Matteo Palermo | Neuroanatomy | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Matteo Palermo | Neuroanatomy | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Matteo Palermo, Policlinico A. gemelli, Italy.

Matteo Palermo is an emerging medical scholar from Italy currently pursuing his medical degree at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome. With a dual high school diploma from Italy and the USA, he demonstrated academic brilliance early on, which has been consistently recognized through multiple national and institutional awards. His professional engagements span prestigious neurosurgical institutions, including the Mayo Clinic and the Carlo Besta Institute. Matteo has already authored multiple peer-reviewed research publications in top-tier neurological and neurosurgical journals, focusing on hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension, glioma imaging, and spinal hypotension treatment. His work reflects a commitment to clinical excellence, research depth, and global collaboration.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Matteo Palermo’s academic journey began with a deep commitment to excellence from a young age. Born and raised in Gravina in Puglia, Italy, he demonstrated a strong affinity for science and mathematics during his formative years at Liceo Scientifico Giuseppe Tarantino, earning a high school diploma in 2021. Matteo expanded his educational exposure internationally by attending Edgar High School in Wisconsin, USA, in 2018–2019, where he obtained a U.S. high school diploma and participated in national-level mathematics competitions, securing 29th place out of 50 participants. His early achievements laid a robust foundation for his future in medicine, strengthened by recognition from the Italian Ministry of Education and supported by a €16,000 academic grant.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Currently pursuing a degree in medicine at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Rome (2021–2027), Matteo has actively immersed himself in professional experiences that transcend academic learning. His early exposure to clinical environments began with prestigious internships and observerships in neurosurgery at globally renowned institutions. In 2024, he joined the Mayo Clinic in Rochester under the mentorship of Dr. Giuseppe Lanzino. His long-term neurosurgical internship at the Carlo Besta Institute in Milan, led by Dr. Francesco Prada, further reinforced his dedication to neurological sciences. Matteo also trained under Dr. Alessandro Olivi at Gemelli Hospital in 2025, engaging directly with surgical innovation and patient care.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Matteo’s passion for neurosurgery is reflected in his impressive contributions to academic research. He has co-authored several high-impact studies, often in collaboration with experts like Dr. Trevisi, Dr. Prada, and Dr. Sturiale. His work delves into intricate neurological conditions such as idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and idiopathic intracranial hypertension, particularly in pregnancy—addressing both clinical and surgical dimensions. His research on advanced neuroimaging techniques, including superb microvascular ultrasound in gliomas, stands at the frontier of neuro-oncological diagnostics. His recent meta-analyses, including one on targeted versus nontargeted epidural blood patches for spontaneous intracranial hypotension, showcase a methodological precision and a deep commitment to evidence-based practice.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic journey, Matteo has received numerous honors that highlight his consistent excellence. He was awarded the Best Medical Student Award at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart for three consecutive years (2023, 2024, and 2025), an acknowledgment of both academic prowess and professional dedication. His distinction as the Faculty Representative of the Medicine and Surgery degree course in 2025 demonstrates his leadership qualities and the trust vested in him by peers and faculty alike. Earlier accolades, such as the Italian Student Excellence Award by the Ministry of Education and Excellence Student Awards during high school, further underline a pattern of sustained high achievement.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Matteo’s work in neurosurgery has begun to make a visible impact not only through scholarly publications but also through his collaborative roles in high-profile research institutions. His systematic reviews and responses in respected journals like Neurosurgical Review, European Journal of Neurology, and Acta Neurochirurgica have contributed to shaping current conversations around neurointerventions and treatment strategies. As a global research intern and contributor, Matteo’s growing influence is expanding beyond national borders, signaling a future as a thought leader in neuroclinical research.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions

Even at this early stage, Matteo Palermo is carving out a promising legacy in the field of neuroscience and neurosurgery. His clear focus on integrating research, clinical application, and surgical excellence positions him as a future pioneer in the treatment of complex neurological conditions. With a solid base in both European and American medical systems and mentorship under globally respected neurosurgeons, Matteo’s future contributions are likely to influence neurosurgical standards, patient outcomes, and cross-disciplinary innovations for years to come.

