She is helping to mentor the next generation of scientists while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in cancer research. Her ongoing projects, including those funded by significant grants, are expected to yield new insights into cancer biology and treatment. Looking ahead, her contributions will likely continue to influence the field of biomedical sciences, particularly in how traditional Chinese medicine is integrated into modern therapeutic strategies.

Research and Innovations 🧪

Completed/Ongoing Research Projects 📊

Professor Leung has completed numerous research projects, with many others ongoing. Her portfolio includes more than a dozen major projects, ranging from small-scale studies to large, collaborative efforts with industry partners. These projects have attracted significant funding, including:

  • Macao Science and Technology Development Fund (2021/2024): Investigating the combinational treatment effects of ginseng polysaccharides with immunotherapy in lung cancer, with a budget of USD 230,769.
  • Zhuhai UM Science and Technology Institute joint lab projects: Ongoing studies on drug resistance and immune microenvironment interactions in cancer, funded at approximately USD 641,000.

Citation Index 📚

Professor Leung’s work is highly regarded in the scientific community, as reflected by her citation index in databases such as Scopus and the Science Citation Index (SCI). Her research articles have been cited extensively, demonstrating the impact and relevance of her work in advancing biomedical science.

Consultancy/Industry Projects 🤝

Beyond academia, Professor Leung has engaged in several industry-sponsored projects, often serving as a consultant. These projects have allowed her to apply her research in practical settings, contributing to the development of new drugs and therapeutic strategies. Notably, she has collaborated with leading pharmaceutical companies like Janssen Pharmaceuticals, where her work on immunophenotyping in lung cancer patients has been highly influential.

Conclusion 🎯

Professor Elaine Lai-Han Leung’s career is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research and collaboration. Her contributions to cancer biology, her innovative use of traditional Chinese medicine, and her commitment to bridging the gap between research and industry have made her a pivotal figure in her field. As she continues to explore new frontiers in biomedical science, her legacy will undoubtedly be one of lasting impact, shaping the future of cancer treatment and beyond.

🎓Publication 

Tanshinone IIA induces ER stress and JNK activation to inhibit tumor growth and enhance anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer

  • Authors   :Zhang, Y.-Z., Lai, H.-L., Huang, C., Wu, Q.-B., Leung, E.L.-H.
  • Journal    :Phytomedicine
  • Year         :2024

Genome engineering of the human gut microbiome

MMP14high macrophages orchestrate progressive pulmonary fibrosis in SR-Ag-induced hypersensitivity pneumonitis

  • Authors   :Peng, D., Li, J., Li, Y., Yang, P., Li, G.
  • Journal    :Pharmacological Research.
  • Year         :2024

Paris saponin VII reverses resistance to PARP inhibitors by regulating ovarian cancer tumor angiogenesis and glycolysis through the RORα/ECM1/VEGFR2 signaling axis