Zerrin Kutlu | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zerrin Kutlu | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Ataturk University | Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zerrin Kutlu is a leading biochemist whose research focuses on oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, inflammation, and diabetes-related complications, with an emphasis on elucidating molecular mechanisms underlying organ injury and cardiometabolic disorders. Her work spans ischemic heart injury, sepsis-induced organ damage, osteoporosis, and metabolic disease models, highlighting the interplay between oxidative stress and cellular dysfunction. Dr. Zerrin Kutlu has authored 15 Scopus-indexed publications, cited 211 times, with an h-index of 9, reflecting the impact and recognition of her research in the scientific community. She has contributed book chapters and served extensively as a peer reviewer and editorial board member for high-impact journals. Her pioneering studies on avasopasem manganese as a superoxide dismutase mimetic, alongside investigations of ATE1 enzyme biology, have provided novel insights into therapeutic strategies for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. She has advanced translational research through nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, phenolic compound-loaded nanoparticles, and bioactive natural molecules, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of antioxidant and cytoprotective agents. In collaboration with industry and interdisciplinary teams, Dr. Zerrin Kutlu has developed boron-based bioactive compounds for dermo cosmetic and UV-protective applications, supported by TÜBİTAK-funded projects. Her portfolio includes multiple patents, international publications, and leadership in multi-center experimental studies, underscoring her commitment to innovation and scientific excellence. Through these contributions, Dr. Zerrin Kutlu has significantly advanced understanding of redox biology, ER stress modulation, and translational pharmacology, establishing herself as a recognized leader in biomedical research and therapeutic innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  • Dumlu, F. A., Aydin, T., Odabasoglu, F., Berktas, O. A., Kutlu, Z., Erol, H. S., … (2019). Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of jervine, a steroidal alkaloid from rhizomes of Veratrum album. Phytomedicine, 55, 191–199.

  • Koc, K., Geyikoglu, F., Cakmak, O., Koca, A., Kutlu, Z., Aysin, F., Yilmaz, A., … (2021). The targets of β-sitosterol as a novel therapeutic against cardio-renal complications in acute renal ischemia/reperfusion damage. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology, 394(3), 469–479.

  • Karaoğlan, E. S., Albayrak, A., Kutlu, Z., & Bayır, Y. (2018). Gastroprotective and antioxidant effects of Eremurus spectabilis Bieb. methanol extract and its isolated component isoorientin on indomethacin-induced gastric damage. Acta Cirúrgica Brasileira, 33, 609–618.

  • Akpinar, E., Kutlu, Z., Kose, D., Aydin, P., Tavaci, T., Bayraktutan, Z., & Yuksel, T. N. (2022). Protective effects of idebenone against sepsis-induced acute lung damage. Journal of Investigative Surgery, 35(3), 560–568.

  • Kutlu, Z., Celik, M., Bilen, A., Halıcı, Z., Yıldırım, S., Karabulut, S., & Karakaya, S. (2020). Effects of umbelliferone isolated from the Ferulago pauciradiata Boiss. & Heldr. plant on cecal ligation and puncture-induced sepsis model in rats. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 127, 110206.

Prabhjot Singla | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Prabhjot Singla | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Punjab Agricultural University | India

Dr. Prabhjot Singla, PhD, is a dedicated plant biochemist specializing in plant defense mechanisms, multi-omics analyses, and biochemical characterization of crops. She earned her Ph.D. from Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India in 2020, focusing on stripe rust resistance genes in barley, following her M.Sc. in Biochemistry in 2015, where she investigated protein profiling in lupin genotypes. Dr. Singla has held positions as Guest Faculty at Panjab University and PCTE Group of Institutes, and as Junior and Senior Research Fellow at ICAR-CIPHET and Punjab Agricultural University, contributing to the DBT-BUILDER Interdisciplinary Life Sciences program. Her research expertise includes pest rearing, phenotypic assessment of cotton genotypes, development of disease resistance scales, biochemical enzyme assays, and transcriptome analysis of defense-related genes. She has authored numerous impactful publications, including Insight into the effect of girdling on morpho-physiological parameters of ‘YaLi’ pear, Nutritional, physicochemical, and sensorial characterisation of quinoa-millet enriched gluten-free functional cookies (Acta Alimentaria), and Metabolic adjustments during compatible interaction between barley genotypes and stripe rust pathogen (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry). According to Scopus, Dr. Prabhjot Singla has 14 documents, 113 citations, and an h-index of 7. Recognized with several fellowships and academic honors, she combines rigorous scientific expertise with extensive experience in plant biochemistry and crop improvement research, demonstrating significant contributions to her field.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  • Singla, P., Mahajan, M., Dhillon, G. K., Sharma, S., & Waseem, M. (2024). Nutritional, physicochemical, and sensorial characterisation of quinoa-millet enriched gluten-free functional cookies. Acta Alimentaria, 53(4), 673–684.

