Jagadeesh Rao | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Neuroscientists

Dr. Jagadeesh Rao | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jagadeesh Rao,  IGC Pharma LLC, United States.

Dr. Jagadeesh S. Rao is a distinguished neuroscientist and clinical researcher with over 15 years of experience in neuroscience, psychiatry, neuropharmacology, and drug development. His career is marked by significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer’s disease. With a strong academic foundation in molecular biology and biochemistry, Dr. Rao has led groundbreaking work in clinical trial design, preclinical toxicology, and regulatory submissions, including IND and CMC documentation for FDA approvals. He currently serves as Principal Scientist at IGC Pharma Inc., where he leads teams in Phase I and II clinical trials, manages CROs and budgets, and has developed both OTC and investigational drug products.

Profile

Orcid

🧠 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Jagadeesh S. Rao began his scientific journey with a deep interest in the complexities of the human brain and molecular biology. From the early stages of his academic training, he demonstrated exceptional dedication to exploring the interplay between neurobiology, biochemistry, and psychiatric health. His pursuit of a Ph.D. laid a robust foundation in neuroscience and neuropharmacology, equipping him with a multidisciplinary understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms that underlie neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. This strong academic grounding would later become the driving force behind his innovative contributions to research in pain, Alzheimer’s disease, and drug development.

🧪 Professional Endeavors in Neuroscience and Drug Development

With over 15 years of professional experience, Dr. Rao has successfully navigated and led multiple domains including toxicology, psychiatry, and molecular biology. Currently serving as a Principal Scientist at IGC Pharma Inc., he has taken a prominent role in advancing clinical drug development, particularly in designing and executing Phase I and II trials. His expertise extends to critical regulatory processes such as Investigational New Drug (IND) submissions, clinical protocol design, and Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC). He has actively led teams in drug formulation, batch production, validation, and compliance with FDA and ISO standards—demonstrating a blend of scientific acumen and regulatory insight.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus in Neuropharmacology

Dr. Rao’s research centers on developing therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric conditions, especially Alzheimer’s disease. His contributions span the full spectrum of drug development: from preclinical toxicology and pharmacokinetics to clinical pharmacodynamics and regulatory documentation. He has designed preclinical studies adhering to GLP standards, involving mutagenesis assays, reproductive and general toxicity assessments, and immunogenicity tests. Moreover, he played a key role in the development of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief cream products, contributing both to academic research and commercial innovation. His insights into P450 enzyme polymorphisms and their effects on drug metabolism showcase a precision medicine approach to pharmacological care.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition in Clinical Research

While much of Dr. Rao’s work has been behind the scenes of scientific advancement and regulatory excellence, his leadership in preparing CMC documents and overseeing investigational drug submissions has earned him widespread respect among peers. His oversight of departmental budgets and his management of Clinical Research Organizations (CROs) reflect not only scientific brilliance but also strategic and financial stewardship in clinical drug development. The successful initiation of Phase I and II clinical trials under his guidance stands as a testament to his expertise and diligence in the field.

🌍 Impact and Influence in Translational Medicine

Dr. Rao’s work bridges the gap between laboratory research and clinical application. His projects have advanced the translational medicine field by offering therapeutic candidates that move seamlessly from preclinical safety assessments to human trials. His influence is felt not only through the innovative drugs developed under his watch but also in shaping protocols that align with FDA’s stringent regulatory frameworks. His understanding of the molecular intricacies of neuropsychiatric diseases allows him to propose and test interventions that directly respond to the unmet needs of patients and healthcare systems alike.

🔬 Legacy in Scientific Rigor and Innovation

One of Dr. Rao’s enduring legacies lies in his rigorous approach to clinical pharmacology and his commitment to quality and safety in every phase of drug development. His ability to interpret complex PK/PD data, assess drug-drug interactions, and foresee adverse events has significantly shaped safer and more effective drug protocols. He has also contributed to the creation of technical documentation and risk assessments that serve as gold standards in the field, ensuring compliance and reproducibility for future scientists and clinicians.

🚀 Future Contributions and Vision for Neurotherapeutics

Looking ahead, Dr. Rao continues to pave the way in neurotherapeutics with a focused ambition to develop treatments for cognitive and behavioral disorders rooted in neuroinflammation and synaptic dysfunction. His vision includes refining clinical strategies using personalized medicine models and leveraging his expertise in biochemistry and molecular neuropharmacology. As the global demand for effective neurological therapies increases, Dr. Rao’s evolving research and leadership promise to yield transformative solutions that will benefit countless patients worldwide.

