Hiroshi Nagase | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Hiroshi Nagase | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hiroshi Nagase | University of Tsukuba | Japan

Prof. Hiroshi Nagase is a distinguished Japanese scientist recognized for his pioneering contributions to medicinal chemistry and drug discovery. He earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in Chemistry from Nagoya University, Japan, and later served as a Visiting Scientist at the University of Minnesota’s Department of Medicinal Chemistry. Dr. Nagase began his professional career at Toray Industries Inc., where he advanced from Researcher to Director in the Basic Research Laboratories. He later joined Kitasato University’s School of Pharmacy as a Professor and subsequently served as a Principal Investigator and Professor at the International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (IIIS) under the World Premier International Research Center Initiative at the University of Tsukuba, where he now holds the title of Professor Emeritus. His academic and research influence extended through adjunct professorships at the University of Tokyo, the University of Nagasaki, Toyohashi Polytechnic College, and Nagoya University. Dr. Nagase has authored 39 scientific documents, which have collectively garnered 279 citations from 189 sources, reflecting his substantial impact on the field. With an h-index of 10, his research continues to inspire advancements in medicinal chemistry, neuropharmacology, and therapeutic innovation.

Profiles: Scopus | Research Gate

Featured Publication

Nagase, H. (2025). Development of novel bioactive alkaloids based on specific reactions of the 4,5-epoxymorphinan framework. Synlett.

[Authors not listed]. (2025). Delta opioid receptor agonists activate PI3K–mTORC1 signaling in parvalbumin-positive interneurons in mouse infralimbic prefrontal cortex to exert acute antidepressant-like effects. Molecular Psychiatry.

Jagadeesh Rao | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jagadeesh Rao | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jagadeesh Rao,  IGC Pharma LLC, United States.

Dr. Jagadeesh S. Rao is a distinguished neuroscientist and clinical researcher with over 15 years of experience in neuroscience, psychiatry, neuropharmacology, and drug development. His career is marked by significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer’s disease. With a strong academic foundation in molecular biology and biochemistry, Dr. Rao has led groundbreaking work in clinical trial design, preclinical toxicology, and regulatory submissions, including IND and CMC documentation for FDA approvals. He currently serves as Principal Scientist at IGC Pharma Inc., where he leads teams in Phase I and II clinical trials, manages CROs and budgets, and has developed both OTC and investigational drug products.

Profile

Orcid

🧠 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Jagadeesh S. Rao began his scientific journey with a deep interest in the complexities of the human brain and molecular biology. From the early stages of his academic training, he demonstrated exceptional dedication to exploring the interplay between neurobiology, biochemistry, and psychiatric health. His pursuit of a Ph.D. laid a robust foundation in neuroscience and neuropharmacology, equipping him with a multidisciplinary understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. This strong academic grounding would later become the driving force behind his innovative contributions to research in pain, Alzheimer’s disease, and drug development.

🧪 Professional Endeavors in Neuroscience and Drug Development

With over 15 years of professional experience, Dr. Rao has successfully navigated and led multiple domains including toxicology, psychiatry, and molecular biology. Currently serving as a Principal Scientist at IGC Pharma Inc., he has taken a prominent role in advancing clinical drug development, particularly in designing and executing Phase I and II trials. His expertise extends to critical regulatory processes such as Investigational New Drug (IND) submissions, clinical protocol design, and Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC). He has actively led teams in drug formulation, batch production, validation, and compliance with FDA and ISO standards—demonstrating a blend of scientific acumen and regulatory insight.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus in Neuropharmacology

Dr. Rao’s research centers on developing therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions, especially Alzheimer’s disease. His contributions span the full spectrum of drug development: from preclinical toxicology and pharmacokinetics to clinical pharmacodynamics and regulatory documentation. He has designed preclinical studies adhering to GLP standards, involving mutagenesis assays, reproductive and general toxicity assessments, and immunogenicity tests. Moreover, he played a key role in the development of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief cream products, contributing both to academic research and commercial innovation. His insights into P450 enzyme polymorphisms and their effects on drug metabolism showcase a precision medicine approach to pharmacological care.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition in Clinical Research