🌟 Vision for Medical Research

Driven by a mission to bridge gaps between clinical neurosurgery and translational neuroscience, Matteo’s research vision is both ambitious and impactful. His ongoing focus on refining diagnostic and therapeutic techniques—particularly through systematic analysis and technological innovation—reflects a strong alignment with the future of precision medicine. Whether advancing shunt technologies for hydrocephalus or exploring maternal-fetal outcomes in neurological conditions, his commitment to enhancing the quality of care and knowledge dissemination is at the heart of his scholarly identity.

Publication

  • Advancing treatment strategies for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: a systematic review on studies comparing ventricular and lumbo-peritoneal shunts
    M. Palermo, G. Trevisi, F. Signorelli, F. Doglietto, A. Albanese, A. Olivi, …
    2025

 

  • Targeted Versus NonTargeted Epidural Blood Patch for Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
    M. Palermo, C.L. Sturiale, S. D’Arrigo, G. Trevisi
    2025

 

  • Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review on Clinical Course, Treatments, Delivery and Maternal‐Fetal Outcome
    M. Palermo, G. Trevisi, S. D’Arrigo, C.L. Sturiale
    2025

 

🏁 Conclusion

Matteo Palermo exemplifies the qualities of a future leader in the field of neurosurgery and neuroscience research. His early achievements, international exposure, and advanced research contributions mark him as an exceptional talent in academic medicine. With a solid foundation, continual academic distinction, and a vision for translational impact, Matteo is poised to make lasting contributions to the medical and scientific community. His trajectory strongly supports his candidacy for recognition, including honors such as the Best Researcher Award.

Rosario Osta | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof.Dr. Rosario Osta | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Rosario Osta, CIBERNED-Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza,  Spain.

Prof. Rosario Osta Pinzolas is a distinguished geneticist and full professor at the University of Zaragoza, Spain. Her academic roots in veterinary sciences and a Ph.D. in Genetics laid the foundation for a prolific career in biomedical research, particularly in the fields of neuroscience and genetic disorders. With leadership roles in multiple high-profile research consortia such as CIBERNED, TRICALS, and ENCALS, she has established herself as a central figure in neurodegenerative disease research. Her scholarly output includes over 100 indexed publications, multiple national and international research projects, and an h-index exceeding 45.

Profile

Orcid 

Scopus

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Rosario Osta Pinzolas began her academic journey with a solid foundation in veterinary sciences, graduating as Licenciada en Veterinaria from the University of Zaragoza in 1989. Her academic inclinations quickly shifted toward molecular genetics, leading her to complete a Ph.D. in Genetics at the same university in 1994. Her early studies were driven by a deep curiosity about the mechanisms of heredity and gene expression, setting the tone for a lifelong commitment to biomedical research. These formative years cultivated her scientific rigor and sowed the seeds for a career that would eventually bridge basic science and translational medicine.

🧬 Professional Endeavors in Genetics and Biomedicine

Prof. Osta currently holds the esteemed title of Catedrática (Full Professor) in the Department of Anatomy, Embryology, and Genetics at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza. Since 2018, she has led her department with a focus on integrative biomedical sciences. She is the principal investigator of the LAGENBIO group recognized by both the Aragon Health Research Institute and the Government of Aragon. Under her leadership, the group has developed two major subprograms: TERAGEN and REGENERAGEN. As coordinator of the “Neuroscience and Mental Health Program” at IISA, she has spearheaded numerous efforts to understand and address neurological diseases through genetic approaches.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus in Neuroscience

A prominent figure in neuroscience, Prof. Osta’s research lies at the intersection of genetics and neurodegeneration. She is currently the principal investigator of the only Aragon-based group within CIBERNED (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas), reflecting her national influence. Her team represents Zaragoza in prominent European consortia such as TRICALS and ENCALS, both focused on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other motor neuron diseases. Through more than 100 indexed publications, predominantly in top-tier journals, her work delves into the molecular underpinnings of neurological disorders and explores regenerative medicine strategies, thereby contributing to innovative therapeutic avenues.

