Jiawei Zheng | Toxicology | Excellence in Research Award

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Mr. Jiawei Zheng | Toxicology | Excellence in Research Award 

Jinquan Satellite Launch Center Hospital | China

Jiawei Zheng is an attending doctor at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center Hospital whose work integrates clinical practice with specialized research in occupational toxicology, particularly focusing on hepatotoxicity mechanisms relevant to aerospace environments. Trained in medical sciences with a concentration in toxicology, he has built a career that blends laboratory investigation with applied aerospace-medicine service, serving as a principal investigator for internally supported projects aimed at understanding and mitigating toxin-induced organ injury. His research explores oxidative stress, apoptosis signaling, and metabolic intervention, with special emphasis on the pathways disrupted by exposure to aerospace-related chemicals. He has developed strong skills in experimental design, animal modeling, cellular and biochemical analysis, mechanistic interpretation, and scientific writing, demonstrated through his first-author contribution to a peer-reviewed article that reveals a novel mechanistic pathway underlying UDMH-induced liver injury. His professional experience also includes leading a hospital consultancy initiative focused on toxicological risk assessment. Although early in his publication journey, his work has already contributed meaningful insights to the field of hepatotoxicity research. With dedication to advancing occupational health protection for aerospace personnel, he continues to pursue research that supports scientific innovation, clinical safety, and the broader mission of improving health resilience in high-risk technological environments.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Zheng, J., Liu, W., Zhu, X., Ran, L., Lang, H., Yi, L., Mi, M., & Zhu, J. (2020). Pterostilbene enhances endurance capacity via promoting skeletal muscle adaptations to exercise training in rats. Molecules, 25(1), 186.

Huang, Y., Zhu, X., Chen, K., Lang, H., Zhang, Y., Hou, P., Ran, L., Zhou, M., Zheng, J., Yi, L., & Mi, M. (2019). Resveratrol prevents sarcopenic obesity by reversing mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress via the PKA/LKB1/AMPK pathway. Aging (Albany NY), 11(8), 2217–2240.

 

Maryam Peymani | Parkinson | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Maryam Peymani | Parkinson | Best Researcher Award

Islamic Azad University | Iran

Dr. Maryam Peymani is an Iranian molecular geneticist from Isfahan who has built a distinguished academic career within the Department of Biology at the Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord branch, where she serves as an Associate Professor and has also contributed as a research director. With a strong educational foundation spanning genetics and molecular genetics, her academic training focused on the roles of PPARγ in cellular differentiation, which later shaped her extensive work in stem cell biology, transcriptomics, neurodegeneration, and cancer biology. Her research interests encompass cellular and molecular mechanisms, human stem cell applications, signal transduction under stress, bioinformatics, and the transcriptomic landscape of complex diseases, supported by strong skills in molecular techniques, stem cell culture, real-time PCR, cloning, Western blotting, and advanced RNA-based analyses. She has participated in diverse laboratory projects involving embryonic stem cell differentiation, neural and mesodermal pathways, inflammatory models, cardiotoxicity studies, and comprehensive bioinformatics evaluations. Recognised as a top researcher at reputable scientific institutions, she has demonstrated consistent excellence and leadership. Through a prolific publication record and dedication to mentoring students, Dr. Peymani continues to advance research in molecular genetics, contributing meaningful insights to biomedical science while fostering innovation and scientific growth.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Amiri, S., Gholizadeh, L., Rasti, A., Peymani, M., Mirjalili, S. A. M., Vahidi, S., & Kalantar, S. M. (2024). Comparison of SPAG11A gene expression in infertile men with grade 1 and grade 2 varicocele before and after treatment. JBRA Assisted Reproduction.

Hassani, M., Mahdevar, M., & Peymani, M. (2024). Exploring the role of interleukin 11 in cancer progression, patient survival, and therapeutic insights. Molecular Biology Reports.

