Agota Apati | Stem Cell Based Disease Modelling | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Agota Apati | Stem Cell Based Disease Modelling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ágota Apáti, PhD, DSc, is a distinguished Hungarian molecular biologist and Senior Research Associate at the Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Research Centre for Natural Sciences. She leads the Pluripotent Stem Cell Laboratory and is renowned for establishing Hungary’s first human pluripotent stem cell lab. With over 70 publications and an H-index of 25, her work is widely recognized internationally. Dr. Apáti’s research encompasses human iPSC-derived disease models, membrane transporters, and cellular signaling pathways, with implications in schizophrenia, diabetes, and rare syndromes. She has supervised numerous PhD students and maintains active roles in both national and international scientific societies. Her commitment to translational stem cell research and ethical scientific practice positions her as a leading figure in the field of regenerative medicine and cellular therapeutics.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Ágota Apáti holds a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Chemistry from Eötvös Loránd University of Sciences, Budapest (1984–1989). She later pursued doctoral studies and earned her PhD from Semmelweis Medical University (1998–2003), focusing on molecular and cellular aspects of hematology and immunology. Her academic training blends rigorous biochemical education with advanced medical sciences, establishing a solid foundation for her research career in stem cell biology and cellular therapeutics. Through continuous engagement in teaching and supervising graduate students, she has also remained an integral part of academic development at Hungary’s premier institutions. Her strong interdisciplinary background supports her work on complex cellular processes and disease modeling, and she is also a Doctor of Science (DSc, 2024) from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences—an honor awarded for substantial contributions to biomedical research in Hungary.

🧪 Experience

With over three decades of research experience, Dr. Ágota Apáti began her scientific career as a Research Fellow at Semmelweis Medical University (1989–1993). She progressed through multiple institutions, including the National Institute of Haematology and Immunology (1993–2004) and the National Blood Service (2005–2013), where she led various molecular biology projects. Between 2013 and 2023, she was a Senior Research Associate and lab head at the Institute of Enzymology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences. Since 2023, she continues her leadership as Laboratory Head at the Institute of Molecular Life Sciences under HUNREN. She has consistently taught and mentored postgraduate students in biochemistry, hematology, immunology, and membrane biology. Dr. Apáti’s collaborative and interdisciplinary projects have helped develop multiple disease models and cellular assays. Her scientific leadership has been instrumental in expanding Hungary’s role in cutting-edge stem cell research and molecular diagnostics.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Ágota Apáti has been recognized both nationally and internationally for her contributions to biomedical research. Early in her career, she received the prestigious UNIDO award during the ICRO course on RNA structure and function in Trieste, Italy (1994). In 2024, she was awarded the Doctor of Science (DSc) degree by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences—a distinguished title granted to researchers with a substantial, impactful body of scientific work. Her membership in renowned scientific organizations, such as the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR), Hungarian Society of Biology, Hungarian Society of Biochemistry, and the Hungarian Medical Research Council’s Ethical Board for Human Reproduction, underscores her stature in the field. These accolades not only reflect her scientific excellence but also her contributions to ethical research practice, public health, and mentoring within the scientific community, cementing her reputation as a key contributor to molecular life sciences.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Apáti’s research centers on pluripotent stem cells, disease modeling, and cellular signaling. She specializes in generating and differentiating human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into neuronal, cardiac, mesenchymal, and endothelial lineages. Her work extends into disease modeling for schizophrenia, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, DiGeorge syndrome, and Frank-Ter Haar syndrome using patient-derived iPSC lines and CRISPR-based genome editing. She has developed cellular reporter systems to study membrane transporter function and calcium signaling pathways, significantly advancing understanding in neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular disorders. Through integrative omics and 3D organoid models, Dr. Apáti’s lab explores metabolic and genetic dysregulation in human pathologies. Her translational research aims to identify drug targets and therapeutic strategies using patient-specific cell lines. She also investigates multidrug resistance in stem cells and cancer, contributing to better clinical interventions. Her multidisciplinary projects bridge fundamental biology with clinical relevance, making her a vital contributor to regenerative medicine and personalized therapy.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Ágota Apáti is a trailblazing scientist whose pioneering work in human stem cell research, disease modeling, and membrane biology continues to shape translational medicine, with a sustained commitment to research excellence, scientific mentorship, and ethical innovation in biomedical sciences.

