Leng Chee Chang | Pharmacology | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Dr. Leng Chee Chang | Pharmacology | Research Excellence Award

University of Hawaii at Hilo | United States

Prof. Dr. Leng Chee Chang is a natural products chemist whose work focuses on the isolation, characterization, and biological evaluation of bioactive compounds from medicinal plants, marine algae, and microbes with applications in cancer chemoprevention, chemotherapeutics, and antimicrobial discovery. According to Scopus-indexed records, she has authored 73 publications, which have been cited 2,567 times, reflecting a substantial global research impact. Her h-index of 28 highlights consistent scholarly influence and sustained citation performance across her body of work. Dr. Chang’s research has appeared in high-impact journals such as Organic Letters, Journal of Natural Products, Molecules, and ACS Omega, and encompasses multidisciplinary collaborations in pharmacognosy, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology. Her work has contributed to the discovery of novel natural products with therapeutic potential.

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Featured Publications


A New Trichlorinated Xanthone and Compounds Isolated from Cladonia skottsbergii with Antimicrobial Properties

– Rositzki MJ, Raksat A, Simmons CJ, Smith C, Reverend Danette V. Choi, Wongwiwatthananukit S, Chang LC · Pharmaceuticals, 2026


Bioactive Constituents from the Edible Seaweed Halymenia hawaiiana (Rhodophyta)

– Raksat A, Atanu MSH, McDermimid KJ, Wall MW, Chang BL, Wongwiwatthananukit S, Chang LC · Pharmaceutical Biology, 2025


Bioactive Compounds from Dodonaea viscosa Flowers: Potent Antibacterial and Antiproliferative Effects in Breast Cancer Cells

– Raksat A, Yee D, Gi YJ, Wongwiwatthananukit S, Chang LK, Kaawaloa P, Wall MW, Chang LC · Molecules, 2025 (IF 4.2)


Biologically Active Withanolides from Physalis peruviana L.

– Sang-Ngern M, Fukuchi A, Kondratyuk TP, Park E-J, Simmons CJ, Wall MW, Lorch SE, Pezzuto JM, Chang LC · Pharmaceutical Biology, 2025


Vernonolide A, a Sesquiterpene Lactone with a Unique Carbon Skeleton from Vernonia cinerea

– Zhang M, Kondratyuk TP, Cao S, Li M, Songsak T, Wongwiwatthananukit S, Cai Y-S, Chang LC · Organic Letters, 2025 (IF 4.9)

 

Yongxiang Wang | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Yongxiang Wang | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Shanghai Jiao Tong University | China

Prof. Yong-xiang Wang is an internationally recognized researcher in pain biology, neuropharmacology, and analgesic drug discovery, widely known for his pioneering contributions to molecular pain mechanisms, microglial signaling pathways, and therapeutic modulation of neuropathic hypersensitivity. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of spinal glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor signaling, β-endorphin–mediated analgesic pathways, dynorphin A regulation, and microglial involvement in chronic pain modulation. With 104 Scopus-indexed research documents, 3,704 citations from 2,471 citing documents, and an h-index of 39, his scientific influence is firmly established across the global pain research community. His high-impact publications in leading journals such as Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, Journal of Neuroscience, British Journal of Pharmacology, Neuropharmacology, Pharmacological Research, and Anesthesiology highlight landmark discoveries in microglial IL-10 signaling, MAPK-associated inflammatory regulation, glucocorticoid receptor–mediated analgesia, and novel analgesic compounds derived from traditional herbal medicines. His extensive research portfolio encompasses neuropathic pain mechanisms, microglial cAMP/PKA/MAPK signaling pathways, reverse pharmacology of herbal analgesics, and systematic identification of novel analgesic molecules with translational therapeutic potential. Prof. Yong-xiang Wang has contributed to innovative patents in analgesic research, and his findings continue to shape emerging strategies in neuroimmune pain modulation. In addition to his scientific contributions, he provides editorial leadership for international journals, offers extensive peer-review service, and collaborates widely across the neuropharmacology field. His work has earned notable recognition through competitive research awards, high citation visibility, and sustained impact on the development of next-generation analgesic therapeutics.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Ma, L., Wei, J., Deng, M. Y., Ahmad, K. A., Huang, J., Zhao, M. J., Li, X., Mao, Y., Wang, Y.-X., & Chen, J. (2025). Spinal microglial membrane glucocorticoid receptors regulate anti-hypersensitivity by stimulating dynorphin A expression. European Journal of Pharmacology, 178362.

