Stuart Maudsley | Receptor Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Stuart Maudsley | Receptor Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Senior Fellow/Professor, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, United States

Dr. Stuart Russell Maudsley is a renowned pharmacologist with a distinguished career in receptor biology, specializing in therapeutic precision medicines targeting GPCRs (G-Protein Coupled Receptors). He is currently the Principal Investigator at the Maudsley Lab and a Senior Member at Moffitt Cancer Center. Dr. Maudsley is also a co-founder of HeptOME, focusing on aging-related diseases and metabolic dysfunction. With over two decades of research experience, he has held prominent roles including scientific advisor to the Belgian Superior Health Council, and various leadership roles at Johns Hopkins, the NIH, and VIB. His groundbreaking work includes receptor pharmacology and molecular biology studies aimed at advancing novel treatments for complex human disorders, particularly cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. His career has been recognized globally, earning numerous awards and honors for his contributions to molecular pharmacology.

Profile

Education

Dr. Stuart Russell Maudsley obtained his PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Leeds, UK, where he was awarded the Ackroyd, Brotherton & Brown Scholarship. His doctoral research focused on electrophysiological and molecular biological studies of Tachykinin receptors, marking the beginning of his illustrious career in receptor pharmacology. Prior to his PhD, Dr. Maudsley earned a First-Class B.Sc. in Pharmacology from the same institution. During his academic tenure, he engaged in advanced studies of ion channel electrophysiology and the pharmacology of the central nervous system, topics that have significantly shaped his subsequent research endeavors. His educational foundation laid the groundwork for his future contributions in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of novel therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders.

Experience

Dr. Stuart Russell Maudsley boasts an extensive career with leadership roles across academia, industry, and government. He is the Principal Investigator at the Maudsley Lab at Moffitt Cancer Center and the co-founder of HeptOME, where he focuses on receptor-targeted therapies for aging-related metabolic diseases. Throughout his career, Dr. Maudsley has held various significant positions, including Adjunct Director at VIB, Vice-Chair at the University of Antwerp’s Department of Biomedical Science, and Principal Investigator at the NIH. He has contributed to numerous international projects, including his work as a Special Science Advisor to the Belgian Superior Health Council. Dr. Maudsley has also led scientific teams at Johnson & Johnson, the U.S. Department of Defense, and the NIH, where he made crucial contributions to drug development and the understanding of receptor pharmacology. His leadership and expertise have resulted in groundbreaking advancements in the pharmacology and therapeutics of complex diseases.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Stuart Russell Maudsley has received numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout his career. Notable recognitions include the 2021 UAntwerpen Seal of Excellence Grant, 2020 Johnson & Johnson Research Grant, and the 2019 FWO Doctoral Research Grant. He has also been honored with the FWO Senior Research Fellows Grant and the UAntwerpen-IOF Industrial Collaboration Research Grant in 2019. His work in molecular pharmacology and receptor biology has led to the receipt of multiple awards from both European and American institutions, including the National Institutes of Health On-the-Spot Award (2011-2013). Dr. Maudsley’s groundbreaking research on neurodegenerative diseases, aging, and metabolic dysfunction has earned him widespread recognition in the scientific community. His scientific excellence and contributions to pharmacology, drug discovery, and biotechnology continue to inspire advancements in the treatment of complex human disorders.

Research Focus

Dr. Stuart Russell Maudsley’s research primarily focuses on receptor pharmacology, with a special emphasis on G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) and their role in human disease. His work seeks to identify and develop precision GPCR-targeted therapies for cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic diseases such as obesity and aging-related conditions. Through his leadership in both academic labs and the biotech industry, Dr. Maudsley investigates novel biotechnological platforms, including both wet and dry biomedical technologies. He aims to create multidimensional precision medicines that can more effectively treat complex disorders, particularly those related to aging. His current research in the Maudsley Lab centers on the molecular mechanisms that underlie aging and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the identification of potential therapeutic agents. By exploring the intricate signaling pathways of GPCRs, Dr. Maudsley is paving the way for the development of innovative treatments for diseases that currently lack effective therapies.