Publications

  • Haloperidol, Olanzapine, and Risperidone Induce Morphological Changes in an In Vitro Model of Human Hippocampal Neurogenesis

    Biomolecules
    2024-06 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/biom14060688
    CONTRIBUTORS: Bálint Jezsó; Sára Kálmán; Kiara Gitta Farkas; Edit Hathy; Katalin Vincze; Dzsenifer Kovács-Schoblocher; Julianna Lilienberg; Csongor Tordai; Zsofia Nemoda; László Homolya et al.

  • Partial Disturbance of Microprocessor Function in Human Stem Cells Carrying a Heterozygous Mutation in the DGCR8 Gene

    Genes
    2022-10 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/genes13111925
    CONTRIBUTORS: Dóra Reé; Ábel Fóthi; Nóra Varga; Orsolya Kolacsek; Tamas Orban; Agota Apat

  • A Novel Cell-Based Model for a Rare Disease: The Tks4-KO Human Embryonic Stem Cell Line as a Frank-Ter Haar Syndrome Model System

    International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    2022-08 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158803
    CONTRIBUTORS: Loretta László; Hédi Maczelka; Tamás Takács; Anita Kurilla; Álmos Tilajka; László Buday; Vas Virag; Agota Apati
  • Synthesis and Systematic Investigation of Lepidiline A and Its Gold(I), Silver(I), and Copper(I) Complexes Using In Vitro Cancer Models and Multipotent Stem Cells

 

Ejaz Ahmad Khera | Materials Simulation | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ejaz Ahmad Khera | Materials Simulation | Best Researcher Award


Dr. Ejaz Ahmad Khera is an Assistant Professor of Physics at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan, and an HEC-approved supervisor with a PhD in the characterization of materials for memory storage and neuromorphic applications using DFT. He has published over 30 high-impact international research articles and currently leads research at the Materials Modeling and Simulation Lab, where he supervises MPhil and PhD students. His group is actively involved in developing efficient double perovskites for solar cell applications. In addition to his academic and research roles, Dr. Khera contributes to departmental administrative functions and has participated in multiple international conferences in physics and materials science. He is proficient in VASP, Wien2k, CASTEP, and other computational tools, reflecting his strong background in computational materials physics.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Khera earned his PhD in Physics from The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (2016–2021), focusing on DFT-based characterization of materials for neuromorphic and memory applications. He holds an MPhil in Physics from Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad (2012–2014), and a Master of Science in Physics from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan (2007–2010). His academic foundation combines theoretical physics, computational modeling, and practical understanding of solid-state and condensed matter systems. He is trained in multiple simulation platforms including VASP, Wein2k, and CASTEP, and has built expertise in data analysis software like Origin and visualization tools like VESTA and Crystal Maker. His solid academic training has enabled him to mentor graduate students in computational material science and renewable energy research domains. Dr. Khera has also enhanced his academic exposure through participation in pedagogical and research methodology training programs.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Khera is currently serving as Assistant Professor of Physics at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur since March 2022, where he teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses, leads research, and manages academic administration. From 2019 to 2021, he was a visiting lecturer at University of Education, Multan Campus, and previously taught physics at Admire Group of Colleges (2017–2021), Muslim Group of Colleges (2013–2017), and Educators Group of Colleges (2011–2013), focusing on undergraduate and higher secondary education. Over a decade of teaching experience has honed his expertise in delivering core physics concepts and mentoring students. In his academic tenure, Dr. Khera has also built research collaborations and guided MPhil and PhD students in materials modeling. His responsibilities have included curriculum design, academic planning, and seminar coordination. He is deeply engaged in academic development through active participation in physics conferences and workshops.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Khera received the Prime Minister Youth Laptop Scheme award from the Federal Government of Pakistan in 2018, recognizing his academic excellence and contribution to higher education. He was also granted the Punjab Government Scholarship under the Fee Reimbursement Scheme for Higher Education in 2017, awarded by the Government of Punjab. These honors reflect his academic merit, commitment to research, and service in the field of physics education. He has participated in multiple international and national-level conferences, including events hosted by The Islamia University of Bahawalpur and The Women University Multan. His consistent performance in academics and his role in teaching and research supervision have earned him institutional recognition. Additionally, his HEC-approved supervisor status further signifies his qualification and leadership in guiding advanced research projects in Pakistan. These accolades support his active involvement in national education development and scientific advancement in materials science.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Khera’s research is centered on computational materials science with a focus on density functional theory (DFT)-based investigations of electronic, optical, thermoelectric, and structural properties of novel materials. His primary interest lies in characterizing double perovskites (DPs), Heusler alloys, and vacancy-ordered compounds for use in solar cells, memory storage, brain-inspired neuromorphic systems, and energy harvesting applications. Using simulation tools like VASP, CASTEP, and Wien2k, he studies materials such as Ga₂PtX₆, Li₂ATlCl₆, and Na₂PtX₆ for their optoelectronic and thermoelectric performance. His recent publications explore halogen modification, spin polarization, and hybrid perovskites for sustainable technologies. His research group actively contributes to discovering lead-free, high-efficiency materials that align with global goals for clean and renewable energy. Dr. Khera also collaborates internationally, co-authoring papers with scientists across Asia and Europe, thereby advancing the field of computational physics and sustainable material development.