Publication

1. Title: Neurobiological alteration in agitation in Alzheimer’s disease and possible interventions
Author(s): Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Tangarife, Maria Alejandra; Mukunda, Ram
Year: 2024

2. Title: Effects of chronic clozapine administration on markers of arachidonic acid cascade and synaptic integrity in rat brain
Author(s): Kim, Hyung-Wook; Cheon, Yewon; Modi, Hiren R.; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Rao, Jagadeesh S.
Year: 2012

3. Title: Epigenetic modifications in frontal cortex from Alzheimer’s disease and bipolar disorder patients
Author(s): Rao, J. S.; Keleshian, V. L.; Klein, S.; Rapoport, S. I.
Year: 2012

4. Title: Gabapentin’s minimal action on markers of rat brain arachidonic acid metabolism agrees with its inefficacy against bipolar disorder
Author(s): Reese, Edmund A.; Cheon, Yewon; Ramadan, Epolia; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Chang, Lisa; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Taha, Ameer Y.
Year: 2012

5. Title: Lamotrigine blocks NMDA receptor-initiated arachidonic acid signalling in rat brain: implications for its efficacy in bipolar disorder
Author(s): Ramadan, Epolia; Basselin, Mireille; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Chang, Lisa; Chen, Mei; Ma, Kaizong; Rapoport, Stanley I.
Year: 2012

6. Title: Altered Expression of G-protein subunits and GRKs in Alzheimer’s Disease
Author(s): Reese, Edmund A.; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Rao, Jagadeesh S.
Year: 2011

7. Title: Chronic olanzapine treatment decreases arachidonic acid turnover and prostaglandin E₂ concentration in rat brain
Author(s): Cheon, Yewon; Park, Jee-Young; Modi, Hiren R.; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Lee, Ho-Joo; Chang, Lisa; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Rapoport, Stanley I.
Year: 2011

8. Title: Dietary n-6 PUFA deprivation downregulates arachidonate but upregulates docosahexaenoate metabolizing enzymes in rat brain
Author(s): Kim, Hyung-Wook; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Igarashi, Miki
Year: 2011

9. Title: Disturbed Choline Plasmalogen and Phospholipid Fatty Acid Concentrations in Alzheimer’s Disease Prefrontal Cortex
Author(s): Igarashi, Miki; Ma, Kaizong; Gao, Fei; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Rapoport, Stanley I.; Rao, Jagadeesh S.
Year: 2011

10. Title: Olanzapine Decreases Brain Arachidonic Acid (AA) Metabolism in Rats by Reducing Plasma Availability of AA
Author(s): Cheon, Yewon; Modi, Hiren R.; Park, Jee-Young; Kim, Hyung-Wook; Chang, Lisa; Rao, Jagadeesh S.; Rapoport, Stanley I.
Year: 2011

✅Conclusion

Dr. Rao’s career reflects a powerful blend of scientific innovation, regulatory excellence, and clinical insight. His dedication to developing safe and effective neurological therapeutics has significantly advanced the field of translational medicine. As a leader, mentor, and researcher, his ongoing work continues to influence modern approaches to treating complex brain disorders, setting a high standard for future neuropharmacological research and therapeutic innovation.

Daša Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Neuroscientists

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.

 

Jing Du | Neuropsychopharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Neuroscientists

Prof. Jing Du | Neuropsychopharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Jing Du, Beijing Anding Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, China.

Prof. Jing Du is a distinguished professor, Ph.D. advisor, and accomplished researcher at Beijing Anding Hospital, affiliated with Capital Medical University. With a strong academic foundation, including her B.M. from Beijing University, Health Science Center, and Ph.D. from Rutgers University, she has made significant strides in mental health research. Her work bridges Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and modern neuroscience, focusing on developing innovative drugs for psychiatric disorders. Through groundbreaking research on molecules like cordycepin (3’-dA), Dr. Du has contributed to understanding neuroimmune mechanisms and creating novel therapeutic approaches for treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Her efforts are shaping the future of mental health care and inspiring new paths in interdisciplinary research.

 

profile

Orcid

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Jing Du embarked on her academic journey with a passion for unraveling the complexities of mental health. She earned her Bachelor of Medicine from the prestigious Beijing University, Health Science Center, and pursued her doctoral studies at Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey. These foundational years laid the groundwork for her to merge the realms of neuroscience and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), equipping her with a unique perspective to address global mental health challenges.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently, Prof. Jing Du serves as a professor and Ph.D. advisor at Beijing Anding Hospital, affiliated with Capital Medical University. She also boasts an illustrious tenure as a translational scientist at the National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, USA. Her career reflects a harmonious blend of academic rigor and clinical expertise, emphasizing innovation in drug development and collaboration with clinicians to improve mental health treatments.

🌿 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Du’s research stands at the intersection of neuroscience and TCM. Her work focuses on isolating single molecules from herbal remedies to develop groundbreaking treatments for psychiatric disorders. By identifying drug targets and exploring molecular mechanisms, she bridges traditional wisdom with modern science. Her notable project on cordycepin (3’-dA) demonstrated its rapid antidepressant effects and potential to modulate neuroimmune responses, offering hope for patients with treatment-resistant depression.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Du’s groundbreaking work has earned her recognition in the scientific community, with her studies published in high-impact journals such as Neuropsychopharmacology. Her innovative approaches have set benchmarks in mental health research, particularly her efforts to uncover novel therapeutic mechanisms. Her dedication continues to inspire peers and mentees in the field.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through her interdisciplinary approach, Dr. Du has significantly influenced both academic and clinical domains. Her research has not only advanced scientific understanding but also paved the way for the integration of TCM into modern psychiatric care. By addressing the unmet needs of patients with mental illnesses, her work has the potential to transform treatment paradigms on a global scale.

