Huai-Jen Tsai | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Institute of Life Science, Fu-Jen Catholic University | Taiwan

Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai is a distinguished molecular biologist whose research spans developmental biology, marine biotechnology, and gene transgenesis in aquatic organisms, with a particular focus on zebrafish and other finfish models. He has pioneered innovative sperm-mediated and electroporation-based gene transfer systems, enabling highly efficient transgenesis in finfish and shellfish, and has significantly advanced understanding of growth hormone regulation, gonadotropins, rhodopsins, and muscle-specific transcription factors, thereby contributing to both vertebrate developmental biology and aquaculture applications. Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai’s work bridges fundamental molecular biology and applied biotechnology, investigating molecular mechanisms regulating embryonic development, stress responses, and neural regeneration, including studies on ENDOU-mediated translation regulation and the role of extracellular proteins in promoting neurite outgrowth and spinal cord repair. He has authored 162 documents indexed in Scopus, which have been cited over 5,174 times by 4,191 publications, and he holds an h-index of 36, reflecting the high impact and wide recognition of his contributions in the scientific community. Throughout his career, Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai has received numerous prestigious awards, including the MOST Outstanding Research Award, Y. Z. Hsu Technology Invention Award for a patented zebrafish gene fragment, and multiple NSC Outstanding Research Awards, and he has served as principal investigator on numerous funded research projects. In addition, he contributes extensively as a reviewer and editorial board member for international journals. His research continues to integrate molecular genetics, developmental studies, and biotechnological innovation, establishing him as a leading authority in aquatic molecular genetics, transgenic technologies, and regenerative biology, and underscoring his influential role in advancing both basic science and translational applications in vertebrate and aquatic systems.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  • Lee, H.-C., Huang, Y.-H., Hsieh, C.-C., Ke, Y.-N., & Tsai, H.-J. (2025). ENDOU-1-induced cytoplasmic HnRNPA3 recognizes m6A methylation on the upstream reading frame of human CHOP transcripts to achieve maximal CHOP translation. Preprint.

  • Lee, B.-C., Tsai, J.-C., Huang, Y.-H., Wang, C.-C., Lee, H.-C., & Tsai, H.-J. (2024). The 419th aspartic acid of neural membrane protein enolase 2 is a key residue involved in axonal growth of motor neurons mediated by interaction between enolase 2 receptor and extracellular Pgk1 ligand. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(19), 10753.

  • Lee, H.-C., Chao, H.-T., Lee, S. Y.-H., Lin, C.-Y., & Tsai, H.-J. (2023). The upstream 1350~1250 nucleotide sequences of the human ENDOU-1 gene contain critical cis-elements responsible for upregulating its transcription during ER stress. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(24), 17393.

  • Zeng, C.-W., & Tsai, H.-J. (2023). The promising role of a zebrafish model employed in neural regeneration following a spinal cord injury. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(18), 13938.

  • Fu, C.-Y., Chen, H.-Y., Lin, C.-Y., Chen, S.-J., Sheu, J.-C., & Tsai, H.-J. (2023). Extracellular Pgk1 interacts with neural membrane protein enolase-2 to improve neurite outgrowth of motor neurons. Communications Biology, 6, 822.

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.

Xiaoxiao Zhong | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong is a dedicated molecular biologist and medicine doctor at The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University 🏥. Her expertise lies in metabolic and glandular disorders, particularly breast cancer, where she employs multi-omics data analysis and in vitro assays to uncover dysregulated metabolic pathways and tumor microenvironment (TME) dynamics. Dr. Zhong bridges computational biology with wet-lab validation, focusing on biomarker discovery and translational oncology. Her work illuminates the complex interplay between immune and stromal components in cancer, contributing to the advancement of precision medicine. 🔬

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong demonstrates a strong research profile in the field of molecular biology, particularly focusing on metabolic disorders and tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling in breast cancer. Her approach integrates bioinformatics and experimental biology, using tools like WGCNA and LASSO Cox regression to generate prognostic biomarkers, such as the 22-gene TMERS signature. This multidimensional methodology reflects a comprehensive understanding of systems biology and its translational applications in oncology.

Her contributions to identifying glycosylation-driven immune regulators like KLRB1, and validating their function in suppressing cancer progression, suggest originality, relevance, and clinical potential. The publication of 7 SCI/Scopus-indexed journal articles, along with 16 research projects and collaboration with national-level programs, further establishes her as a promising researcher making meaningful strides in precision medicine.

