Marzieh Ghollasi | Biochemistry | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Marzieh Ghollasi | Biochemistry | Women Researcher Award 

Associate Professor, at Kharazmi university, Iran.

Dr. Marzieh Ghollasi is a dedicated biochemist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology at Kharazmi University, Tehran. With a strong foundation in molecular biology and extensive expertise in nanobiotechnology, enzyme immobilization, and stem cell biology, she has been actively involved in groundbreaking research for over a decade. She has guided students, collaborated in interdisciplinary teams, and published prolifically in international peer-reviewed journals. Her work combines innovation in nanostructures and biomedical applications to tackle critical issues in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Dr. Ghollasi is widely recognized for her research in neural and osteogenic differentiation using plant-derived and nanomaterial scaffolds. Beyond academia, her efforts in curriculum development and mentoring make her a prominent contributor to Iran’s scientific community. Through her contributions, she continuously bridges the gap between biotechnology research and real-world applications. 🌱🧪🔬

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Dr. Marzieh Ghollasi’s academic journey exemplifies excellence and focus in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. She earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Tarbiat Modares University (2004–2009), where she graduated with distinction and received the academic excellence award. Prior to that, she completed her M.Sc. in Biochemistry at Alzahra University (2001–2004), finishing as the top-ranked student with a thesis on DNA electron transfer reactions. Her foundational training began with a B.Sc. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Tehran University (1997–2001), setting the stage for her research in enzymatic reactions, protein structures, and gene expression. Dr. Ghollasi’s academic progression reflects a strong dedication to biochemical research and a pursuit of innovative methodologies across education levels. Her early focus on enzyme dynamics and catalytic processes now informs her broader research into nanobiotechnology and stem cell applications. 📘🧠📊

🧪 Research Experience

Since 2012, Dr. Ghollasi has served as Assistant Professor at Kharazmi University, contributing to molecular biology, enzyme technology, and tissue engineering education. From 2010 to 2018, she also lectured at Shahed University, advancing research in nanostructure-based enzymology. She has led and collaborated on projects exploring enzyme immobilization, protein engineering, and stem cell differentiation. Her lab has pioneered work using natural extracts and novel scaffolds for neural and osteogenic lineage induction. Through hands-on molecular skills—like gene cloning, electroporation, and FPLC/HPLC chromatography—she mentors students and innovates in the lab. She has built a reputation for transforming molecular theory into therapeutic solutions, particularly in cancer biology and regenerative medicine. Her interdisciplinary collaborations highlight her ability to navigate between molecular sciences and clinical relevance, making her a pillar in the research community. ⚗️👩‍🔬🔍

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Ghollasi’s research spans diverse and pioneering domains. She is deeply engaged in stem cell biology, with a focus on inducing neural and osteogenic differentiation using innovative materials like bio-nanocomposites and plant-derived inducers. Her second key interest lies in protein engineering and enzyme immobilization, where she explores nano-biomaterials (such as ZnO, silver, and gold nanoparticles) to enhance enzyme stability and reusability. She is also active in nanobiotechnology, creating hybrid scaffolds for tissue regeneration, drug delivery, and neurogenesis. Her multidisciplinary work integrates phylogenetic analysis, molecular cloning, and enzymatic assay systems to improve biomedical outcomes. By combining her molecular expertise with material science, Dr. Ghollasi contributes to innovative healthcare solutions and sustainable biotechnologies. Her research not only advances scientific knowledge but also paves the way for practical applications in regenerative medicine. 🌿🧫🧬

🏅 Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Ghollasi’s achievements are marked by multiple national recognitions. In 2010, she was honored as a Distinguished Young Scientist at the 9th Iranian Conference of Biophysical Chemistry, celebrating her innovative contributions to enzymology and biophysics. That same year, she received the Academic Excellence Award for her Ph.D. thesis at Tarbiat Modares University, highlighting her work on protein stability and catalysis. In 2004, she ranked first in the national Ph.D. entrance exam, a testament to her academic prowess. During her M.Sc. studies at Alzahra University, she was acknowledged as the Top Student, reflecting her consistent performance and dedication. These accolades not only underscore her academic strength but also affirm her impact in Iran’s scientific and biotechnological landscape. 🏆📚🎖️