Golozar, M., Valipour Motlagh, A., Mahdevar, M., Peymani, M., InanlooRahatloo, K., & Ghaedi, K. (2024). TBX15 and SDHB expression changes in colorectal cancer serve as potential prognostic biomarkers. Experimental and Molecular Pathology.

Yue Dong | Neurodegeneration | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yue Dong | Neurodegeneration | Best Researcher Award

Hebei Hospital of Xuanwu Hospital | China

Dr. Yue Dong is a research scientist specialising in Alzheimer’s disease, neuromodulation, and translational neuroscience, with work rooted in uncovering metabolic, molecular, and circuit-level mechanisms of cognitive vulnerability while advancing non-invasive brain-stimulation technologies. She holds a medical degree from Hebei Medical University and a doctoral degree in biomedical engineering from the University of California, Irvine, followed by postdoctoral training at leading American institutions, where she deepened her expertise in neurodegeneration, electrophysiology, multi-omics analysis, network imaging, and cellular–circuit physiology. Her professional experience spans neuroscience, biomedical engineering, and clinical translation, and she currently serves as a researcher at Hebei Hospital of Xuanwu Hospital, contributing to precision neuromodulation research. Her interests include Alzheimer’s pathology, brain aging, sleep–memory interactions, synaptic resilience, photobiomodulation, and AI-enabled wearable stimulation systems. She is skilled in multi-omics profiling, fluorescence lifetime imaging, fMRI and EEG analytics, metabolic modelling, and neuromodulation parameter optimisation. Her work has earned recognition through competitive national and provincial research grants, talent awards, and leadership roles in professional societies. Dr. Dong’s career reflects a commitment to advancing mechanistic discovery and real-world clinical innovation, with the overarching goal of transforming neuromodulation into accessible, scalable brain-health technology for future therapeutic applications.

Profile: Googlescholar

Featured Publications

David Blum | Neurodegeneration | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Dr. David Blum | Neurodegeneration | Best Academic Researcher Award

Inserm | France

Dr. David Blum is a leading physiologist and neuroscientist specialising in neurodegeneration, serving as a research director at Inserm within a prominent laboratory dedicated to Alzheimer’s disease and tauopathies. He completed his academic training in physiology and neuroscience, building a strong foundation that guides his work on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative disorders. His professional experience includes extensive leadership in research programmes focused on Tau biology, metabolic regulation, neuroinflammation, and purinergic signalling, with particular emphasis on adenosine pathways. His research interests centre on understanding how Tau pathology disrupts memory, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function, as well as exploring environmental, metabolic, and epigenomic contributors to disease progression. He possesses advanced research skills in experimental neuroscience, molecular physiology, genetic models, biomaterial applications, and translational approaches linking bench discoveries to clinical insights. Dr. Blum has been recognised through international collaborations, scientific contributions, and participation in excellence centres dedicated to neurodegenerative disease research. His honours reflect his influential role in advancing knowledge on Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and related disorders. Overall, he stands as a highly respected scientist whose integrative work continues to shape current understanding of neurodegenerative mechanisms and supports the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Mohamed Taha Moutaoufik | Neurodegenerative Diseases | Best Research Article Award

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Prof. Mohamed Taha Moutaoufik | Neurodegenerative Diseases | Best Research Article Award