2. Deng, M. Y., Cheng, J., Gao, N., Li, X. Y., Liu, H., & Wang, Y.-X. (2024). Dexamethasone attenuates neuropathic pain through spinal microglial expression of dynorphin A via the cAMP/PKA/p38 MAPK/CREB signaling pathway. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 119, 36–50.

3. Shoaib, R. M., Ahmad, K. A., & Wang, Y.-X. (2021). Protopanaxadiol alleviates neuropathic pain by spinal microglial dynorphin A expression following glucocorticoid receptor activation. British Journal of Pharmacology, 178(15), 2976–2997.

4. Huang, Q., Mao, X.-F., Wu, H.-Y., Liu, H., Sun, M.-L., Wang, X., & Wang, Y.-X. (2017). Cynandione A attenuates neuropathic pain through p38β MAPK-mediated spinal microglial expression of β-endorphin. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 62, 64–77.

5. Xu, M., Wu, H.-Y., Liu, H., Gong, N., Wang, Y.-R., & Wang, Y.-X. (2017). Morroniside, a secoiridoid glycoside from Cornus officinalis, attenuates neuropathic pain by activation of spinal glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors. British Journal of Pharmacology, 174, 580–590.

Mei-Lang Kung | Pharmacology | Women Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Mei-Lang Kung | Pharmacology | Women Researcher Award

Senior Assistant Research Fellow | Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital | Taiwan

Dr. Mei-Lang Kung is a distinguished researcher and academic specializing in cancer biology, gene engineering, and phytochemical pharmacology. She currently serves as a Senior Assistant Research Fellow at the Department of Medical Education and Research, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, and an Assistant Professor at Shu-Zen Junior College of Medicine and Management. With a strong background in molecular biology and nanomedicine, Dr. Kung has contributed significantly to innovative research in oncology and nanomaterials for medical applications.

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Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Strong Academic Background 📚

    • Dr. Mei-Lang Kung holds a Ph.D. in Biological Science from National Sun Yat-sen University (2012).
    • Her dissertation focused on cancer cell migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, a highly relevant area in biomedical research.

  • Extensive Research Expertise 🔬

    • Her work spans multiple interdisciplinary fields, including cancer biology, gene engineering, phytochemical pharmacology, and green nanomaterials.
    • These diverse skill sets enhance the impact of her research in translational medicine.

  • Significant Research Contributions 🏆

    • 21+ peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals (SCI-indexed).
    • Notable research on nanomedicine and cancer treatment strategies, contributing to innovative therapeutic approaches.
    • Demonstrated leadership as a corresponding author in multiple studies, reflecting independent research capability.

  • Recognition & Awards 🥇

    • Best Poster Award (2021) from the Taiwan Urology Association.
    • National Taiwan University System Young Scholars Award (2018) for innovative research.
    • Multiple Outstanding Paper Awards at prestigious conferences (IEEE, New Advance in Medicine, etc.).
    • These accolades highlight her excellence in research and scholarly impact.

Education 🎓

Dr. Kung earned her Ph.D. in Biological Science from National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, in 2012, under the guidance of Prof. Tai Ming-Hong. Her dissertation focused on the mechanisms of hepatoma-derived growth factor-mediated cell migration and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. She also holds an M.S. in Biochemistry from Kaohsiung Medical University (2002) and a B.S. in Nutrition from Chung Shan Medical University (2000).