🧪 Accolades and Recognition in Scientific Excellence

Prof. Osta’s academic and research career has been punctuated by consistent recognition. She has completed five research productivity periods and one technology transfer period, acknowledged by CNEAI — a mark of sustained scientific impact. She has led over 74 research projects and contributed to more than 100 collaboration contracts, earning her four competitive research awards from respected institutions including CORIS, AREA, IIS, and SEBBM. Her contributions have been lauded not only for scientific quality but also for practical relevance in biomedical advancements.

🚀 Innovation and Impact in Translational Research

An ardent advocate for science with societal impact, Prof. Osta has significantly contributed to technology transfer. She holds nine patents, five of which have been licensed to industry partners. Her collaborations with companies have led to meaningful translational outputs, emphasizing her role in bridging the gap between academic research and real-world solutions. As former Director of the Technology Transfer and Innovation Secretariat at the University of Zaragoza for nearly a decade, she played a crucial role in institutional innovation strategies. Her involvement in joint university-company chairs and her role in the UZ Technology-Based Business Creation Committee for over 12 years further underscore her influence on academic entrepreneurship.

📚 Mentorship and Educational Leadership

Beyond the lab, Prof. Osta has left a profound mark as an educator and mentor. Since 2013, she has coordinated the Interuniversity Doctoral Program in Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, a joint initiative between the Universities of Zaragoza and La Rioja. Her mentorship includes the supervision of 13 Ph.D. theses — 9 of which earned international distinction and 6 received extraordinary doctoral awards. Her influence extends to guiding numerous undergraduate and master’s theses, fostering a new generation of scientists with a deep commitment to research excellence and innovation.

🌍 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Rosario Osta’s legacy is defined by her ability to integrate scientific discovery, mentorship, and innovation. As a member of the Scientific Committee of the Luzón Foundation, her vision reaches beyond academia into public health advocacy and strategic research planning. With nearly 19,000 citations on Google Scholar and an h-index of 45, her work continues to inspire and inform global research communities. Her continued leadership in collaborative European projects ensures her contributions will shape the future of neuroscience, genetics, and translational medicine for years to come.

Publication

Title: Novel FKBP prolyl isomerase 1A (FKBP12) ligand promotes functional improvement in SOD1G93A amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mice
Authors: L. Moreno-Martinez, N. Gaja-Capdevila, L. Mosqueira-Martín, R. Osta, F.J. Gil-Bea
Year: 2025

Title: Identifying Hub Genes and miRNAs Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Bioinformatics Pathway to Novel Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: E. Gascón, A.C. Calvo, N. Molina, P. Zaragoza, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Comparative Blood Profiling Based on ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy and Chemometrics for Differential Diagnosis of Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis—Pilot Study
Authors: K. Tkachenko, J.M. González Sáiz, A.C. Calvo, R. Osta, C. Pizarro Millán
Year: 2024

Title: Sex differences on constitutive long non-coding RNA expression: Modulatory effect of estradiol and testosterone in muscle cells
Authors: T. López-Royo, L. Moreno-Martinez, L. Moreno-García, R. Manzano, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Differentially expressed lncRNAs in SOD1 G93A mice skeletal muscle: H19, Myhas and Neat1 as potential biomarkers in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: T. López-Royo, L. Moreno-Martinez, P. Zaragoza, R. Manzano, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Proteomic profiling of human plasma extracellular vesicles identifies PF4 and C1R as novel biomarker in sarcopenia
Authors: P. Aparicio, D. Navarrete-Villanueva, A. Gómez-Cabello, R. Osta, R. Manzano
Year: 2024

Title: Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Skeletal Muscle Transcriptome Analysis: A Comprehensive Examination of Differentially Expressed Genes
Authors: E. Gascón, P. Zaragoza, A.C. Calvo, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Intermediate Repeat Expansion in the ATXN2 Gene as a Risk Factor in the ALS and FTD Spanish Population
Authors: D. Borrego-Hernández, J.F. Vázquez-Costa, R. Domínguez Rubio, M. Povedano, A. García-Redondo
Year: 2024

Title: New Insights into Endogenous Retrovirus-K Transcripts in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: L. Moreno-Martinez, S. Macías-Redondo, M.H.P. Strunk, R. Osta, J. Schoorlemmer
Year: 2024

Title: Analysis of Plasma-Derived Exosomal MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers for Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy
Authors: M. García-Gracia, L. Moreno-Martinez, A. Hernaiz, S. García-Belenguer, I. Martín-Burriel
Year: 2024

🏆 Conclusion

Based on her outstanding research contributions, innovation in translational science, mentorship record, and leadership within national and European research programs, Prof. Rosario Osta Pinzolas is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her profile reflects not only academic excellence but also societal impact and visionary leadership. While there is room for enhanced global outreach, her sustained achievements and contributions make her highly deserving of this prestigious recognition.