While much of Dr. Rao’s work has been behind the scenes of scientific advancement and regulatory excellence, his leadership in preparing CMC documents and overseeing investigational drug submissions has earned him widespread respect among peers. His oversight of departmental budgets and his management of Clinical Research Organizations (CROs) reflect not only scientific brilliance but also strategic and financial stewardship in clinical drug development. The successful initiation of Phase I and II clinical trials under his guidance stands as a testament to his expertise and diligence in the field.

🌍 Impact and Influence in Translational Medicine

Dr. Rao’s work bridges the gap between laboratory research and clinical application. His projects have advanced the translational medicine field by offering therapeutic candidates that move seamlessly from preclinical safety assessments to human trials. His influence is felt not only through the innovative drugs developed under his watch but also in shaping protocols that align with FDA’s stringent regulatory frameworks. His understanding of the molecular intricacies of neuropsychiatric diseases allows him to propose and test interventions that directly respond to the unmet needs of patients and healthcare systems alike.

🔬 Legacy in Scientific Rigor and Innovation

One of Dr. Rao’s enduring legacies lies in his rigorous approach to clinical pharmacology and his commitment to quality and safety in every phase of drug development. His ability to interpret complex PK/PD data, assess drug-drug interactions, and foresee adverse events has significantly shaped safer and more effective drug protocols. He has also contributed to the creation of technical documentation and risk assessments that serve as gold standards in the field, ensuring compliance and reproducibility for future scientists and clinicians.

🚀 Future Contributions and Vision for Neurotherapeutics

Looking ahead, Dr. Rao continues to pave the way in neurotherapeutics with a focused ambition to develop treatments for cognitive and behavioral disorders rooted in neuroinflammation and synaptic dysfunction. His vision includes refining clinical strategies using personalized medicine models and leveraging his expertise in biochemistry and molecular neuropharmacology. As the global demand for effective neurological therapies increases, Dr. Rao’s evolving research and leadership promise to yield transformative solutions that will benefit countless patients worldwide.

Publication

1. Title: Neurobiological alteration in agitation in Alzheimer’s disease and possible interventions
Author(s): Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Tangarife, Maria Alejandra; Mukunda, Ram
Year: 2024

2. Title: Effects of chronic clozapine administration on markers of arachidonic acid cascade and synaptic integrity in rat brain
Author(s): Kim, Hyung-Wook; Cheon, Yewon; Modi, Hiren R.; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Rao, Jagadeesh S.
Year: 2012

3. Title: Epigenetic modifications in frontal cortex from Alzheimer’s disease and bipolar disorder patients
Author(s): Rao, J. S.; Keleshian, V. L.; Klein, S.; Rapoport, S. I.
Year: 2012

4. Title: Gabapentin’s minimal action on markers of rat brain arachidonic acid metabolism agrees with its inefficacy against bipolar disorder
Author(s): Reese, Edmund A.; Cheon, Yewon; Ramadan, Epolia; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Chang, Lisa; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Taha, Ameer Y.
Year: 2012

5. Title: Lamotrigine blocks NMDA receptor-initiated arachidonic acid signalling in rat brain: implications for its efficacy in bipolar disorder
Author(s): Ramadan, Epolia; Basselin, Mireille; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Chang, Lisa; Chen, Mei; Ma, Kaizong; Rapoport, Stanley I.
Year: 2012

6. Title: Altered Expression of G-protein subunits and GRKs in Alzheimer’s Disease
Author(s): Reese, Edmund A.; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Rao, Jagadeesh S.
Year: 2011

