Jeffrey Holt | Hearing and Sensory Transduction | Lifetime achievement Award

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Prof. Jeffrey Holt | Hearing and Sensory Transduction | Lifetime achievement Award

Prof. Jeffrey Holt,Ā  Harvard Medical School / Boston Children’s Hospital, United States.

Dr. Jeffrey R. Holt is a distinguished scientist whose groundbreaking contributions to auditory neuroscience and inner ear physiology have significantly advanced the field of otolaryngology. Currently serving as a Professor of Otolaryngology and Neurology at Boston Childrenā€™s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Holt’s career is marked by an unwavering commitment to understanding the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying hearing and balance disorders.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

Early Academic Pursuits šŸŽ“

Born in Buffalo, NY, Dr. Holt’s passion for science was evident early in his academic journey. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Wofford College in 1986, laying a strong foundation in the life sciences. His quest for knowledge led him to the University of Rochester, where he pursued a Masterā€™s degree in Physiology in 1992, followed by a Ph.D. in Physiology in 1995. His doctoral research provided deep insights into the intricate workings of sensory physiology, setting the stage for his future research endeavors in auditory neuroscience.

Professional Endeavors and Leadership šŸ‘©ā€šŸ’¼

Following his Ph.D., Dr. Holt embarked on postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. His extensive training in neurobiology enabled him to transition into academic roles, beginning as an Instructor in Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital from 1999 to 2001. He later joined the University of Virginia as an Assistant Professor of Neuroscience, where he progressed to Associate Professor before returning to Harvard in 2011. Since 2016, he has held the esteemed position of Professor of Otolaryngology at Boston Childrenā€™s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, as well as a faculty affiliation with the Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology (HST) program.

Contributions and Research Focus šŸŒ

Dr. Holt’s pioneering research has been instrumental in decoding the molecular basis of hearing and balance disorders. His work focuses on sensory hair cells of the inner ear, aiming to uncover the genetic and physiological mechanisms that contribute to hearing loss. His studies have explored ion channel function, hair cell mechanotransduction, and gene therapy approaches for hereditary deafness. His innovative research has opened new avenues for therapeutic interventions, including the development of gene therapies targeting Usher syndrome and other genetic hearing disorders.

Accolades and Recognition šŸ†

Throughout his career, Dr. Holt has been widely recognized for his contributions to auditory science. He has played key leadership roles in prestigious scientific organizations, serving as Chair of the Usher Syndrome Society Scientific Advisory Committee and Co-Chair of major international conferences such as the Keystone Conference on Sensory Systems and the New York Academy of Sciences Meeting. His service on various NIH and NIDCD advisory committees reflects his influence in shaping national research priorities in hearing and balance disorders.

Impact and Influence on Scientific Community šŸŒ

Dr. Holtā€™s impact extends beyond research, as he has been a dedicated mentor and educator throughout his career. He has guided numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, serving on thesis and qualifying exam committees at Harvard Medical School. As a course director and research mentor, he has played a crucial role in training the next generation of auditory neuroscientists. His leadership in academic and scientific communities has helped bridge the gap between fundamental research and clinical applications in hearing restoration.

Legacy and Future Contributions šŸ’Ŗ

With a legacy rooted in groundbreaking discoveries and scientific leadership, Dr. Holt continues to push the boundaries of auditory neuroscience. His ongoing research in gene therapy for hereditary deafness holds the promise of transforming lives through novel treatments for hearing loss. As a visionary in the field, his work is set to inspire future advancements in otolaryngology, offering hope to millions affected by hearing and balance disorders worldwide. His dedication to research, education, and clinical impact ensures that his contributions will leave a lasting imprint on auditory science for generations to come.

