Danai Veltra | Neurogenetics and Molecular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Danai Veltra | Neurogenetics and Molecular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Danai Veltra | National and Kapodistrian University | Greece

Dr. Danai Veltra is a Greek medical researcher specializing in clinical genetics and genomic medicine, with a strong focus on rare genetic disorders, epileptic encephalopathies, and neurodevelopmental syndromes. Her research contributions encompass genetic diagnostics through Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), significantly improving the identification and understanding of Mendelian and chromosomal disorders. She has presented her work at numerous prestigious international conferences, including the European Human Genetics Conference and the European Paediatric Neurology Society Congress, where she has contributed to studies on Marfan syndrome, Williams syndrome, Melnick-Needles syndrome, and Diamond Blackfan Anemia. Dr. Veltra has co-authored impactful publications in leading journals such as the European Journal of Paediatric Neurology, Gynecological Endocrinology, and American Journal of Medical Genetics. Her collaborative work has enhanced genotype–phenotype correlations and advanced precision medicine approaches in pediatric and hereditary diseases. With 237 citations, an h-index of 7, and an i10-index of 5, she has established herself as a promising scientist in medical genetics, contributing both to clinical application and academic advancement in human genomics and molecular diagnostics.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Marinakis, N. M., Svingou, M., Veltra, D., Kekou, K., Sofocleous, C., Tilemis, F. N., … (2021). Phenotype‐driven variant filtration strategy in exome sequencing toward a high diagnostic yield and identification of 85 novel variants in 400 patients with rare Mendelian disorders. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A, 185(8), 2561–2571.

Zouvelou, V., Yubero, D., Apostolakopoulou, L., Kokkinou, E., Bilanakis, M., … Veltra, D. (2019). The genetic etiology in cerebral palsy mimics: The results from a Greek tertiary care center. European Journal of Paediatric Neurology, 23(3), 427–437.

Tilemis, F. N., Marinakis, N. M., Veltra, D., Svingou, M., Kekou, K., Mitrakos, A., … (2023). Germline CNV detection through whole-exome sequencing (WES) data analysis enhances resolution of rare genetic diseases. Genes, 14(7), 1490.

Pavinato, L., Delle Vedove, A., Carli, D., Ferrero, M., Carestiato, S., Howe, J. L., … (2023). CAPRIN1 haploinsufficiency causes a neurodevelopmental disorder with language impairment, ADHD and ASD. Brain, 146(2), 534–548.

Saffari, A., Lau, T., Tajsharghi, H., Karimiani, E. G., Kariminejad, A., Efthymiou, S., … (2023). The clinical and genetic spectrum of autosomal-recessive TOR1A-related disorders. Brain, 146(8), 3273–3288.

Layo-Carris, D. E., Lubin, E. E., Sangree, A. K., Clark, K. J., Durham, E. L., … (2024). Expanded phenotypic spectrum of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorder Bryant-Li-Bhoj syndrome with 38 additional individuals. European Journal of Human Genetics, 32(8), 928–937.

Veltra, D., Kosma, K., Papavasiliou, A., Tilemis, F. N., Traeger‐Synodinos, J., … (2022). A novel pathogenic ATP6V1B2 variant: Widening the genotypic spectrum of the epileptic neurodevelopmental phenotype. American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A, 188(12), 3563–3566.

Dongxia Zhu | Neurogenetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dongxia Zhu | Neurogenetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dongxia Zhu | The Northeast Normal University | China