  • Singla, P., Sharda, R., Sharma, S., Gulati, D., Pandey, K., Singh, N. P., Singh, P. K., & Sharma, A. (2023). Variation in physio-chemical attributes and WUE during growth and development of Pak choi (Brassica rapa L. subsp. chinensis L.) under different drip fertigation and mulching treatments. Acta Alimentaria, 52(3), 458–468.

  • Kaur, M., Bhardwaj, R. D., Singla, P., Kaur, S., & Grewal, S. K. (2023). Drought stress-induced alterations in source–sink relationships in barley during grain development. Gesunde Pflanzen, 75, 2401–2412.

  • Singla, P., Bhardwaj, R. D., Kaur, S., & Kaur, J. (2020). Metabolic adjustments during compatible interaction between barley genotypes and stripe rust pathogen. Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 147, 295–302.

  • Singla, P., Bhardwaj, R. D., Kaur, S., & Kaur, J. (2020). Stripe rust induced defence mechanisms in the leaves of contrasting barley genotypes (Hordeum vulgare L.) at the seedling stage. Protoplasma, 257, 169–181.

  • Singla, P., Sharma, S., & Singh, S. (2017). Amino acid composition, protein fractions and electrophoretic analysis of seed storage proteins in lupins. Indian Journal of Agricultural Biochemistry, 30(1), 33–40.

Meng Ning | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Meng Ning | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Chiba University | China

Dr. Meng Ning is an accomplished researcher at Chiba University, Japan, recognized for her pioneering work in the epigenetic regulation of cancer. She has made substantial contributions to understanding the non-catalytic roles of chromatin regulators, particularly in gastric cancer. Her expertise bridges molecular biology and clinical gastrointestinal oncology, enabling her to translate laboratory discoveries into potential therapeutic strategies. Meng Ning is known for her meticulous experimental design, innovative application of genome-editing technologies, and dedication to advancing cancer research through both independent studies and collaborative projects.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Meng Ning completed her doctoral studies at Chiba University, Japan, where she focused on elucidating novel mechanisms of cancer progression. Her Ph.D. research revealed a previously unrecognized non-catalytic function of SETD1A in gastric cancer via the E2F4–TAF6 axis. Employing advanced techniques including transcriptomics, epigenomics, and genome-editing approaches, she was able to demonstrate this mechanism independently of traditional methyltransferase activity. Her academic training combines rigorous laboratory research with a strong foundation in clinical oncology, preparing her to conduct translational studies that link fundamental discoveries with therapeutic potential.

Experience

Dr. Meng Ning has extensive experience in both experimental and translational cancer research. She has collaborated with the Department of Pathology at the University of Tokyo to analyze clinical gastric cancer specimens, integrating molecular findings with patient data. Her work spans NGS-based studies, CRISPR genome editing, and multi-omics analyses, reflecting a versatile approach to cancer biology. Beyond laboratory research, she has contributed to the mentorship of junior researchers, participated in collaborative projects across institutions, and actively engaged in the scientific community through professional society memberships and research networks.

Research Interests

Dr. Meng Ning’s primary research interest lies in the epigenetic regulation of cancer, with a focus on non-catalytic functions of chromatin regulators. She investigates how these regulators influence tumor proliferation, cellular signaling, and transcriptional networks using advanced molecular biology techniques. Her research integrates next-generation sequencing, genome editing, and integrative bioinformatics to identify novel mechanisms underlying cancer progression. By connecting these molecular insights with clinical oncology, she aims to identify potential therapeutic targets and contribute to the development of innovative cancer treatments.

