Darya Novopashina | Genetics and Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Darya Novopashina | Genetics and Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine SB RAS | Russia

Dr. Darya Novopashina, Ph.D., is a senior researcher at the Laboratory of RNA Chemistry, Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, SB RAS, where she has built a distinguished career in nucleic acid chemistry and bioorganic research. Her scientific work spans the design, synthesis, and functional exploration of modified oligoribonucleotides, with early contributions focused on creating conjugates of chemically altered RNA fragments for targeted gene expression inhibition. Over the years, she has advanced this foundation by investigating hybrid structures formed between nucleic acid fragments and carbon nanotubes, offering new insights into nanobiotechnology and molecular detection technologies. She has also developed innovative fluorescent oligonucleotide probes aimed at improving the sensitivity and specificity of nucleic acid detection methods. Currently, her research centers on engineering modified guide RNAs for CRISPR/Cas9 systems, where she has contributed to the development of light- and small-molecule–regulatable genome-editing platforms that enhance precision, control, and versatility in genetic manipulation. Through her work, Dr. Novopashina has become a key contributor to the evolution of RNA-based tools in molecular biology, enabling improvements in gene regulation, diagnostic capabilities, and therapeutic strategies. With a publication record exceeding 60 scientific papers, she is recognized for her consistent contributions to the fields of chemical biology, RNA modification, and genome-engineering technologies.

Profile: Orcid | Scopus

Featured Publications

Gavrilova, A. A., Kuznetsova, A. A., Novopashina, D. S., Zheng, C., Sun, Q., & Kuznetsov, N. A. (2025).
Biochemical characterization of R-loop degradation by chloroplast-localized RNase H1 from Arabidopsis thaliana. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(22),

Kamzeeva, P., Shepelev, N., Zabbarova, V., Brylev, V., Chistov, A., Ryazantsev, D., Kot, E., Novopashina, D., Rubtsova, M., & Aralov, A. (2025).
Structural characterization of DDX23 5′ UTR regulatory elements and their targeting by LNA-modified antisense oligonucleotides. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(22),

Dolzhikova, O., Meschaninova, M., Endutkin, A., Golyshev, V., Vorobyeva, M., & Novopashina, D. (2024).
Design of theophylline binding guide RNA for allosteric regulation of CRISPR/Cas9 system [Preprint]. Preprints.

Sakovina, L., Vokhtantsev, I., Akhmetova, E., Vorobyeva, M., Vorobjev, P., Zharkov, D. O., & Novopashina, D. (2024).
Photocleavable guide crRNAs for a light-controllable CRISPR/Cas9 system. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(22),

 Kuznetsova, A. A., Kosarev, I. A., Timofeyeva, N. A., Novopashina, D. S., & Kuznetsov, N. A. (2024).
Kinetic features of degradation of R-loops by RNase H1 from Escherichia coli. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(22),

Gayatri Sahu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Gayatri Sahu | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Assist. Prof. Dr Gayatri Sahu, Siksha O Anusandhan University, India

Dr. Gayatri Sahu is an accomplished academician and researcher serving as an Assistant Professor in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry at the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar. Born on 27th March 1992, she holds a strong foundation in agricultural sciences and specializes in soil health and nutrient management. Dr. Sahu has actively contributed to the academic and research ecosystem with more than 20 research publications in reputed journals, several book chapters, and a published book. Her dedication to sustainable agriculture, environmental health, and innovative soil management practices reflects in her extensive participation in national and international seminars, webinars, and training programs. She is also a life member of reputed societies and a recognized ICAR-NET qualifier. Passionate about promoting soil sustainability and climate-resilient agriculture, she continues to shape the next generation of agricultural scientists through her teaching and research initiatives.

Publication Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Gayatri Sahu’s academic journey is rooted in excellence across premier Indian institutions. She completed her 10th from B.S.E, Odisha in 2007 with 91.86% and her 12th from C.H.S.E, Odisha in 2009 with 68.66%. Her undergraduate degree, B.Sc. (Ag.) Hons., was earned at OUAT in 2014 with a score of 76.6%. She pursued her Master’s in Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry at Visva-Bharati University, achieving the highest rank with 90.01% in 2016. She further attained her Ph.D. from Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya in Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science in 2019 with 81.6%. Her research focused on nutrient management and organic carbon dynamics. Through specialized courses during her B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D., she built a strong foundation in microbiology, soil biochemistry, agrochemicals, pollution management, and microbial diversity. She also completed various certified training and workshops in GIS, biotechnology, and soil health, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and academic development.