Publications

 

  • Probing the opto-electronic, thermoelectric, thermodynamic and elastic responses
    of lead-free double perovskite Li2ATlCl6 (A= Na and K) for potential photovoltaic
    and high-energy applications: A DFT study
    Reference: Qiguo Xiao, Abrar Nazir, Ejaz Ahmad Khera, Mumtaz Manzoor, Ramesh
    Sharma, Javed Rahman, Sabah Ansar, Farooq Ali
    Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921510724006895

 

  • First principles investigation of structural, electronic, optical, transport properties
    of double perovskites X2TaTbO6 (X= Ca, Sr, Ba) for optoelectronic and energy
    harvesting applications
    Reference: Mudassir Ishfaq, Muniba Urooj, Muhammad Sajid, Khawar Ismail, Rimsha
    Baqeel, Ejaz Ahmad Khera, Rajwali Khan, Sattam Al Otaibi, Khaled Althubeiti, Hassan Ali,
    Ghulam Murtaza, Muhammad Jamil
    Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022369724005675

 

 

Nathan Robert Wall | Medicine | Excellence in Research Award

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Dr. Nathan Robert Wall | Medicine | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Nathan R. Wall is an accomplished academic, biomedical researcher, and military officer. He is currently an Associate Professor of Medicine at Loma Linda University School of Medicine and holds multiple leadership roles in research, oncology education, and national defense. With advanced degrees in biology, cancer biology, and business administration, he has dedicated his career to cancer research and military medical operations. Dr. Wall has served in multiple deployments with the California Army National Guard, including missions in Afghanistan, Poland, and Iraq. His military and academic excellence is recognized through numerous awards and honors. Dr. Wall combines rigorous research in molecular medicine with a passion for leadership, education, and national service. His extensive experience in academia, clinical research, and military command uniquely positions him at the intersection of science and strategic operations, contributing to both medical advancement and national security.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Nathan R. Wall is currently pursuing a Master of Strategic Studies at the U.S. Army War College (2024–2026). He earned his MBA with a focus in Management from the University of Redlands (2006–2008), and a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from Wayne State University (1996–2000), where he also completed an M.S. in Molecular Biology and Genetics. Prior to that, he obtained an M.S. in Biology (1992–1995) and a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry (1987–1991) from Walla Walla College (now Walla Walla University). His graduate training included mentorship under leading scientists like Dr. Ayad M. Al-Katib and Dr. Joan M. Redd. Across disciplines—from molecular biology to strategic leadership—Dr. Wall’s education reflects a commitment to interdisciplinary excellence, equipping him with the skills to navigate both biomedical research and complex military operations with strategic insight.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Nathan R. Wall has held academic appointments at Loma Linda University since 2008, currently serving as Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Human Anatomy. He also directs Research and Development at the James M. Slater Proton Treatment & Research Center and is Oncology Thread Director at the School of Medicine. Previously, he served in the Department of Biochemistry and Center for Health Disparities. Since 2008, Dr. Wall has simultaneously served in the California Army National Guard, rising through the ranks and completing deployments to Afghanistan, Poland, and Iraq in key command roles. He has also contributed as a scientific advisor for biotech firms and participated in Department of Defense medical research review panels. His interdisciplinary experience spans military medicine, molecular oncology, academic leadership, and national defense, making him a unique leader who bridges science, strategy, and service.