Publications Top Notes

  • β-Arrestin-dependent formation of β2 adrenergic receptor-Src protein kinase complexes – Science (1999) 🧬📚
  • BDNF and 5-HT: a dynamic duo in age-related neuronal plasticity and neurodegenerative disorders – Trends in Neurosciences (2004) 🧠
  • The effects of intermittent or continuous energy restriction on weight loss and metabolic disease risk markers: a randomized trial in young overweight women – International Journal of Obesity (2011) 🍏🏃‍♀️
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors – Endocrine Reviews (2004) 💊🔬
  • Alternate day calorie restriction improves clinical findings and reduces markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in overweight adults with moderate asthma – Free Radical Biology and Medicine (2007) 🏥
  • Caloric restriction and intermittent fasting: two potential diets for successful brain aging – Ageing Research Reviews (2006) 🧠
  • The β2-adrenergic receptor mediates extracellular signal-regulated kinase activation via assembly of a multi-receptor complex with the epidermal growth factor receptor – Journal of Biological Chemistry (2000) 🧬🔬

 

 

 

Wijdan Al-Ahmadi | Biomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wijdan Al-Ahmadi | Biomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Associate scientest, King Faisal specialist hospital and research center, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Wijdan Al-Ahmadi is a seasoned researcher with over 20 years of experience in biomedicine, focusing on cancer biology, immunology, and disease mechanisms. Based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, she is a key member of the Molecular Biomedicine Research Department at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center. Her work spans diverse fields, including inflammatory diseases and cardiovascular research. Notably, in 2023, she contributed to a groundbreaking experiment aboard the International Space Station (ISS), highlighting her ability to conduct research in extreme environments. Dr. Al-Ahmadi has demonstrated leadership through her work as an educator, mentoring students at various academic levels. Her contributions continue to push the boundaries of biomedicine, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies and personalized medicine approaches.

Profile

Education

Dr. Wijdan Al-Ahmadi holds a Ph.D. in Bioscience from Cardiff University (2015–2019), where she focused on cancer and immunology research. She also earned a B.Sc. in Biochemistry from King Saud University (1994–1998). Her academic journey has equipped her with advanced expertise in molecular biology, cancer research, and biomedical sciences. Dr. Al-Ahmadi’s educational foundation is complemented by her extensive hands-on experience in laboratory settings, which has enabled her to contribute to numerous pioneering studies. Through her formal education and continuous professional development, she has maintained a passion for unraveling disease mechanisms and enhancing health outcomes through scientific innovation.

Experience

Dr. Al-Ahmadi’s career spans over two decades in the field of biomedicine. She currently serves as an Associate Scientist at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh, where she leads advanced research projects in cancer biology and immunology. Prior to this, she was a Post-doctoral Fellow (2020–2023), focusing on cancer and inflammatory disease mechanisms. Dr. Al-Ahmadi’s experience includes roles as a Research Assistant (2007–2015) and a Research Technician (2002–2006), where she was deeply involved in cancer research and molecular biology assays. She has also mentored Ph.D., master’s, and undergraduate students throughout her career. Her research has had significant impact both in clinical settings and in experimental fields, including innovative studies aboard the ISS in 2023, demonstrating her versatility in different research environments.

Research Focus

Dr. Wijdan Al-Ahmadi’s research is focused on understanding the underlying mechanisms of diseases, particularly cancer, inflammatory disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. She is dedicated to uncovering how specific genetic mutations and signaling pathways contribute to disease progression, aiming to identify novel therapeutic targets for better patient outcomes. Dr. Al-Ahmadi’s work in space science is also notable, having contributed to microgravity research aboard the ISS, exploring how human physiology and disease processes respond in space. Her findings not only have applications for space health but also provide critical insights that can benefit human health on Earth. She is driven by the potential of personalized medicine and therapeutic interventions that address the root causes of disease.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Pro-atherogenic actions of signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 serine 727 phosphorylation in LDL receptor deficient mice via modulation of plaque inflammation. 🧬🔬
  2. Protective effects of a unique combination of nutritionally active ingredients on risk factors and gene expression associated with atherosclerosis in C57BL/6J mice fed a high-fat diet. 🥗🧪
  3. Posttranscriptional control of the chemokine receptor CXCR4 expression in cancer cells. 🧑‍🔬🦠
  4. miR-29a inhibition normalizes HuR over-expression and aberrant AU-rich mRNA stability in invasive cancer. 🧬💡
  5. The RNA-binding zinc-finger protein tristetraprolin regulates AU-rich mRNAs involved in breast cancer-related processes. 🔬💥
  6. Alternative polyadenylation variants of the RNA binding protein, HuR: abundance, role of AU-rich elements and auto-Regulation. 🧬📊
  7. Cloning-free regulated monitoring of reporter and gene expression. 🧬🧑‍🔬
  8. RNase L downmodulation of the RNA-binding protein, HuR, and cellular growth. 🔬🧑‍🔬
  9. Bioinformatics and experimental derivation of an efficient hybrid 3′ untranslated region and use in expression active linear DNA with minimum poly(A) region. 💻🧬
  10. Expedient liquid chromatographic method with fluorescence detection for montelukast sodium in micro-samples of plasma. 🧪💉