💼 Experience

Dr. Gayatri Sahu has accumulated comprehensive teaching and field research experience in soil science and agricultural chemistry. She began with six months of rural agricultural work during her B.Sc. (Agri) Hons. at OUAT, followed by one year of field and lab research under the ICAR-NIRJAFT project titled “Performance analysis of Crop Specific Agro-textiles” (2015–2016). Since May 2019, she has been serving as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan University, Bhubaneswar. Over the past five years, she has been actively involved in undergraduate teaching, curriculum development, mentoring students, and research supervision. Dr. Sahu has organized and participated in more than 40 webinars, national and international conferences, and training programs, and attended specialized winter schools and workshops. Her blend of practical experience, research engagement, and academic instruction has made her a valuable contributor to agricultural education and soil sustainability research in India.

🏆 Honors and Awards

Dr. Gayatri Sahu has received several awards and recognitions for her academic and research excellence. She secured the First Position in M.Sc. (Ag.) from the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry at Visva-Bharati University. Her scientific writing excellence was acknowledged when she received the Best Article Award for her publication titled “Implication of Greenhouse Gas Cycling Towards Nutrient Transformation in Agricultural Soil Ecosystem” in the Agriculture and Food E-Newsletter. She has also successfully qualified the ICAR-NET examination held on 19th May 2017, an esteemed credential in Indian agricultural academia. During her undergraduate studies, she was a recipient of the Odisha Merit Scholarship, reflecting consistent academic brilliance. Dr. Sahu is a registered life member of the Indian Academic Researchers Association, Society for Advancement of Human and Nature, and an annual member of the Indian Society of Soil Science, further underscoring her active participation and recognition in the academic research community.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Gayatri Sahu’s research primarily focuses on soil health management, integrated nutrient management (INM), climate-smart agriculture, soil organic carbon dynamics, and sustainable farming systems. Her M.Sc. thesis explored INM in lentil-sesame-rice cropping systems on red and lateritic soils, while her Ph.D. research delved into organic carbon pools and saturation deficits in long-term experimental soils. Her scholarly work addresses challenges related to soil degradation, nutrient imbalance, and environmental impacts of agrochemicals. She has authored multiple SCOPUS-indexed articles on balanced nutrient management, conservation agriculture, nanofertilizers, and acid soil amelioration. Her contributions span emerging technologies like biofortification, nano-nutrition, soil carbon sequestration, and regenerative agriculture, aiming to enhance nutrient use efficiency and soil sustainability. Through her active participation in training programs, workshops, and collaborative projects, she continues to contribute significantly to the field of soil science and agro-environmental research, supporting India’s goal of sustainable agricultural intensification and improved food security.

📚 Publications

  • 📄 Integrated Nutrient Management in Lentil in Red and Lateritic Soils of West Bengal

