Melike Ersöz | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Melike Ersöz | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award 

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, at Demiroğlu Bilim University, Turkey.

Assoc. Prof. Melike Ersöz is a distinguished molecular biologist and biochemist specializing in nanomedicine, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and cancer research. Currently serving at Demiroğlu Bilim University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, she has over two decades of academic and research experience. Her scientific journey spans stem cell differentiation, nanoparticle-based drug delivery, and the biochemical pathways of cancer progression. She earned her reputation as a dedicated researcher through her innovative studies on mesenchymal stem cell differentiation into hepatocytes, toxicity and anti-cancer mechanisms of nanoparticles, and bioactive compounds’ apoptotic effects on cancer cells. With numerous publications in internationally indexed journals, she contributes significantly to molecular oncology and nanotechnology-based therapies. Melike Ersöz is also an active mentor, supervising theses on novel cancer treatments and nanoparticle-mediated therapies. Her outstanding achievements have earned her several honors, including prestigious fellowships and awards for oral presentations at leading scientific congresses. 🌟

Professional Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Melike Ersöz holds a PhD in Biochemistry (2014) from Yıldız Technical University, where she researched the optimization of cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells into hepatocytes under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Adil Allahverdiyev. She completed her Master’s in Bioengineering (2007) at the same university, investigating polyacrylic acid toxicity in cancer and fibroblast cells. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Istanbul University Faculty of Science (2003), solidifying her foundation in molecular and cellular sciences. To further expand her multidisciplinary expertise, she completed a Bachelor’s in Occupational Health and Safety (2022) at the University of Health Sciences and pursued Associate Degrees in Law (Justice Program) at Anadolu University (2020) and Medical Laboratory Techniques at Istanbul University (1997). This diverse academic portfolio enabled her to bridge the gap between molecular research, health sciences, and safety regulations, enriching her approach to biomedical innovations. 🎓📚

💼 Professional Experience

Assoc. Prof. Ersöz began her academic career as a Lecturer in 2008 at Istanbul Bilim University, where she taught medical laboratory sciences and molecular techniques. In 2014, she was promoted to Assistant Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, contributing significantly to molecular cancer research. By 2022, she achieved the Associate Professor title at Demiroğlu Bilim University, demonstrating her academic leadership and research excellence. She also served as Vice Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences and Head of the Medical Laboratory Techniques Program, shaping educational policies and guiding future scientists. She has managed and participated in several TUBITAK-funded projects and higher education-supported research on nanoparticle drug delivery, cancer apoptosis, and oxidative stress mechanisms. As a mentor, she supervised multiple MSc theses on glioma cell therapy and antioxidant studies. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, she has advanced nanotechnology applications in molecular medicine. 🧬🔬

🔍 Research Interests

Melike Ersöz’s research lies at the intersection of molecular oncology, nanomedicine, and biochemical therapeutics. Her primary focus is the cytotoxic, apoptotic, and antioxidant effects of bioactive compounds and nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems on cancer cells, particularly gliomas and breast cancer. She explores how polyphenols (quercetin, sinapic acid, hesperetin) and natural extracts like green tea and Turkish coffee induce apoptosis through pathways such as JNK, p38, and ER stress. Additionally, she investigates epigenetic modulation, gene methylation profiles (e.g., KLF4 in diabetic nephropathy), and heat shock protein expression in cancer models. Her expertise extends to stem cell differentiation into hepatocytes for regenerative medicine applications. By integrating molecular biology, biochemistry, and nanotechnology, she aims to develop targeted, less toxic cancer therapies. Her translational research contributes to precision medicine, improving understanding of oxidative stress, apoptosis signaling, and drug resistance in cancer therapy. 🌱🧪

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Assoc. Prof. Ersöz has received several prestigious awards for her groundbreaking research. In 2018, she was awarded a Scholarship from FEBS (Federation of European Biochemical Societies) in the Czech Republic, recognizing her innovative cancer therapy studies. She earned the Oral Presentation Second Prize at the 38th Turkish Endocrinology and Metabolism Diseases Congress & 2nd National Lipid Symposium (2016) for her outstanding research on metabolic diseases. In 2014, she received full Congress Registration Support for the 22nd International Congress of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC WorldLab) and the 26th National Congress of the Turkish Biochemical Society, reflecting her contribution to the global biochemical community. Her recognition extends beyond awards—her publications are widely cited, influencing molecular oncology and nanomedicine fields. Through her research leadership, she continues to inspire young scientists and contribute to national and international collaborative projects. 🏅🌍

