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.

Camille Blackman | Neurology and Gender-Affirming Care | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Camille Blackman | Neurology and Gender-Affirming Care | Best Researcher Award

Camille Blackman is a dedicated medical student and multidisciplinary researcher with a passion for advancing gender-affirming healthcare and surgical education. Currently pursuing her MD at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, she brings a diverse background in anthropology, emergency medicine, and clinical research. Camille’s clinical experiences range from working as an EMT and physical therapist assistant to serving as a medical assistant in dermatology. Her current research at Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender and Gender Expansive Health centers on surgical outcomes, educational innovation, and health equity. She has published and presented nationally on topics like craniofacial surgery, sexual medicine, and transgender health. Outside of medicine, she is a nationally competitive runner and co-founder of Nameless Track Club. Camille also contributes to mentoring, leadership development, and medical education reform. Fluent in English and French, she exemplifies a well-rounded, compassionate, and forward-thinking physician in training.

Profile

🎓 Education

Camille Blackman’s academic journey reflects her interdisciplinary strength and commitment to health equity. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from Northwestern University (2012–2016), where she was also a Division 1 athlete. To transition into a medical career, she completed a post-baccalaureate pre-medical program at DePaul University (2016–2017). Camille is currently a Doctor of Medicine (MD) candidate at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, expected to graduate in 2026. Her medical education is enhanced by participation in the Surgical Exploration and Discovery (SEAD) program and leadership in multiple mentorship initiatives. Her academic excellence is evidenced by her involvement in high-impact research, her role as an M3 mentor, and her selection for honors like Academic All-Big Tens. Throughout her academic path, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to inclusion, excellence in scholarship, and innovation in clinical care, especially for underserved populations such as the transgender and gender-diverse community.

🧪 Experience

Camille Blackman has built a robust portfolio of healthcare experience over nearly a decade. As a current research trainee at the Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender and Gender Expansive Health, she contributes to cutting-edge projects focused on surgical outcomes and health equity. Prior to that, she worked as a medical assistant at the Illinois Dermatology Institute (2020–2023), a physical therapist assistant at RUSH Rehabilitation (2018–2021), and an EMT at Medical Express Ambulance (2018–2020). Her roles have spanned both emergency and outpatient care, giving her a comprehensive clinical foundation. In addition to her hands-on experience, she’s actively involved in medical education as a mentor and peer leader at UICOM. Camille also volunteers in both clinical and community settings, including Face the Future Foundation and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital. Her practical and research experience across diverse settings reinforces her trajectory as a future physician-leader in gender-affirming and reconstructive surgery.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Camille Blackman has been recognized for both academic and athletic excellence. She is a recipient of the prestigious Academic All-Big Ten award (2013–2016) and earned the John and Rita Canning and Dinn Brothers Student-Athlete Scholarships while at Northwestern University. In athletics, she is a Tracksmith-sponsored elite runner and has posted competitive times in major races, including a 2:48 marathon and top finishes in the Chicago 13.1 and Shamrock Shuffle. Her early accolades include the Western Massachusetts Athlete of the Year and the Tommy Cochary High School Mile Grant. As a medical student, she was selected for the Surgical Exploration and Discovery (SEAD) program and received a $25,000 pilot grant from the Hopkins Business of Health Initiative as a co-investigator for transgender health systems innovation. Her honors reflect a rare combination of scientific acumen, athletic discipline, and community impact, affirming her multifaceted contributions to medicine and public health.

🔬 Research Focus

Camille Blackman’s research centers on gender-affirming care, surgical education, and health disparities. At the Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender and Gender Expansive Health, she explores clinical outcomes related to chest masculinization and hormone therapy, and contributes to the development of transgender health infrastructure. She has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications on subjects such as craniofacial surgery techniques, body mass index implications in gender-affirming surgeries, and innovative educational approaches like clay modeling in anatomy instruction. Camille’s forthcoming book chapters on vaginoplasty and transgender care centers further establish her as an emerging scholar in surgical education and gender health equity. She has presented her work at high-profile conferences, including the Plastic Surgery Research Council and the Sexual Medicine Society of North America. Through her research, Camille aims to enhance inclusivity, clinical outcomes, and the surgical learning experience, particularly in areas where historically marginalized populations have faced significant healthcare gaps.