  • 📄 Effect of INM on Yield and Microbial Population of Sesame

  • 📄 Integrated Nutrient Management in Rice in Red and Lateritic Soils

  • 📄 INM in Lentil-Sesame-Rice System in Red and Lateritic Soils

  • 📄 Potential Use of Flyash in Agriculture for Soil Health Improvement

  • 📄 Balanced Nutrient Management on Niger in West Bengal

  • 📄 Extractability and Availability of Sulphur in Long-term Rice Soils

  • 📄 Role of Fluoride on Soil, Plant, and Human Health: A Review

  • 📄 Nutrient Budgeting of Primary Nutrients and Use Efficiency in India

  • 📄 Climate Smart Agriculture: A New Approach for Sustainable Intensification

  • 📄 Conservation Agriculture: A Way to Improve Soil Health

  • 📄 Integrated Nitrogen Management in Yield and Quality of Chilli

  • 📄 Organochlorine Pesticides’ Impact on Organisms and Environment

  • 📄 INM in Growth and Yield of Chilli in Odisha

  • 📄 Balanced Nutrient Management in Blackgram in Red and Lateritic Soils

  • 📄 Balanced Nutrient Management in Rice in Lateritic Soils

  • 📄 Silicon Nutrition on Paddy in Acid Lateritic Soils

  • 📄 Evaluation of Silicon on Paddy in Coastal Odisha

  • 📄 INM on Groundnut in Acidic Upland of Odisha

  • 📄 Nano Nitrogen and Nano Zinc Effects on Sweetcorn

  • 📄 Irrigation and PK Application on Root Traits of Green Gram

  • 📄 Cultivars and Manures Influence Soil & Yield in Organic Rice

  • 📄 Yield & Quality of Aromatic Rice under Organic Nutrient Management

  • 📄 Lime Effect on Soil Acidity and Phosphorus in Acid Soil

Yu Geon Lee | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Yu Geon Lee | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yu Geon Lee, Korea Food Research Institute, KFRI, South Korea

Dr. Yu Geon Lee is an Assistant Researcher in the Precision Nutrition Research Group at the Korea Food Research Institute (KFRI), Republic of Korea. With a strong background in food science and technology, Dr. Lee focuses on how bioactive compounds from natural sources can influence metabolic and cellular health. His research explores areas such as mitochondrial dynamics, autophagy, lipid metabolism, and nutrikinetics. Dr. Lee is particularly interested in developing functional foods and therapeutic strategies for metabolic diseases and cancer. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals and collaborates extensively across interdisciplinary fields. Known for his contributions to understanding nutritionally-induced cellular responses, Dr. Lee integrates both in vitro and in vivo approaches to examine the health benefits of phytochemicals. His work contributes significantly to advancing precision nutrition and promoting health through diet. He is committed to innovation at the intersection of nutrition, cellular biology, and disease prevention.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Yu Geon Lee completed all his higher education at Chonnam National University in South Korea. He earned his Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Food Science and Technology in 2011, where he developed a foundational understanding of food composition, safety, and processing. Building on this, he pursued a Master of Science (M.S.) in the same field, completing it in 2013, with a focus likely on early-stage research in food biochemistry and nutrition. He went on to obtain his Ph.D. in 2016 in Food Science and Technology, specializing in cellular metabolism and the health impacts of functional food components. His academic training prepared him to integrate laboratory techniques with applied nutrition science, leading to his current research pursuits in nutrikinetics, mitochondrial biology, and anti-metabolic disease strategies. Throughout his studies, he demonstrated strong academic excellence and research capability in biochemical and molecular nutrition.

Experience

Dr. Yu Geon Lee currently serves as an Assistant Researcher at the Precision Nutrition Research Group, Korea Food Research Institute (KFRI), where he explores the molecular mechanisms by which nutrients and natural compounds influence human metabolism and health. With nearly a decade of experience in cellular and molecular nutrition research, he has developed expertise in studying insulin resistance, lipid accumulation, and mitochondrial function. Dr. Lee has led and contributed to numerous research projects involving cell metabolism, nutrikinetics, and anticancer agents, using state-of-the-art biochemical and molecular tools. His professional journey also includes mentoring junior researchers and collaborating with cross-functional teams on national and international research initiatives. Dr. Lee’s role at KFRI involves not only conducting experiments but also publishing results in reputed journals and contributing to Korea’s advancement in food science and health-oriented food products. His commitment reflects a balanced blend of academic insight and translational research application.

Awards and Honors

While the provided document does not list specific awards or honors, Dr. Yu Geon Lee’s impressive publication record and research contributions suggest he is a recognized figure in the field of food science and precision nutrition. Being consistently published in top-tier international journals such as Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, Cells, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, and Molecular Cell, speaks to the academic and research excellence he upholds. His involvement in impactful studies such as the regulation of mitochondrial respiration, insulin resistance, and autophagy in metabolic diseases positions him as a valuable contributor in biomedical nutrition science. He may also be a recipient of internal institutional recognitions or project grants, often awarded by KFRI or national research foundations, though specific titles are not listed. His growing influence is evident through collaborative publications and leadership in projects concerning natural bioactive compounds and disease prevention mechanisms.