7. Title: Chronic olanzapine treatment decreases arachidonic acid turnover and prostaglandin E₂ concentration in rat brain
Author(s): Cheon, Yewon; Park, Jee-Young; Modi, Hiren R.; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Lee, Ho-Joo; Chang, Lisa; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Rapoport, Stanley I.
Year: 2011

8. Title: Dietary n-6 PUFA deprivation downregulates arachidonate but upregulates docosahexaenoate metabolizing enzymes in rat brain
Author(s): Kim, Hyung-Wook; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Igarashi, Miki
Year: 2011

9. Title: Disturbed Choline Plasmalogen and Phospholipid Fatty Acid Concentrations in Alzheimer’s Disease Prefrontal Cortex
Author(s): Igarashi, Miki; Ma, Kaizong; Gao, Fei; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Rao, Jagadeesh S.
Year: 2011

10. Title: Olanzapine Decreases Brain Arachidonic Acid (AA) Metabolism in Rats by Reducing Plasma Availability of AA
Author(s): Cheon, Yewon; Modi, Hiren R.; Park, Jee-Young; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Chang, Lisa; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Rapoport, Stanley I.
Year: 2011

✅Conclusion

Dr. Rao’s career reflects a powerful blend of scientific innovation, regulatory excellence, and clinical insight. His dedication to developing safe and effective neurological therapeutics has significantly advanced the field of translational medicine. As a leader, mentor, and researcher, his ongoing work continues to influence modern approaches to treating complex brain disorders, setting a high standard for future neuropharmacological research and therapeutic innovation.

Sukesh Sinha | Neuropharmacology | Lifetime achievement Award

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Prof. Dr. Sukesh Sinha | Neuropharmacology | Lifetime achievement Award

Prof. Dr. Sukesh Sinha,  National Institute of Nutrition-ICMR, India.

Dr. Sukesh Narayan Sinha, a seasoned toxicologist and research leader, has dedicated his career to advancing the fields of food safety, drug toxicology, pesticide toxicology, and pharmacology. Starting with a strong academic foundation in chemistry from Bihar University, he honed his expertise further through international training at the University of Helsinki and the CDC in the USA. Rising through the ranks of India’s premier health research institutions under the ICMR, Dr. Sinha’s career spans critical research roles that have directly impacted national health and safety policies. His global collaborations and leadership roles reflect a career built on scientific rigor, public service, and continuous learning.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Born on January 3rd, 1965, Dr. Sukesh Narayan Sinha’s academic journey began with a profound interest in the field of chemistry. He earned his B.Sc. Honours in Chemistry in 1989, followed by an M.Sc. in Chemistry in 1993, and later a Ph.D. in Chemistry in 1999—all from Bihar University, Muzaffarpur. His pursuit of advanced scientific knowledge extended internationally, where he underwent specialized analytical skill development in toxicology at the University of Helsinki, Finland. These foundational years cemented his passion for chemical and toxicological research, shaping the path for a distinguished career in public health and environmental safety.

🧪 Professional Endeavors in Toxicology

Dr. Sinha’s career has been marked by continuous progression through India’s foremost medical and research institutions under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Beginning as a Research Fellow at the National Institute of Malaria Research, he moved into industry as a Research Scientist at Alkame Laboratory. His return to the ICMR system in 2001 marked the beginning of a steady ascent through scientific ranks—from Scientist-B to his current post as Senior Grade Deputy Director (Scientist-F) at the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad. He also held key roles at the ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health, contributing immensely to occupational and environmental health research.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Specializing in Food Toxicology, Drug Research & Toxicology, Pesticide Toxicology, and Pharmacology, Dr. Sinha has focused on identifying and mitigating chemical risks in food and the environment. His work has had a direct impact on public health safety standards in India. Through advanced analytical techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration, he has played a central role in guiding policy and regulatory frameworks concerning food safety. His expertise has not only contributed to toxicological research but has also enhanced national capacities in monitoring hazardous substances affecting human health.