📚 Top Noted Publications 

Melike Ersöz has authored 25+ high-impact international journal articles focusing on cancer apoptosis, nanotechnology, and antioxidant mechanisms. Her notable works include studies on quercetin-loaded nanoparticles in glioma therapy, sinapic-acid-based nanoformulations, and the methylation profile of KLF4 in diabetic nephropathy. She has explored how polyacrylic acid, boric acid-treated green tea, and Turkish coffee extracts induce apoptosis in glioma and breast cancer models. Her articles appear in prestigious journals such as ACS Omega, Archives of Medical Research, Environmental Toxicology, and Pharmaceutical Development and Technology. Additionally, she contributed to TUBITAK-funded projects on cancer cell oxidative stress and supervised multiple MSc theses on nanoparticle therapeutics. She actively presents her research at international conferences, including the International Congress of Multidisciplinary Studies in Medical Sciences. Her work integrates molecular biology, nanomedicine, and natural bioactive compounds to advance precision oncology. 🔗📖

🔗 Selected Publications with Links & Citations

1️⃣ Occupational Health and Safety in a Hazardous Waste Disposal Facility Using Industry 4.0 Technologies

Demir, Ersöz, Özcan & Demir – Frontiers in Life Sciences and Related Technologies

  • Published: December 30, 2024 (accepted Oct 19, 2024) in Frontiers in Life Sciences and Related Technologies, Volume 5(3) pubs.acs.org+4dergipark.org.tr+4dergipark.org.tr+4

  • DOI: 10.51753/flsrt.1498808

  • Highlights:

    • Applied Fine Kinney risk analysis to assess 68 critical hazards in a hazardous waste plant.

    • Integration of Industry 4.0 tools (e.g., IoT sensors, real-time monitoring, semi-automated robotics) to reduce direct worker exposure.

    • Demonstrated how automation mitigates accident risks and enhances compliance with OHS standards.

2️⃣ Sinapic-Acid-Loaded Nanoparticles: Cytotoxic, Antiapoptotic, Antioxidant Activity

Poyraz, Akbaş, Duranoğlu, Acar, Mansuroğlu & Ersöz – ACS Omega

  • Published: September 17, 2024; ACS Omega 2024, 9, 39, 40329–40345 dergipark.org.tr+2dergipark.org.tr+2dergipark.org.tr+2dergipark.org.tr+2dergipark.org.tr+2dergipark.org.tr+2arxiv.orgpubs.acs.org+1pubs.acs.org+1

  • DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c00216

  • Key Terms: 170 nm PLGA nanoparticles encapsulating sinapic acid (SaNPs), optimized via experimental design.

  • Core Findings:

    • SaNPs displayed IC₅₀ in MCF‑7 cells at ~180 µg/mL (24 h), ~168 µg/mL (48 h), ~145 µg/mL (72 h).

    • No significant toxicity in healthy MCF‑10A cells at these concentrations.

    • Mechanisms of action: decreased PCNA expression, increased apoptosis (TUNEL), raised MDA levels, decreased SOD activity, increased GSH and catalase, and elevated caspase‑3 activation.

3️⃣ Turkish Coffee Induces Apoptosis in Glioma Cells

  • Journal: Sigma Journal of Engineering and Natural Sciences, 2024

  • Overview: Reported that bioactive compounds in Turkish coffee trigger apoptotic mechanisms in glioma cells. Frequently cited in natural-product apoptosis research, though full bibliographic details are sparse in mainstream indexing sources.

4️⃣ Gallic Acid Effects on Glioma Cells via p38/JNK Pathway

  • Pak. J. Pharm. Sci., 2023

  • Summary: Demonstrated induction of apoptosis in glioma cells through activation of the p38/JNK signaling cascade, making it a referenced mechanism in cancer pathway studies.

5️⃣ Polyacrylic Acid Toxicity in Cancer Cell Lines

  • The EuroBiotech Journal, 2021

  • Focus: Investigated cytotoxic impacts of polyacrylic acid (PAA), commonly used in biomedical applications, on various cancer cell lines. Heavily cited in biomaterial safety/toxicity literature.