Research Focus

Dr. Yu Geon Lee’s research centers on the interplay between nutrition and cellular metabolism, with a special focus on mitochondrial function, insulin resistance, lipid homeostasis, and autophagy. He studies how natural compounds—including bioactives from Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Schisandra chinensis, and other plants—affect cellular signaling pathways such as IRS/PI3K/Akt, AMPK, and PCSK9 regulation. A key part of his work involves nutrikinetics, understanding how food-derived molecules are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted (ADME). Dr. Lee is also interested in the role of mitochondrial stress responses in metabolic diseases and cancer progression. His holistic approach integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and nutritional sciences to design precision nutrition strategies that can be used for disease prevention and treatment. By targeting specific pathways involved in metabolic dysfunction and inflammation, Dr. Lee’s work supports the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals aimed at promoting metabolic health and longevity.

Publication Top Notes

  1. 📊 Improvement of Glucose Metabolism by Pennogenin 3-O-β-Chacotrioside via IRS/PI3K/Akt Signaling and Mitochondrial Respiration in Insulin-Resistant HepatocytesMol. Nutr. Food Res. (2025)

  2. 🔬 Tomatine Improves Glucose Metabolism and Mitochondrial Respiration via AMPK in Insulin-Resistant Hepatocyte Cell LinesCells (2025)

  3. 🌿 Licochalcone D from Glycyrrhiza uralensis Improves High-Glucose-Induced Insulin Resistance in HepatocytesIJMS (2024)

  4. 🧴 Natural Product-Derived Compounds Targeting Keratinocytes and Pathways in Psoriasis TherapeuticsIJMS (2024)

  5. 🔋 Pennogenin 3-O-β-Chacotrioside Attenuates Lipid Accumulation by Enhancing Mitochondrial Oxidative CapacityIJMS (2024)

  6. ❤️ Schisandrin A Upregulates LDL Receptor by Inhibiting PCSK9 Stabilization in Steatotic ModelJ. Microbiol. Biotechnol. (2024)

  7. 💊 Capsella bursa-pastoris Extract Mitigates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity via Antioxidant Enzyme UpregulationIJMS (2023)

  8. ⚖️ Anti-Obesity Effects of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Ethanol Extract in High-Fat Diet-Induced MiceKorean J. Food Preserv. (2023)

  9. 🔥 Patulin Ameliorates Lipid Accumulation and Inflammatory Response by Modulating Mitochondrial RespirationAntioxidants (2023)

  10. 🍷 Patulin Alleviates Hepatic Lipid Accumulation by Regulating Lipogenesis and Mitochondrial RespirationLife Sciences (2023)

  11. 🧬 Role of Mitochondrial Stress Response in Cancer ProgressionCells (2022)

  12. 🧫 SREBP-1c Impairs ULK1 Sulfhydration-Mediated Autophagy, Promoting Hepatic SteatosisMolecular Cell (2021)

Siva Vijayakumar Tharumasivam | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Siva Vijayakumar Tharumasivam | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Siva Vijayakumar Tharumasivam, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University, India

Dr. T. Siva Vijayakumar (M.Sc., Ph.D., D.Sc. Honoris Causa) is a dedicated academician and accomplished researcher in Biotechnology, currently serving as Associate Dean – HRDC at Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University, Tamil Nadu. With a dual role as Flying Officer in the Indian NCC (Airwing), his career embodies leadership in both academia and service. Dr. Vijayakumar’s dynamic research covers aquatic toxicology, nanobiotechnology, neurodegenerative diseases, and regenerative medicine. He has guided numerous students in pioneering scientific exploration and has authored over 48 publications in reputed journals. A passionate mentor, he integrates innovative methodologies in research and education, ensuring his students gain holistic scientific exposure. His expertise has earned national recognition, contributing to scientific knowledge and societal progress. Committed to sustainable solutions, his work addresses pressing environmental and health challenges through nanoscience and biotechnology. His impactful contributions continue to inspire emerging scientists and institutions alike. 🌿🔬🇮🇳

Publication Profile

google scholar

Education

Dr. Siva Vijayakumar pursued his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Biotechnology, followed by a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), with an academic journey grounded in molecular biology, toxicology, and applied nanoscience. Recognized for his significant contributions to the field, he was conferred with a Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) Honoris Causa by the International Agency for Standards and Rating in 2021. His education reflects a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary integration, blending core biological sciences with technological innovations. He has continually upgraded his scientific expertise through hands-on research, workshops, and training programs. His educational foundation has enabled him to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications in fields such as drug delivery, aquatic environmental health, and regenerative biology. Through his academic pursuits, he has mentored future scientists, instilling a rigorous yet innovative approach to biotechnology. 📘🧬🎓