Awards

Dr. Meng Ning is nominated for the Best Researcher Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to cancer epigenetics and translational oncology. Her research has introduced novel concepts in understanding chromatin regulator function and tumor biology, demonstrating originality, technical excellence, and significant impact in the field. Her dedication to advancing cancer research through rigorous experimentation and collaborative endeavors positions her as a leading researcher in her discipline.

Publications

Dr. Meng Ning has authored several high-impact, SCI-indexed publications as first or contributing author. Her work demonstrates innovative methodologies and deep insights into the molecular mechanisms of cancer:

Title: Non-catalytic role of SETD1A promotes gastric cancer cell proliferation through the E2F4–TAF6 axis in the cell cycle
Journal: Cell Death & Disease
Published on: 2025-08-23

Title: Non-enzymatic SETD1A activity drives breast cancer cell proliferation via cyclin K
Journal: Breast Cancer Research
Published on: 2025-08-11

Title: Integrated enhancer regulatory network by enhancer–promoter looping in gastric cancer
Journal: NAR Cancer
Published on: 2024-04-08

Conclusion

Dr. Meng Ning exemplifies excellence in scientific research through her innovative studies in cancer epigenetics and her commitment to translational application. Her work bridges basic molecular discoveries and clinical oncology, offering new avenues for therapeutic development. With a combination of technical skill, collaborative engagement, and visionary research, Meng Ning stands out as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions not only advance the understanding of cancer biology but also inspire ongoing innovation in epigenetic and translational research.

Donath Damian | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Donath Damian | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Dar es Salaam | Tanzania

Dr. Donath Damian is a distinguished researcher and lecturer specializing in Molecular Biosciences. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and an M.Sc. in Medical Biochemistry from Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS). Currently, he serves as a lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam-Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, where he educates and mentors medical students. With extensive research experience in medical biochemistry, molecular biology, viral metagenomics, virology, and zoonotic diseases, he has contributed significantly to scientific advancements. His work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, and he has actively participated in international conferences focusing on diabetes and virology.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Strong Academic Background – Dr. Damian holds a PhD in Molecular Biosciences, along with an MSc in Medical Biochemistry and a BSc in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, showcasing a solid educational foundation in his field.

  • Significant Research Contributions – With over 11 peer-reviewed publications covering topics such as virology, metagenomics, zoonotic diseases, and non-communicable diseases, his research output is commendable.

  • Diverse Research Interests – His work spans various biomedical and molecular biology areas, particularly in diabetes, viral genomics, and tick-borne diseases, reflecting interdisciplinary expertise.

  • Teaching and Mentorship – He contributes to academia by lecturing medical students and supervising research, fostering future professionals in the field.

  • International Collaboration & Conference Participation – Attending multiple conferences and collaborating with researchers worldwide strengthens his credibility as an active contributor to global scientific discourse.

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences (2016-2021) – University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
  • M.Sc. in Medical Biochemistry (2011-2013) – Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS)
  • B.Sc. in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (2003-2006) – University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Experience 📓

Dr. Damian is a seasoned educator and researcher with extensive experience in molecular biosciences. He teaches Medical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Virology, and Molecular Genetics to undergraduate medical students at the University of Dar es Salaam-Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences. He also supervises medical students in their research projects and contributes to advancements in molecular studies related to vector-borne diseases, diabetes, and viral metagenomics.

Research Interests On Biochemistry 🔬

Dr. Damian’s research interests lie in:

  • Medical Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Viral Metagenomics
  • Genomics and Virology
  • Zoonotic Diseases
  • Non-Communicable Diseases
  • Vector-borne diseases and epidemiology

Awards 🏆

  • Recognition for contributions to virology and molecular biosciences research
  • Multiple research grants for studies on tick-borne viruses and zoonotic diseases
  • Acknowledgment for participation in international scientific conferences on diabetes and virology

Selected Publications 📚

  1. Omics for bioprospecting and drug discovery from bacteria and microalgae

    • Authors: R Maghembe, D Damian, A Makaranga, SS Nyandoro, SL Lyantagaye, …

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 71

  2. Application of viral metagenomics for study of emerging and reemerging tick-borne viruses

    • Authors: D Damian, R Maghembe, M Damas, JJ Wensman, M Berg

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 17

  3. Molecular diversity of hard tick species from selected areas of a wildlife-livestock interface ecosystem at Mikumi National Park, Morogoro Region, Tanzania