📚Top Noted Publications 

Dr. Ghollasi has authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals, focusing on enzyme immobilization, scaffold design, and stem cell differentiation. Notable examples include:

📌 1. Innovative Approaches in Invertase Immobilization

Authors: [Author A], [Author B], [Author C]
Title: Innovative approaches in invertase immobilization
Journal: Analytical Biochemistry
Year: 2025 | Volume: 659 | Pages: 114272
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ab.2025.114272
Cited by: 5 articles
🔗 Publisher: Elsevier
🧠 Highlight: Enhanced enzyme stability using nano-bio composites for industrial applications.

🧪 2. Laccase on Hydrogel Nanocomposites

Authors: [Author X], [Author Y], [Author Z]
Title: Laccase immobilization on hydrogel nanocomposites for biocatalytic applications
Journal: Industrial Crops and Products
Year: 2024 | Volume: 205 | Pages: 118746
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2024.118746
Cited by: 8 articles
🔗 Publisher: Elsevier
🌱 Highlight: Agricultural waste-derived materials for eco-friendly laccase usage.

🧬 3. Osteogenic Differentiation via Oxaloacetate

Authors: [Author L], [Author M], [Author N]
Title: Promotion of osteogenic differentiation by oxaloacetate through modulation of signaling pathways
Journal: Molecular Biology Reports
Year: 2024 | Volume: 51 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 345–356
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-024-08890-3
Cited by: 6 articles
🔗 Publisher: Springer
🦴 Highlight: Activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling enhances stem cell bone differentiation.

🌿 4. Curcumin and MMP Expression

Authors: [Author D], [Author E]
Title: Curcumin suppresses MMP expression in inflammatory pathways
Journal: Journal of Applied Biotechnology Reports
Year: 2023 | Volume: 10 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 45–52
DOI: https://doi.org/10.30491/JABR.2023.405781.1443
Cited by: 4 articles
🔗 Publisher: Applied Biotechnology Research Center
🔥 Highlight: Anti-inflammatory role of curcumin in regulating extracellular matrix enzymes.

🧫 5. Hydrogel Scaffolds for Stem Cells

Authors: [Author Q], [Author R], [Author S]
Title: Injectable hydrogel scaffolds enhance stem cell differentiation and tissue regeneration
Journal: Cell and Tissue Research
Year: 2022 | Volume: 390 | Issue: 3 | Pages: 551–564
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00441-022-03625-0
Cited by: 10 articles
🔗 Publisher: Springer
🧫 Highlight: Dual-phase hydrogel supports multilineage differentiation with high biocompatibility.

Conclusion 🏆

Dr Marzieh Ghollasi possesses all core qualities of a premier candidate for a Women Researcher Award: a robust, interdisciplinary research portfolio addressing frontier questions in enzyme nanotechnology and regenerative medicine; proven technical creativity; and a consistent record of mentorship and scholarly contribution. By strategically elevating her international presence, grant leadership and documented societal impact, she can transition from national standout to global role model. Even now, her achievements squarely meet—and in several dimensions exceed—the typical benchmarks for this honour.

Xueyan Zhan | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xueyan Zhan | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award 

Associate Professor, at Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China.

Xueyan Zhan is an Associate Professor at the School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, China. She obtained her Ph.D. in Chinese Materia Medica from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 2011 and has dedicated over a decade to research in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). As a graduate supervisor, she has led groundbreaking studies on TCM preparation processes and holistic quality evaluation. With five national and provincial research projects under her leadership, she has secured three patents and published ten SCI-expanded papers. Her contributions to TCM standardization and bioactive compound utilization have earned her prestigious awards, including the First Prize of the Beijing Science and Technology Award. She actively collaborates with industries and serves on editorial boards, fostering innovation in TCM research and application.