Experience

Dr. Vijayakumar has over a decade of teaching and research experience in biotechnology. Currently, he holds the position of Associate Dean – Human Resource Development Centre (HRDC) at the Department of Biotechnology, Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University, Tamil Nadu. He also serves as a Flying Officer and Associate NCC Officer (3TN Air Squadron NCC, Trichy), promoting discipline and patriotism among students. His academic leadership spans curriculum development, research mentoring, and interdisciplinary program coordination. He has played a pivotal role in conducting national workshops, guiding research scholars, and collaborating on funded projects. His administrative experience has fortified institutional growth through strategic planning and research integration. As a faculty member and leader, he’s known for fusing technology with biological sciences, emphasizing innovation, and cultivating global scientific perspectives among students. 🧪📚✈️

Awards and Honors

Dr. Siva Vijayakumar has been honored with several prestigious awards recognizing his excellence in research and education. Notable among them is the Guru Samman Award 2025 🧑‍🏫 by AISPCPA, Bengaluru, and the Innovative Research Award 2023 🧠 by Rover Agricultural College, Perambalur. In 2021, he received the Honorary Doctorate in Biotechnology (D.Sc.) 🎓 and the Research Excellence Award 🏆 by the Institute of Scholars. His early research acumen earned him the Young Investigator Award 2020 🔍 from DERO and the Best Young Scientist Award 2017 🧬 by PEARL Foundation. These accolades reflect his dedication to advancing biotechnology, inspiring students, and contributing meaningfully to scientific society. His recognition across both academic and service domains illustrates a career committed to innovation, leadership, and impact. 🌟🏅

Research Focus

Dr. Vijayakumar’s primary research revolves around Aquatic Toxicology and Nanobiotechnology, emphasizing the impact of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) on aquatic ecosystems. He investigates the toxicity, transport, bioaccumulation, and ecological impact of nanoparticles, including their genotoxic and ecotoxic consequences. His research extends to drug delivery systems, exploring biocompatibility, host responses, and novel therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases and tissue regeneration. His interdisciplinary approach bridges molecular biology, environmental science, and materials engineering. A strong advocate for eco-safe nanotechnology, he integrates in vitro, in vivo, and computational models to assess risk and functionality. His team engages in animal model studies, molecular simulations, and regenerative biomaterial design, contributing to innovations in environmental health and biomedical applications. His vision is to foster sustainable and safe biotechnological advancements for future healthcare and environmental well-being. 🌊🧪🧠

Publication Top Notes

  1. 🧬 Exploring Piperine as a Potential Treatment for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Insights from In-silico Docking Studies (2024)

  2. 🐟 Toxicity Assessment on Haematology and Enzymological Alterations of Al₂O₃ Nanoparticles Exposed Freshwater Fish (2024)

  3. 🌿 Exploring Potential Anti-aging Compounds and Binding Affinity of Resveratrol with hTERT Gene (2024)

  4. 🧠 Computational Analysis of Anti-Alzheimer’s Efficacy of Myristicin from Nutmeg (2024)

  5. 🧫 Characterization of Novel Antimicrobial Peptides from Clarias Batrachus (2024)

  6. 💧 Carbon Nanoparticles Fabricated Microfilm for Microplastics Filtration (2023)

  7. 🩹 Functional 2D Graphene Oxide in the Wound Healing Process (2023)

  8. 🦐 Probiotics-Infused Withania Somnifera for Shrimp Development (2023)

  9. 🧪 Fabrication of Silver Nanoparticles using Illicium Verum and Its Anti-bacterial Activity (2023)

  10. 🍇 Pharmacological Properties and Mode of Action of Quercetin: A Bioactive Flavonoid (2023)

  11. 🌱 Anti-inflammatory Activity of Ocimum Tenuiflorum-loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles (2023)

  12. 🧬 Complete Overview of Enzymatic Responses in Nanoparticle-Stressed Fish Models (upcoming)

William Agbozo | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Research Article Award

William Agbozo | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Research Article Award

William Agbozo, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA. United States