✅ Conclusion

Camille Blackman is a future physician and trailblazer in gender-affirming healthcare whose interdisciplinary expertise, clinical compassion, and research innovation are advancing inclusive medicine, educational reform, and equity in surgical outcomes.

Publications

Lucas Muñoz-Lopez | Neuroscience | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Dr. Lucas Muñoz-Lopez | Neuroscience | Best Academic Researcher Award

El Dr. Lucas Muñoz-López 🎓 es logopeda neurológico especializado en rehabilitación logopédica en daño neurológico 🧠, con amplia experiencia clínica y académica 👨‍🏫. Tras graduarse en Logopedia por la Universidad de Granada en 2015, combinó práctica profesional y formación de posgrado, incluyendo dos másteres y un doctorado con mención Cum Laude 🏅. Ha ejercido como docente universitario en Melilla y Ceuta, y colabora en investigación con publicaciones en revistas como Frontiers in Psychology 📖. Además, ha tutorizado numerosos TFG y TFM 🎓. Su trabajo integra logopedia clínica, investigación sobre alteraciones de la comunicación y neurociencias, aportando al avance académico y a la rehabilitación de pacientes. Es autor de un libro publicado y miembro activo en proyectos de evaluación y tratamiento en contextos educativos y sanitarios 🏥. Su pasión por la docencia y la terapia lo posiciona como referente en logopedia clínica e investigación 📈.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Muñoz-López 🧠 inició su carrera académica con el Grado en Logopedia (2015) en la Universidad de Granada 🎓, complementándolo ese mismo año con un Máster en Logopedia Clínica en Daño Cerebral (Isep Clinic, Madrid) 💡. En 2017 completó su segundo máster en Neurociencias Básicas y Aplicadas y Dolor en la Facultad de Medicina de Granada 🔬. Culminó su formación con un Doctorado en Psicología y Logopedia en la Universidad de Granada (2021) con mención Cum Laude 🏅, convirtiéndose en experto en alteraciones de la comunicación y rehabilitación neurológica 🧬. Su formación académica combina sólidos conocimientos clínicos, teóricos y metodológicos para abordar con éxito la intervención logopédica y la investigación científica 🏛️. Además, su trabajo refleja una constante actualización y compromiso con la excelencia educativa y terapéutica 💯.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Desde 2015, el Dr. Muñoz-López 🩺 ha desarrollado una sólida trayectoria profesional como logopeda clínico, combinando práctica asistencial con docencia universitaria 👨‍🏫. Ha ejercido en el Centro de Valoración y Orientación de Granada como Auxiliar Técnico en Logopedia 🏥, además de impartir clases en los campus de Ceuta y Melilla de la Universidad de Granada 📚. Ha sido tutor de TFG y TFM en varias universidades, incluyendo la Universidad de Granada y la Universidad Internacional de La Rioja ✍️. Su experiencia docente abarca asignaturas de logopedia, neuropsicología y psicopedagogía en grados y másteres universitarios 🎓. Además, colabora activamente en proyectos de intervención educativa, rehabilitación y formación de futuros profesionales. Su enfoque multidisciplinar y experiencia en contextos clínicos y penitenciarios 🏛️ le permiten aplicar soluciones eficaces e innovadoras en su área.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Muñoz-López ha recibido mención Cum Laude 🎖️ por su tesis doctoral en Psicología y Logopedia en la Universidad de Granada (2021) 🏅. Su tesis fue publicada como libro 📗, reafirmando su valor académico. Ha logrado publicar en la revista Frontiers in Psychology (Q2, JCR 2.99) 🧠, destacándose en el área de psicología y neurociencias. También ha publicado en la revista Journal for Educators, Teachers and Trainers, indexada en bases relevantes como Scopus y Dialnet 📖. Su libro fue editado por la Editorial Académica Española, con índice ICEE de 0.299 📘. Estos reconocimientos consolidan su reputación científica, reflejando la calidad y relevancia de su producción académica, así como su compromiso con la excelencia investigadora y docente 🧑‍🔬✨.

