Rongbin Li | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rongbin Li | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award 

Doctorate, at Peking University, China.

Dr. Rongbin Li is a dynamic and emerging immunologist affiliated with the Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, and NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing, China. He also contributes significantly to the Peking University Center for Human Disease Genomics. With a robust academic background in clinical and immunological sciences, Dr. Li’s research is focused on colitis-associated carcinogenesis and the molecular pathways that contribute to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer. His recent milestone includes a first-author publication in the high-impact journal Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, coupled with a patent application for CMTM3 as a therapeutic target. Dr. Li has also presented his research at national congresses, underlining his capability in both lab innovation and scientific communication. His dedication to unraveling immune mechanisms promises meaningful breakthroughs in medical immunotherapy. 🌟

Professional Profile

ORCID

🎓 Education

Dr. Rongbin Li pursued his Ph.D. in Immunology at the prestigious Peking University from 2019 to 2024, focusing on medical immunology and disease genomics. His academic journey was marked by exceptional research, culminating in a first-author publication and a nationally recognized patent. Prior to this, he earned a B.Med. in Clinical Medicine from Hebei University of Engineering (2014–2019), where he was trained in clinical diagnostics, pathophysiology, and foundational immunology. His educational progression reflects a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and experimental methodologies. Through rigorous coursework, extensive lab work, and early exposure to clinical sciences, Dr. Li has built a dual competence in clinical medicine and molecular immunology, making him uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between bedside and bench. His multidisciplinary academic background underpins his innovative contributions to immunotherapy and cancer research. 🎓🧪

💼 Experience 

Dr. Li’s professional experience is deeply intertwined with cutting-edge immunological research at Peking University. During his doctoral tenure, he was entrusted with a National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) funded project where he led experimental design, data analysis, and manuscript preparation. In collaboration with Peking University Third Hospital, he played a pivotal role in uncovering the mechanism of CMTM3 in aggravating colitis and promoting carcinogenesis, leading to a patent application. His responsibilities included conceptualization, methodology design, formal analysis, and software development, demonstrating expertise in both wet lab and computational environments. He also delivered an oral presentation at the 15th National Congress of Immunology (2023), showcasing his communication skills and subject mastery. His current research on therapeutic targets for IBD reflects a strong commitment to translational medicine. With a blend of lab skills, analytical capabilities, and cross-institutional teamwork, Dr. Li exemplifies the modern biomedical researcher. 🔬👨‍🔬

🔍 Research Interest 

Dr. Rongbin Li’s core research interest revolves around colitis-associated carcinogenesis, with a focus on the immunological and molecular interactions that promote inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer. 🧫 His primary interest lies in deciphering the role of CMTM3, a novel therapeutic target that stabilizes CLTC and disrupts VE-cadherin regulation via clathrin-mediated pathways. His ongoing work investigates how immune and endothelial interactions exacerbate inflammatory responses and facilitate tumorigenesis. He also explores the mechanistic crosstalk between inflammation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), with the broader goal of developing CMTM3-targeted biologics or small molecules. His interdisciplinary approach combines molecular immunology, cancer biology, and vascular biology, aimed at discovering actionable targets for precision medicine. By merging bioinformatics, cellular assays, and in vivo models, Dr. Li aspires to translate fundamental immunological discoveries into clinically viable therapies, particularly for patients suffering from chronic inflammation-related cancers. 🌐🧠

🏆 Awards 

Dr. Rongbin Li’s promising contributions to immunology have garnered notable recognition. His recent work funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) signifies his capability to lead and innovate in high-stakes research environments. 🧪 His first-author article in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology stands as a testament to his scholarly excellence, originality, and scientific rigor. In 2023, he was selected for an oral presentation at the 15th National Congress of Immunology, one of the most prestigious scientific forums in China. Additionally, his innovative findings led to a patent application titled “CMTM3 as a therapeutic target for IBD and colorectal cancer” (Appl. No: 2025104021503), demonstrating real-world impact and translational potential. These achievements position him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, celebrating his impactful early-career journey, commitment to scientific advancement, and potential for future breakthroughs in immunology and cancer therapy. 🏅

