Innovative Research Award
Dong An
University of Miami, United States
| Dong An |
| Affiliation |
University of Miami |
| Country |
United States |
| Scopus ID |
59308552300 |
| Documents |
8 |
| Citations |
66 |
| h-index |
4 |
| Subject Area |
Agricultural and Biological Sciences |
| Event |
International Forensic Scientist Awards |
| ORCID |
0000-0002-2506-0486 |
Dong An is a researcher affiliated with the University of Miami whose scholarly work focuses on membrane biophysics, molecular dynamics simulations, protein–lipid interactions, and mechanisms governing cellular membrane fusion. His publications investigate synaptotagmin proteins, SNARE-mediated membrane fusion, calcium-triggered exocytosis, and lipid-regulated molecular processes that are fundamental to cellular communication and biological transport systems. Through computational and biophysical approaches, his research contributes to understanding the molecular basis of membrane organization and protein function.[1]
Abstract
This academic recognition article summarizes the research achievements of Dong An, whose investigations emphasize membrane-associated proteins and their interactions with lipid environments. His studies employ molecular dynamics simulations and biophysical methodologies to explore the structural and functional mechanisms underlying membrane fusion, exocytosis, and intracellular signaling. These contributions support broader advances in cellular biology and molecular biophysics while providing mechanistic insights into protein-mediated membrane processes.[2]
Keywords
Membrane Fusion, Synaptotagmin, SNARE Proteins, Molecular Dynamics, Lipid Binding, Exocytosis, Cellular Signaling, Biophysics, Protein-Lipid Interactions, Computational Biology.
Introduction
Membrane fusion is a critical biological process that enables communication between cells and regulates intracellular transport. Understanding how proteins interact with lipid membranes remains an important challenge in modern biological sciences. Dong An’s research addresses these questions by examining the molecular determinants of protein-lipid interactions and the mechanisms responsible for calcium-triggered membrane fusion events.[3]
Research Profile
According to available scholarly records, Dong An has authored multiple indexed publications and accumulated measurable citation impact. His research profile is characterized by interdisciplinary work connecting computational modeling, molecular biophysics, and membrane biology. Particular attention has been directed toward synaptotagmin isoforms, SNARE complex dynamics, lipid clustering phenomena, and membrane penetration mechanisms that influence cellular function.[1]
Research Contributions
- Investigated electrostatic and aromatic residue effects on synaptotagmin lipid binding.
- Explored PIP2-regulated membrane clustering mechanisms.
- Analyzed SNARE protein force generation during membrane fusion.
- Studied calcium-dependent exocytosis through molecular simulations.
- Contributed to understanding membrane organization and fusion competence.
Publications
- Electrostatics and Local Aromatic Residues Govern Lipid Binding and Membrane Penetration of Synaptotagmin C2 Domains (2026).
- Lipid Disorder and PIP2-Regulated Clustering of Syntaxin-1 JMD–TMD Regions Govern Membrane Fusion Competence (2026).
- Molecular Dynamics of Synaptotagmin Isoforms: Isoform-specific Mechanisms of Ca2+-Triggered Exocytosis (2026).
- How SNARE Proteins Generate Force to Fuse Membranes (2025).
- SNARE Complex Assembly and Disassembly Dynamics in Response to Ca2+ Current Activation in Live Cells (2025).
Research Impact
The research output associated with Dong An demonstrates contributions to the understanding of membrane biophysics and cellular communication. Citation activity, publication visibility, and participation in internationally recognized journals indicate scholarly engagement within the scientific community. The findings generated through these studies provide valuable theoretical frameworks for future investigations involving membrane proteins and biological signaling systems.[4]
Award Suitability
The Innovative Research Award recognizes individuals whose work advances scientific understanding through original investigation and measurable scholarly contributions. Dong An’s research portfolio reflects sustained efforts in molecular biophysics and computational biology, including studies addressing fundamental mechanisms of membrane fusion and protein-lipid interactions. These characteristics align with the objectives of academic recognition programs that acknowledge research excellence and innovation.[5]
Conclusion
Dong An has developed a focused research profile centered on membrane dynamics, synaptotagmin biology, and SNARE-mediated fusion processes. His publications contribute to the scientific understanding of cellular membrane behavior and represent a meaningful body of scholarly work. These achievements support recognition within academic award programs dedicated to research innovation and scientific advancement.
External Links
References
- Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Dong An, Author ID 59308552300. Scopus.
https://www.scopus.com/pages/authors/59308552300
- Dong An et al. (2026). Electrostatics and Local Aromatic Residues Govern Lipid Binding and Membrane Penetration of Synaptotagmin C2 Domains.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.07.09.737582
- International Journal of Molecular Sciences. (2026). Lipid Disorder and PIP2-Regulated Clustering of Syntaxin-1 JMD–TMD Regions Govern Membrane Fusion Competence.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27156673
- Biophysical Journal. (2025). How SNARE Proteins Generate Force to Fuse Membranes.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpj.2025.01.015
- Biophysical Journal. (2025). SNARE Complex Assembly and Disassembly Dynamics in Response to Ca2+ Current Activation in Live Cells.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpj.2025.04.005
- Biophysical Journal. (2026). Molecular Dynamics of Synaptotagmin Isoforms: Isoform-specific Mechanisms of Ca2+-Triggered Exocytosis.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/J.BPJ.2025.11.1877