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University | Morocco

Dr. Mohamed Taha Moutaoufik is an accomplished Moroccan molecular biologist and Assistant Professor at the University Mohammed VI Polytechnic, with a strong foundation in cell and molecular biology acquired through advanced studies at Université Laval and Université Ibn Zohr. His professional experience spans roles as a Research Associate and Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Regina in Canada, where he contributed to cutting-edge research on protein interactions, mitochondrial biology, and neurodegenerative disease mechanisms. His scholarly involvement includes memberships in prestigious societies such as the Human Proteome Organization and the Mediterranean Neuroscience Society. Dr. Moutaoufik’s research interests center on proteomics, neurodegeneration, mitochondrial interactomes, and molecular mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases. He demonstrates expertise in multi-omics data integration, bioinformatics, protein-protein interaction mapping, and advanced molecular techniques. As an editor for Frontiers in Chemistry and related journals, he has overseen significant contributions to molecular biosciences. His numerous awards, including fellowships from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and Parkinson Canada, reflect his research excellence and leadership in biomedical science. Overall, Dr. Moutaoufik exemplifies a dynamic researcher whose interdisciplinary work bridges molecular biology and neuroproteomics, advancing scientific understanding of cellular mechanisms and their implications for precision medicine.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Joseph Bosmans | Ischemia | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Joseph Bosmans | Ischemia | Best Researcher Award

Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine | United States

Joseph Boston is an emerging medical professional whose academic journey reflects dedication to science, medicine, and service. He is pursuing his medical degree at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine after graduating with high distinction in molecular and cell biology and a minor in chemistry from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he earned university honors. His professional experience includes conducting translational neuroscience research at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Peoria, where he investigated inflammatory processes following ischemic stroke, resulting in a publication and several presentations at symposia and research forums. As a teaching assistant in chemistry, he contributed to curriculum development and student support, earning recognition on the “List of Teachers Ranked as Excellent by Their Students.” His leadership extended beyond academics through outreach work at Avicenna Community Health Center, where he supported underserved populations in accessing healthcare and education. His research interests center on neuroscience, molecular biology, and the interplay between inflammation and disease. He brings strong skills in laboratory techniques, literature review, collaboration, and communication, enhanced by proficiency in Spanish. Recognized with honors for both academic and teaching excellence, Joseph is committed to integrating research, education, and compassionate care in his future medical career.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Anett Hudák | Neurodegeneration | Women Researcher Award

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Ms. Anett Hudák | Neurodegeneration | Women Researcher Award

Anett Hudák is a skilled molecular biologist with deep expertise in neurobiology, virology, and molecular pathology. She earned her MSc in Molecular Biology from the University of Debrecen with a specialization in biomedical sciences and pharmacology. Over the years, she has significantly contributed to the understanding of cellular communication, amyloid pathology, and viral entry mechanisms through her work on syndecans. With professional experience spanning academia and industry, Anett currently serves as a molecular biologist at Pharmacoidea Ltd., where she leads impactful research on Alzheimer’s disease, SARS-CoV-2, and neurodegeneration. Her publications in high-impact journals like Scientific Reports and International Journal of Molecular Sciences reflect her strong research acumen. Anett’s extensive training in laboratory techniques, radiation protection, and animal experimentation, along with her dedication and collaborative mindset, make her a valued asset in translational biomedical research. She continues to drive discovery at the intersection of molecular biology and therapeutic innovation.

Profile

🎓 Education

Anett Hudák began her academic journey at Benka Gyula Lutheran Primary School and graduated from Andrássy Gyula Secondary School. She completed her BSc in Biology with a specialization in Laboratory Operations at the University of Debrecen’s Faculty of Science and Technology. She further pursued an MSc in Molecular Biology at the University of Debrecen’s Faculty of Medicine, specializing in Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacology. During her studies, she also received extended-level radiation protection training from the University of Debrecen’s Radiation Protection Service. Anett later earned a Certification in Laboratory Animal Science from the Institutional Animal Welfare Committee at Semmelweis University. Her academic formation has been enriched by intensive hands-on research training in various biomedical techniques including PCR, genotyping, electrophoresis, immunohistochemistry, and animal experimentation. This solid educational background has laid the groundwork for her successful transition into a career in academic and industrial molecular biology research.