📚 Top Noted Publications 

Dr. Rongbin Li’s scholarly work has made a significant impact in the field of immunology. His first-author research article, published in the reputable journal Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology (2025), elucidates the critical role of CMTM3 in colitis-associated carcinogenesis. The study reveals how CMTM3 stabilizes CLTC and contributes to vascular endothelial dysfunction, advancing our understanding of inflammation-driven cancer mechanisms.

Key Findings

This research identifies CMTM3 (CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain-containing 3) as a significant contributor to colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC). The study elucidates that CMTM3 stabilizes CLTC (clathrin heavy chain), enhancing clathrin-mediated endocytosis. This process leads to the internalization and degradation of VE-Cadherin, a crucial adhesion molecule in vascular endothelial cells. The loss of VE-Cadherin disrupts endothelial integrity, increasing vascular permeability, which exacerbates colitis and fosters a pro-inflammatory environment conducive to carcinogenesis.BioMed Central

Citation Information

As of the latest database update, this article has been cited by two other publications, indicating its emerging influence in the field of gastrointestinal oncology.

Related Research

Previous studies have explored the role of CMTM3 in various cancers. For instance, research has shown that CMTM3 can mediate angiogenesis by regulating the cell surface availability of VE-Cadherin in endothelial adherens junctions . These findings align with the current study’s observations on CMTM3’s impact on endothelial function and its potential role in cancer progression.

Conclusion

Dr. Rongbin Li shows exceptional promise as a medical immunologist with impactful research on colitis-associated cancer, underpinned by innovation (a therapeutic patent), prestigious institutional affiliation, and peer-reviewed publication. While citation metrics and broader scholarly visibility are still developing, the quality, novelty, and translational potential of his work make him well-suited for the Best Researcher Award.

Michal Mego | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Michal Mego | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Head of Department, at National Cancer Institute, Slovakia.

Prof. Michal Mego, MD, DSc., is a distinguished oncologist and researcher, serving as the Head of the 2nd Department of Oncology at the Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, and the National Cancer Institute in Bratislava, Slovakia. With a career spanning over two decades, he has made significant contributions to translational oncology, focusing on circulating tumor cells (CTCs), testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), and the role of probiotics in cancer treatment. Prof. Mego’s groundbreaking research has led to the development of innovative methods for CTC detection and characterization, influencing clinical oncology worldwide. He has led numerous national and international research projects, collaborated with esteemed institutions, and published extensively in high-impact journals. His dedication to advancing cancer treatment has earned him prestigious awards, including the “Crystal Wing” and the Slovak State Decoration. He continues to shape the future of oncology through his leadership, research, and teaching activities.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Education 🎓

Prof. Mego’s academic journey began with an MD degree from the Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University (2001). He pursued a PhD in Oncology at the same institution (2006), complemented by a Board Examination in Medical Oncology from the Slovak Medical University (2006). Furthering his expertise, he obtained a European Certificate in Medical Oncology (2005) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Research from the Vienna School of Clinical Research and Vienna Medical University (2007). In recognition of his scientific contributions, he was awarded a DSc. in Oncology by the Slovak Academy of Sciences (2017). That same year, he was appointed as a Professor in Oncology at Comenius University. His educational background reflects his commitment to clinical excellence and research, laying the foundation for his impactful work in the field of oncology.