BaomanLi| Neuroanatomy | Best Researcher Award

Prof. BaomanLi| Neuroanatomy| Best Researcher Award

Prof . Baoman Li, China Medical University, China.

Dr. Baoman Li is a distinguished neuroscientist and forensic toxicologist whose academic and professional journey spans advanced pharmacological research and impactful discoveries in brain science. With a Ph.D. from China Medical University and postdoctoral training in the U.S., he has built a career rooted in scientific excellence and innovation. His pioneering research—ranging from CSF transport mechanisms to neuronal excitability and circadian-based psychiatric models—has been published in leading journals. As a professor and department director, he also contributes through scholarly leadership, editorial work, and mentorship, strengthening the foundation of neuroglial and toxicological research

Profile

 

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Baoman Li’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in medical pharmacology, culminating in a Ph.D. from China Medical University. His early academic years were marked by a keen interest in the complex interactions between drugs and neural function, particularly within the central nervous system. Motivated by a curiosity about how neurochemical pathways influence behavior and mental health, Dr. Li pursued rigorous scientific training and research, laying the groundwork for a future at the forefront of forensic toxicology and neuropharmacology.

Professional Endeavors

Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Li expanded his academic horizons as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Rochester Medical Center in the United States from 2013 to 2014. There, he collaborated on cross-disciplinary studies, refining his expertise in neurobiology and toxicological mechanisms. Returning to China, he assumed the role of Professor and Department Director of the Forensic Analytical Toxicology Department at China Medical University. In this position, he has led numerous high-impact research initiatives, while mentoring emerging scientists and guiding departmental development.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Li’s research has contributed significantly to our understanding of the brain’s physiological and pathological processes. His recent studies have been particularly groundbreaking. He identified a previously unknown ependymal cell-mediated pathway responsible for transporting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the central nervous system to peripheral organs, published in PNAS in 2024. Another major discovery, published in Cell Metabolism in 2025, revealed the role of the norepinephrine–free fatty acid–Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase axis in regulating neuronal hyperexcitability and behavioral arousal. Furthermore, his 2023 work in Molecular Psychiatry introduced a novel circadian disruption-induced manic mouse model, offering new tools for bipolar disorder research.

📚 Scholarly Contributions and Thought Leadership

Beyond laboratory discoveries, Dr. Li has demonstrated scholarly leadership through his editorial work on three comprehensive books focusing on neuroglial functions and dysfunctions. These editorial endeavors reflect his deep engagement with the academic community and his commitment to synthesizing and disseminating cutting-edge knowledge. His work bridges pharmacology, neuroscience, and psychiatry, reinforcing his reputation as a thought leader in the multidisciplinary domain of brain science and mental health.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Li’s scientific rigor and innovative research have earned him national and international recognition. His publications in high-impact journals have attracted attention from global neuroscientific communities, affirming the relevance and importance of his findings. As a respected academic, he frequently contributes to peer-reviewed journals and serves as a reviewer and collaborator across multiple institutions, further highlighting his expertise and integrity as a scientist.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his research, Dr. Li has had a significant impact on the fields of forensic toxicology, neuropharmacology, and psychiatric disorder modeling. His identification of critical neural pathways and behavioral mechanisms has implications for both clinical practice and basic science. His collaborative work continues to influence ongoing studies in neuroscience and mental health treatment strategies, and his mentorship of students ensures that his influence extends to future generations of researchers.

🔬 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Baoman Li continues his work, he remains committed to pushing the boundaries of forensic neuroscience and neuropharmacology. With a legacy rooted in innovation, academic excellence, and cross-disciplinary exploration, his future contributions are expected to further transform our understanding of brain function and disease. By integrating analytical toxicology with behavioral neuroscience, Dr. Li aims to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that could benefit public health on a global scale.