Research Interests 🔬

El Dr. Muñoz-López centra su investigación en la rehabilitación logopédica de alteraciones de la comunicación 🗣️, disfagia 🥄 y terapia miofuncional 💪, con especial atención a contextos neurológicos y penitenciarios 🏛️. Su trabajo profundiza en la intersección entre neurociencias, psicología y logopedia 🧠, explorando tanto enfoques clínicos como educativos. Ha contribuido al avance del conocimiento en alteraciones del lenguaje, evaluación cognitiva y técnicas de intervención para pacientes con daño cerebral adquirido 🧬. Además, participa en estudios sobre integración social, intervención educativa en contextos de riesgo y psicología forense ⚖️. Su enfoque combina metodología cuantitativa, intervención basada en evidencia y aplicación clínica, orientado siempre a mejorar la calidad de vida de las personas con trastornos de la comunicación 💬💡.

Publications

  • Validation and Spanish Adaptation of the Resilience Scale ER-23 in a University Population

    Healthcare
    2025-04-12 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/healthcare13080886
    CONTRIBUTORS: Isabel Ramírez-Uclés; Julia Otero; F. Pablo Holgado-Tello; Lucas Muñoz-López; María B. Sánchez-Barrer

  • Analysis of writing in personality disorders in prison population

    Frontiers in Psychiatry
    2024 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1391463
    EID:
    Part ofISSN: 16640640
    CONTRIBUTORS: Muñoz-López, L.; Fernández-García-Valdecasas, B.; López-Rodríguez, S.; Sánchez-Barrera, M.B.

  • Transformation of Higher Education: Discussion of the Dimensions, Trends and Scenarios of Change in Ibero-America

    Education Sciences
    2024 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/educsci14050523
    Part ofISSN: 22277102
    CONTRIBUTORS: Fernández Cruz, M.; Fernández García Valdecasas, B.; Muñoz López, L.; López Rodríguez, S

  • Associations of Reversal Learning Performance With Personality Disorder Profile and Drug Abuse History in a Sample of Prison Inmates

    2024-09-18 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1177/10731911241278307
    CONTRIBUTORS: Raquel Martín-Ríos; José C. Perales; Francisca López-Torrecillas; Lucas Muñoz Lóp

Jolanta Dorszewska | Neurobiology | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Jolanta Dorszewska | Neurobiology | Women Researcher Award

Professor Jolanta Dorszewska is a globally recognized neuroscientist and pharmacologist based at Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland 🧠🇵🇱. She leads the Laboratory of Neurobiology, exploring the molecular and genetic basis of neurodegenerative diseases 🧬. With over 35 years of academic experience, her work spans neurochemistry, clinical neurology, and genetic research in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease 🧪. A prolific author, she has contributed to 80+ research papers, 50+ reviews, and 30+ book chapters 📚. She serves on editorial boards of top neuroscience journals and holds leadership roles in national and international neurological societies 🌍.

Profile

Education 🎓

Prof. Dorszewska earned her M.Sc. in Pharmacy with distinction from Poznan University of Medical Sciences in 1987 🏅. She completed board certifications in Pharmaceutical Analytics (1990 & 1997) and received her Ph.D. in 1996 🧪. In 2004, she qualified as an Associate Professor and achieved full Professorship in 2016 🎓. Her academic growth includes training in medical genetics from 2012 to 2020 🧬. Her education reflects an evolving blend of pharmacy, neurobiology, and genetics, forming the foundation of her current research excellence 💡.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Prof. Dorszewska began as an Assistant in the Dept. of Pharmacy (1987-88), then in Clinical Neurochemistry (1988-96) at PUMS 👩‍🔬. She was a Research Scientist in New York (1999–2000) 🗽 and has led the Laboratory of Neurobiology since 2004 🧠. She became Full Professor in 2022 🏛️. She also lectured at the National High Medical School in Pila (2012–2018) 📖. Her career blends hands-on research, global collaboration, and dedicated academic leadership 📚. She continues to mentor, publish, and drive innovations in neurology and neurochemistry 🚀