 

 

 

Uday Muddapur | Environmental and Biomedical | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Uday Muddapur | Environmental and Biomedical | Outstanding Scientist Award

Professor,KLE Technological Univeristy,India

Dr. Uday M. Muddapur’s curriculum vitae reflects an accomplished academic and research profile in the field of biotechnology and biochemistry. As a Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at KLE Technological University, Hubballi, he holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Department for Postgraduate Studies in Biochemistry at Karnatak University, Dharwad. His doctoral research focused on fungal transformation of Δ3-Carene, fungal amylase, and fungal pigments.

Profile:

Academic Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Karnatak University, Dharwad, 2004.
  • M.Sc. in Biochemistry, Karnatak University, Dharwad, 1999.

Research and Fellowship:

  • Dr. Muddapur has guided several doctoral students, focusing on areas such as drug designing for tuberculosis, biosynthesis of nanoparticles, and evaluation of biomarkers for diseases like lymphatic filariasis.
  • He has been awarded multiple research honors, including “Project of the Year” by KSCST and the “Outstanding Scientist Award” at the INSO International Scientist Awards in 2022.

Teaching and Online Education:

  • Dr. Muddapur has taught subjects such as Biochemistry, Microbiology, Enzyme Technology, and Biotechnology. Additionally, he has completed several online courses related to biochemical energy metabolism, drug discovery, immunology, and bioinformatics.

Research Interests:

His research interests lie in areas such as:

  • Drug discovery and development.
  • Nanotechnology applications, including the synthesis and characterization of nanoparticles.
  • Microbial biotechnology and bioremediation.
  • Biomedical applications of bioactive compounds.

Publications:

Dr. Muddapur has authored multiple journal articles in reputable scientific publications. Some of his recent works include studies on the biomedical uses of phytochemicals, antimicrobial properties of nanoparticles, and the bioremediation of plastics by fungi.

Professional Links:

  • ORCID: 0000-0003-3463-1989
  • Scopus ID: 55773089600
  • Google Scholar ID: Zwn4E-kAAAAJ

Previous Positions:

  • Professor at KLE Technological University, Hubballi (since 2016).
  • Professor at KLE Society’s College of Engineering and Technology, Belgaum (2005-2016).
  • Lecturer at Pooja Bhagavat Memorial Mahajana Post Graduate Centre, Mysore (2004-2005).

Dr. Muddapur’s work spans diverse areas of biochemistry and biotechnology, with a significant contribution to research and academia, especially in bioactive compound development and nanomedicine.

Xiaoting Peng | Bio-Medical Materials and Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaoting Peng | Bio-Medical Materials and Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctor, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, China

Dr. Peng Xiaoting is a dedicated postdoctoral researcher at the University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, specializing in the development of advanced biomaterials. Her research focuses on creating innovative biomaterials with unique chemical, physical, and biological properties, aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment of complex diseases such as cancer, tissue injury, and defects. Dr. Peng’s groundbreaking work in the field of biomedical engineering is paving the way for personalized and effective therapies. Her research interests span materials engineering, biomedical engineering, materials chemistry, and nanotechnology, with a commitment to translating laboratory findings into clinical applications. With numerous publications in high-impact journals, she is recognized for her contributions to advancing biomedical science. Dr. Peng is passionate about improving patient outcomes and enhancing tissue repair through novel biomaterials-based strategies.

Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Peng Xiaoting holds an advanced academic background in materials engineering and biomedical sciences. She completed her undergraduate and graduate education in China, where she earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Materials Science. Building on her foundational studies, she pursued a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, focusing on the synthesis and application of biomaterials for medical use, particularly in cancer treatment and tissue regeneration. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Peng has collaborated with leading researchers in the fields of materials chemistry and nanotechnology, enhancing her interdisciplinary knowledge and expertise. Her education has provided her with a deep understanding of material properties at the molecular level, which she applies to the development of innovative biomedical solutions. She continues to build on this knowledge in her current postdoctoral research role, where she is involved in cutting-edge projects aimed at solving complex medical challenges using advanced biomaterials.