Prof. Dongxia Zhu is a full professor in the Department of Chemistry at Northeast Normal University, specializing in functional organic and polymeric photoelectric materials and devices. She earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry under the supervision of Prof. Zhong-Min Su at NENU and pursued joint doctoral research at Jilin University under Prof. Yue Wang. She also served as an academic visitor at Durham University, UK, collaborating with Prof. Martin R. Bryce and Prof. Todd B. Marder. Prof. Zhu has conducted extensive research on the design and development of high-performance luminescent materials, leading to the creation of highly selective and sensitive fluorescent and phosphorescent probes applied in photodynamic cancer therapy, biological imaging, and luminescence sensing. She has completed 12 research projects, published 50 SCI-indexed papers, authored one book chapter, and holds 12 patents. Her scholarly work has achieved 4,574 citations across 3,698 documents, with 123 publications and an h-index of 38. Prof. Zhu is an active member of the Chinese Chemical Society, contributing significantly to advancements in luminescent materials and their biomedical and photoelectric applications.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Wang, Z., Li, Y., Zhang, H., Jiang, N., Xu, J., Zhu, D., & Bryce, M. R. (2025). Non-traditional luminescent polyurethanes of n–π electron hybrid structures with varying separation of aromatic rings. ACS Applied Polymer Materials, 7(18), 12337–12344.


Zhu, D., Chen, X., Wang, J., & Li, Q. (2025). A new strategy enabling combined fluorescence imaging of individual tuberculous granulomas and precise photothermal therapy of tuberculosis with lesion- and pathogen-targeting capabilities of the nanoparticles. Note, Open Access.


Wang, Z., Wang, W., Wu, Q., & Zhu, D. (2025). Constructing 1 + 1 > 2 photosensitizers based on NIR cyanine–iridium(III) complexes for enhanced photodynamic cancer therapy. Molecules, 30(12), 2662.


Sun, Y., Tang, Y., Zhang, L., Zhao, H., Wang, Z., & Zhu, D. (2025). Self-assembly versus coassembly: An amphiphilic NIR-II aggregation-induced emission luminogen for phototheranostics of orthotopic glioblastoma. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry.


Wang, Z., Liu, Y., Zhao, L., Tang, Y., & Zhu, D. (2025). Endogenous near-infrared chemiluminescence: Imaging-guided non-invasive thrombolysis and anti-inflammation based on a heteronuclear transition metal complex. Advanced Science, 12(5), 14567.


Wang, Z., Li, C., Zhao, H., Tang, Y., & Zhu, D. (2025). Leveraging tumor microenvironment to boost synergistic photodynamic therapy, ferroptosis anti-tumor efficiency based on a functional iridium(III) complex. Advanced Science, 12(7), 14892.


Tang, Y., Wang, Z., Zhao, H., Sun, Y., & Zhu, D. (2025). Sonodynamic and bioorthogonal sonocatalytic thrombotic therapy based on AIE cationic tetranuclear Ir(III) complex nanoplatform guided by NIR-chemiluminescence imaging. Advanced Materials, 37(4), 2310674.


Zhu, D., Wang, Z., & Tang, Y. (2025). The Midas touch by internal stimuli: Activatable luminogens with near-infrared aggregation-induced emission for potent bioimaging and theranostics. Review Article.


Wang, Z., Li, X., Zhao, H., Tang, Y., & Zhu, D. (2024). Disulfide-bridged cationic dinuclear Ir(III) complex with aggregation-induced emission and glutathione-consumption properties for elevating photodynamic therapy. Inorganic Chemistry, 63(22), 18945–18956.


Wang, Z., Tang, Y., Zhao, H., & Zhu, D. (2024). Phosphorescent sensor based on iridium(III) complex with aggregation-induced emission activity for facile detection of volatile acids. Molecules, 29(9), 2031.

Agata Różycka | Neurogenetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Agata Różycka | Neurogenetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Agata Różycka, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland.

Dr. Agata Różycka is a molecular neuroscientist and university lecturer at Poznan University of Medical Sciences, specializing in the molecular biology of neurodegeneration, epilepsy, and aging. With a robust academic background that combines molecular biology and pharmacy, she brings together clinical relevance and genetic insight. Her research delves into oxidative stress, genetic polymorphisms, and signal transduction in neurological diseases, with significant contributions to personalized medicine. She is also an accomplished educator, known for delivering high-quality instruction across medical and life science programs. Her scholarly work, published in respected journals and cited widely (h-index 15), continues to impact the fields of neurobiology and molecular diagnostics.