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Awards and Honors:
Prof. Dorszewska is a Local Honorary Member of the 12th World Congress on Controversies in Neurology (2018) 🌐. She has served as Guest Editor for 6 prestigious theme issues and holds editorial roles in top-tier journals like Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience and Current Alzheimer Research 📘. A section and associate editor for journals across the USA, UK, and Poland 🌍, she’s a key figure in scientific publishing 🖋️. She’s affiliated with the Polish Academy of Sciences and international neurological societies and has co-edited 5 books 📚.

Research Interests 🔬

Research Focus:
Her research spans lipid metabolism in hypoxia 🧫, cerebral sterols 🧠, neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine) 🧪, apoptosis in aging and disease (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s) 💔, and gene polymorphisms (MTHFR, MAO-B, PARK) 🧬. She investigates homocysteine metabolism, catecholamine pathways, and molecular changes in neurodegeneration 🧠. Since 2009, she’s focused on genetic mutations (PARK, APOE), biomarkers (ASN, microRNAs), and migraine genetics ⚙️. She uses advanced techniques like HPLC, PCR, ELISA, and immunohistochemistry 🔍. Her interdisciplinary work integrates neurobiology, pharmacogenomics, and molecular neuroscience in tackling brain diseases 🚀.

Publications 

  • Genetic variants of ZNF746 and the level of plasma Parkin, PINK1, and ZNF746 proteins in patients with Parkinson’s disease

    IBRO Neuroscience Reports
    2025-06 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2025.01.016
    CONTRIBUTORS: Jolanta Dorszewska; Jolanta Florczak-Wyspiańska; Bartosz Słowikowski; Wojciech Owecki; Oliwia Szymanowicz; Ulyana Goutor; Mateusz Dezor; Paweł P. Jagodziński; Wojciech Kozubski

  • Kinesiotherapeutic Possibilities and Molecular Parameters in Multiple Sclerosis

    Sclerosis
    2025-04-03 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/sclerosis3020013
    CONTRIBUTORS: Katarzyna Wiszniewska; Małgorzata Wilk; Małgorzata Wiszniewska; Joanna Poszwa; Oliwia Szymanowicz; Wojciech Kozubski; Jolanta Dorszewsk

  • Unraveling the Role of Proteinopathies in Parasitic Infections

    Biomedicines
    2025-03-03 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines13030610
    CONTRIBUTORS: Mikołaj Hurła; Damian Pikor; Natalia Banaszek-Hurła; Alicja Drelichowska; Jolanta Dorszewska; Wojciech Kozubski; Elżbieta Kacprzak; Małgorzata Paul

  • Expression of Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor and Early Oxidative DNA Damage in Aging Rat Brain—The Effects of Memantine

    International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    2025-02-14 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/ijms26041634
    CONTRIBUTORS: Małgorzata Anna Lewandowska; Agata Różycka; Teresa Grzelak; Bartosz Kempisty; Paweł Piotr Jagodziński; Margarita Lianeri; Jolanta Dorszewska