🧪 Experience

Anett Hudák has a rich portfolio of research and laboratory experience, beginning with her early work on HPV detection in cervical cancer diagnostics at the Institute of Medical Microbiology, University of Debrecen. She expanded her expertise during her research internship at the Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, where she investigated IL-1RI’s role in inflammatory pain models. From 2012 to 2014, she gained proficiency in cell biology techniques including immunofluorescence and Western blotting. She worked as a laboratory biologist at the Institute of Physiology, Semmelweis University (2015–2016), contributing to studies on lymphangiogenesis in embryonic development. Since 2016, she has been a molecular biologist at Pharmacoidea Ltd., conducting translational research on syndecans in viral transmission, amyloid aggregation, and neurodegenerative diseases. Her contributions to scientific conferences and collaborative publications demonstrate her ability to lead and participate in high-impact research projects that bridge molecular science and therapeutic development.

🏅 Awards and Honors

While formal awards are not extensively listed in Anett Hudák’s CV, her achievements are evident through her selection for prominent speaking roles and poster presentations at respected conferences such as the Pannonia Congress of Pathology (2014), MÉT 2015, and FAMÉ 2016. Her research has consistently been showcased in these forums, highlighting its relevance and impact. Furthermore, Anett’s work has resulted in numerous peer-reviewed publications in top-tier journals like Scientific Reports and International Journal of Molecular Sciences, indicating recognition by the scientific community. Her collaborative publications with international experts, such as Martin Hofmann-Apitius and Mimoun Azzouz, underscore her respected standing in biomedical research. Anett’s ability to lead first-author publications and contribute significantly to multi-author research reflects a level of distinction that is often synonymous with academic honors. Her rising trajectory in neurodegenerative and virology research suggests she is well-positioned for future scientific accolades and leadership roles.

🔬 Research Focus

Anett Hudák’s research centers on the role of syndecans in cellular communication, neurodegenerative disease pathology, and viral entry mechanisms. Her work has significantly contributed to understanding how these membrane proteins facilitate the internalization and aggregation of amyloid-β, α-synuclein, and tau—key proteins involved in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. She also explores how syndecans enable SARS-CoV-2 entry, including variants like Delta and Omicron, offering insights into COVID-19 pathogenesis and therapeutic intervention. Recent studies delve into the interaction between apolipoproteins and syndecans and how these pathways impact cellular events relevant to amyloid disorders. Her use of tissue decolorization, single-cell resolution imaging, and endocytosis analysis has positioned her research at the forefront of molecular neuroscience and virology. Anett’s interdisciplinary approach, spanning molecular biology, cell signaling, and pathology, not only addresses fundamental mechanisms but also aims to inform novel therapeutic strategies for infectious and neurodegenerative diseases.

✅ Conclusion

Anett Hudák is a dedicated and impactful molecular biologist whose research on syndecans, neurodegeneration, and viral entry has advanced both basic science and translational applications in biomedicine.

Publications

Jesus Avila | Tauopathies | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Jesus Avila | Tauopathies | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jesus Avila is a distinguished cognitive scientist and Professor ad honorem at the Centro de Biologia Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBM-CSIC), Spain. He obtained his degree in Chemistry and PhD in Molecular Biology from Universidad Complutense Madrid, focusing on RNA polymerase in B. subtilis. His postdoctoral research at NIH, USA, centered on the SV40 virus. Throughout his prolific career, Dr. Avila has made groundbreaking contributions to understanding the neuronal cytoskeleton, particularly tau protein, its role in Alzheimer’s disease, and tauopathies. With over 694 published journal articles, 33 books, 4 patents, and collaborations across the USA, France, UK, Germany, and Spain, his work is internationally recognized. He serves on editorial boards of prestigious journals including EMBO J, FEBS Letters, Neuroscience, and Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (Deputy Editor). Dr. Avila is a member of EMBO, Academia Europaea, AAAS, and Royal Academies of Sciences and Medicine of Spain.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Jesus Avila pursued his higher education at Universidad Complutense Madrid (UCM), earning a degree in Chemistry. He further specialized by completing a PhD in Molecular Biology at UCM, where his research focused on the B. subtilis RNA polymerase system. This solid foundation in molecular biology provided him with the expertise to investigate complex neurobiological mechanisms. He then advanced his academic career with postdoctoral training at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, where he studied the SV40 virus—a crucial step that introduced him to advanced molecular virology and neurobiology techniques. This diverse academic background enabled him to establish a globally recognized research portfolio in neurodegeneration, particularly tau protein’s role in neuronal function and dysfunction.