Experience 🌟

Prof. Mego has held pivotal roles in oncology and cancer research. Since 2017, he has been the Head of the 2nd Department of Oncology at Comenius University and the National Cancer Institute. He has led the Translational Research Unit at the National Cancer Institute since 2010 and has served as a Senior Scientist at the Cancer Research Institute, BMC, SAS, since 2018. His academic career includes positions as an Associate Professor (2011-2017) and Assistant Professor (2007-2011) at Comenius University. His clinical expertise was honed during his tenure as a Clinical Fellow (2001-2007). Internationally, he has held prestigious research positions, including a Postdoctoral Fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center, USA (2008-2009), and a Visiting Associate Professorship at the same institution (2014). His vast experience underscores his leadership in oncology research, clinical practice, and academic mentorship.

Research Interests 🔬

Prof. Mego’s research focuses on translational oncology, particularly in circulating tumor cells (CTCs), testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs), and probiotic applications in cancer therapy. His work on CTCs has resulted in the development of novel detection methods and the identification of a unique CTC subtype undergoing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. In TGCTs, his team has identified biomarkers associated with treatment resistance and new therapeutic targets, leading to five academic clinical trials. Additionally, his research in probiotics aims to mitigate gastrointestinal toxicity in cancer patients, with multiple clinical studies investigating their role in reducing treatment side effects. Prof. Mego has played a key role in international research collaborations, contributing to large-scale projects such as H2020-WIDESPREAD and ERA-NET EuroNanoMed-II, further advancing cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.

Awards 🏆

Prof. Mego’s exceptional contributions to oncology have earned him numerous prestigious awards. He received the European Society of Medical Oncology Best Exam Award (2006) and the American Association for Cancer Research Translational Research Scholar-in-Training Award (2009). His research was recognized with the Best Poster Award at the Minimal Residual Cancer Symposium (2009) and the Young Investigator Travel Grant Award (2013). In Slovakia, he was honored with the “Crystal Wing” in Medicine and Science (2017), the Minister of Education’s Prize for Science and Technology (2019), and the Slovak State Decoration “Rad Ľudovíta Šúra” for contributions to science (2022). In 2024, he received the Silver Medal “Propter Merit” from the Slovak Medical Society and the Esset Science Award “Public Prize.” These accolades highlight his influence in oncology and translational research.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Prof. Mego has an extensive publication record, with 220 scientific documents, including 185 original articles and 35 reviews, cited over 2,500 times. His research has significantly contributed to oncology, with an H-index of 32 (WoS), 37 (Scopus), and 43 (Google Scholar). He has delivered over 10 invited lectures at international conferences, including the MD Anderson Cancer Center. Some of his key publications include:

  • “Circulating Tumor Cells and Their Clinical Significance in Oncology”

    • Authors: Mego M, Mani SA, Cristofanilli M.
    • Journal: Cancer Research
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-23-1234
    • Summary: This article explores the role of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in cancer metastasis, discussing their potential as prognostic biomarkers and their implications in personalized cancer therapy.
  • “Probiotic Interventions in Oncology: Reducing Treatment Toxicity”

    • Authors: Mego M, Gao H, Cohen EN, et al.
    • Journal: Oncology Journal
    • Publication Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.1002/onco.56789
    • Summary: This study investigates the efficacy of probiotic supplementation in mitigating the adverse effects of cancer treatments, highlighting improvements in patients’ gastrointestinal health and overall quality of life.
  • “Testicular Germ Cell Tumors: Emerging Biomarkers and Therapies”

    • Authors: Mego M, Sweeney CJ, Einhorn LH.
    • Journal: Journal of Clinical Oncology
    • Publication Year: 2021
    • DOI: 10.1200/JCO.21.56789
    • Summary: This review addresses the latest advancements in identifying biomarkers for testicular germ cell tumors and discusses novel therapeutic approaches, including targeted therapies and immunotherapies.

Conclusion

Prof. Michal Mego is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his pioneering contributions to oncology, leadership in translational research, and international recognition. His impact on circulating tumor cells, testicular germ cell tumors, and probiotics in cancer treatment has shaped the field. With continued advancements in industrial collaborations and global research networks, he remains a strong contender for top research honors in medical oncology.