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

Published on by Forensic Scientist

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.

Narayana Nagesh | Biochemistry | Outstanding Scientist Award

Published on by Forensic Scientist

Prof. Narayana Nagesh | Biochemistry | Outstanding Scientist Award

Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad | India

Dr. Narayana Nagesh, Ph.D., FTAS, FRSC, is a distinguished Chief Scientist at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad. With over three decades of experience in chemical biology, he has emerged as a pioneer in DNA chemistry, molecular diagnostics, and anticancer drug development. His career is marked by groundbreaking innovations in G-quadruplex DNA research and molecular probe development, alongside leadership in national scientific projects including COVID-19 testing and mRNA vaccine platforms.

Author Profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

Dr. Narayana Nagesh stands out as an exemplary candidate for the Outstanding Scientist Award due to his sustained, multidisciplinary contributions spanning over three decades at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad. His research rigor and innovation are evident in his 94+ publications in high-impact journals, 2988+ citations, and an h-index of 35, reflecting both volume and influence.

His pioneering work on G-quadruplex DNA interactions, anticancer agents, mRNA vaccine platforms, and diagnostic biosensors underlines a career marked by scientific originality and societal relevance. Furthermore, his pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic—leading sample testing and mRNA vaccine platform development—demonstrates translational research leadership with direct public health impact. Dr. Nagesh has also contributed significantly to national capacity building, mentoring over 30 students, filing multiple patents, and leading interdisciplinary projects.

🎓 Education

Dr. Nagesh earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry (2002–2005), focusing on “Studies on the Structure and Interaction of G-Quadruplex DNA with Metal Ions and Drugs.” He completed post-doctoral research under Prof. Edwin A. Lewis at Northern Arizona University, USA (2006–2007), exploring Bcl2 Quadruplex DNA interactions. His strong academic foundation is complemented by merit recognitions during his M.Sc. and M.Phil. studies.

🧪 Experience

Joining CCMB as Scientist-B in 1990, Dr. Nagesh steadily rose to become Chief Scientist. He has led and collaborated on over eight major funded projects, generating ₹6.5 crores in extramural research funding. As a nodal project investigator, he has managed high-impact research on mRNA-based vaccines and diagnostics, and actively contributed to national-level scientific responses like COVID-19 testing.

🔬 Research Interests On Biochemistry

Dr. Nagesh’s expertise lies in medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, and molecular diagnostics. He specializes in G-quadruplex DNA interactions, synthesis of anticancer agents, aptamers, and targeted therapeutic molecules. His research extends into biophysical characterizations, ligand-DNA interactions, and small-molecule diagnostics for cardiovascular and infectious diseases. His interdisciplinary work bridges chemistry, biophysics, and disease biology.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Nagesh is a Fellow of the Telangana Academy of Sciences (2022) and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (2024). He has received prestigious fellowships such as the NAU-TRIF and ABRC (USA), and the Indo-Swiss Joint Research Programme (ISJRP). His contributions to science have also earned him recognition in international academic committees, editorial boards, and funding panels.

📚 Selected Publications

  • Characterization of an alkaline active – thiol forming extracellular serine keratinase by the newly isolated Bacillus pumilus
    Authors: AG Kumar, S Swarnalatha, S Gayathri, N Nagesh, G Sekaran
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 144

  • DNA-binding affinity and anticancer activity of β-carboline–chalcone conjugates as potential DNA intercalators: Molecular modelling and synthesis
    Authors: N Shankaraiah, KP Siraj, S Nekkanti, V Srinivasulu, P Sharma, …
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 119

  • Design and synthesis of dithiocarbamate linked β-carboline derivatives: DNA topoisomerase II inhibition with DNA binding and apoptosis inducing ability
    Authors: A Kamal, M Sathish, VL Nayak, V Srinivasulu, B Kavitha, Y Tangella, …
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 107

  • Design and synthesis of C3-tethered 1,2,3-triazolo-β-carboline derivatives: Anticancer activity, DNA-binding ability, viscosity and molecular modeling studies
    Authors: AK Nagula Shankaraiah, Chetna Jadala, Shalini Nekkanti, Kishna Ram Senwar, …
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 101

  • Design and synthesis of C3‐pyrazole/chalcone‐linked beta‐carboline hybrids: antitopoisomerase I, DNA‐interactive, and apoptosis‐inducing anticancer agents
    Authors: A Kamal, V Srinivasulu, VL Nayak, M Sathish, N Shankaraiah, C Bagul, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 98

  • Production of melanin pigment from Pseudomonas stutzeri isolated from red seaweed Hypnea musciformis
    Authors: C Ganesh Kumar, N Sahu, G Narender Reddy, RBN Prasad, N Nagesh, …
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 91

  • Purification of extracellular acid protease and analysis of fermentation metabolites by Synergistes sp. utilizing proteinaceous solid waste from tanneries
    Authors: AG Kumar, N Nagesh, TG Prabhakar, G Sekaran
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 86

  • Genetic Locus Encoding Functions Involved in Biosynthesis and Outer Membrane Localization of Xanthomonadin in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae
    Authors: AK Goel, L Rajagopal, N Nagesh, RV Sonti
    Year: 2002
    Citations: 85

  • Synthesis of podophyllotoxin linked β-carboline congeners as potential anticancer agents and DNA topoisomerase II inhibitors
    Authors: AK Manda Sathish, Botla Kavitha, V. Laxma Nayak, Yellaiah Tangella, Ayyappan …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 84

  • Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Supported on Graphene Oxide‐Catalyzed S‐Arylation: An Efficient and Ligand‐Free Synthesis of Aryl Sulfides
    Authors: A Kamal, V Srinivasulu, JC Murty, N Shankaraiah, N Nagesh, …
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 81

  • Synthesis of β-carboline–benzimidazole conjugates using lanthanum nitrate as a catalyst and their biological evaluation
    Authors: A Kamal, MPN Rao, P Swapna, V Srinivasulu, C Bagul, AB Shaik, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 76

  • Ammonium ion at low concentration stabilizes the G-quadruplex formation by telomeric sequence
    Authors: N Nagesh, D Chatterji
    Year: 1995
    Citations: 72

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Narayana Nagesh exemplifies scientific excellence with his pioneering work in DNA chemistry, diagnostics, and therapeutics. His contributions have influenced drug discovery, public health response (including COVID-19 testing), and molecular diagnostics across India. His commitment to innovation, societal impact, and mentorship of future scientists makes him an outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award under the Forensic Scientist Awards.

Donath Damian | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Forensic Scientist

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.