Mehveş PODA | Neurogenetics | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehveş PODA | Neurogenetics | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehveş PODA, Istanbul University, Aziz Sancar Inst. of Experimental Medicine, Genetic Department, Turkey.

The individual is a highly accomplished geneticist with a strong academic foundation, beginning with a BSc in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Boğaziçi University, followed by an MSc and PhD in Medical Genetics from Istanbul University. Her professional career has been anchored at the prestigious Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, where she currently serves as an Assistant Professor. Her research spans rare genetic diseases, gene expression in pancreatic cancer, neuromuscular disorders, and third-generation sequencing technologies. With over 70 publications and an H-index of up to 8, she has significantly contributed to molecular genetics and clinical applications, earning citations and respect within the scientific community. Her multilingual abilities, project management certification, and involvement in genetic epidemiology further enhance her impact in both research and education.

Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

From the outset, a passion for genetics and molecular biology defined her academic journey. She earned her BSc in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Boğaziçi University in 1993, a highly respected institution that laid a strong foundation in life sciences. Her keen interest in hereditary conditions led her to pursue an MSc in Medical Genetics at Istanbul University, where her 1996 thesis focused on understanding the genetic roots of spinal muscular atrophies within the Turkish population. This early research experience not only honed her skills in molecular diagnostics but also ignited her commitment to uncovering the genetic underpinnings of complex diseases. She further advanced her academic career by completing a PhD in Medical Genetics at the same university in 2004, where her dissertation revolved around pioneering techniques to detect mRNA in vertebrate tissue via in situ hybridization.

🧬 Professional Endeavors in Genetics

Since 2018, she has served as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Genetics, Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Istanbul University. In this role, she has combined her deep expertise in medical genetics with teaching and mentorship responsibilities, fostering the next generation of scientists. Her academic presence in one of Turkey’s leading research institutes reflects both her commitment and her contributions to the broader scientific community. She also holds a European Certification in Project Management within EU Framework Programs (ECQA), which has enabled her to effectively lead and manage research projects aligned with global scientific standards.

🔬 Research Focus and Scientific Contributions

Her research encompasses a rich spectrum of topics, primarily centered around rare genetic disorders and the molecular intricacies of disease. She is particularly noted for her investigations into the molecular basis of rare genetic diseases and neuromuscular disorders, where she has explored genotype-phenotype correlations that enhance clinical diagnostics. Her work in gene expression regulation in pancreatic cancer has contributed to a deeper understanding of tumor biology, with implications for targeted therapies. She is also exploring third-generation sequencing technologies, particularly Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT), to facilitate real-time genomic insights. Her studies in genetic epidemiology and metabolic syndrome reflect a broader public health relevance, bridging the gap between molecular findings and population-level outcomes.

📚 Academic Impact and Publication Record

With 71 peer-reviewed publications to her name, her scholarly output is both prolific and impactful. She has accumulated 196 citations on Web of Science and 218 on Scopus, reflecting the influence of her work across multiple scientific domains. Her H-index of 7 (WoS) and 8 (Scopus) signifies consistent scholarly engagement and recognition in the academic community. These metrics underscore her role as a key contributor in advancing genetic science in Turkey and beyond.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

While her work speaks volumes on its own, her achievements have been formally acknowledged through appointments and certifications that reinforce her leadership in the field. Her certification in EU project management is a testament to her administrative capabilities, enabling her to steer large-scale, interdisciplinary research initiatives. Her continued academic appointment at Istanbul University’s prestigious Aziz Sancar Institute places her among the foremost experts in experimental medical genetics in the region.

🌍 Influence in Scientific and Educational Circles

She is not only a researcher but also a skilled educator and communicator of science. Her bilingual proficiency in English and German, in addition to her native Turkish, has allowed her to build international collaborations and contribute to global scientific dialogues. Through teaching, supervision, and participation in multinational projects, she has influenced a broad audience—from medical students to advanced researchers—instilling in them a rigorous approach to genetic investigation and ethical science.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, her work in emerging sequencing technologies and personalized medicine positions her at the forefront of next-generation medical breakthroughs. As the landscape of genomics rapidly evolves, her role in shaping diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for rare and complex diseases will likely become even more prominent. Her trajectory suggests a legacy not only of scientific achievement but of mentorship, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of medical knowledge that bridges lab findings with real-world patient care.