🧾 Conclusion

Through decades of dedication, Dr. Baoman Li has emerged as a transformative figure in the intersecting fields of neuropharmacology, forensic toxicology, and psychiatric neuroscience. His work not only enhances scientific understanding but also opens new avenues for diagnosis and treatment of complex neurological and psychological disorders. As he continues to lead cutting-edge research and mentor the next generation, his influence will persist—shaping the future of brain health and forensic science across global academic and clinical landscapes.

Peng Jun | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Peng Jun | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Peng Jun, Qilu hospital of Shandong University, China.

Professor Jun Peng is a distinguished leader in hematology, currently serving as Vice President of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Director of the Department of Hematology. His research is deeply rooted in the immunological pathogenesis and immune tolerance of primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), where he has made significant breakthroughs, including the publication of 14 papers in Blood. With a career supported by prestigious national awards, and leadership in 15 high-level research projects, Professor Peng is also a vital figure in Chinese hematology societies and editorial boards of leading journals. His academic rigor, clinical insight, and mentorship continue to shape the future of hematological science in China and beyond.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Professor Jun Peng embarked on his academic journey with a strong commitment to medicine and hematological sciences. From the outset, he exhibited exceptional academic talent and dedication, leading him to pursue both an M.D. and Ph.D. His early education laid a robust foundation for his future specialization in hematology, particularly in the complex field of immunological disorders. His doctoral work, recognized nationally, foreshadowed the groundbreaking contributions he would later make in immune thrombocytopenia research.

🩺 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as the Vice President of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Professor Peng also holds the roles of Chief Physician, Professor, and Ph.D./M.D. Advisor, in addition to being the Director of the Department of Hematology. His clinical and academic responsibilities are carried out with unwavering diligence, mentoring future medical experts while overseeing high-level clinical operations. As a Distinguished Professor of Shandong University, he is actively engaged in shaping the university’s medical excellence on both national and global stages.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

At the heart of Professor Peng’s career is his pioneering work on the immunological pathogenesis and immune tolerance of primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). He has made substantial contributions to understanding the autoimmune mechanisms that underlie ITP, one of the most challenging hematologic disorders. His scholarly dedication is evidenced by the publication of 14 papers in Blood, a leading journal in hematology, where he served as corresponding or co-corresponding author. His research, grounded in clinical insight and scientific precision, has contributed new perspectives on immune regulation in hematologic diseases.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Professor Peng’s excellence has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards. These include the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, which highlights his scientific creativity and impact at a young age. He is also a recipient of the One-Hundred National Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award, a testament to the academic rigor of his early research. Additionally, he earned the First Prize of the Natural Science Award for Outstanding Achievements in Scientific Research from the Ministry of Education and the Science and Technology Progress Award, reflecting both his academic brilliance and practical impact in the medical field.

🧪 Impact and Influence

Beyond research publications, Professor Peng has significantly influenced the broader scientific and medical communities. As a principal investigator, he has led fifteen national and ministerial-level research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the 973 Program under the Ministry of Science and Technology. His leadership extends to active roles in national academic societies, including the Thrombosis and Hemostasis Group of the Chinese Society of Hematology and the Professional Committee of Experimental Hematology of the Chinese Society of Pathophysiology. These positions allow him to shape the direction of hematological research and clinical guidelines in China.

📚 Academic Leadership and Editorial Roles

A passionate advocate for knowledge dissemination, Professor Peng is a key editorial board member for several respected journals such as Thrombosis Journal, Thrombosis Research, Journal of Clinical Hematology, and the Chinese Journal of Hematology. Through these roles, he ensures that cutting-edge research in hematology is critically evaluated and shared widely, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and collaboration across the globe.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Professor Jun Peng’s legacy is being forged not only through his past achievements but also through his continued commitment to the advancement of hematological science. His influence spans clinical innovation, academic mentorship, and scientific discovery. As he continues to push the boundaries of understanding in ITP and immune tolerance, he inspires a new generation of physician-scientists. The impact of his work promises to resonate for years to come, offering hope and healing for patients and propelling China’s medical research onto the world stage.