Pin Wang | Neuroimmunology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Pin Wang | Neuroimmunology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Pin Wang, a female medical doctor and postdoctoral researcher, is an Associate Chief Physician in Neurology at the Second Hospital of Shandong University. She earned her PhD in Neurology from Shandong University in 2009 and was a visiting scholar at the NIH, USA. She specializes in neuroimmunology, focusing on multiple sclerosis and related disorders. Dr. Wang has led research funded by the Shandong Natural Science Foundation and the Department of Education, with multiple SCI-indexed publications.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Wang obtained her PhD in Neurology from Shandong University School of Medicine in 2009. From 2012 to 2013, she trained at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), NIH, under Dr. Bibiana Bielekova, focusing on immune-mediated neurological diseases. Her education integrates clinical neurology, research, and teaching, positioning her as an expert in demyelinating diseases and neuroimmune disorders.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Wang has extensive experience in neurology, combining clinical practice, teaching, and research. She worked at NIH, studying neuroimmune disease mechanisms and participated in the FDA-approved daclizumab clinical trials for multiple sclerosis. She is an Associate Chief Physician at Shandong University’s Second Hospital and actively contributes to patient care, student training, and neurological research, particularly in neuroimmunology.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Wang specializes in multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, myelitis, optic neuritis, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, and myasthenia gravis. Her research explores immune-mediated neurological diseases, oxidative stress in demyelination, and environmental neurotoxins in neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr. Wang has received funding from the Shandong Natural Science Foundation and the Department of Education for her research in neurological disorders. Her contributions to neuroimmunology have been recognized through multiple SCI publications and conference presentations. She plays an active role in professional neurology and immunology committees in Shandong Province.

Publications 📚

Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Prof Dr. Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Best Researcher Award

Asst. Prof. Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez is a neuroscientist at İstanbul Nişantaşı University, specializing in neurodegenerative diseases, neuroprotection, and the gut-brain axis. She completed her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at Istanbul University in 2013 and has been a faculty member since 2014. Her research spans Alzheimer’s, autism, and Parkinson’s disease, focusing on stem cell therapies and functional foods for cognitive enhancement. She has led TÜSEB-approved projects and holds patents on bioactive functional foods. Aynur teaches Neurology, Cognitive Neurophysiology, and Industrial Biotechnology. She actively contributes to cutting-edge innovations, particularly in prebiotic-microbiota interactions.

Profile

Education 🎓

Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez earned her Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Istanbul University in 2013. Her academic journey emphasized neurobiology, neurodegenerative disease mechanisms, and innovative therapeutic strategies. Her doctoral research focused on neuroprotective compounds in Alzheimer’s disease. Before her Ph.D., she pursued studies in molecular biology and biotechnology, refining her expertise in cellular neuroscience. Throughout her education, she collaborated on interdisciplinary projects, integrating neurophysiology with pharmacological advancements. Her postdoctoral research extended into translational neuroscience, bridging laboratory findings with clinical applications. Aynur’s academic foundation laid the groundwork for her extensive research on cognitive function, stem cell therapy, and the gut-brain axis.

Experience 👨‍🏫

With over a decade of experience, Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez has been an Assistant Professor at İstanbul Nişantaşı University since 2014. She has led multiple national and international neuroscience projects, including TÜSEB-approved research on Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Aynur has played a pivotal role in developing functional foods aimed at cognitive enhancement and has secured patents for novel bioactive compounds. She actively collaborates with industry and academia, integrating neuroscience with biotechnology. Her teaching portfolio includes Neurology, Cognitive Neurophysiology, and Industrial Biotechnology. She has also mentored numerous graduate students in neuropharmacology and neurodegenerative research.

Research Interests 🔬

Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez’s research focuses on neurodegenerative diseases, neuroprotection, and the gut-brain axis. She explores innovative therapies for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and autism, with a strong emphasis on stem cell applications. Her work investigates the neuroprotective potential of bioactive compounds and functional foods, aiming to enhance cognitive function. She has pioneered research on the microbiota-brain relationship, particularly the role of prebiotics in neurodegeneration. Aynur’s projects also include SNP-based qPCR diagnostic tools for Alzheimer’s risk assessment. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, she integrates neuroscience with biotechnology, advancing the understanding of cognitive disorders and potential therapeutic interventions.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez has received multiple awards for her contributions to neuroscience, including national research grants and innovation awards for her work on functional foods for neuroprotection. She was honored by TÜSEB for her groundbreaking research in stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease. Her patented functional chocolate enriched with bioactive compounds received recognition for its cognitive benefits. Aynur has also been awarded project grants from TÜBİTAK for her research on neurodegeneration. She has been invited as a keynote speaker at international neuroscience conferences and has been recognized for her contributions to cognitive science.