Publication

  • Natural history of SMA IIIb: muscle strength decreases in a predictable sequence and magnitude – F Deymeer, P Serdaroglu, Y Parman, M Poda – 2008

 

  • Mapping of the second Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDAff2) locus to chromosome 9p23-p11: evidence for further locus heterogeneity – K Christodoulou, F Deymeer, P Serdaroğlu, C Özdemir, M Poda, … – 2001

 

  • Gender-modulated impact of apolipoprotein A5 gene (APOA5)−1131T>C and c.56C>G polymorphisms on lipids, dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome in Turkish adults – E Komurcu-Bayrak, A Onat, M Poda, SE Humphries, J Palmen, F Guclu, … – 2008

 

  • The S447X variant of lipoprotein lipase gene is associated with metabolic syndrome and lipid levels among Turks – E Komurcu-Bayrak, A Onat, M Poda, SE Humphries, J Acharya, … – 2007

 

  • Segmental distribution of muscle weakness in SMA III: implications for deterioration in muscle strength with time – F Deymeer, P Serdaroğlu, M Poda, Y Gülşen-Parman, T Özçelık, … – 1997

 

  • Genotypic and phenotypic presentation of transthyretin-related familial amyloid polyneuropathy (TTR-FAP) in Turkey – H Durmuş-Tekçe, Z Matur, MM Atmaca, M Poda, A Çakar, ÜH Ulaş, … – 2016

 

  • Pretreatment with octreotide modulates iNOS gene expression, mimics surgical delay, and improves flap survival – A Gözü, M Poda, EI Taskin, H Turgut, N Erginel-Ünaltuna, H Dogruman, … – 2010

 

  • CETP TaqIB polymorphism in Turkish adults: association with dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome – B Özsait, EK Bayrak, M Poda, G Can, G Hergenç, A Onat, SE Humphries, … – 2008

 

  • Comparison of S gene mutations in patients with occult and chronic hepatitis B virus infection – B Cakal, B Cavus, A Atasoy, D Altunok, M Poda, M Bulakci, M Gulluoglu, … – 2022

 

  • The effects of IL28B rs12979860 and rs8099917 polymorphism on hepatitis B infection – B Cakal, B Cavus, A Atasoy, D Altunok, M Poda, M Bulakci, M Gulluoglu, … – 2022

 

🧾 Conclusion

In conclusion, her career reflects a harmonious blend of academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful teaching. Her work continues to illuminate the genetic mechanisms behind complex diseases while guiding future scientists through education and collaboration. With a growing influence in genomic research and translational medicine, she is well-positioned to leave a lasting legacy in the field of medical genetics, particularly through advancements in rare disease diagnostics and personalized healthcare strategies.

Zhenhua Wu | Neurogenetics | Distinguished Scientist Award

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Dr. Zhenhua Wu | Neurogenetics | Distinguished Scientist Award

Dr. Zhenhua Wu, Exegenesis Bio, Inc ,United States.

Zhenhua Wu is a distinguished biotech entrepreneur and scientific leader with over 20 years of experience across the research and development value chain. As the founder, President, and CEO of Exegenesis Bio Inc., he has pioneered accessible, innovative gene therapies for patients with unmet medical needs. His journey spans rigorous academic beginnings, executive leadership in multiple biotechnology companies, and a steadfast commitment to global health advancement. Known for assembling world-class talent and making strategic decisions, Wu has played a key role in shaping the future of gene therapy through both scientific and business excellence.

Profile

Orcid

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Zhenhua Wu’s journey into the world of biotechnology and gene therapy was shaped by a solid academic foundation rooted in scientific rigor and innovation. During his early academic pursuits, he demonstrated a deep curiosity for biological systems and therapeutic sciences. This intellectual appetite laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in translational medicine, where scientific discovery meets real-world application. His academic training not only honed his research skills but also instilled a lifelong commitment to innovation in the life sciences.