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Wall’s exemplary service has earned him numerous military and civilian accolades. These include the Bronze Star Medal, NATO Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Honorable Order of Saint Martin. He’s received multiple Army Commendation and Achievement Medals, along with California-specific honors like the California Medal of Merit and Drill Attendance Ribbon with multiple stars. Notably, he was recognized as “Citizen Warrior of the Month” by California ARNG Magazine in August 2018. Dr. Wall has also been honored with plaques and certificates from NATO, Bulgarian Joint Forces, and various military medical programs. His academic achievements include tenure at Loma Linda University and leadership roles in key training inspections. These honors reflect his unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership in medical readiness, and profound impact in both academic and military sectors.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Wall’s research focuses on cancer biology, with specific expertise in molecular mechanisms of disease, targeted therapies, and translational oncology. His work bridges basic science and clinical application, especially in the context of proton therapy and health disparities in underserved populations. At Loma Linda University, he leads interdisciplinary teams addressing tumor microenvironments, cancer signaling pathways, and innovative therapeutics. Dr. Wall also contributes to Department of Defense research as a peer reviewer, ensuring scientific rigor in funded medical studies. His research often integrates his military background, exploring how stress and trauma-related factors influence cancer biology and immune responses. As Director of R&D at a leading proton treatment center, he’s advancing precision medicine in oncology. Dr. Wall’s work is marked by its practical implications, scientific depth, and commitment to improving patient care—particularly for populations affected by health inequities or involved in military service.

Publications

  • Seco-Duocarmycin SA in Aggressive Glioblastoma Cell Lines

    International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    2025-03-19 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/ijms26062766
    CONTRIBUTORS: Ann Morcos; Yeonkyu Jung; Ryan N. Fuller; Antonella Bertucci; Amy Nguyen; Quanqing Zhang; Tobias Emge; Kristopher E. Boyle; Nathan R. Wall; Marcelo Vazquez

  • A Comprehensive Review of the Antitumor Properties and Mechanistic Insights of Duocarmycin Analogs

    Cancers
    2024-09-27 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/cancers16193293
    CONTRIBUTORS: Ann Morcos; Yeonkyu Jung; Joab Galvan Bustillos; Ryan N. Fuller; David Caba Molina; Antonella Bertucci; Kristopher E. Boyle; Marcelo E. Vazquez; Nathan R. Wal

  • A CTB-SARS-CoV-2-ACE-2 RBD Mucosal Vaccine Protects Against Coronavirus Infection

    Vaccines
    2023-12-18 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121865
    CONTRIBUTORS: Béla Dénes; Ryan Fuller; Wayne Kelin; Tessa Levin; Jaipuneet Gil; Aaren Harewood; Márta Lőrincz; Nathan Wall; Anthony Firek; William Langridg

Monia Orciani | Stem cells | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Monia Orciani | Stem cells | Best Researcher Award

 

Profile

Education

On January 23, 2004, she was awarded a PhD in Biomedical Biotechnology from the Università Politecnica delle Marche. In 2001, she obtained her qualification as a Professional Biologist from the same institution. She completed her degree in Biological Sciences on March 10, 2000, graduating with top honors (110/110 cum laude).