Publications 📚

  • Attila Altunel, Aynur Muduroglu-Kirmizibekmez, Alparslan Onder, Ozlem Altunel, Ali
    Sever, Ihsan Kara, Efficacy of ACTH therapy in children with Landau-Kleffner Syndrome
    and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A retrospective analysis, Epilepsy & Behavior,Vol
    165,2025,110308, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2025.11030
  • Muduroglu-Kirmizibekmez A, Cati C, Onder A, Aydin S, Kara I. Investigation of the acute
    impact of rosemary consumption on brain activity in healthy volunteers. Nutr
    Neurosci. 2024 Jul 6:1-12. doi: 10.1080/1028415X.2024.2370729. Epub ahead of print.
    PMID: 38970803.
  • Biliz Y, Hasdemir B, Başpınar Küçük H, Zaim M, Şentürk AM, Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez
    A, Kara İ. Novel N-Acyl Hydrazone Compounds as Promising Anticancer Agents:
    Synthesis and Molecular Docking Studies. ACS Omega. 2023 May 20;8(22):20073-
    20084. doi: 10.1021/acsomega.3c02361. PMID: 37305237; PMCID: PMC10249086.
  • Aydin S, Erözden AA, Tavşanlı N, Müdüroğlu A, Çalışkan M, Kara İ. Anthocyanin
    Addition to Kefir: Metagenomic Analysis of Microbial Community Structure. Curr
    Microbiol. 2022 Sep 20;79(11):327. doi: 10.1007/s00284-022-03017-x. PMID:
    36125585
  • Altunel Atilla, Müdüroğlu Kirmizibekmez Aynur, Altunel Emine Özlem (2022).
    Hypsarrhythmia Paroxysm Intensities that Initiate and Render Physical & Mental
    Retardation Irreversible in West Syndrome. International Journal of Neuroscience,
    DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2022.2078208 (Publication No: 7685958)

Carmela Conte | Neurodegenerative diseases | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Prof Dr. Carmela Conte | Neurodegenerative diseases | Best Researcher Award

 

Profile

Education

Carmela Conte obtained her Master’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Perugia on November 3, 1994. She then pursued a Ph.D. in Medical Embryology through a joint program between the Universities of Perugia and Ferrara, completing it between December 30, 1996, and January 19, 2000. Following this, she specialized in Chemistry and Food Technology at the University of Perugia, earning her specialization between November 1, 2000, and November 1, 2002. Most recently, on September 29, 2023, she received National Habilitation as an Associate Professor in Biochemistry. She currently serves as an Aggregate Professor in her field.

Work experience

Since September 7, 2007, Carmela Conte has been serving as an Aggregate Professor in Biochemistry at the University of Perugia, where she teaches courses in General and Systematic Biochemistry, Medical Applied Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she participated in a Teaching and Training Mobility Program at VUMC Medical University of Amsterdam from June 24 to July 5, 2019, where she worked on a research project investigating the role of Toll-like receptors in Parkinson’s disease. She has been a member of the European Society for Neurochemistry since 2007 and, since March 17, 2022, has also been affiliated with the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Research Activity

Carmela Conte’s research focuses on neurodegenerative diseases, with particular emphasis on animal models, signal transduction, molecular biology, and cell biology. Her specific research topics include the role of Toll-like receptors in Parkinson’s disease, neuroinflammation, synucleinopathies, oxidative stress, and Parkinson’s disease. Since September 7, 2007, she has been actively involved in editorial work, serving as a Reviewer Editor for Frontiers in Neuroscience (Neurodegeneration section) and as an ad hoc reviewer for several journals, including Amino Acids, The Cerebellum, Free Radical Research, Biomolecules, PLOS One, Experimental Gerontology, Molecules, Cells, Neurochemical Research, Neuroscience, Pharmacological Reports, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Viruses, and the Journal of Biotechnology. Additionally, she has been a Guest Editor for Molecules and Cells, overseeing special issues and topic collections on neurodegenerative diseases. She has presented her research at numerous scientific meetings and conferences, including the 2009 Meeting of the European Society for Neurochemistry in Leipzig, the 2019 European Biotechnology Congress in Valencia, the 2021 European Biotechnology Congress in Sofia, the 2022 National Meeting of the Sphingolipid Club, and the 2023 Meeting of Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders, where she discussed findings related to Toll-like receptor 4, alpha-synuclein accumulation, and sphingomyelinase activity in Parkinson’s disease models.