Experience

Dr. Avila has an illustrious career spanning several decades at the Centro de Biologia Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBM-CSIC), where he has led pioneering research into the neuronal cytoskeleton, tau protein dysfunction, and neurodegenerative diseases. His early research at NIH on SV40 virus provided him with robust molecular expertise, which he translated into comprehensive studies on tauopathies and Alzheimer’s disease upon returning to Spain. Dr. Avila has successfully led over 30 major research projects, consulted on 8 industry collaborations, and published 694 peer-reviewed articles. His work includes the authorship of 33 books and the filing of 4 patents. Through sustained collaborations with global leaders in neuroscience from the USA, France, UK, Germany, and Spain, he has significantly advanced the understanding of aging and cognitive decline. His academic leadership and editorial roles underscore his vast experience in guiding both research and scientific discourse.

Research Interests

Dr. Avila’s research primarily investigates the neuronal cytoskeleton, with a central focus on tau protein and its role in neurodegeneration. Beginning with tau’s structural function in neurons, his work has expanded to explore how tau dysfunction contributes to Alzheimer’s disease and other tauopathies. Utilizing molecular and cellular approaches, including advanced mouse models, he has dissected the pathological mechanisms linking tau pathology to cognitive decline. Recognizing aging as the principal risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, his current investigations target neuronal rejuvenation strategies to mitigate age-associated neurodegeneration. His integrative approach combines molecular biology, neurogenetics, and translational models, contributing significantly to the understanding of disease progression and potential therapeutic interventions. Through over 694 publications, 33 books, multiple patents, and international collaborations, Dr. Avila has substantially advanced the field of cognitive neuroscience, particularly in understanding and combating tau-mediated cognitive disorders.

Awards

Dr. Avila’s exemplary contributions have earned him numerous prestigious honors. He is an elected member of EMBO (European Molecular Biology Organization), Academia Europaea, AAAS (American Association for the Advancement of Science), and both the Royal Academies of Sciences and Medicine of Spain—testament to his global recognition and scientific excellence. His editorial appointments with highly respected journals such as EMBO J, FEBS Letters, Neuroscience, and his role as Deputy Editor of the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease further validate his authority in cognitive and neurodegenerative research. His citation index surpasses 100 on Scopus, reflecting the significant influence of his work. His extensive collaborations with leading international research teams highlight his status as a respected leader in the global scientific community. The combination of his research excellence, mentorship, and leadership has positioned him as one of the foremost experts in cognitive science and neurobiology.

Conclusion

Dr. Jesus Avila’s distinguished career combines pioneering research on tau protein and Alzheimer’s disease, extensive international collaborations, over 694 publications, leadership roles in major journals, multiple prestigious memberships, and an unwavering focus on neuronal rejuvenation strategies, positioning him as a world-leading cognitive scientist whose work continues to advance global understanding of neurodegeneration.

 Publications

  • Protein tau phosphorylation in the proline rich region and its implication in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease

    Experimental Neurology
    2025 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2024.115049

    EID:

    2-s2.0-85208758184

    Part ofISSN: 10902430 00144886
    CONTRIBUTORS: Merino-Serrais, P.; Soria, J.M.; Arrabal, C.A.; Ortigado-López, A.; Esparza, M.Á.G.; Muñoz, A.; Hernández, F.; Ávila, J.; DeFelipe, J.; León-Espinosa, G.