Profile

Orcid

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Agata Różycka’s journey in science began with a strong foundation in Molecular Biology and Pharmacy, having completed her MSc and PhD at Adam Mickiewicz University and the Poznan University of Medical Sciences in Poland. From early on, her academic interests were drawn to the molecular intricacies of the brain and human physiology. Her dual institutional training provided her with a broad yet profound grasp of pharmacogenomics, neurobiology, and genetic mechanisms underpinning disease processes. Her graduate years were marked by a passion for decoding the language of DNA and understanding the cellular responses to oxidative stress and genetic variation.

🧠 Professional Endeavors in Neuroscience

Currently a University Lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Różycka has dedicated her career to unraveling the molecular foundations of neurological disorders, particularly neurodegeneration, epilepsy, and aging-related changes. Her teaching spans key courses in biochemistry, diagnostics, molecular biology, and laboratory techniques, and she has taught across diverse departments including medicine, nutrition, and biotechnology. Her lectures are known for clarity and depth, consistently earning high evaluations from students, a reflection of her commitment to excellence in scientific education.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Różycka’s research is defined by its focus on the molecular and genetic mechanisms of neurodegeneration and neurological diseases. She has explored the role of oxidative stress, genetic polymorphisms, and signal transduction pathways in brain aging and epileptogenesis. Her expertise in SNP genotyping, DNA/RNA analysis, and genotoxicity assays has positioned her as a respected figure in the field. Her groundbreaking work on the expression of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and the effects of memantine on oxidative DNA damage in aging brains, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in 2025, exemplifies her translational approach to neurodegenerative research.

🧪 Innovation in Molecular Medicine

Beyond basic neuroscience, Dr. Różycka has contributed significantly to the personalized medicine landscape. Her investigations into COMT, MAO-A, and NET gene polymorphisms have improved our understanding of neuropsychiatric conditions like Parkinson’s disease and menopausal depression. Her 2021 study on serotonin polymorphisms and their relation to postoperative pain and nausea in the Journal of Personalized Medicine reflects her interdisciplinary reach, connecting genetics, neurobiology, and clinical practice to enhance patient outcomes.

📚 Academic Influence and Impact

With 682 citations and an h-index of 15, Dr. Różycka’s body of work has earned global recognition in the neuroscientific and biomedical communities. Her contributions are actively followed on platforms such as ORCID, ResearchGate, and Academia.edu, where her network of collaborators and readers continues to grow. Through these forums, she has shaped critical discourse in molecular neuroscience and neuropharmacology, helping researchers worldwide explore new diagnostic and therapeutic frontiers.

🏆 Recognition and Mentorship

Dr. Różycka’s academic excellence extends to mentorship and community engagement. As an educator, she has inspired many budding scientists, fostering critical thinking and hands-on skills in molecular lab techniques. Her reputation for nurturing scientific curiosity and rigor among students is matched by her ability to integrate cutting-edge research into the classroom. Her enduring impact is also evident in the numerous collaborations and citations her work has garnered, reflecting both peer appreciation and scholarly relevance.

🔬 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Dr. Różycka aims to delve deeper into epigenetic mechanisms and neuroprotective strategies in aging brains. Her future projects include investigating novel therapeutic targets within cholinergic and serotonergic pathways, with the long-term vision of contributing to early intervention in age-related cognitive decline and epilepsy. As neuroscience continues to evolve, her legacy will be marked by a rare blend of precision science, passionate teaching, and a visionary approach to human health.