Publication

Wei Jiang | Cognitive and neuropathology | Women Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

 Dr. Wei Jiang | Cognitive and neuropathology | Women Researcher Award

Medical University of South Carolina , United States

Her academic focus includes microbiome, B cell/autoantibody interactions, and disease pathogenesis, with particular emphasis on HIV, addictive drugs, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). She is involved in several clinical and translational research projects, including R01DA059854 (Jiang & Sheng), investigating the impacts of drug abuse on autoantibodies and immune reconstitution in HIV. She also works on CSRD Merit I01 CX002422, exploring B cell-mediated immunological failure in HIV-infected individuals on antiretroviral therapy. Additionally, she contributes to NIDA-funded studies, such as R01DA055523, examining the oral microbiome’s effect on cognition in HIV-infected cannabis users, and R01DA059538, investigating HIV persistence in cocaine users. Furthermore, she collaborates on a Translational Science Award project exploring the oral microbiome’s impact on cognition in Alzheimer’s disease.

 

 

Profile

Education:

She earned her M.S. in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Case Western Reserve University, Medical School, Cleveland, USA, in 2012. Prior to that, she completed a Postdoctoral fellowship at Case Western Reserve University, Medical School, Cleveland, USA, in 2008. She holds an M.S. in Immunology from Capital Medical University, Beijing, China, which she completed in 2001. She also received her M.D. in Internal Medicine from Capital Medical University, Beijing, China, in 1997.

BRIEF RESEARCH INTEREST STATEMENT:

She has 8 years of clinical experience in infectious diseases and 22 years of translational research experience in disease immunopathogenesis. As a corresponding author, she has published 52 peer-reviewed articles on microbiome and disease immunopathogenesis in high-profile journals like Microbiome, Arthritis & Rheumatology, J Autoimmunity, and EbioMedicine, bringing her total number of peer-reviewed publications to 101. As a physician-scientist, she has served as Principal Investigator on five R01 grants from NIAID or NIDA, along with a VA clinical merit grant, focusing on microbiomes, drug abuse, autoimmunity, and HIV immunopathogenesis. Her research primarily focuses on two major areas. The first is understanding the role of B cell perturbation and autoantibodies in disease pathogenesis, particularly in HIV and SLE. In 2017, her team first determined that autoimmunity impacts antiretroviral therapy outcomes in HIV without inducing autoimmune disease. This concept was later corroborated in studies on COVID-19. Her team is currently developing monoclonal autoantibodies and inhibitors to prevent anti-CD4 autoantibody binding, aiming to improve CD4+ T cell recovery and reduce morbidity in HIV patients. The second area of focus is the role of microbiomes in disease pathogenesis, including HIV, SLE, and drug abuse. She has identified the impact of disease-associated pathobionts on immune perturbations and disease progression, with findings validated in animal models. Her microbiome research is supported by R01DA055523.

TRAINING, PROFESSIONAL APPOINTMENTS

She currently serves on the Appointment, Promotion & Tenure (APT) committee in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Medical University of South Carolina, a position she has held since 2024. She was promoted to Full Professor with tenure in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine at the same institution in 2023. She has been a Faculty Senator for the College of Medicine and a Research Health Scientist at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center since 2022. Additionally, she is a member of the Translational Science Laboratory IAC (2020-2022) and the MUSC College’s Curriculum Committee (2019-Present). She has held various positions at MUSC, including Associate Professor (2018-2022) and Assistant Professor (2012-2018) in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. Since 2018, she has been a member of the Hollings Cancer Center at MUSC and has served on the award committee for the Advancement, Recruitment, and Retention of Women in Science. Her academic career began as an Instructor (2008-2012) and Research Associate (2002-2008) at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.