  • Retrotransposon Protein L1 ORF1p Expression in Aging Central Nervous System

    International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    2025-05-04 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/ijms26094368
    CONTRIBUTORS: Laura Vallés-Saiz; Aaron Abdelkader-Guillén; Jesús Ávila; Félix Hernández

  • Shapeshifter W-Tau Peptide Inhibits Tau Aggregation and Disintegrates Paired Helical Filaments

    Biochemistry
    2025-04-15 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.4c00809
    CONTRIBUTORS: Indalo Domene-Serrano; Raquel Cuadros; Vega García-Escudero; Francisco Vallejo-Bedia; Ismael Santa-María; Laura Vallés-Saiz; Félix Hernandez; Jesús Avila

  • Peptide Family Promotes Brain Cell Rejuvenation and Improved Cognition through Peripheral Delivery

    ACS Omega
    2025-04-08 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c10849
    CONTRIBUTORS: Alejandro Anton-Fernandez; Indalo Domene-Serrano; Raquel Cuadros; Rocio Peinado-Cahuchola; Margarita Sanchez-Pece; Felix Hernandez; Jesus Avila

  • Partial reprogramming by cyclical overexpression of Yamanaka factors improves pathological phenotypes of tauopathy mouse model of human Alzheimer\’s disease

    Progress In Neurobiology
    2025-04-01 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2025.102743

    SOURCE-WORK-ID:

    CSIC-GB950859

    EID:

    2-s2.0-85219079150

    Part ofISSN: 0301-0082
    CONTRIBUTORS: Alejandro Anton-Fernandez; Ruiz de Alegría, Álvaro; Mariscal-Casero, Ana; Roldán-Lázaro, Marta; Peinado-Cauchola, Rocío; Jesus Avila; Felix Hernandez

  • Hippocampal rejuvenation by a single intracerebral injection of one‐carbon metabolites in C57BL6 old wild‐type mice

    Aging Cell
    2025-01 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1111/acel.14365
    CONTRIBUTORS: Alejandro Antón‐Fernández; Rocío Peinado Cauchola; Félix Hernández; Jesús Ávila

  • Intron retention as a productive mechanism in human MAPT: RNA species generated by retention of intron 3

    eBioMedicine
    2024 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2023.104953

    EID:

    2-s2.0-85181837483

    Part ofISSN: 23523964
    CONTRIBUTORS: Ruiz-Gabarre, D.; Vallés-Saiz, L.; Carnero-Espejo, A.; Ferrer, I.; Hernández, F.; Garcia-Escudero, R.; Ávila, J.; García-Escudero, V.

  • Involvement of the cellular prion protein in seeding and spreading of sarkosyl-derived fractions of Alzheimer´s disease in Prnp mutant mice and in the P301S transgenic tauopathy mice model

    bioRxiv
    2024 | Other
    DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.20.576414

    EID:

    2-s2.0-85184321414

    Part of ISSN: 26928205
    CONTRIBUTORS: Sala-Jarque, J.; Gil, V.; Andrés-Benito, P.; Lidón, L.; Yanac-Huertas, R.E.; López-León, C.F.; Hernández, F.; Ávila, J.; Lanciego, J.L.; Soriano, J. et al.

Yuanyuan Li | Movement Disorder | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yuanyuan Li | Movement Disorder | Best Researcher Award

🧠 Dr. Yuanyuan Li is a dedicated neurologist and researcher specializing in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s disease and REM sleep behavior disorder. She obtained her Ph.D. in Neurology from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and has been actively involved in cutting-edge research at Ruijin Hospital’s Department of Neurology. As a project leader, she has explored the role of α-synuclein in dopaminergic neurons, investigating its transport pathways and impact on cell viability. Dr. Li has authored multiple high-impact publications in renowned journals such as Neurology and J Neuroinflammation. Her work has contributed significantly to understanding the early biomarkers of neurodegenerative disorders. She has received prestigious awards, including the National Scholarship for Doctoral Students and the Outstanding Graduate Award from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. With numerous conference presentations and accolades, Dr. Li continues to drive forward advancements in neurodegenerative disease research. ✨📚