 

Publication

  • TRPA1 is a candidate for the mechanosensitive transduction channel of vertebrate hair cells
    Authors: DP Corey, J GarcĆ­a-AƱoveros, JR Holt, KY Kwan, SY Lin, MA Vollrath, …
    Year: 2004

 

  • Treatment of autosomal dominant hearing loss by in vivo delivery of genome editing agents
    Authors: X Gao, Y Tao, V Lamas, M Huang, WH Yeh, B Pan, YJ Hu, JH Hu, …
    Year: 2018

 

  • Mechanotransduction in mouse inner ear hair cells requires transmembrane channelā€“like genes
    Authors: Y Kawashima, GSG GĆ©lĆ©oc, K Kurima, V Labay, A Lelli, Y Asai, …
    Year: 2011

 

  • TMC1 and TMC2 are components of the mechanotransduction channel in hair cells of the mammalian inner ear
    Authors: B Pan, GS GĆ©lĆ©oc, Y Asai, GC Horwitz, K Kurima, K Ishikawa, …
    Year: 2013

 

  • Continuous evolution of base editors with expanded target compatibility and improved activity
    Authors: BW Thuronyi, LW Koblan, JM Levy, WH Yeh, C Zheng, GA Newby, …
    Year: 2019

 

  • Differential distribution of stem cells in the auditory and vestibular organs of the inner ear
    Authors: K Oshima, CM Grimm, CE Corrales, P Senn, R Martinez Monedero, …
    Year: 2007

 

  • A chemical-genetic strategy implicates myosin-1c in adaptation by hair cells
    Authors: JR Holt, SKH Gillespie, DW Provance, K Shah, KM Shokat, DP Corey, …
    Year: 2002

 

  • A synthetic AAV vector enables safe and efficient gene transfer to the mammalian inner ear
    Authors: LD Landegger, B Pan, C Askew, SJ Wassmer, SD Gluck, A Galvin, …
    Year: 2017

 

  • Calcium imaging of single stereocilia in hair cells: localization of transduction channels at both ends of tip links
    Authors: W Denk, JR Holt, GMG Shepherd, DP Corey
    Year: 1995

 

  • TMC1 forms the pore of mechanosensory transduction channels in vertebrate inner ear hair cells
    Authors: B Pan, N Akyuz, XP Liu, Y Asai, C Nist-Lund, K Kurima, BH Derfler, …
    Year: 2018

 

Conclusion šŸŽÆ

Dr. Holtā€™s contributions to auditory neuroscience have revolutionized the field, bridging fundamental research with clinical applications. His groundbreaking work in gene therapy holds immense potential for treating hereditary hearing disorders, making a profound impact on global healthcare. As a researcher, educator, and leader, his legacy will continue to inspire innovation in otolaryngology and improve the lives of individuals affected by hearing and balance impairments for generations to come.

 

Pongrama Ramasoota | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Pongrama Ramasoota | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Pongrama Ramasoota, Mahidol University, Thailand.

Dr. Pongrama Ramasoota is a distinguished professor and researcher specializing in antibody research and virology at the Centre of Excellence for Antibody Research (CEAR), Mahidol University, Thailand. With a strong academic foundation in veterinary medicine, public health, and microbiology, he has dedicated his career to developing therapeutic and diagnostic monoclonal antibodies against viruses such as Dengue, Rabies, Foot and Mouth Disease, and Influenza. His contributions extend beyond infectious disease research, as he has also explored anti-aging supplements for humans and pets. Recognized with numerous national and international awards, his research has significantly impacted medical biotechnology, earning him a reputation as a leading scientist in his field.

 

Profile

Scopus

 

šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Pongrama Ramasootaā€™s journey into the world of microbiology and antibody research began with a solid foundation in veterinary medicine. He earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Kasetsart University, where his fascination with infectious diseases and immunology took root. His academic pursuits led him to Mahidol University, where he obtained a Master of Public Health, further broadening his expertise in disease prevention and control. Driven by a passion for scientific exploration, he pursued a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Microbiology at the prestigious Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences in Uppsala, Sweden. These formative years were instrumental in shaping his career as a leading researcher in antibody development and disease management.

šŸ„ Professional Endeavors

As a distinguished professor at the Centre of Excellence for Antibody Research (CEAR) within the Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Dr. Ramasoota has dedicated his career to advancing the field of immunotherapy. His research primarily focuses on developing neutralizing monoclonal antibodies to combat viral threats such as Dengue and Rabies. Over the years, he has led groundbreaking projects aimed at creating effective therapeutic and diagnostic solutions. His expertise has also extended beyond academia, as he collaborates with industry leaders to translate research into practical applications that benefit global health.