AWARDS

She received her Chinese Board of Internal Medicine certification in Infectious Diseases in July 1997 and was certified as an Attending Medical Doctor in Infectious Diseases in November 1999 (No: 10203C089758). In July 1997, she also earned a Teacher Qualification from the Educational Institute, National Educational Committee in China (No: 971100071069382). Her licensure is from Beijing, China.

She has received several awards throughout her career, including the Laboratory Travel Grant from the American Association of Immunologists (AAI) in 2019, the MUSC High Impact Research Publication Award in 2019, and multiple travel grants from AAI for various international immunology congresses. She was awarded the Early Career Faculty Travel Grant by AAI and ECI in 2018 and 2017, and received the Travel Award and HIV Section Chair recognition at the 2016 International Congress of Immunology. In 2015, she was honored with the MUSC Foundation Developing Scholar Award and an Early Career Faculty Travel Grant from AAI. Her earlier achievements include multiple Young Investigator Awards from the 13th and 15th Conferences on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (2006, 2008) and the Keystone Meeting on HIV Pathogenesis (2006, 2008). Additionally, she was recognized as an Outstanding Student Leader for five consecutive years during her medical school years from 1986 to 1991.

OTHER EXPERIENCE AND PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

She has held several key professional roles and memberships throughout her career. Since 2024, she has been serving as a mentor for the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) Future Leaders Mentorship Fellowship (FLMF) Program. She is a member of the Society on NeuroImmune Pharmacology 2024 committee and has been a Treasurer Elect for the Association of Chinese Virologists in America from 2022 to 2024. She has been a member of the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) since 2021 and the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) since 2020. She has also been serving on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology since 2019 and is a member of the Society on NeuroImmune Pharmacology. Additionally, she has been part of the Society of Chinese Bioscientists in America (SCBA) and the American College of Rheumatology since 2018. She has contributed as an award committee member for the Advancement, Recruitment, and Retention of Women in Science at the Medical University of South Carolina since 2017 and is an associate member of the Hollings Cancer Center at MUSC.

She is also an active member of the MUSC Oral Health Center, College of Dental Medicine, and the Medical University of South Carolina College of Graduate Studies. Her previous memberships include being part of the American Association of Immunologists from 2011 to 2021, the Center for AIDS Research from 2008 to 2012, and the AIDS Clinic Trial Group since 2008. Her certification in Chinese Board of Internal Medicine in Infectious Diseases dates back to 1997, along with her teacher qualification from the Educational Institute, National Educational Committee, China.

CURRENT RESEARCH PROJECTS

She is currently leading several impactful research projects. As the Principal Investigator (PI) on R01DA059854 (9/30/2024-5/31/2029), funded by NIDA with a total of $3,924,302, she is studying the impacts of drug abuse-mediated inflammatory perturbations on affinity maturation of anti-CD4 autoantibodies and poor immune reconstitution from ART in HIV. This project aims to understand the role of cocaine in autoimmunity and immune recovery in HIV patients. Her role in this project is as PI (25% effort).

She is also a multiPI on R01DA059538 (9/30/2023-7/31/2028), with a total of $1,724,585 from NIDA, investigating host gene isoforms contributing to HIV persistence in cocaine users. The study focuses on identifying gene isoforms associated with HIV infection in elite controllers and its implications for cocaine users. Her role is PI (25% effort).

In addition, she is the PI on I01CX002422 (3/1/2022-2/28/2026), funded by the VA Medical Center CSRD Merit with a total of $1,195,899. This project examines the mechanism of autoreactive B cell-mediated immunological failure in HIV-infected individuals on antiretroviral therapy despite virologic suppression. She is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of anti-CD4 IgG-producing B cells and the pathologic effects of anti-CD4 autoantibodies. Her role is PI with 62.5% effort.

Additionally, she is involved as multiPI on R01DA055523 (9/30/2022-7/31/2027), with a total funding of $1,731,992, where she is working alongside Fitting to investigate the effects of microbiome-related mechanisms on H

 Publication