Luana Fioriti | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Top Pharmaceutical

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luana Fioriti | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Laboratory Director at Istiuto di Riceerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri | Italy

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luana Fioriti is a distinguished neuroscientist recognized for her groundbreaking research on prion-like proteins, synaptic plasticity, and neurodegenerative disorders. She has served in leading roles at Columbia University and the “Mario Negri” Institute in Milan, where she heads her laboratory in the Department of Neuroscience. With extensive expertise in protein aggregation, memory mechanisms, and disease-related pathways, Dr. Fioriti has contributed significantly to advancing knowledge in molecular neuroscience. Her pioneering work has been published in leading scientific journals and supported by prestigious awards and fellowships. She continues to drive innovation in translational neurobiology research.

Publication Profile 

Orcid

Education 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luana Fioriti earned her PhD in Neuroscience at the Mario Negri Institute and Open University, Italy, where she investigated abnormal forms of prion proteins in inherited prion diseases. She completed a Master’s in Biotechnological Applications at the University of Milan with summa cum laude honors, and a degree in Biological Sciences, majoring in Molecular Biology, also with summa cum laude, from the same university. Early in her career, she trained at the Mario Negri Institute’s Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Disorders, under Dr. Gianluigi Forloni, where she developed her expertise in prion biology, neurotoxicity, and mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases.

Experience 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luana Fioriti has held prominent academic and research positions in both Italy and the United States. She currently serves as Head of Laboratory at the Department of Neuroscience, Mario Negri Institute, Milan, and Adjunct Associate Research Scientist at Columbia University. She has conducted extensive work in the laboratories of Nobel Laureate Eric Kandel and Dr. Ottavio Arancio at Columbia. Previously, she was an Associate Research Scientist at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. Her career reflects a consistent focus on molecular neuroscience, protein biology, and translational approaches to neurodegenerative disorders, combining leadership, mentorship, and cross-institutional scientific collaboration.

Awards and Honors 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luana Fioriti has been recognized with numerous fellowships and awards for her contributions to neuroscience. Early in her career, she received fellowships from the University of Milan, the Italian Institute for University Study, and the Mario Negri Institute. She was awarded a scholarship to present at the World Alzheimer Congress and fellowships from Fondazione Monzino and the Italian Academy for Advanced Studies at Columbia University. She earned the Columbia Mentorship Award, the Telethon Career Development Award, and the AIMS Award for identifying SARS-CoV-2 protein inhibitors. These honors highlight her outstanding research leadership and impact in neurobiology.

Research Focus 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Luana Fioriti research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases and memory persistence, with a particular emphasis on prion-like proteins, SUMOylation, ubiquitination, and tau pathology. Her work explores how protein aggregation and regulation influence synaptic plasticity and memory storage, contributing to both normal physiology and disease pathology. She has advanced understanding of prion biology, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and traumatic brain injury. Through translational neuroscience, she investigates SUMO mimetics and small molecules as therapeutic candidates for dementia and other neurodegenerative disorders. Her research integrates cell models, animal systems, and cutting-edge molecular approaches to identify potential drug targets.

Publication Top Notes

Coiled-Coil Structures Mediate the Intercellular Propagation of Huntingtin

SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein Induces Tau Pathological Changes That Can Be Counteracted by SUMO2

Structure of a reversible amyloid fibril formed by the CPEB3 prion-like domain reveals a core sequence involved in translational regulation

A Combined Cell-Worm Approach to Search for Compounds Counteracting the Toxicity of Tau Oligomers In Vivo

Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation in Physiology and Pathophysiology of the Nervous System

Ubiquitination and SUMOylation of amyloid and amyloid-like proteins in health and disease

Neuronal Localization of SENP Proteins with Super Resolution Microscopy

CPEB3 inhibits translation of mRNA targets by localizing them to P bodies

Roles for small noncoding RNAs in silencing of retrotransposons in the mammalian brain

SUMOylation Is an Inhibitory Constraint that Regulates the Prion-like Aggregation and Activity of CPEB3

The Persistence of Hippocampal-Based Memory Requires Protein Synthesis Mediated by the Prion-like Protein CPEB3

Conclusion

Based on her extensive and innovative contributions in neuroscience, neurodegenerative disorders, and translational molecular biology, Dr. Luana Fioriti is an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her ability to integrate fundamental discoveries with therapeutic implications, coupled with her international recognition, patents, and leadership in cutting-edge research, make her highly deserving of this honor. With continued expansion of her global visibility and interdisciplinary collaborations, she is poised to make even greater contributions to the scientific community and global health.

Efthalia Moustakli | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Top Pharmaceutical

Efthalia Moustakli | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Efthalia Moustakli at University of Ioannina, School of Health Sciences, Greece.

Dr. Efthalia Moustakli, a PhD-trained biologist, excels in medical genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. Currently a postdoctoral researcher and adjunct professor, she integrates clinical, wet-lab, and computational techniques to drive real-world healthcare innovation. With extensive experience in translational science and academic mentorship, she bridges the gap between research and clinical application. Her dedication to advancing reproductive medicine and aging research is reflected in 30+ high-impact publications. Recognized for academic excellence and research leadership, she exemplifies commitment to impactful science and interdisciplinary collaboration across education, technology, and medicine.

Publication Profile 

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Efthalia Moustakli earned her PhD in Medical Genetics from the University of Ioannina, Greece, with her dissertation graded “Excellent” and focused on telomere and mitochondrial recombination in spermatozoa. She previously completed an Integrated Master’s in Biological Applications and Technology, also from the University of Ioannina, where her thesis on genetic abnormalities. Her academic journey reflects a strong foundation in genetics, genomics, and reproductive biology, complemented by international training in Germany, showcasing her commitment to advancing precision and reproductive medicine through rigorous scientific research and interdisciplinary learning.

Experience

Dr. Efthalia Moustakli is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Department of Informatics and Telecommunications, University of Ioannina, focusing on molecular aging and bioinformatics. She also serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Nursing Department. Previously, she worked as a Junior Embryologist at Genesis Athens, a Molecular Biologist on the EU-funded PathAge project, and as a trainee in Germany at Universitätsklinikum Jena. Her experience spans clinical research, wet-lab diagnostics, data analysis, and teaching, highlighting her ability to navigate both academia and real-world clinical settings with excellence and innovation.

Awards 

Dr. Efthalia Moustakli has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to reproductive science and molecular biology, earning top academic grades in both her PhD and Integrated Master’s programs. Her work on oxidative stress, microRNAs, and genetic diagnostics has gained international attention through 30+ peer-reviewed publications. She has actively contributed to EU-funded research projects and presented findings at major conferences. Her unique blend of clinical embryology, teaching, and algorithm development distinguishes her as a well-rounded scientist. A strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, she exemplifies academic rigor, innovation, and interdisciplinary impact.

Research Focus 

Dr. Efthalia Moustakli specializes in reproductive health, infertility, oxidative stress, NGS data meta-analysis, and clinical genetics. Her postdoctoral work delves into the molecular mechanisms of aging, particularly in relation to telomeres and mitochondrial function. Through projects like PathAge, she integrates computational approaches with clinical data to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic insights. Her research interests span microbiome impacts, ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology), and biomarkers for reproductive outcomes, aiming to translate molecular findings into practical healthcare improvements. She combines bioinformatics, wet-lab, and clinical insight to support advances in personalized and preventative medicine.

Publication Top Notes

Wenhu Liu | Pharmacology | Excellence in Research

Published on by Top Pharmaceutical

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 Dr. Elaine Leung|Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Top Pharmaceutical

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