Experience 🌟

Dr. Kung has extensive experience in academia and research. Since 2019, she has been a Senior Assistant Research Fellow at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. She also holds a faculty position at Shu-Zen Junior College of Medicine and Management. Previously, she served as an Assistant Faculty member (2017-2019) and a Postdoctoral Research Associate (2012-2017) in the Chemistry Department of National Sun Yat-sen University, working under Dr. Shuchen Hsieh.

Research Interests On Pharmacology 📚

Dr. Kung’s research interests include cancer biology, gene engineering, phytochemical pharmacology, and toxicology. She is particularly focused on the development and applications of green nanomaterials for cancer treatment. Her work explores novel phytochemically derived nanoparticles and their effects on cancer cell adhesion, proliferation, and metastasis.

Awards 🏆

  • 2021: Taiwan Urology Association “Best Academic Activity Award – Best Poster Award”
  • 2018: National Taiwan University System Young Scholars Selection for Innovative Research and Development Achievements – Excellent Work Award
  • 2015: New Advance in Generation Medicine, Cancer and Stem Cell Outstanding Paper Award
  • 2013: IEEE Nanotechnology Materials and Devices Conference, Outstanding Paper Award

Publications 📰

Dr. Kung has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals. Below are some of her notable works:

  1. Wang, J.-H., Chen, Y.-W., Hsieh, S., & Kung, M.-L.* (2025). “Nanosized ginger-derived phenolic zingerone obstructs cell cycle G2/M progression and initiates apoptosis in human colorectal cancer.” Environmental Toxicology. DOI:10.1002/tox.24470 (SCI; 2023 IF=4.4)
  2. Chu, L.-W., Chen, J.-Y., Chen, Y.-W., Hsieh, S., & Kung, M.-L.* (2024). “Phytoconstituent-derived zingerone nanoparticles disrupt cell adhesion and suppress cell motility in melanoma B16F10 cells.” Journal of Biotechnology. DOI:10.1016/j.jbiotec.2024.06.015
  3. Kung, M.-L., Cheng, S. M., Wang, Y.-H., et al.* (2024). “Deficiency of RNA adenosine deaminase (ADAR2) ameliorates metabolic-associated fatty liver disease via AMPK signaling pathways in male diet-induced obese mice.” Communications Biology. (SCI; 2022 IF=5.9)
  4. Kung, M.-L., Yang, T.-H., Lin, C.-C., et al.* (2024). “ADAR2 deficiency ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and muscle atrophy through modulating serum amyloid A1.” Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle. DOI:10.1002/jcsm.13460 (SCI; 2022 IF=8.9)
  5. Hu, T.-H., Wu, J.-C., Huang, S.-T., et al.* (2023). “HDGF Stimulates Liver Tumorigenesis by Enhancing Reactive Oxygen Species Generation in Mitochondria.” Journal of Biological Chemistry. (SCI; 2022 IF=4.8)

Conclusion 📚

Dr. Mei-Lang Kung has made remarkable contributions to cancer research and nanomedicine, with a strong emphasis on translating scientific discoveries into therapeutic applications. Her expertise in molecular oncology and green nanotechnology continues to impact the scientific community, making her a leader in the field of biomedical research. Through her innovative work, she strives to advance cancer treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.

latifa khattabi | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. latifa khattabi | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

senior researcher | National Biotechnology Research Center | Algeria

Dr. Latifa Khattabi is a passionate and accomplished Permanent Researcher at the Biotechnology Research Center (CRBt) in Constantine, Algeria. Born on November 3, 1990, in El Khroub, Constantine, she has dedicated her career to the field of molecular and cellular immunology. Known for her excellence, perseverance, and ambition, Dr. Khattabi has contributed significantly to the advancement of scientific research, particularly in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and pharmacological studies.