Experience

Dr. Peng Xiaoting has extensive experience in both academic research and practical applications of biomaterials in the biomedical field. As a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, she focuses on developing advanced biomaterials with applications in cancer treatment, tissue repair, and regeneration. She is involved in several ongoing projects, including those funded by the Qingdao Natural Science Foundation, demonstrating her ability to secure competitive research grants. Dr. Peng has published extensively in renowned scientific journals, contributing significantly to the understanding of self-assembly peptide-based materials and their potential for medical applications. Her research experience spans materials engineering, biomedical engineering, materials chemistry, and nanotechnology. Prior to her postdoctoral work, Dr. Peng gained experience in both laboratory-based research and theoretical study, allowing her to tackle real-world challenges in the field of biomedicine. She remains committed to advancing the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical therapies.

Research Focus

Dr. Peng Xiaoting’s research focuses on the development and application of advanced biomaterials for the diagnosis and treatment of complex diseases such as cancer, tissue injuries, and defects. She specializes in designing and synthesizing biomaterials that possess unique chemical, physical, and biological properties. Her work aims to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical applications by developing materials that can be utilized for tissue regeneration, drug delivery systems, and cancer therapy. Dr. Peng is particularly interested in self-assembly peptide-based materials, exploring their potential in stimulating tissue repair and enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Her expertise spans several interdisciplinary fields, including materials engineering, biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, and materials chemistry. Through her research, Dr. Peng seeks to push the boundaries of biomedical science and improve patient outcomes, particularly by advancing personalized and effective treatment strategies using novel biomaterials. Her ultimate goal is to contribute to the clinical translation of innovative biomaterials-based strategies.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Rapid Hemostasis Resulting from the Synergism of Self-Assembling Short Peptide and O-Carboxymethyl Chitosan 🩸🧬
  2. Modulation of antimicrobial peptide conformation and aggregation by terminal lipidation and surfactants 💊🧫
  3. Evaluation of a photocrosslinkable hydroxyethyl chitosan hydrogel as a potential drug release system for glaucoma surgery 👁️💉
  4. Catechol-stimulated crosslinking of catechol-conjugated hydroxyethyl chitosan as a tissue adhesive 🧪🩹
  5. Effects of conventional surfactants on the activity of designed antimicrobial peptide 🧴🦠
  6. Amyloid-like aggregates of short self-assembly peptide selectively induce melanoma cell apoptosis 🧬💀
  7. Chitosan as a tissue adhesive 💡🦠
  8. Catechol-conjugated hydroxyethyl chitosan as a tissue adhesive 🔬🩻

Lei Dong | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof Lei Dong | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Associate dean, Beijing Institute of Technology, China

Professor Lei Dong, M.D., Ph.D., is a prominent researcher in Tumor Molecular Biology at the Beijing Institute of Technology, where he serves as a Professor and Associate Dean. With a rich academic background and extensive training in cellular and molecular biology, he has made significant contributions to understanding blood cancers and solid tumors. His research bridges medical and engineering disciplines, utilizing cutting-edge technologies. Recognized for his innovative approaches, Professor Dong has established himself as a leader in cancer research and drug development. Beyond research, he is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of scientists and engaging in collaborative projects that integrate diverse scientific fields. His work is informed by a deep commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Academic Background: Professor Dong’s educational journey, culminating in a Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology and postdoctoral fellowships at prestigious institutions, showcases his strong foundation in biological sciences.
  2. Innovative Research Focus: His research on the molecular mechanisms of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) and solid tumors, particularly glioblastoma, addresses critical areas in cancer biology. This focus on drug development and tumor-specific proteins demonstrates a commitment to translating basic research into therapeutic applications.
  3. Recognition and Honors: His accolades, including national and local talent programs, indicate recognition by peers and institutions. Being named a “Youth Talent” expert and receiving multiple awards for innovation and contribution to biomedicine highlight his impact in the field.
  4. Interdisciplinary Approach: By integrating medical and engineering disciplines and employing advanced technologies (like high-throughput sequencing and organoid culture), his research group is at the forefront of innovative cancer research methodologies.
  5. Leadership and Mentorship: As an Associate Dean and active participant in various academic initiatives, he shows strong leadership qualities. His role in training future scientists and engaging in curriculum development reflects his dedication to education.
  6. Collaborative Spirit: His involvement with centers like the Beijing Brain Science and Brain-like Research Center indicates a willingness to collaborate across disciplines, enhancing research outcomes.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Publication Impact: While published in notable journals, aiming for higher impact factors and broader dissemination of findings could amplify the visibility and influence of his research.
  2. Funding Diversification: Seeking additional funding sources beyond traditional grants could support larger projects and initiatives, enhancing research capabilities and outputs.
  3. Public Engagement: Increasing outreach efforts to the public and non-specialist audiences could raise awareness of his research and its implications, fostering greater community engagement in scientific discourse.
  4. Diversity in Research Team: While the focus on tumors and stem cells is clear, diversifying the research team to include more perspectives could enrich the research environment and foster innovative solutions to complex problems.