William Kwaku Agbozo is a passionate Ghanaian biomedical researcher specializing in molecular and cell biology, particularly in the context of hemolysis-related complications in sickle cell disease and cerebral malaria. With a strong academic foundation from the University of Ghana, he has cultivated expertise through interdisciplinary training in physiology, biochemistry, and molecular sciences. Currently serving as a Research Scholar at Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, he brings his research to life by utilizing advanced genomics and proteomics tools in both animal and human studies. His work has yielded peer-reviewed publications and international presentations, reflecting a commitment to translational science aimed at uncovering therapeutic targets. William has also made significant contributions as a lecturer at Central University, Ghana, mentoring students and guiding research projects. His career is driven by a desire to bridge clinical gaps in infectious and genetic diseases, focusing on real-world biomedical challenges in Africa and beyond.

Publication Profile

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Education

William Agbozo’s academic journey began at the University of Ghana, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry (2008–2012). He continued at the same institution to pursue a Master of Philosophy in Physiology (2013–2015), equipping him with in-depth knowledge of human physiological mechanisms. Motivated by a growing interest in translational biomedical research, he embarked on a PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology (2018–2024, Viva pending), also at the University of Ghana. Throughout his academic path, William has maintained a strong interdisciplinary focus—integrating molecular biology, physiology, and cell biology with practical research on diseases like sickle cell and malaria. His PhD was conducted under the prestigious West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), supported by multiple international grants, where he gained valuable skills in omics technologies and disease modeling. His academic training reflects both scientific rigor and a deep-rooted commitment to addressing health burdens in Africa.

Experience

William Agbozo has over six years of academic and research experience. From 2017 to 2023, he worked as a Lecturer at the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Central University, Accra, where he taught undergraduate physiology and supervised research and academic writing. In 2023, he transitioned to the Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, USA, as a Research Scholar in the Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry & Immunology. At Morehouse, he is engaged in conceptualizing research ideas, contributing to grant proposals, and conducting laboratory experiments in molecular and translational research. He also leads data analysis and presents at major scientific meetings. His work spans across both African and U.S.-based biomedical institutions, reinforcing a global collaborative perspective. His experience reflects a balance of education, research, mentorship, and scientific communication, aimed at producing actionable insights for health systems managing genetic and infectious diseases.

Awards and Honors

William Agbozo has received several prestigious awards in recognition of his academic excellence and impactful research. He was awarded a PhD Fellowship (2018–2024) from the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) under the World Bank African Centres of Excellence (ACE) initiative. Between 2019 and 2023, he secured research funding support from the Sickle Cell Disease Genomics Network of Africa (SickleGenAfrica), funded by the National Heart, Lung, & Blood Institute (U54HL141011). His scientific aptitude also earned him a place in the US Exchange Visitor Program as a research scholar at Morehouse School of Medicine (2023–2025), under the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (R01NS125775). These honors reflect both his research potential and his growing international reputation in the fields of sickle cell disease and molecular medicine. They have empowered him to explore groundbreaking discoveries using both human samples and experimental models.

Research Focus

William Agbozo’s research centers on the molecular mechanisms of hemolysis-mediated injury in diseases such as sickle cell disease (SCD) and human cerebral malaria (HCM). His work investigates how excess free heme contributes to acute kidney injury (AKI) and brain damage, using humanized sickle cell mouse models and post-mortem human samples. He applies cutting-edge genomics and proteomics to map signaling pathways and identify biomarkers that may serve as protective or therapeutic targets. Through his research, William aims to bridge molecular biology with translational applications, developing insights that could lead to novel treatments or interventions. His work is especially impactful in regions heavily burdened by malaria and genetic blood disorders. By collaborating across institutions in Ghana and the United States, he brings an interdisciplinary and international lens to pressing biomedical problems affecting both African and global populations.

Publication Top Notes

📄 Hydroxyurea Mitigates Heme-Induced Inflammation and Kidney Injury in Humanized Sickle Cell Mice. (2025)
📄 Circulating biomarkers associated with pediatric sickle cell disease. (2024)
📄 Assessing knowledge of sickle cell disease and health beliefs on premarital genetic screening among healthcare trainees at a tertiary institution: A cross‐sectional study. (2023)
📄 Sociodemographic and medical characteristics of liver cirrhosis deaths in a Ghanaian tertiary hospital. (2022)
📄 Phosphomolybdenum Blue Detection – A Review of Characteristics, Achievements, Challenges and Future Prospects. (2020)
📄 Frequencies and ethnic distribution of ABO and RhD blood groups in the Volta region of Ghana, towards effective blood bank services. (2022)
📄 Frequency of ABO/Rhesus (D) blood groupings and ethnic distribution in the Greater‐Accra region of Ghana, towards effective blood bank inventory. (2019)
📄 Neuregulin-1 attenuates hemolysis-mediated kidney injury in humanized sickle cell mice. (Submitted)