🌍 Global Collaborations and Scientific Exposure

Dr. Sinha’s vision and research have reached global platforms. Notably, he served as a Visiting Scientist at the University of Cincinnati, USA, where he collaborated with experts in Environmental Health. He also completed two intensive courses on health and safety under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, USA. These international exposures have enriched his scientific perspective, enabling him to incorporate global best practices into India’s health safety frameworks and toxicology research protocols.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Dr. Sinha has earned recognition for his commitment and excellence in scientific research. While specific awards are not listed, his steady promotion within the ICMR ranks—from Scientist-B to Scientist-F—reflects institutional trust in his capabilities and leadership. His selection as a visiting scientist abroad and participation in elite training programs also underscore his status as a respected voice in toxicology and public health research.

📢 Impact and Influence on Public Health

Through his extensive research and governmental role, Dr. Sinha has contributed to national strategies on food safety and toxic substance regulation. His input influences decisions affecting millions of citizens, especially in areas related to food contaminants, drug residues, and environmental pollutants. He continues to serve as a bridge between laboratory research and real-world applications that safeguard public health in India.

🔬 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Sinha’s legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to science and service. With decades of experience and an expanding portfolio of national and international collaborations, he is poised to continue influencing future research, shaping young scientific minds, and contributing to India’s health security. His role at ICMR-NIN ensures that his insights and leadership will guide public health policies and toxicology advancements for years to come.

Publication

  • Quantification of organophosphate insecticides and herbicides in vegetable samples using the “Quick Easy Cheap Effective Rugged and Safe” (QuEChERS) method and a high …
    SN Sinha, K Vasudev, MVV Rao – 2012

 

  • Distribution of pesticides in different commonly used vegetables from Hyderabad, India
    SN Sinha, MVV Rao, K Vasudev – 2012

 

  • Air pollution from solid fuels.
    SN Sinha, PK Nag – 2011

 

  • Environmental monitoring of benzene and toluene produced in indoor air due to combustion of solid biomass fuels
    SN Sinha, PK Kulkarni, SH Shah, NM Desai, GM Patel, MM Mansuri, … – 2006

 

  • Repeated episodes of endosulfan poisoning
    A Dewan, VK Bhatnagar, ML Mathur, T Chakma, R Kashyap, HG Sadhu, … – 2004

 

  • Effect of dissociation energy on ion formation and sensitivity of an analytical method for determination of chlorpyrifos in human blood, using gas chromatography–mass …
    SN Sinha, R Pal, A Dewan, MM Mansuri, HN Saiyed – 2006

 

  • A novel method for pesticide analysis in refined sugar samples using a gas chromatography–mass spectrometer (GC–MS/MS) and simple solvent extraction method
    SN Sinha, VK Bhatnagar, P Doctor, GS Toteja, NP Agnihotri, RL Kalra – 2011

 

  • A liquid chromatography mass spectrometry-based method to measure organophosphorous insecticide, herbicide and non-organophosphorous pesticide in grape and apple samples
    SN Sinha, MVV Rao, K Vasudev, M Odetokun – 2012

 

  • Quantification of organophosphate insecticides in drinking water in urban areas using lyophilization and high-performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization-mass …
    SN Sinha, K Vasudev, MVV Rao, M Odetokun – 2011

 

  • Inhibition of protein glycation by procyanidin‐B2 enriched fraction of cinnamon: delay of diabetic cataract in rats
    P Muthenna, G Raghu, C Akileshwari, SN Sinha, P Suryanarayana, … – 2013

 

🏁 Conclusion

Dr. Sukesh Narayan Sinha stands as a respected figure in India’s scientific community, with an enduring impact on toxicology research and public health safety. His career reflects a seamless integration of deep scientific knowledge, practical application, and international collaboration. As he continues his service at ICMR-NIN, his contributions promise to leave a lasting legacy in strengthening food safety standards, environmental health, and public policy for future generations. Dr. Sinha’s journey inspires commitment to research excellence and exemplifies the profound role of science in safeguarding society.