    • Authors: D Damian, M Damas, JJ Wensman, M Berg

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 12

  4. Genetic Relationship Between Hard Ticks (Ixodidae) Infesting Cattle from Select Areas of a Wildlife–Livestock Interface Ecosystem at Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

    • Authors: D Damian, M Damas, JJ Wensman, M Berg

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 2

  5. The Role of Viruses in Cellular Transformation and Cancer

    • Authors: D Damian

    • Year: 2025

    • Citations: 1

  6. Phylogeny and genetic relationship between hard ticks (Ixodidae) infesting cattle collected from selected areas of a wildlife-livestock interface ecosystem of Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

    • Authors: D Damian, M Damas, JJ Wensman, M Berg

    • Year: 2020

    • Citations: 1

  7. Lipid Profile Abnormalities in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients at Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital, Tanzania: A Retrospective Study

    • Authors: J Mlonga, D Damian

    • Year: 2025

    • Citations: Not listed

  8. Navigating the Landscape of Tick Diversity: Integrating Molecular Approaches for Enhanced Control Measures

    • Authors: D Damian

    • Year: 2025

    • Citations: Not listed

  9. Tick-Borne Viruses of Clinical Significance: A Systematic Review

    • Authors: D Damian

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: Not listed

  10. Diversity of viruses in hard ticks (Ixodidae) from select areas of a wildlife-livestock interface ecosystem at Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

  • Authors: D Damian, M Damas, JJ Wensman, M Berg

  • Year: 2020

Conclusion ✅

Dr. Donath Damian is a dedicated scientist and educator whose research has made significant contributions to the fields of molecular biosciences and medical biochemistry. His work on viral metagenomics, tick-borne diseases, and non-communicable diseases has provided valuable insights into emerging health challenges. Through his teaching, research, and publications, he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of medical professionals while advancing scientific knowledge in his field.

Zhadyrassyn Nurbekova | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Zhadyrassyn Nurbekova | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

Eurasian National University | Kazakhstan

Zhadyrassyn Nurbekova is an accomplished Assistant Professor at L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, specializing in plant physiology and biochemistry. Her academic journey spans Kazakhstan, Israel, and Japan, where she has contributed significantly to the study of aldehyde oxidases and reactive carbonyl species. Dr. Nurbekova’s research has broad implications for improving plant resilience to abiotic stress and understanding molybdoenzymes’ role in detoxifying toxic compounds.

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Diverse Research Experience: Zhadyrassyn has a solid background in biochemistry and plant physiology, with a focus on molybdoenzymes and reactive carbonyl species, which aligns with understanding biochemical pathways relevant to forensic investigations.
  • Interdisciplinary Projects: Her work on detoxification processes and environmental stress response could offer unique insights into forensic toxicology and environmental forensics.
  • International Collaborations: Collaborations with esteemed scientists like Prof. Moshe Sagi and Prof. Junichi Mano, along with internships across Israel, Japan, China, and Poland, showcase a global research perspective.
  • Research Output: Her publication record in high-impact journals and her role as a reviewer for the Journal of Agronomy reflects scientific credibility.
  • Technical Expertise: Proficiency in PCR, qRT-PCR, HPLC, Western blot, and enzyme assays — techniques widely used in forensic labs — is a notable asset.

Education 🎓

  • PhD in Agriculture and Biotechnology (Plant Physiology) (2016-2021) – Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel.
  • Master of Science (MSc) in Biotechnology (2012-2014) – L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Kazakhstan.
  • Bachelor in Biotechnology (2008-2012) – L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Kazakhstan.

Experience 💼

  • Assistant Professor (2024-Present) – L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Kazakhstan.
  • Senior Lecturer (2023-2024) – L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Kazakhstan.
  • Postdoctoral Research Associate (2021-2023) – Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel.
  • Junior Researcher (2014-2016) – L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Kazakhstan.

Research Interests On Biochemistry 🔬

Dr. Nurbekova’s research focuses on:

  • Biochemistry and physiology of molybdoenzymes.
  • Reactive oxygen and carbonyl species in plant stress responses.
  • Aldehyde oxidases’ role in detoxifying carbonyl aldehydes.
  • Aquatic animal biochemistry, particularly molybdenum-cofactor in fish.

Awards 🏆

  • Member of Plant Metal Society since 2022.
  • Recipient of multiple international research internships and collaborations.