Publication

  • Title: Expression of Neuronal Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor and Early Oxidative DNA Damage in Aging Rat Brain—The Effects of Memantine
    Authors: Małgorzata Anna Lewandowska, Agata Różycka, Teresa Grzelak, Bartosz Kempisty, Paweł Piotr Jagodziński, Margarita Lianeri, Jolanta Dorszewska
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Relationship of Postoperative Pain and PONV after Minimally Invasive Surgery with the Serotonin Concentrations and Receptors’ Gene Polymorphisms
    Authors: Natalia Ignaszak-Kaus, Antoni J. Duleba, Aleksandra Mrozikiewicz, Grażyna Kurzawińska, Agata Różycka, Jan Hauke, Michał Gaca, Leszek Pawelczyk, Paweł Piotr Jagodziński, Piotr Jędrzejczak
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: Importance of polymorphic variants of phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT) gene in the etiology of intrauterine fetal death in the Polish population
    Authors: Agnieszka Seremak-Mrozikiewicz, Magdalena Barlik, Agata Różycka, Grażyna Kurzawińska, Andrzej Klejewski, Hubert Wolski, Krzysztof Drews
    Year: 2018

 

  • Title: The MAOA, COMT, MTHFR and ESR1 gene polymorphisms are associated with the risk of depression in menopausal women
    Authors: Not fully listed, but includes Agata Różycka (complete list available in source)
    Year: 2016

🔚 Conclusion

Dr. Agata Różycka stands out as a leading figure in the intersection of molecular neuroscience and clinical genetics, with a proven track record of impactful research and dedicated teaching. Her innovative studies on aging brains, gene polymorphisms, and neurotransmitter systems not only advance scientific understanding but also bridge the gap between molecular theory and patient care. With ongoing projects focused on epigenetic regulation and neuroprotective strategies, her work promises to shape the future of neurological health and personalized therapeutics.

 

 

Mohsen Sagha | Neurodevelopment | Best Researcher Award

Prof.Dr. Mohsen Sagha | Neurodevelopment | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mohsen Sagha, Ardabil university of medical sciences, Iran.

Mohsen Sagha’s academic and professional journey reflects his deep commitment to anatomical sciences, embryology, and stem cell research. From his early academic pursuits in Iran to his international research experiences, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of scientific knowledge. His leadership roles at Ardabil University of Medical Sciences have allowed him to contribute significantly to research and education, mentoring future scientists and advancing the field of regenerative medicine.

Profile

Google Scholar

🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

Born on March 21, 1972, in Amol, Mazandaran, Iran, Mohsen Sagha demonstrated a passion for biological sciences from an early age. His academic journey began at Isfahan University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Biology from 1990 to 1994, graduating with an outstanding Grade A. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Master of Science in Histology and Embryology at Tarbiat Modarres University from 1994 to 1997, where he achieved a remarkable Grade A+. His master’s thesis, conducted at the prestigious Royan Institute under the supervision of Dr. Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani, focused on the effect of glutathione and zinc on sperm chromatin condensation. This research provided him with valuable insights into reproductive biology and cellular development, paving the way for his future contributions.

🔬 Professional Endeavors

Mohsen Sagha’s academic career took a significant leap when he embarked on a Ph.D. program in Anatomical Sciences at the Medical University of Isfahan from 2004 to 2009. His doctoral research, conducted at the Royan Institute, examined the effect of chick embryonic somites on the neural differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors such as Dr. Ebrahim Esfandiari and Dr. Hossein Baharvand, he deepened his expertise in developmental biology. His pursuit of excellence extended beyond national borders when he undertook a research fellowship in Molecular Embryology at Lund University in Sweden from 2008 to 2009. His work on the proteolytic control of FGF signaling in the extracellular space under Dr. Edgar M. Pera solidified his international research reputation.