Profile

Education 🎓

🎓 Dr. Yuanyuan Li completed her Ph.D. in Neurology at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, where she focused on neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s disease and REM sleep behavior disorder. Her doctoral research emphasized the role of α-synuclein in dopaminergic neurons, uncovering its impact on neurodegeneration. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Li consistently demonstrated excellence, earning the First-Class Academic Scholarship and the Meritorious Student Award. She was recognized as an Outstanding Graduate and received the prestigious National Scholarship for Doctoral Students. Beyond coursework, she actively engaged in translational research, bridging laboratory findings with clinical applications. Her education has provided a strong foundation in neurobiology, molecular neuroscience, and clinical neurology. With a passion for uncovering early biomarkers of neurodegeneration, Dr. Li’s educational background has shaped her into a leading researcher in the field. 📖🧬

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Yuanyuan Li has extensive research experience at Ruijin Hospital’s Department of Neurology, affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. As a principal investigator, she led the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Doctoral Innovation Fund project, studying α-synuclein’s transport mechanisms in dopaminergic neurons and its effects on cell viability. Her expertise spans biomarker discovery, neuroinflammation, and disease progression in neurodegenerative disorders. She has collaborated on numerous high-impact studies published in Neurology, J Neuroinflammation, and NPJ Parkinson’s Disease. Dr. Li has also presented her findings at major conferences, including the National Neurology Conference and the Oriental Neurology Conference. Her experience in both basic and clinical research allows her to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and patient applications, advancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for Parkinson’s disease and related disorders. 🏥🧠

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Yuanyuan Li has received numerous prestigious awards for her contributions to neurology and neuroscience research. She was awarded the National Scholarship for Doctoral Students, recognizing her academic excellence and groundbreaking research. She also received the Outstanding Graduate Award and the Meritorious Student Award from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Her outstanding academic performance earned her the First-Class Academic Scholarship, demonstrating her dedication to advancing neurological research. Dr. Li has been recognized for her contributions at major conferences, winning the “Excellent Paper Presentation” award at the Oriental Neurology Conference. Additionally, she secured First Prize for Poster Presentation at the “Bo Ji Yi Yuan” Academic Forum. Her accolades reflect her commitment to advancing our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s disease. These honors highlight her as a rising star in the field of neurology. 🏅📜

Research Interests 🔬

🧪 Dr. Yuanyuan Li’s research focuses on neurodegenerative diseases, with an emphasis on Parkinson’s disease, REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), and α-synuclein pathology. Her work explores the molecular mechanisms driving these disorders, particularly the role of α-synuclein in dopaminergic neurons, its transport pathways, and its impact on cell viability. She has also investigated immune biomarkers, neuroinflammation, and genetic variants associated with Parkinson’s progression. Dr. Li’s studies have contributed to identifying predictive markers for early-stage neurodegenerative diseases, aiding in early diagnosis and potential therapeutic interventions. Through her publications in top journals like Neurology, J Neuroinflammation, and NPJ Parkinson’s Disease, she has advanced knowledge in the field. Her work integrates clinical and experimental neuroscience, bridging gaps between laboratory findings and real-world applications. Dr. Li’s research continues to shape the understanding of neurodegenerative disorders and their early detection. 🧬🔍

 

4Publications 

  • Gene Polymorphisms of Parkinson’s Disease Risk Locus and Idiopathic REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

    Biomedicines
    2025-03-24 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines13040788
    CONTRIBUTORS: Min Zhong; Yang Jiao; Aonan Zhao; Mengyue Niu; Jinjun Ran; Jun Liu; Yuanyuan Li

  • Understanding Causal Relationships Between Imaging-Derived Phenotypes and Parkinson’s Disease: A Mendelian Randomization and Observational Study

    Biomedicines
    2025-03-18 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines13030747
    CONTRIBUTORS: Yichi Zhang; Min Zhong; Zhao Yang; Xiaojin Wang; Zhongxun Dong; Liche Zhou; Qianyi Yin; Bingshun Wang; Jun Liu; Yuanyuan Li et al.