Education

Professor Lei Dong obtained his M.D. and B.S. in Clinical Medicine from Anhui Medical University, China (2000-2005). He then earned an M.S. in Immunology from the same institution (2005-2008), followed by a Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Arkansas, USA (2008-2012). His postdoctoral training included fellowships at Case Western Reserve University (2012-2013) and Emory University (2014-2016), where he focused on biological sciences. Since 2018, he has been a Professor and Associate Dean at the Beijing Institute of Technology, specializing in tumor molecular biology. His educational path has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of medical and biological sciences, forming a solid foundation for his research and teaching endeavors.

Experience

Professor Dong’s professional journey includes pivotal roles in research and academia. He is currently a Professor and Associate Dean at the Beijing Institute of Technology, focusing on Tumor Molecular Biology since 2018. Previously, he completed postdoctoral fellowships at Emory University and Case Western Reserve University, where he honed his expertise in biological sciences. During his tenure at the University of Arkansas, he earned his Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology, laying the groundwork for his subsequent research endeavors. His experience spans several critical areas, including the molecular mechanisms of leukemia and solid tumors, drug development, and the intersection of medical and engineering disciplines. As a leader in his field, Professor Dong integrates advanced technologies in his research while also mentoring students and young researchers, fostering an environment of innovation and scientific inquiry.

Awards and Honors

Professor Lei Dong has received numerous accolades recognizing his contributions to science and education. In 2018, he was honored as a “Youth Talent” expert at the national level. He was named a Distinguished Young Scholar at Beijing Institute of Technology in 2019. His innovative work has earned him the Leading Talent Award in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Suzhou High-tech Zone in 2022, as well as the Third Prize for Biomedical Innovation at the Beijing Medical Technology Achievement Transformation event in 2023. Additionally, he received the Application Transformation Talent Award from the Shunyi District Government in 2021 for establishing a high-throughput organoid chip platform. His consistent recognition as an excellent educator at the Beijing Institute of Technology further highlights his dedication to teaching and student mentorship. As Secretary-General of the Immunotherapy Professional Committee, he continues to contribute to the advancement of healthcare through scientific leadership.

Research Focus

Professor Lei Dong’s research primarily investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) and the development of solid tumors such as glioblastoma (GBM). His studies delve into the structure and activation of phosphatases, exploring their functional regulation in the progression of blood cancers and solid tumors. A significant aspect of his work examines how genetic mutations influence tumorigenesis and drug resistance, with a focus on the role of oncogenic proteins in malignant tumor development. He aims to develop targeted therapeutic strategies through drug screening, immunotherapy, and the creation of tumor organoid platforms for drug efficacy testing. By integrating cutting-edge technologies, including high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics, his research group analyzes the intricate molecular networks that govern cell fate and tumor evolution. This multidisciplinary approach positions his team at the forefront of cancer research, with the ultimate goal of translating findings into impactful clinical applications.

Publication Top Notes

  • “Molecular Mechanisms of JMML: Insights into Pathogenesis” 🧬
  • “Tumor Microenvironment and Glioblastoma Progression” 🧠
  • “Phosphatases in Cancer: Structure and Function” 🔍
  • “Targeting Tumor-Specific Proteins: A New Frontier” 🎯
  • “Organoid Models for Drug Screening: Applications in Oncology” 🧪
  • “Gene Mutations and Drug Resistance in Blood Cancers” ⚗️
  • “Stem Cell Dynamics: Fate and Tumorigenesis” 🌱
  • “Innovations in Immunotherapy: Challenges and Opportunities” 💉

Conclusion

Professor Lei Dong’s exceptional academic background, innovative research contributions, and strong recognition in the field of tumor biology make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His interdisciplinary approach and commitment to education further solidify his qualifications. Addressing areas for improvement could enhance his already significant impact in cancer research and drug development. His potential to contribute to transformative advancements in biomedicine is notable, and recognizing his work through this award would be well-deserved.