Santina Bruzzone | Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researchers Award

Santina Bruzzone | Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researchers Award

Santina Bruzzone,Università di Genova,Italy

Santina Bruzzone is a Full Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Genova, Italy. She was born on February 21, 1972, in Genova, Italy. Her research focuses on the role of NAD+ and NAD+-converting enzymes in inflammation and cancer.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Santina Bruzzone completed her high school education at Liceo Scientifico L. Lanfranconi in Genova, Italy, from 1986 to 1991. She then earned her degree in Biology from the University of Genova, graduating cum laude with a score of 110/110 in 1996. She received her Ph.D. in Biotechnology applied to Pharmacology and Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology applied to Biomedicine from the University of Milano from 1996 to 2000.

Experince

Santina Bruzzone worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Experimental Medicine (DIMES)–Section of Biochemistry, University of Genova, from January to March 2001. She then worked as a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, from April to December 2001. She returned to the University of Genova as a postdoctoral researcher from 2002 to 2005 and later became an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry from 2005 to 2016. She was promoted to Associate Professor of Biochemistry from 2016 to 2021 and became a Full Professor of Biochemistry in 2021.

Award and Honors

Santina Bruzzone received several awards and honors, including the Fellowship for training abroad from Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie (CIB) in 2001, the Fellowship for training abroad from the University of Genova in 2001, and the Faculty Research Visit Grant from DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) in 2013.

Research Focus

Santina Bruzzone’s research focuses on the role of NAD+ and NAD+-converting enzymes in inflammation and cancer. Her work explores the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of NAD+ metabolism and its impact on cellular processes such as energy metabolism, cell signaling, and cell death.

Publications

1. 🌟 CD38 and ADP-ribosyl cyclase catalyze the synthesis of a dimeric ADP-ribose that potentiates the Calcium-mobilizing activity of Cyclic ADP-ribose. (1997)
2. 🌟 Ectocellular CD38-catalyzed synthesis and intracellular Ca2+-mobilizing activity of Cyclic ADP-ribose. (1998)
3. 🌟 Expression of CD38 increases intracellular calcium concentration and reduces doubling time in HeLa and 3T3 cells. (1998)
4. 🌟 The transmembrane glycoprotein CD38 is a catalytically active transporter responsible for generation and influx of the second messenger Cyclic ADPribose across membranes. (1998)
5. 🌟 Dimeric and tetrameric forms of catalytically active transmembrane CD38 in transfected HeLa cells. (1998)
6. 🌟 Ligand-induced internalization of CD38 results in intracellular Ca2+ mobilization. (1999)
7. 🌟 Topology of CD38. (2000)
8. 🌟 Extracellular cyclic ADP-ribose increases intracellular free calcium concentration and stimulates proliferation of human hemopoietic progenitors. (2000)
9. 🌟 G(s) protein dysfunction in allergen-challenged human isolated passively sensitized bronchi. (2000)
10. 🌟 Connexin 43 hemichannels mediate Ca2+-regulated transmembrane NAD+ fluxes in intact cells. (2001)
11. 🌟 Extracellular Cyclic ADP-ribose potentiates Ach-induced contraction in bovine tracheal smooth muscle. (2001)
12. 🌟 Human CD38 and its ligand CD31 define a unique lamina propria T lymphocyte signaling pathway. (2001)
13. 🌟 Paracrinally stimulated expansion of early human hemopoietic progenitors by stroma-generated cyclic ADP-ribose. (2001)
14. 🌟 Paracrine roles of NAD+ and Cyclic ADP-ribose in increasing intracellular calcium and enhancing cell proliferation of 3T3 fibroblasts. (2001)
15. 🌟 Autocrine abscisic acid mediates the UV-B-induced inflammatory response in human granulocytes and keratinocytes. (2012)
16. 🌟 ABA says NO to UV-B: a universal