💡 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Du envisions a future where the fusion of traditional and modern medicine leads to innovative, effective treatments for psychiatric disorders. Her ongoing research and mentorship ensure that her legacy will continue to inspire new generations of scientists committed to mental health. As a pioneer in her field, she remains a steadfast advocate for holistic and evidence-based approaches to care.

✨ Bridging Science and Humanity

Prof. Jing Du’s work exemplifies a commitment to bridging the gap between scientific discovery and human well-being. Her efforts to develop accessible, impactful treatments reflect her dedication to addressing the global burden of mental health disorders. With every step forward, she embodies the spirit of innovation, compassion, and perseverance, leaving an indelible mark on the world of psychiatric medicine.

📚 Publications

  1. Title: An insightful comparison of the current neuroimmune mechanism(s) with the thoughts of differential syndromes from traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of MDD
    Authors: Jiyi Xu, Yi Zhang, Lei Li, Xiaodong Zhao, Feilong Huang, Jing Du
    Year: 2025

 

  1. Title: Ganoderic acid A ameliorates depressive-like behaviors in CSDS mice: Insights from proteomic profiling and molecular mechanisms
    Authors: Xu, Jin-jie; Kan, Wei-jing; Wang, Tian-yi; Li, Lei; Zhang, Yi; Ge, Zi-yu; Xu, Ji-yi; Yin, Zi-jia; Feng, Yuan; Wang, Gang et al.
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Quantitative proteomics combined independent PRM analysis reveals the mitochondrial and synaptic mechanism underlying norisoboldine’s antidepressant effects
    Authors: Li, Lei; Kan, Weijing; Zhang, Yi; Wang, Tianyi; Yang, Feng; Ji, Tengfei; Wang, Gang; Du, Jing
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Utilizing plasma drug levels and genetic testing to achieve optimal treatment response in a patient with treatment-resistant schizoaffective disorder
    Authors: Xu, Jin-jie; Xiao, Chunfeng; Pan, Yanli; Tang, Yi-lang; Wang, Mingwan; Li, Sheng; Xie, Gaoming; Du, Jing; Ren, Yanping; Wang, Wei
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Demographic, clinical and biochemical correlates of the length of stay for different polarities in Chinese inpatients with bipolar disorder: A real-world study
    Authors: Wang, Wei; Du, Jing; Li, Sheng; Xie, Gaoming; Xu, Jinjie; Ren, Yanping
    Year: 2023

 

  1. Title: The FXR mediated anti-depression effect of CDCA underpinned its therapeutic potentiation for MDD
    Authors: Li, Haoran; Zhu, Xuequan; Xu, Jinjie; Li, Lei; Kan, Weijing; Bao, Hongkun; Xu, Jiyi; Wang, Weiwei; Yang, Yang; Chen, Pei et al.
    Year: 2023

 

  1. Title: The Dectin-1 Receptor Signaling Pathway Mediates the Remyelination Effect of Lentinan through Suppression of Neuroinflammation and Conversion of Microglia
    Authors: Zhang, Dandan; Jia, Yue; Sun, Xingzong; Li, Haoran; Yin, Min; Li, Hongliang; Dai, Lili; Han, Li; Wang, Lei; Qian, Menghan et al.
    Year: 2022

 

  1. Title: Activation of FXR by ganoderic acid A promotes remyelination in multiple sclerosis via anti-inflammation and regeneration mechanism
    Authors: Jia, Yue; Zhang, Dandan; Li, Haoran; Luo, Shaolei; Xiao, Yuhuan; Han, Li; Zhou, Fuchun; Wang, Chuanyue; Feng, Lei; Wang, Gang et al.
    Year: 2021

 

  1. Title: Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides ameliorated depression-like behaviors in the chronic social defeat stress depression model via modulation of Dectin-1 and the innate immune system
    Authors: Li, Haoran; Xiao, Yuhuan; Li Han; Jia, Yue; Luo, Shaolei; Zhang, Dandan; Zhang, Ling; Wu, Peng; Xiao, Chunjie; Kan, Weijing et al.
    Year: 2021

 

  1. Title: Interactions Between Adenosine Receptors and Cordycepin (3′- Deoxyadenosine) from Cordyceps Militaris: Possible Pharmacological Mechanisms for Protection of the Brain and the Amelioration of Covid-19 Pneumonia
    Authors: Jing Du; Weijing Kan; Hongkun Bao; Yue Jia; Jian Yang; Hongxiao Jia
    Year: 2021

 

Conclusion

Prof. Jing Du’s career is a testament to the power of integrating traditional knowledge with cutting-edge science. Her impactful research and dedication to addressing mental health challenges highlight her as a pioneer in the field. By fostering collaboration between researchers and clinicians, she is paving the way for transformative advancements in psychiatry. Dr. Du’s legacy lies not only in her scientific contributions but also in her commitment to improving the lives of individuals struggling with mental illness worldwide.