6️⃣ Quercetin-Loaded Nanoparticles Enhance Glioma Cytotoxicity

  • Pharmaceutical Development & Technology, 2020

  • Significance: One of the earlier studies showing that quercetin-loaded nanocarriers significantly increase cytotoxicity toward glioma cells—pivotal in establishing nanodelivery strategies for brain tumor therapy.

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Melike Ersöz is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Her research portfolio demonstrates depth (cancer biology, stem cells, nanotechnology) and breadth (occupational health, antioxidants, epigenetics) with a clear translational focus. She has contributed significantly to scientific knowledge, mentored young researchers, and taken leadership roles in academia.

Hongxi Wu | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Hongxi Wu | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award 

Professor, at China Pharmaceutical University, China.

Dr. Hongxi Wu is a distinguished Research Fellow, Associate Professor, and Graduate Supervisor at the Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University. With extensive experience in molecular pharmacology and precision oncology, his research focuses on understanding gene regulatory mechanisms in cancer progression and drug resistance. Dr. Wu has made significant contributions to prostate and liver cancer treatment by identifying novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. As a leading investigator, he has secured multiple national-level grants and published extensively in high-impact journals. His work bridges fundamental research with clinical applications, aiming to enhance cancer therapy outcomes through innovative drug discovery.

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Education 🎓

Dr. Wu pursued his academic journey at China Pharmaceutical University. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacoeconomics (2007-2011), followed by a Master’s degree in Pharmacology (2011-2014). He continued his Ph.D. research in Pharmacology (2014-2017), investigating molecular mechanisms underlying cancer progression and drug resistance. Dr. Wu then advanced his expertise as a Postdoctoral Research Scientist (2017-2021), further exploring targeted therapies for castration-resistant prostate cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma. His educational background laid a strong foundation for his innovative research in cancer pharmacology.

Research Experience 👩‍🎓

Dr. Wu’s research delves into the molecular mechanisms of gene regulation in cancer, focusing on castration-resistant prostate cancer and liver cancer. He has identified key biomarkers, including AR and ARv7 variants, IRF8, CDK9, and CLKs, which influence prognosis and drug efficacy. His work extends to developing novel combination therapies, such as 2-Methoxyestradiol with Erlotinib and sorafenib with enzalutamide, to enhance treatment effectiveness. Additionally, he investigates innovative anticancer compounds targeting AR, CDK9, and Clk1/2 through chemical biology strategies, aiming to overcome drug resistance in precision oncology.

Research Interests 🎡

Dr. Wu’s primary research interests lie in cancer pharmacology, precision medicine, and targeted therapies. He focuses on understanding tumor progression, metastasis, and drug resistance mechanisms. His work aims to identify novel therapeutic targets and develop personalized treatment strategies for aggressive cancers. Dr. Wu is particularly interested in androgen receptor biology, immune response modulation, and the role of gene expression in chemotherapy resistance. His research integrates molecular biology, pharmacogenomics, and chemical biology to develop innovative cancer treatments.

Awards & Honors 🏆

Dr. Wu has received several prestigious awards recognizing his contributions to cancer research. In 2023, he was honored with the SHIMADZU Young Scholar’s Award for his groundbreaking work in pharmacology. He has also secured multiple research grants, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, the Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province, and the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation. His outstanding research achievements have earned him national and international recognition, further solidifying his reputation as a leading cancer pharmacologist.

Top Noted Publications 📚

  • Wu H, et al. (2024). Discovery of CLKs inhibitors for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

  • Wu H, et al. (2023). Flavonoid-based CDK9 degraders for prostate cancer treatment.

  • Wu H, et al. (2022). Hepatic IRF8 expression suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma progression and enhances anti-PD1 therapy.

  • Wu H, et al. (2022). A novel AR inhibitor induces protein degradation to overcome enzalutamide resistance in prostate cancer.

  • Wu H, et al. (2020). Loss of IRF8-AR feedback promotes prostate cancer growth and enzalutamide resistance.

Conclusion

Dr. Hongxi Wu is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his outstanding contributions to oncology pharmacology, impactful publications, and success in securing competitive research grants. While further international collaborations, industry engagement, and leadership in global research networks could further enhance his profile, his achievements in cancer research, particularly in overcoming drug resistance, make him a highly deserving nominee.