Publication

  • Title: Autoimmune effector mechanisms associated with a defective immunosuppressive axis in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
    Authors: Qizhao Li, Geneviève Marcoux, Yuefen Hu, Jung Peng, John W. Semple
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Quantitative detection of macular microvascular abnormalities identified by optical coherence tomography angiography in different hematological diseases
    Authors: Tianzi Jian, Fabao Xu, Guihua Li, Li Zhang, Jung Peng
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Nicotinamide enhances Treg differentiation by promoting Foxp3 acetylation in immune thrombocytopenia
    Authors: Ju Li, Cheng Zhang, Yuefen Hu, Qi Feng, Xiang Hu
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: The effects of complement-independent, autoantibody-induced apoptosis of platelets in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP)
    Authors: Lin Sun, Yichen Zhang, Ping Chen, Jung Peng, Zi Sheng
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a case report, meta-analysis, and systematic review
    Authors: You Yuan Su, Yafei Yu, Zhenyu Yan, Jung Peng, Xinguang Liu
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Ion channel Piezo1 activation aggravates the endothelial dysfunction under a high glucose environment
    Authors: Xiaoyu Zhang, Shaoqiu Leng, Xinyue Liu, Shuwen Wang, Jung Peng
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Intelligent dual-modality label-free cell classification with light scattering imaging and Raman spectra measurements
    Authors: Faihaa Mohammed Eltigani, Xiaoyu Zhang, Min Liu, Jung Peng, Xuantao Su
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Eltrombopag plus diacerein vs eltrombopag in patients with ITP: a multicenter, randomized, open-label phase 2 trial
    Authors: Lu Sun, Xiaoyang Huang, Juan Wang, Ming Hou, Yu Hou
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Risk Factors for Mortality in Critically Ill Patients with Coagulation Abnormalities: A Retrospective Cohort Study
    Authors: Qiuyu Guo, Jung Peng, Tichao Shan, Miao Xu
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Platelet-derived TGF-β1 induces functional reprogramming of myeloid-derived suppressor cells in immune thrombocytopenia
    Authors: Lingjun Wang, Haoyi Wang, Mingfang Zhu, Ming Hou, Yu Hou
    Year: 2024

 

✅ Conclusion

Through his pioneering research, unwavering clinical dedication, and impactful academic leadership, Professor Jun Peng stands at the forefront of immuno-hematology. His work not only deepens scientific understanding of ITP but also contributes directly to improved patient outcomes. As he continues to inspire through teaching, research, and innovation, Professor Peng’s legacy is one of excellence, influence, and ongoing transformation in the global hematology community.

 

Daša Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Daša Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Daša Zupančič, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Daša Zupančič is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in cell biology, urothelial pathology, and medical education. Her extensive contributions to scientific research, particularly in the field of urothelial repair and cancer transformation, have earned her recognition, including the EMBO award. She has played a crucial role in mentoring and teaching, guiding future generations of researchers and medical professionals.

Profile

Orcid

✨ Early Academic Pursuits ✨

Daša Zupančič embarked on her academic journey with an unwavering passion for cell biology and medicine. She earned her Master’s degree in 2002 from the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, where she meticulously explored cellular and molecular biological changes in the rat bladder urothelium following cyclophosphamide exposure. This formative research laid the foundation for her Ph.D., which she successfully completed in 2006, investigating the protective role of melatonin in urothelial injury and repair. Her dedication to advancing biomedical knowledge was evident from the very beginning of her scholarly career.

🎓 Professional Endeavors 🎓

Since 2006, Daša Zupančič has been an esteemed Associate Professor at the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Cell Biology. Prior to this, she gained valuable experience as a Young Researcher and Teaching Assistant from 1999 to 2006. Her extensive expertise and commitment to education have made her an integral part of the institution, where she continuously fosters scientific curiosity and excellence among students and colleagues alike.