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Strengths for the Awards

  • Academic Excellence:
    • Achieved a PhD in “Molecular and Cellular Immunology” (2023) and was recognized as an “Excellent Student” during her undergraduate and master’s studies.
    • Comprehensive education in immunology, oncology, and biochemistry demonstrates strong foundational expertise.
  • Diverse Research Contributions:
    • Published over 22 scientific articles, including as a principal author, in high-impact journals.
    • Research spans across immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and toxicology.
    • Significant contributions to topics such as SARS-CoV-2, antioxidant activities, enzyme inhibition, and therapeutic plant derivatives.
  • Research Skills and Expertise:
    • Hands-on experience in advanced techniques, including ELISA, LC-MS/MS, PCR, molecular docking, in vitro and in vivo experiments, and bioinformatics.
    • Multidisciplinary approach integrating immunology, pharmacology, and analytical chemistry.
  • Professional Experience:
    • Over a decade of research at the Biotechnology Research Center (CRBT), where she contributed to innovative projects like camelid antibodies for tuberculosis.
    • Collaborated in projects involving antioxidants, anti-Alzheimer, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities, reflecting real-world applicability of her research.

Education 🎓

Dr. Khattabi has an impressive academic journey:

  • 2023: PhD in Molecular and Cellular Immunology from University Mentouri Constantine – UMC1.
  • 2013: Master’s Degree in Molecular and Cellular Immunology/Oncology from UMC1, graduating as an excellent student with a dissertation on thyroid cancer.
  • 2011: Bachelor’s Degree in Molecular and Cellular Immunology, also with distinction from UMC1.
  • 2008: Achieved her Baccalaureate in Experimental Sciences.

Experience 🌟

Dr. Khattabi has been a dedicated researcher at CRBt since 2014, excelling in areas such as:

  • Antioxidant, enzymatic, and toxicological assays for pharmacological studies.
  • Molecular biology techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, and LC-MS/MS analysis.
  • In vivo experiments on animal models, focusing on toxicity and therapeutic effects.
    She is also well-versed in laboratory standards, biosafety protocols, and quality assurance.

Research Interests On Pharmacology 🔬

Her primary research interests include:

  1. Molecular immunology and its applications in oncology.
  2. Pharmacological evaluations, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
  3. The toxicological effects of pesticides on health and possible natural remedies.
  4. Epidemiological studies related to cancer and chronic diseases.
  5. Development of rapid diagnostic tools for infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Khattabi has been recognized for her outstanding contributions:

  • Awarded the Certificate of Excellent Student during her bachelor’s and master’s studies.
  • Nominee for various awards in the field of biotechnology and scientific innovation.

Publications 📚

  • Hydroxyphenylamine Phosphonate Derivatives
    • Authors: Khattabi L., et al.
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2020.129121
    • Citations: Indexed, but specific count not provided​
  • Distribution of Leukocyte Subpopulation Among Students Threatened by Failure
    • Authors: Khattabi L., et al.
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • Journal: International Journal of Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences
    • Citations: Not explicitly listed​
  • Recombinant Protein Targeting and Opsonizing Spike Glycoprotein for Enhancing SARS-CoV-2 Phagocytosis
    • Authors: Khattabi L., et al.
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • Journal: Medical Hypotheses
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.110108
    • Citations: Indexed but count unavailable​
  • Monomeric and Dimeric Copper (II) Complexes
    • Authors: Khattabi L., et al.
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • Journal: Inorganica Chimica Acta
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ica.2020.119519
    • Citations: Not specified​
  • Chemical Characterization and Antioxidant Potential of Rosmarinus Tournefortii
    • Authors: Khattabi L., et al.
    • Publication Year: 2019
    • Journal: Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization
    • DOI: 10.1007/s11694-019-00309-y
    • Citations: Not explicitly mentioned​

Conclusion 📝

Dr. Latifa Khattabi stands out as a prolific researcher, dedicated to tackling some of the most pressing challenges in molecular immunology and pharmacology. Her dedication, versatility, and collaborative spirit have cemented her position as a key contributor to the scientific community, both in Algeria and internationally.