  • Understanding Causal Relationships between Imaging-Derived Phenotypes and Parkinson’s Disease: A Mendelian Randomization and Observational Study

    2025-02-05 | Preprint
    DOI: 10.20944/preprints202502.0350.v1
    CONTRIBUTORS: Yichi Zhang; Min Zhong; Zhao Yang; Xiaojin Wang; Zhongxun Dong; Liche Zhou; Qianyi Yin; Bingshun Wang; Jun Liu; Yuanyuan Li et al.

  • Network disruption based on multi-modal EEG-MRI in α-synucleinopathies

    Frontiers in Neurology
    2024 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3389/FNEUR.2024.1442851
    WOSUID: WOS:001304283700001
    CONTRIBUTORS: Wang, Chunyi; Hu, Jiajia; Li, Puyu; Zhang, Ming; Zhou, Liche; Luo, Ningdi; Zhu, Xue; Yin, Qianyi; Zhong, Min; Zhou, Xinyi et al.

PİNAR ERKEKOGLU | Neurotoxicology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Prof. PİNAR ERKEKOGLU | Neurotoxicology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Pınar Erkekoğlu is a distinguished academician and toxicologist at Hacettepe University, serving as Head of the Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology and Department of Vaccine Technology. She holds a PhD in toxicology (2009) and became a European Registered Toxicologist (ERT) in 2014. She conducted research at Joseph Fourier University, CEA/INAC/LAN, and completed her postdoctoral studies at MIT (2011-2013). With over 200 scientific publications, 10 edited books, and 15 book chapters, her work spans toxicology, neurotoxicology, and vaccinology. Her h-index is 34, with 107 SCI-indexed papers and numerous collaborations.

Profile

Education 🎓

Prof. Erkekoğlu earned her Pharmacy degree from Hacettepe University and a PhD in toxicology (2009). She gained international research experience at Joseph Fourier University and CEA/INAC/LAN during her doctorate. In 2011-2013, she pursued postdoctoral research at MIT, specializing in toxicology and environmental sciences. Recognized for her expertise, she became a European Registered Toxicologist (ERT) in 2014.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Prof. Erkekoğlu has extensive experience in toxicology, environmental sciences, and vaccinology. She is the Head of Pharmaceutical Toxicology and Vaccine Technology at Hacettepe University. She has worked at MIT, Joseph Fourier University, and CEA/INAC/LAN. With 49 research projects, 4 industry consultancies, and 12 collaborations, she has contributed significantly to toxicological sciences.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Prof. Erkekoğlu has received numerous awards, including Best Researcher and Women Researcher Awards. She is recognized internationally for her contributions to toxicology, neurotoxicology, and vaccine technology. She has served as an editor for scientific books, peer-reviewed journals, and major toxicology conferences.

Research Interests 🔬

Her research encompasses neurotoxicology, endocrine disruption, environmental toxicology, and vaccinology. She has published 107 SCI-indexed papers and 161 documents in Scopus across pharmacology, medicine, and environmental sciences. Her work explores the toxic effects of chemicals on human health and vaccine development.

Publications 

  • Prepubertal phthalate exposure can cause histopathological alterations, DNA methylation and histone acetylation changes in rat brain

    Toxicology and Industrial Health
    2025-03 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1177/07482337251315212
    CONTRIBUTORS: Seyda Koc; Ekin Erdogmus; Ozlem Bozdemir; Deniz Ozkan-Vardar; Unzile Yaman; Pınar
    Erkekoglu; Naciye Dilara Zeybek; Belma Kocer-Gumusel

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