🎡 Contributions and Research Focus 🎡

Throughout her career, Daša Zupančič has dedicated her research to understanding cellular mechanisms in urothelial biology and pathology. Her investigations into cyclophosphamide-induced urothelial injury, melatonin’s protective effects, and retinoid signaling pathways in urothelial cancer transformation have provided valuable insights into cellular repair processes. Her work extends beyond laboratory research, influencing the medical community’s approach to urothelial diseases and potential therapeutic advancements.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Her exceptional contributions to biomedical research have been recognized on multiple platforms. In 2017, she was honored with the prestigious EMBO award for her short-term scholarship project on the role of the retinoid signaling pathway in urothelial cancer transformation. This recognition underscores her significant impact on the scientific community and highlights her pioneering approach to understanding cancer pathophysiology.

👨‍🎓 Impact and Influence 👨‍🎓

A dedicated mentor, Daša Zupančič has guided numerous students towards academic excellence. Between 2014 and 2025, she has successfully mentored four master’s students and is currently supervising two more. In addition, she has overseen the research endeavors of four Ph.D. candidates, with one having successfully defended their dissertation in 2023 and another expected to graduate in 2025. Her mentorship has shaped the next generation of biomedical researchers, fostering a culture of rigorous inquiry and scientific discovery.

📚 Legacy and Future Contributions 📚

Beyond her research, Daša Zupančič plays a pivotal role in academia through her extensive teaching engagements. Since 2000, she has been a cornerstone of education at the University of Ljubljana, contributing to multiple faculties, including Medicine, Biotechnical Sciences, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy. She teaches a range of graduate and doctoral courses, covering essential subjects such as Medical Cell Biology, Immunology, and Research in Medicine. Her dedication to education ensures that her knowledge and expertise continue to shape the minds of aspiring medical professionals and researchers for years to come.

Publication

  • Vitamin A‐Enriched Diet Increases Urothelial Cell Proliferation by Upregulating Itga3 and Areg After Cyclophosphamide‐Induced Injury in Mice
    Authors: Brina Dragar, Simona Kranjc Brezar, Maja Čemažar, Tanja Jesenko, Rok Romih, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Tadeja Kuret, Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2025

 

  • Selective Targeting of Lectins and Their Macropinocytosis in Urothelial Tumours: Translation from in vitro to ex vivo
    Authors: Nataša Resnik, Tanja Višnjar, Tomaž Smrkolj, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Rok Romih, Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2023

 

  • Nanodiamonds as Possible Tools for Improved Management of Bladder Cancer and Bacterial Cystitis
    Authors: Daša Zupančič, Peter Veranič
    Year: 2022

 

  • Transmission Electron Microscopy Demonstration of Reduced Endothelial Glycocalyx in Severe Preeclampsia
    Authors: Mugerli S, Zupančič D, Rok Romih, Lučovnik M
    Year: 2022

 

  • Vitamin A and Retinoids in Bladder Cancer Chemoprevention and Treatment: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence, Challenges and Future Prospects
    Authors: Larisa Tratnjek, Jera Jeruc, Rok Romih, Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2021

 

  • Immunohistochemistry as a Paramount Tool in Research of Normal Urothelium, Bladder Cancer and Bladder Pain Syndrome
    Authors: Daša Zupančič, Rok Romih
    Year: 2021

 

  • Combined Lectin- and Immuno-Histochemistry (CLIH) for Applications in Cell Biology and Cancer Diagnosis: Analysis of Human Urothelial Carcinomas
    Authors: Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2020

 

  • Vitamin A Rich Diet Diminishes Early Urothelial Carcinogenesis by Altering Retinoic Acid Signaling
    Authors: Daša Zupančič, Jelena Korać-Prlić, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Lucija Franković, Katarina Vilović, Jera Jeruc, Rok Romih, Janoš Terzić
    Year: 2020

 

  • Lectins as Possible Tools for Improved Urinary Bladder Cancer Management
    Authors: Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2019

 

  • Co-Culturing Porcine Normal Urothelial Cells, Urinary Bladder Fibroblasts and Smooth Muscle Cells for Tissue Engineering Research
    Authors: Daša Zupančič
    Year: 2018

 

🌟 Conclusion 🌟

With a career dedicated to pioneering research, impactful mentorship, and transformative education, Daša Zupančič continues to leave a lasting legacy in the scientific and academic communities. Her work not only enhances understanding of urothelial biology but also inspires innovation and discovery among young scientists. As she continues her academic and research endeavors, her influence on the field will undoubtedly grow, shaping the future of biomedical sciences.