🎓 Education

Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong received her medical degree with a specialization in molecular biology from Central South University 🎓. During her academic journey, she focused on cancer genomics, tumor immunology, and systems biology, acquiring hands-on expertise in high-throughput data interpretation and laboratory assays. Her continuous learning path has empowered her to translate molecular insights into clinical relevance, with a strong foundation in both theory and application.

💼 Experience

With a rich background in clinical and research settings, Dr. Zhong has successfully led or contributed to 16 research projects, including collaborations with the National Natural Science Foundation of China. She has been involved in 8 consultancy and industry-related projects, demonstrating her ability to bridge scientific innovation and real-world application. As a reviewer for Case Reports in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Zhong also plays a role in shaping scientific discourse. Her work environment blends rigorous experimentation with sophisticated bioinformatic modeling. 🔍

🔬 Research Interest On Molecular Biology

Dr. Zhong’s primary research interests revolve around tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling, metabolic disorders, and translational oncology. She focuses on glycosylation-driven mechanisms, immune-stromal crosstalk, and prognostic modeling through multi-omics integration. Her research aims to dissect cellular heterogeneity and identify novel therapeutic and diagnostic targets in breast cancer. By leveraging both in silico and in vitro methodologies, she seeks to contribute to personalized medicine and improved patient outcomes.

🏅 Awards

Dr. Zhong is nominated for the Best Researcher Award 🏆 for her impactful contributions to cancer biology, particularly her development of a 22-gene TME-risk signature (TMERS) in breast cancer that has demonstrated strong prognostic value. Her identification of immune-regulatory glycosyltransferase genes and validation of KLRB1 as a tumor suppressor highlight her role in advancing the field of translational oncology. Her research is both innovative and clinically relevant, reinforcing her standing as an emerging leader in molecular medicine.

📚 Publications

1. Glycosylated protein-related microenvironmental features in breast cancer are associated with patient prognosis

  • Publication Year: 2025

  • Authors: Xiaoxiao Zhong, Jiaxuan Han, Huan Li, Xiangyu Shen, Bowen Yu, Ting Chen, Haobing Li, Jun Li, Jin Pang, Liyuan Qian, et al.

  • Journal: Mammalian Genome

  • DOI: 10.1007/s00335-025-10137-9

2. PCMT1 confirmed as a pan-cancer immune biomarker and a contributor to breast cancer metastasis

  • Publication Year: 2024

  • Authors: Yiqi Liu, Xiaoxiao Zhong

  • Journal: American Journal of Cancer Research

  • DOI: 10.62347/tyll7952

3. Interpretable machine learning model based on the systemic inflammation response index and ultrasound features can predict central lymph node metastasis in cN0T1–T2 papillary thyroid carcinoma

  • Publication Year: 2023

  • Authors: Jin Pang, Mohan Yang, Jun Li, Xiaoxiao Zhong, Xiangyu Shen, Ting Chen, Liyuan Qian

  • Journal: Gland Surgery

  • DOI: 10.21037/gs-23-349

4. Targeting survivin with Tanshinone IIA inhibits tumor growth and overcomes chemoresistance in colorectal cancer

  • Publication Year: 2023

  • Authors: Yaoquan Cao, Haibo Tang, Guohui Wang, Pengzhou Li, Zhi Song, Weizheng Li, Xulong Sun, Xiaoxiao Zhong, Qianqian Yu, Shaihong Zhu, et al.

  • Journal: Cell Death Discovery

  • DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01622-8

5. Breast cancer combined with contralateral neck lymph node metastasis: a case report

  • Publication Year: 2022

  • Authors: Xiaoxiao Zhong, Fengjiao Ding, Liyuan Qian, Wei Wu, Yanguang Wen, Boni Ding

  • Journal: Diagnostic Pathology

  • DOI: 10.1186/s13000-022-01236-1

6. Identification of N6-Methyladenosine-Related LncRNAs for Predicting Overall Survival and Clustering of a Potentially Novel Molecular Subtype of Breast Cancer

  • Publication Year: 2021

  • Authors: Xiaoxiao Zhong, Jun Li, Xin Wu, Xianrui Wu, Lin Hu, Boni Ding, Liyuan Qian

  • Journal: Frontiers in Oncology

  • DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.742944

✅ Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong is an exceptional early-career researcher who blends scientific curiosity with technological rigor 🌟. Her contributions to cancer biology, particularly in decoding the tumor microenvironment and discovering novel biomarkers, have the potential to revolutionize prognostic models and therapeutic strategies. Through her dedication, interdisciplinary approach, and impactful publications, Dr. Zhong stands as a worthy nominee for the Best Researcher Award, representing the future of precision oncology.🏅