Sakthivel Muthu | Cancer biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sakthivel Muthu | Cancer biology | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Thandalam, Chennai-602105, Tamil Nadu, India.

Dr. Sakthivel Muthu is a distinguished adjunct faculty at the Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, part of the Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, India. With a focus on protein biochemistry, enzymology, and bioactive compounds from plants, he has contributed significantly to the field of biotechnology, cancer biology, and marine algae research. His career showcases a dynamic blend of research, innovation, and academic excellence.

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

ORCiD

Education

Dr. Muthu completed his Ph.D. in Botany from the University of Madras in 2016, where his research received high commendation. He earned his M.Phil. in Botany from the same institution in 2008, with an impressive score of 76.39%. Prior to that, he completed his M.Sc. in Botany from Madurai Kamaraj University in 2007 and his B.Sc. in Botany in 2005. His academic foundation is deeply rooted in plant sciences and biotechnology.

Experience

Dr. Muthu has accumulated extensive experience in research and teaching, having served as a Post-Doctoral Fellow (2017-2022) at the University of Madras and currently holding the position of Guest Faculty in Biotechnology. His academic career spans over a decade, marked by collaborative work in bioactive compounds, enzymology, and protein biochemistry. His contributions to cancer biology and marine algae research have cemented his reputation as a leading researcher in his field.

Research Interests

Dr. Muthu’s research interests encompass a wide range of topics, including protein biochemistry, enzymology, bioactive compounds from plants and marine algae, microbiology, and cancer biology. His work focuses on developing novel therapeutic approaches through the use of bioactive compounds, especially in combating cancer and other critical diseases.

Awards and Fellowships

Over the course of his academic journey, Dr. Muthu has received several prestigious awards. Notably, he was a Post-Doctoral Fellow (2017-2022) under the University Grants Commission, Government of India. He also served as a Project Fellow (2010-2015) under the BSR Fellowships in Sciences for Students, further demonstrating his commitment to research excellence.

Publications

Dr. Muthu has authored numerous impactful research papers across reputed journals. His work has garnered significant attention, with a cumulative citation count of 279, an h-index of 10, and an i10-index of 10. Some of his notable publications include:

  • Encapsulation of Phloroglucinol from Rosenvingea intricata Macroalgae with Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles against A549 Lung Cancer Cells
    • Published in Pharmaceutics (2024).
    • Focuses on using phloroglucinol from Rosenvingea intricata macroalgae encapsulated with zinc oxide nanoparticles for potential anti-cancer therapy targeting A549 lung cancer cells.
    • Cited by 4.
  • Fatty Acid Metabolic Reprogramming of Immune Cells in Colorectal Cancer
    • Published in Texila International Journal of Public Health (2024).
    • Explores the role of fatty acid metabolism in reprogramming immune cells to enhance immune responses in colorectal cancer.
    • Cited by 5.
  • Anthocyanin-rich Foods: Insights into Extraction, Medicinal Potential, and Sustainable Applications
    • Published in Journal of Agriculture and Food Research (2024).
    • Discusses the extraction methods, health benefits, and sustainable use of anthocyanin-rich foods for medicinal purposes.
    • Cited by 7.
  • Lysozyme from Calotropis procera and its Antibacterial Potential
    • Published in European Food Research and Technology (2024).
    • Investigates lysozyme extracted from Calotropis procera for its antibacterial properties and potential food safety applications.
    • Cited by 10.
  • Bioflocculant from Shrimp Waste for Microalgae Collection
    • Published in Biotech Research Asia (2024).
    • Explores the production of bioflocculants from shrimp waste to improve microalgae collection efficiency for biotechnological applications.
    • Citation count not specified.

Conclusion

Dr. Sakthivel Muthu is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award based on his wide-ranging research expertise, significant publication record, and noteworthy citation metrics. His work in nanotechnology, bioactive compounds, and cancer research aligns with the cutting-edge scientific trends. He demonstrates a balanced mix of academic, collaborative, and practical research excellence, making him highly deserving of consideration for this award. To further strengthen his position, focusing on specialized research areas and enhancing his international collaborations could bolster his future candidacies.