👩‍🎓 Contributions and Research Focus

With a keen interest in embryology, stem cell research, and reproductive biology, Mohsen Sagha has dedicated his career to advancing the understanding of cellular differentiation and developmental processes. Since 1998, he has been an esteemed academic staff member in the Department of Anatomical Sciences at Ardabil University of Medical Sciences (ARUMS). His leadership in research was further established when he became the Head of the Research Laboratory for Embryology and Stem Cells in 2009. Through his work, he has contributed significantly to the field of molecular embryology and regenerative medicine, exploring cellular mechanisms that hold promise for medical breakthroughs.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Mohsen Sagha has held various leadership positions, reflecting his dedication to academic excellence and institutional development. He served as the Head of the Anatomical Sciences and Pathology Department at ARUMS from 2010 to 2017 and later took on the role of Administrator of Research and Technology from 2015 to 2020. His impact on medical education and research earned him a Full Professorship in Anatomical Sciences, highlighting his academic stature. His expertise was recognized internationally when he chaired a session at the 3rd International Caucasus Universities Association Graduate Students Symposium in 2016.

📈 Impact and Influence

Through his extensive research and leadership, Mohsen Sagha has played a pivotal role in shaping the scientific landscape of anatomical sciences and embryology in Iran. His contributions to stem cell research and molecular embryology have influenced many scholars and researchers in the field. His role in academic leadership, particularly as the Head of the Anatomical Sciences Department from 2021 to 2023, further emphasized his commitment to fostering research excellence and educational advancement. His mentorship has guided numerous students and researchers, creating a lasting academic legacy.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Mohsen Sagha’s dedication to anatomical sciences and embryology continues to inspire future generations of researchers and medical professionals. His work in stem cell research and molecular embryology holds the potential to revolutionize regenerative medicine and therapeutic applications. As an academic leader and researcher, his contributions will remain instrumental in advancing medical sciences. His vision for the future includes continued exploration of cellular differentiation processes and their implications for medical advancements, ensuring his legacy remains impactful in the scientific community.

Publication

  • Protective effect of gallic acid on testicular tissue, sperm parameters, and DNA fragmentation against toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide in adult NMRI mice
    Authors: MG Novin, MG Golmohammadi, M Sagha, SA Ziai, MA Abdollahifar, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • In vitro study of the long-term cortisol treatment effects on the growth rate and proliferation of the neural stem/precursor cells
    Authors: A Abdanipour, M Sagha, A Noori-Zadeh, I Pakzad, T Tiraihi
    Year: 2015

 

  • Protective effect of gallic acid on apoptosis of sperm and in vitro fertilization in adult male mice treated with cyclophosphamide
    Authors: Z Mehraban, M Ghaffari Novin, MG Golmohammadi, M Sagha, K Pouriran, …
    Year: 2019

 

  • In vitro neural differentiation of CD34 + stem cell populations in hair follicles by three different neural induction protocols
    Authors: N Najafzadeh, M Sagha, S Heydari Tajaddod, MG Golmohammadi, …
    Year: 2015

 

  • Serotonin depletion during the postnatal developmental period causes behavioral and cognitive alterations and decreases BDNF level in the brain of rats
    Authors: H Saadati, F Sadegzadeh, N Sakhaie, H Panahpour, M Sagha
    Year: 2021

 

  • Iron depletion with deferoxamine protects bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis
    Authors: N Khoshlahni, M Sagha, T Mirzapour, MN Zarif, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Honey and Vitamin E Restore the Plasma Level of Gonadal Hormones and Improve the Fertilization Capacity in Noise-Stressed Rats
    Authors: A Rajabzadeh, M Sagha, MR Gholami, R Hemmati
    Year: 2015

 

  • Evaluation of eating breakfast among adolescent girl students in Ardabil, 1999-2000
    Authors: A Nemati, M Sagha, H Nouzad Charvadeh, M Dehghan
    Year: 2003

 

  • Germ cell differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
    Authors: M Salem, T Mirzapour, A Bayrami, M Sagha
    Year: 2019

 

💡 Conclusion

With a career spanning decades of groundbreaking research, academic leadership, and international collaborations, Mohsen Sagha embodies the spirit of scientific inquiry and medical advancement. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and dedication to education make him a revered figure in anatomical sciences. His legacy is one of innovation, mentorship, and profound contributions to the understanding of embryology and regenerative medicine, ensuring that his work will inspire future researchers for generations to come.