Her native language is Italian. She is also proficient in English at the C1 level across listening, reading, interaction, speaking, and writing. She achieved the LanguageCert Level 2 Certificate in ESOL International (Speaking) (Expert C1) on January 20, 2023.

Work experience

Since July 15, 2019, she has been serving as an Associate Professor in the scientific-disciplinary sector BIO/17 – Histology at the Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche. She obtained her qualification as a Second-Tier Professor in Applied Biology (SSD 05/F1) on April 4, 2017, and later achieved First-Tier Professor qualification in Histology (SSD 05/H2) on November 18, 2020. Previously, she was a confirmed Researcher in Histology at the same department from April 13, 2015, following an initial appointment as a non-confirmed Researcher from November 1, 2011, to April 13, 2015. Before that, she held a research fellowship from June 3, 2011, to November 1, 2011, focusing on the use of stem cells in regenerative medicine. From June 1, 2010, to May 31, 2011, she was a research grant holder investigating skin-derived stem cells and their clinical prospects in regenerative therapy at the Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine. Between November 1, 2003, and April 15, 2010, she conducted research on leukocyte ectoenzymes and their role in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of selected human diseases at the Department of Molecular Pathology and Innovative Therapies – Histology. From July 16, 2001, to July 15, 2003, she held a research fellowship focused on monoclonal antibodies for in vivo applications at the Institute of Biology and Genetics. Her early experience includes an internship at the Institute of Biology, Genetics, and Biochemistry, University of Medicine and Surgery, Turin, from May 1, 2000, to December 1, 2000.

Teaching Experience

Since the academic year 2022/23, she has been the course leader for Histology in the Medicine and Surgery (MedTech) degree programme at the Università Politecnica delle Marche.

Since 2019/20, she has held the position of Histology lecturer within the integrated course Human Morphological Sciences for the Dental Hygiene degree programme at the same university.

She has also taught Histology within the integrated Histology-Anatomy-Physiology course for the Medical Radiology Techniques for Imaging and Radiotherapy degree programme during the academic years 2016/17–2018/19 and again in 2022/23.

Since 2022/23, she has been responsible for teaching Histology within the Morphology and Histology integrated course for the Midwifery degree programme.

Since 2017/18, she has been a Tutor for AFP (Basic Sciences and First Aid Area) in the Medicine and Surgery degree programme.

She has also been involved in structured and cross-disciplinary teaching for the PhD in Human Health and Biomedical Sciences since 2017/18.

Since 2017/18, she has led an elective teaching activity (ADE) titled “Biotechnologies for the Study of Normal Human Histology” in the Medicine and Surgery degree programme.

From 2019/20 to 2021/22, she taught Histology for the Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics degree programme.

Between 2016/17 and 2017/18, she was the English Language course leader for the Medical Radiology Techniques for Imaging and Radiotherapy degree programme.

She is proficient in Microsoft Office and holds an Expert C1 Level LanguageCert Certificate in ESOL International (Speaking), awarded on 20 January 2023.

In the academic year 2018/19, she taught Histology within the Biomedical Sciences 1 integrated course for the Physiotherapy degree programme.

Between 2017/18 and 2018/19, she led a seminar-based Histology course for the Dietetics degree programme.

Since 2016/17, she has been responsible for a seminar-based Histology course in the Nursing degree programme at the Fermo campus.

Between 2012/13 and 2018/19, she taught Histology within the Histology-Anatomy integrated course for the Biomedical Laboratory Techniques degree programme.