šŸ¦  Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ramasootaā€™s contributions to medical research are vast and impactful. His work on neutralizing human monoclonal antibodies against Dengue and Rabies viruses has paved the way for potential life-saving treatments. His research extends to diagnostic monoclonal antibodies for detecting Foot and Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV) and Influenza, significantly enhancing disease surveillance. Beyond infectious diseases, he has also ventured into anti-aging research, developing natural supplements to promote longevity in both humans and pets. His relentless pursuit of innovation continues to drive advancements in virology, immunotherapy, and biotechnology.

šŸ† Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Ramasootaā€™s contributions to science have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards. He was honored as Thailandā€™s Outstanding Researcher in 2020 and named Thailandā€™s Outstanding Veterinarian in 2016. His innovative work earned him multiple Outstanding Research and Invention Awards from the National Research Council of Thailand between 2008 and 2016. He has also received international recognition, including a gold medal from the 2014 Taipei Invention & Techno Mart and awards from the Korea Invention Association and the International Federation of Inventorsā€™ Associations. These accolades underscore his influence as a pioneer in antibody research and biotechnology.

šŸŒ Impact and Influence

With an H-index of 18 and over 1,038 citations on Scopus, Dr. Ramasootaā€™s research has significantly influenced the scientific community. His findings have been instrumental in shaping new treatment strategies for viral diseases, providing hope for better therapeutic interventions. Collaborating with industry leaders such as Advy Chemical (India) and Thai-Naoka (Thailand), he has helped bridge the gap between research and real-world applications. His contributions to diagnostic tools and monoclonal antibody therapies continue to shape the future of virology and medical biotechnology.

šŸ“š Legacy and Future Contributions

Beyond his research endeavors, Dr. Ramasoota has authored books that highlight his expertise in environmental management and anti-aging technologies. His book Hallmarks of Aging, Technology and Innovation for Anti-Aging explores groundbreaking advancements in longevity research, demonstrating his commitment to improving human health across various dimensions. As he continues to innovate, his legacy as a leading researcher in antibody development and viral immunotherapy will inspire future generations of scientists. His ongoing efforts to combat infectious diseases and promote healthier aging promise a lasting impact on global health and biotechnology.

Publication

  1. Title: Development of novel canine phage display-derived neutralizing monoclonal antibody fragments against rabies virus from immunized dogs
    Authors: A. Chorpunkul, U. Boonyuen, K. Limkittikul, P. Lekcharoensuk, P. Ramasoota
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Characterization of Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolated from clinical specimens and oysters in Thailand
    Authors: N. Tewawong, S. Kowaboot, S. Kengkarn, P. Ramasoota, O. Suthienkul
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Nicotiana benthamiana as a potential source for producing anti-dengue virus D54 neutralizing therapeutic antibody
    Authors: S. Krittanai, K. Rattanapisit, C.J.I. Bulaon, R. Strasser, W. Phoolcharoen
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Associations of effort-reward imbalance at work and quality of life among workers after stroke: a one-year longitudinal study in Thailand
    Authors: S. Naknoi, J. Li, P. Ramasoota, N. Soonthornworasiri, O. Kaewboonchoo
    Year: 2023

 

  1. Title: Potential Protective Effect of Dengue NS1 Human Monoclonal Antibodies against Dengue and Zika Virus Infections
    Authors: R. Sootichote, W. Puangmanee, S. Benjathummarak, P. Ramasoota, P. Pitaksajjakul
    Year: 2023

 

  1. Title: A replication competent luciferase-secreting DENV2 reporter for sero-epidemiological surveillance of neutralizing and enhancing antibodies
    Authors: K. Saipin, B.K. Thaisomboonsuk, B. Siridechadilok, N. Sittisombut, J. Junjhon
    Year: 2022

 

  1. Title: Spread of a Novel Indian Ocean Lineage Carrying E1ā€K211E/E2ā€V264A of Chikungunya Virus East/Central/South African Genotype across the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Africa
    Authors: J. Phadungsombat, H.A. Imad, E.E. Nakayama, W. Piyaphanee, T. Shioda
    Year: 2022

 

šŸŽÆ Conclusion

Dr. Ramasootaā€™s work has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also contributed to real-world solutions in disease treatment and diagnostics. His collaborations with industries and commitment to innovation ensure that his research continues to benefit global health. As he continues to push the boundaries of antibody research and anti-aging science, his legacy will inspire future generations of scientists, leaving a lasting impact on virology, immunotherapy, and biotechnology.