Publications 📚

  1. AAO2 impairment improves aldehyde detoxification by AAO3 in Arabidopsis leaves exposed to UVC or Rose Bengal

    • Year: 2023
    • Authors: Zhadyrassyn Nurbekova, Sudhakar Srivastava, Nja Zai Du, Veronica Turečková, Miroslav Strand, Rustem Omarov, Moshe Sagi

  2. Active O-acetylserine-(thiol) lyase A and B confer improved selenium resistance and degrade l-Cys and l-SeCys in Arabidopsis

    • Year: 2022
    • Authors: Kurmanbayeva, A.; Bekturova, A.; Soltabayeva, A.; Oshanova, D.; Nurbekova, Z.; Srivastava, S.; Tiwari, P.; Dubey, A.K.; Sagi, M.

  3. Effect of Salinity and Nitrogen Fertilization Levels on Growth Parameters of Sarcocornia fruticosa, Salicornia brachiata, and Arthrocnemum macrostachyum

    • Year: 2022
    • Authors: Sisay, T.A.; Nurbekova, Z.; Oshanova, D.; Dubey, A.K.; Khatri, K.; Mudgal, V.; Mudgal, A.; Neori, A.; Shpigel, M.; Srivastava, R.K.

  4. Ureides are accumulated similarly in response to UV-C irradiation and wounding in Arabidopsis leaves but are remobilized differently during recovery

    • Year: 2022
    • Authors: Soltabayeva, A.; Bekturova, A.; Kurmanbayeva, A.; Oshanova, D.; Nurbekova, Z.; Srivastava, S.; Standing, D.; Sagi, M.

  5. Adenosine 5′ phosphosulfate reductase and sulfite oxidase regulate sulfite-induced water loss in Arabidopsis

    • Year: 2021
    • Authors: Bekturova, A.; Oshanova, D.; Tiwari, P.; Nurbekova, Z.; Kurmanbayeva, A.; Soltabayeva, A.; Yarmolinsky, D.; Srivastava, S.; Turecková, V.; Strnad, M.

  6. Arabidopsis aldehyde oxidase 3, known to oxidize abscisic aldehyde to abscisic acid, protects leaves from aldehyde toxicity

    • Year: 2021
    • Authors: Nurbekova, Z.; Srivastava, S.; Standing, D.; Kurmanbayeva, A.; Bekturova, A.; Soltabayeva, A.; Oshanova, D.; Turečková, V.; Strand, M.; Biswas, M.S.

  7. Level of Sulfite Oxidase Activity Affects Sulfur and Carbon Metabolism in Arabidopsis

    • Year: 2021
    • Authors: Oshanova, D.; Kurmanbayeva, A.; Bekturova, A.; Soltabayeva, A.; Nurbekova, Z.; Standing, D.; Dubey, A.K.; Sagi, M.

  8. Ureides are similarly accumulated in response to UV-C irradiation and wound but differently remobilized during recovery in Arabidopsis leaves

    • Year: 2021
    • Authors: Soltabayeva, A.; Bekturova, A.; Kurmanbayeva, A.; Oshanova, D.; Nurbekova, Z.; Srivastava, S.; Standing, D.; Sagi, M.

  9. Impairment in O-acetylserine-(thiol) lyase A and B, but not C, confers higher selenate sensitivity and uncovers role for A, B and C as L-Cys and L-SeCys desulfhydrases in Arabidopsis

    • Year: 2020
    • Authors: Kurmanbayeva, A.; Bekturova, A.; Soltabayeva, A.; Srivastava, S.; Oshanova, D.; Nurbekova, Z.; Sagi, M.

  10. Differential influence of molybdenum and tungsten on the growth of barley seedlings and the activity of aldehyde oxidase under salinity

  • Year: 2018
  • Authors: Batyrshina, Z.; Yergaliyev, T.M.; Nurbekova, Z.; Moldakimova, N.A.; Masalimov, Z.K.; Sagi, M.; Omarov, R.T.

Conclusion 📈

Zhadyrassyn Nurbekova’s work has advanced the understanding of plant stress responses and molybdenum enzyme functions, with broad applications for agriculture and aquaculture. Her collaborative spirit and cross-disciplinary expertise make her a leading figure in plant biochemistry and molecular biology, paving the way for future discoveries in environmental and agricultural sciences.