Since 2012/13, she has also been responsible for a seminar-based Histology course in the Nursing degree programme at the Macerata campus.

Research project

Professor Monia Orciani has been recognised with the ImmunoTools IT-FlowISiAM-Award 2024 for her research on “Searching for New Targets for Alzheimer’s Disease.” She is the Principal Investigator (PI) of the PRIN 2022 project titled “The Effects of Cortisol Excess on Neurogenesis in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Mandatory Footpath through Stem Cells (FORGETFUL)” (Project ID: 2022XF7XZF). In 2022, she secured funding from Boehringer-Ingelheim for a study on the “Role of Nintedanib on Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF),” in collaboration with Professor Martina Bonifazi. Additionally, she received the Fondo di Finanziamento Attività di Base di Ricerca (FFABR) – FFO grant in 2017 for her research on “Inflammation and Stem Cells: New Associations.” Her work on stem cells also led to a strategic university project (2017–2019) investigating “The Role of Stem Cells in Cutaneous Repair Deficiency in Patients with Endogenous and Exogenous Cushing’s Syndrome.”

Professor Orciani has contributed to several national research initiatives, including PRIN 2017, where she collaborated on “The Impact of Glucocorticoid Circadian Rhythm Disruption on Cardiovascular Risk and Immune Dysfunction: Pathophysiology and Novel Biomarkers of Glucocorticoid Exposure in Hypercortisolism and Hypocortisolism (CHRONO-IMAGE),” led by Professor Rosario Pivonello (Project ID: 2017HRTZYA_005). Earlier in her career, she was involved in FIRB-funded projects, such as the 2011 study on “Molecular Markers for Diagnosis, Prognosis, and the Development of New Therapeutic Strategies for Adrenal Carcinoma” (PI: Professor Roberto Di Primio, Project ID: RBAP1153LS_004) and the 2010 preclinical evaluation of “Scaffolds for Skeletal Tissue Regeneration” (PI: Professor Roberto Giardino, Project ID: RBAP10MLK7_003). In 2010, she participated in a PRIN project examining “The Interaction between Glucose and Bone Metabolism for the Cardiometabolic Characterisation of a Population of Young Obese Individuals” (PI: Professor Roberto Di Primio, Project ID: 201098WFZ2_006). Her involvement in FIRB dates back to 2001, where she contributed to a study on “Leukocyte Ectoenzymes and Their Role in the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Therapy of Selected Human Diseases” (PI: Professor Fabio Malavasi, Project ID: RBNE01N4Z9_003).

Publication

  • 1. Pisciotta A, Di Tinco R, Bertani G, Orlandi G, Bertoni L, Pignatti E, Orciani M, Sena P,
    Bertacchini J, Salvarani C, Carnevale G. Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) promote the
    lipofibroblast transition in the early stage of a fibro-inflammatory process. Front Cell Dev Biol.
    2023;11:1196023
  • Preziuso A, Piccirillo S, Cerqueni G, Serfilippi T, Terenzi V, Vinciguerra A, Orciani M, Amoroso
    S, Magi S, Lariccia V. Exploring the Role of NCX1 and NCX3 in an In Vitro Model of
    Metabolism Impairment: Potential Neuroprotective Targets for Alzheimer’s Disease. Biology
    (Basel). 2023;12:1005.
  • Di Vincenzo M, Diotallevi F, Piccirillo S, Carnevale G, Offidani A, Campanati A, Orciani M.
    miRNAs, Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Major Neoplastic and Inflammatory Skin Diseases:
    A Page Being Written: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24:8502.
  • Di Vincenzo M, Orciani M. Special Issue “The Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells on
    Inflammatory and Fibrotic Diseases”. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24:8578.
  • Di Vincenzo M, Martino M, Lariccia V, Giancola G, Licini C, Di Benedetto G, Arnaldi G,
    Orciani M. Mesenchymal Stem Cells Exposed to Persistently High Glucocorticoid Levels
    Develop Insulin-Resistance and Altered Lipolysis: A Promising In Vitro Model to Study
    Cushing’s Syndrome. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022;13:816229

Natalia Baran | Cancer Research | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Natalia Baran | Cancer Research | Best Researcher Award

Leading Attending at InselSpital Bern, Switzerland.

