Dr. Mohamad-Reza Aghanoori, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Iran.
Dr. Mohamad-Reza Aghanouri is a distinguished neuroscientist and molecular medicine expert whose academic journey spans Iran and Canada. Beginning with foundational training in genetics and human biology, he has advanced into a dynamic career focused on translational neuroscience, particularly the genetic regulation of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. His doctoral and postdoctoral research have contributed significant insights into insulin/IGF-1 signaling, mitochondrial function, and gene expression related to autism and diabetic neuropathy.
Profile
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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits
Mohamad-Reza Aghanouri embarked on his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Cellular and Molecular Biology–Genetics from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran, in 2009. His keen interest in the intricate mechanics of human biology led him to pursue an M.Sc. in Human Genetics at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, where he explored non-invasive techniques for early sex determination through free fetal DNA analysis. His growing passion for neuroscience and genetics culminated in a Ph.D. from the University of Manitoba, Canada, where he studied at the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and the Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders. His doctoral thesis, focused on insulin/IGF-1 regulation of mitochondrial function in diabetic neuropathy, laid a strong foundation for a dynamic career in translational neurogenetics.
🧬 Professional Endeavors in Translational Neuroscience
Dr. Aghanouri’s postdoctoral work reflects a robust engagement with translational neuroscience and molecular medicine. From 2019 to 2024, he served as a postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, under the mentorship of Dr. Guang Yang. His research investigated translational regulation of genes implicated in brain development, especially in autism spectrum disorders and rare neurodevelopmental conditions. Prior to that, he worked with Prof. Paul Fernyhough in Winnipeg, Canada, where he examined the role of IGF-1 in ATP production in sensory neurons under diabetic stress conditions. His diverse experience also includes a pivotal R&D advisory role at Roya Bio Gene Company in Tehran, showcasing his versatility across both academic and industrial biosciences.
🔬 Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Aghanouri’s research contributions bridge the realms of neurodevelopment, metabolism, and genetic regulation. He has delved into the complex interplay between growth factors like IGF-1 and mitochondrial dynamics, particularly in relation to diabetic neuropathy. At the University of Calgary, his postdoctoral investigations explored the molecular pathways influencing neurodevelopmental disorders, positioning his work at the intersection of genomics and neuroscience. His methodological expertise spans cellular models, gene expression analysis, and translational bioinformatics, underscoring a commitment to discovering mechanisms that translate molecular findings into therapeutic insights.
🏆 Accolades and Recognition
Over the course of his academic and research career, Dr. Aghanouri has amassed a commendable list of honors. He received the prestigious CIHR postdoctoral fellowship (CA$40,000 annually, plus research allowance), along with additional fellowships from the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute and the Cumming School of Medicine. Notably, he clinched first place in the Striking Image Competition at the University of Calgary and was honored by the BoniadMelliNokhbegan Foundation for his exceptional research talent. He has also earned multiple research grants from Iranian institutions in 2023 and 2024, reflecting his cross-border research impact and trust among funding bodies.
📚 Institutional Leadership and Influence
In 2024, Dr. Aghanouri was appointed as the Head of the Library, Documentation, Scientometrics, and Publication Center at the National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB) in Tehran. He also holds a faculty position in the Department of Molecular Medicine at NIGEB. These roles position him as a key academic leader in Iran’s scientific community, where he not only continues his research but also shapes institutional research strategies, publication ethics, and scientific communication infrastructures. His work contributes significantly to Iran’s national bioscience and health research priorities.
🌍 Impact and Global Engagement
With academic roots in Iran and a decade of research training in Canada, Dr. Aghanouri exemplifies international scientific collaboration. His work addresses global health concerns, such as diabetes-induced neuropathies and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism, thus resonating with both clinical and scientific audiences worldwide. Through his active participation in conferences, poster competitions, and collaborative projects, he serves as a bridge between Iranian biotechnology advancements and the international research community.
🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions
Looking ahead, Dr. Aghanouri is poised to further advance the fields of molecular neurogenetics and translational medicine. His ongoing research is expected to uncover novel genetic mechanisms underlying brain development and metabolic dysfunctions. As a faculty member and research leader, he is mentoring the next generation of Iranian scientists while enhancing the global understanding of complex neurological diseases. His integrated approach to research, policy, and education ensures that his legacy will be one of both scientific innovation and institutional transformation.
Publication
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Betulin and its derivatives as novel compounds with different pharmacological effects
S Amiri, S Dastghaib, M Ahmadi, P Mehrbod, F Khadem, H Behrouj, …
2020
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Oxidized phosphatidylcholines trigger ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes during ischemia-reperfusion injury
A Stamenkovic, KA O’Hara, DC Nelson, TG Maddaford, AL Edel, …
2021
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Insulin-like growth factor-1 activates AMPK to augment mitochondrial function and correct neuronal metabolism in sensory neurons in type 1 diabetes
MR Aghanoori, DR Smith, S Shariati-Ievari, A Ajisebutu, A Nguyen, …
2019
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The ER stress/UPR axis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
M Aghaei, S Dastghaib, S Aftabi, MR Aghanoori, J Alizadeh, P Mokarram, …
2020
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Mechanisms targeting the unfolded protein response in asthma
S Dastghaib, PS Kumar, S Aftabi, G Damera, A Dalvand, A Sepanjnia, …
2021
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Nucleocytoplasmic transport of the RNA-binding protein CELF2 regulates neural stem cell fates
MJ MacPherson, SL Erickson, D Kopp, P Wen, MR Aghanoori, S Kedia, …
2021
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CYP2E15B, CYP2E16, CYP2E17B, CYP2E12, and CYP2E1*3 Allele Frequencies in Iranian Populations
GM Shahriary, H Galehdari, A Jalali, F Zanganeh, SMR Alavi, …
2012
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Insulin prevents aberrant mitochondrial phenotype in sensory neurons of type 1 diabetic rats
MR Aghanoori, DR Smith, SR Chowdhury, MG Sabbir, NA Calcutt, …
2017
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CEBPβ regulation of endogenous IGF-1 in adult sensory neurons can be mobilized to overcome diabetes-induced deficits in bioenergetics and axonal outgrowth
MR Aghanoori, P Agarwal, E Gauvin, RS Nagalingam, R Bonomo, …
2022
✅ Conclusion
Dr. Aghanouri stands out as a versatile and impactful scientist whose contributions to neuroscience and genetic medicine hold promise for both understanding and treating complex neurological conditions. His career reflects a strong blend of academic excellence, international collaboration, and leadership in research development. As he continues to build bridges between Iranian and global biosciences, his future work is expected to leave a lasting legacy in molecular neuroscience and translational medicine.