💼 Professional Endeavors

With more than two decades of hands-on experience in the research and development value chain, Zhenhua Wu has established himself as a seasoned leader in biotechnology. He has served in executive roles across a range of biotech companies of various sizes and strategic focuses. In each capacity, he brought visionary leadership, guiding teams to deliver impactful solutions in the biomedical space. His career has been a progressive climb from scientific inquiry to corporate strategy, integrating a robust understanding of science with sharp business acumen.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

As a pioneer in the field of gene therapy, Zhenhua Wu’s contributions are both profound and multifaceted. He is the founder and current President and CEO of Exegenesis Bio Inc., a multinational gene therapy company based in Philadelphia, PA. Under his leadership, the company has developed a pipeline of innovative, affordable gene therapies designed to address high unmet medical needs. His research focus lies in advancing next-generation gene therapies that are not only effective but also accessible, aiming to bridge the gap between scientific breakthroughs and patient care.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Zhenhua Wu’s impactful career has earned him recognition as a visionary entrepreneur and scientific innovator. Though his biography remains modest in tone, his work has resonated across the biotech sector, attracting significant investment and strategic partnerships. His ability to build and lead a cutting-edge biotech company from the ground up has marked him as a key influencer in gene therapy, with accolades stemming from both industry peers and investors who recognize the value and promise of his work.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through Exegenesis Bio, Zhenhua Wu has catalyzed a new wave of therapeutic innovation with global reach. His influence extends beyond the lab and boardroom, impacting regulatory conversations, patient advocacy movements, and international biotech development. By forging cross-continental collaborations and assembling a top-tier team of experts, he has ensured that the company is positioned as a global leader in gene therapy solutions, redefining what is possible in patient care and drug development.

🧭 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Zhenhua Wu continues to chart a path focused on expanding access to gene therapy on a global scale. His legacy is being built not only through the therapies under development but also through the culture of scientific integrity, innovation, and purpose that he has instilled in his company. He remains dedicated to mentoring future leaders, cultivating partnerships that push boundaries, and shaping a future where life-altering treatments are within reach for all who need them.

🧠 Visionary Leadership in Gene Therapy

At the heart of Zhenhua Wu’s professional identity is his role as a visionary leader in the fast-evolving field of gene therapy. His ability to connect scientific breakthroughs with patient-focused strategies has transformed Exegenesis Bio into a beacon of hope for countless individuals suffering from genetic diseases. Through his relentless pursuit of innovation, ethical leadership, and commitment to excellence, he continues to redefine what leadership means in the life sciences industry.

Publication

  • Title: Tunneling Nanotubes and Gap Junctions–Their Role in Long-Range Intercellular Communication during Development, Health, and Disease Conditions
    Authors: Ariazi J, Benowitz A, De Biasi V, den Boer M, Cherqui S, Cui H, Douillet N, Eugenin EA, Favre D, Goodman S, et al.
    Year: 2017

 

  • Title: Quantitative assessment of Aβ peptide in brain, cerebrospinal fluid and plasma following oral administration of γ-secretase inhibitor MRK-560 in rats
    Authors: Wu G, Wu Z, Na S, Hershey JC
    Year: 2015

 

  • Title: Role of the MEOX2 homeobox gene in neurovascular dysfunction in Alzheimer disease
    Authors: Wu Z, Guo H, Chow N, Sallstrom J, Bell RD, Deane R, Brooks AI, Kanagala S, Rubio A, Sagare A, et al.
    Year: 2005

 

🔚 Conclusion

Zhenhua Wu’s career reflects the powerful intersection of science, leadership, and purpose. From building a visionary biotech enterprise to steering the development of transformative therapies, his contributions continue to resonate across the scientific community and healthcare industry. His legacy is not only defined by the innovations he leads today but also by the future he is helping shape—one where advanced gene therapies are more equitable, effective, and globally impactful. Through unwavering dedication and strategic foresight, he stands as a beacon of inspiration in the world of modern biotechnology.