Dr. Natalia Baran is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Leukemia at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where she focuses on developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic vulnerabilities in leukemia. Her expertise lies in understanding how metabolic reprogramming can lead to drug resistance and contribute to leukemia progression. With a medical background and extensive experience in both clinical and research settings, Dr. Baran has been at the forefront of studies that aim to modulate metabolic pathways to enhance anti-leukemic responses. By combining insights from molecular biology, immunology, and clinical practice, she is actively working toward discovering innovative treatments for leukemia. Dr. Baran’s research holds great promise in advancing leukemia therapy, particularly by targeting metabolic reprogramming in the context of therapy resistance. Her multidisciplinary approach, integrating clinical data with laboratory research, makes her a key figure in leukemia research.

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Natalia Baran completed her undergraduate studies in Biotechnology, earning a Master of Science degree in 2006 from Wroclaw University of Science and Technology in Poland. She further pursued medical education and obtained her Medical Doctor (MD) degree from Wroclaw Medical University in 2007. Driven by her passion for research, Dr. Baran earned a Ph.D. in Medicine from the University of Bonn in 2015. Her doctoral research laid the foundation for her current focus on leukemia and metabolic reprogramming. In addition, Dr. Baran underwent extensive postdoctoral training at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where she honed her expertise in hematology and oncology, contributing significantly to translational research in leukemia. Her diverse educational background, blending science and medicine, has shaped her comprehensive approach to cancer research.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Baran has a rich professional experience that bridges clinical practice and cutting-edge research. After completing her MD, she pursued clinical residencies in Internal Medicine, Hematology, and Oncology at prestigious German institutions, including the University of Heidelberg and the University of Bonn. This clinical experience laid the groundwork for her subsequent focus on leukemia research. In 2016, she joined MD Anderson Cancer Center as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Leukemia. During her postdoctoral tenure, Dr. Baran worked closely with Dr. Marina Konopleva, exploring the role of metabolic pathways in leukemia resistance. By 2022, she had transitioned to an Assistant Professor role, continuing her translational research in leukemia, with a particular emphasis on identifying novel therapeutic strategies. Her clinical and research experiences synergize to enhance her contributions to the leukemia research community.

Research Interests:

Dr. Baran’s research is primarily centered on exploring metabolic vulnerabilities and their role in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Her work seeks to understand the mechanisms through which metabolic reprogramming in leukemia cells contributes to drug resistance and tumor progression. Dr. Baran is particularly interested in how modulating the metabolic environment can enhance the effectiveness of leukemia therapies. By focusing on the interplay between metabolism and leukemic cell survival, she aims to identify new therapeutic strategies that target metabolic pathways to overcome resistance to traditional treatments. Her research also explores how immune modulation can be integrated with metabolic interventions to develop more efficient leukemia therapies.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Baran has received recognition for her contributions to leukemia research, although specific awards are not detailed in available sources. However, her research has been featured prominently in major scientific forums, including the Annual Metabolism in Cancer Symposium organized by MD Anderson. Her work has earned her respect within the scientific community, as evidenced by her continued role as an Assistant Professor and her involvement in prestigious cancer research initiatives. Dr. Baran’s impact is evident in her ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between basic science and clinical application, aiming to revolutionize leukemia treatment.

Skills:

Dr. Baran’s research skills encompass a wide range of techniques in molecular biology, cell culture, and metabolic analysis. She is highly proficient in studying the metabolic pathways that drive leukemia, using state-of-the-art technologies such as high-resolution metabolic flux analysis, RNA sequencing, and advanced cell imaging. Dr. Baran is skilled at integrating basic science with clinical data, ensuring that her research translates into practical therapeutic interventions. Her expertise in immunology further complements her research in leukemia, allowing her to investigate the potential of combining metabolic therapies with immune modulation to improve patient outcomes. Her interdisciplinary approach is a key strength in her ongoing work in leukemia research.

Publication Top Notes

A Selective BCL-XL PROTAC Degrader Achieves Safe and Potent Antitumor Activity

  • Authors: S Khan, X Zhang, D Lv, Q Zhang, Y He, P Zhang, X Liu, D Thummuri, et al.
  • Journal: Nature Medicine
  • Volume: 25(12), Pages 1938–1947
  • Cited by: 515
  • Year: 2019

Targeting a Cytokine Checkpoint Enhances the Fitness of Armored Cord Blood CAR-NK Cells

  • Authors: M Daher, R Basar, E Gokdemir, N Baran, N Uprety, AK Nunez Cortes, et al.
  • Journal: Blood, The Journal of the American Society of Hematology
  • Volume: 137(5), Pages 624–636
  • Cited by: 226
  • Year: 2021

Inhibiting Glutaminase in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Metabolic Dependency of Selected AML Subtypes

  • Authors: P Matre, J Velez, R Jacamo, Y Qi, X Su, T Cai, SM Chan, A Lodi, et al.
  • Journal: Oncotarget
  • Volume: 7(48), Pages 79722
  • Cited by: 194
  • Year: 2016

Complex I Inhibitor of Oxidative Phosphorylation in Advanced Solid Tumors and Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Phase I Trials

  • Authors: TA Yap, N Daver, M Mahendra, J Zhang, C Kamiya-Matsuoka, et al.
  • Journal: Nature Medicine
  • Volume: 29(1), Pages 115–126
  • Cited by: 182
  • Year: 2023

Molecular Pathways: Hypoxia-Activated Prodrugs in Cancer Therapy

  • Authors: N Baran, M Konopleva
  • Journal: Clinical Cancer Research
  • Volume: 23(10), Pages 2382–2390
  • Cited by: 126
  • Year: 2017

Combining AFM13, a Bispecific CD30/CD16 Antibody, with Cytokine-Activated Blood and Cord Blood–Derived NK Cells Facilitates CAR-Like Responses Against CD30+ Malignancies

  • Authors: LN Kerbauy, ND Marin, M Kaplan, PP Banerjee, MM Berrien-Elliott, et al.
  • Journal: Clinical Cancer Research
  • Volume: 27(13), Pages 3744–3756
  • Cited by: 117
  • Year: 2021

Clonal Selection and Therapy Resistance in Acute Leukemias: Mathematical Modelling Explains Different Proliferation Patterns at Diagnosis and Relapse

  • Authors: T Stiehl, N Baran, AD Ho, A Marciniak-Czochra
  • Journal: Journal of The Royal Society Interface
  • Volume: 11(94), Article ID 20140079
  • Cited by: 106
  • Year: 2014

Activation of RAS/MAPK Pathway Confers MCL-1 Mediated Acquired Resistance to BCL-2 Inhibitor Venetoclax in Acute Myeloid Leukemia

  • Authors: Q Zhang, B Riley-Gillis, L Han, Y Jia, A Lodi, H Zhang, S Ganesan, R Pan, et al.
  • Journal: Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy
  • Volume: 7(1), Article ID 51
  • Cited by: 104
  • Year: 2022

Conclusion:

Dr. Natalia Baran is a prominent researcher whose work in leukemia has the potential to transform therapeutic approaches, especially through targeting metabolic pathways. Her strong academic background, combined with extensive clinical and research experience, enables her to address one of the most pressing challenges in leukemia treatment: drug resistance. By focusing on metabolic reprogramming, Dr. Baran is paving the way for innovative strategies to combat leukemia and improve patient outcomes. Her expertise in integrating basic research with clinical applications ensures that her contributions will have a lasting impact on the field of oncology, particularly in the development of new, more effective therapies for leukemia.