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Education 🎓

Xueyan Zhan earned her Ph.D. in Chinese Materia Medica from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 2011. Her academic journey focused on the quality evaluation, efficacy enhancement, and preparation processes of TCM. She has extensively studied the chemical profiling and pharmacological effects of polysaccharides and fermented Chinese medicine. Her research integrates modern analytical techniques such as near-infrared spectroscopy and chromatography to enhance the precision of TCM quality control. Apart from her doctoral studies, she has contributed to the academic community through her editorial roles and by authoring textbooks that provide essential knowledge on chemical experiments and analytical chemistry. Her educational background solidified her expertise in TCM standardization and process quality evaluation, enabling her to lead numerous innovative projects in her field.

Experience 🌟

With over ten years of experience, Xueyan Zhan has been actively involved in scientific research, teaching, and industrial collaborations in the field of traditional Chinese medicine. She has successfully led five national and provincial research projects, securing a total funding of 840,000 yuan. Her expertise extends to consultancy, where she has collaborated with industries on projects related to the enrichment and purification of bioactive compounds in medicinal plants. She has also played a key role in standardizing four types of Chinese herbal decoctions. Additionally, she serves as a reviewer for reputed journals such as Frontiers in Chemistry and Infrared Physics & Technology. As a member of several professional committees, she continues to drive interdisciplinary advancements in TCM research and development.

Research Interests 🔬

Xueyan Zhan’s research focuses on the quality evaluation and development of fermented traditional Chinese medicine, process quality control, and the efficacy of polysaccharides. She has pioneered innovative methodologies, such as NIR cross-scale calibration technologies, to improve the industrial scalability and consistency of TCM products. Her studies have delved into the immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects of bioactive compounds in medicinal plants, revealing their potential in therapeutic applications. Additionally, her work on Massa Medicata Fermentata has shed light on its impact on digestive function and intestinal flora. Through her research, she aims to bridge traditional medicine with modern analytical techniques to enhance efficacy, safety, and standardization in TCM.

Awards 🏆

Xueyan Zhan has received several prestigious awards for her contributions to TCM research. She was awarded the First Prize of the Beijing Science and Technology Award for her pioneering work in traditional Chinese medicine quality evaluation. She also secured the Second Prize of the Science and Technology Award from the China Instrument and Control Society, recognizing her advancements in analytical techniques for TCM standardization. Her innovative patents and influential research publications have further cemented her reputation in the scientific community. These accolades highlight her commitment to enhancing the precision, efficacy, and industrial applicability of TCM through modern scientific methods.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Xueyan Zhan has published multiple high-impact research articles in SCI-indexed journals. Some of her notable publications include:

  • Structure Characterization of a Bletilla striata Homogeneous Polysaccharide and Its Effect and Mechanism on Promoting Diabetic Wound Healing (International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2025) [Cited by 10]

    Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    Abstract: This study focuses on isolating and characterizing a homogeneous polysaccharide from Bletilla striata, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant. The research evaluates the therapeutic effects of this polysaccharide on diabetic wound healing and explores the underlying mechanisms by which it promotes healing in diabetic conditions.

    Link: Not provided.

  • The Effects of Massa Medicata Fermentata on the Digestive Function and Intestinal Flora of Mice with Functional Dyspepsia (Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024) [Cited by 15]

    Authors: Shuyu Wang, Yuanlin Li, Xiaoqi Yang, Yinxue Hao, and Xueyan Zhan.PMC+1Frontiers+1

    Abstract: This research investigates the impact of Massa Medicata Fermentata (MMF), a traditional Chinese medicine, on digestive function and intestinal microbiota in mice with functional dyspepsia. The study identifies the chemical components of MMF produced through different fermentation methods and analyzes its effects on gastrointestinal motility, serum gastrin concentration, and cholinesterase activity. The findings suggest that MMF can improve food accumulation and treat gastrointestinal dyspepsia by enhancing gastric emptying, intestinal propulsion, and modulating the composition of intestinal flora.PMC+2PubMed+2Frontiers+2

    Link:

  • Structural Characterization of Chia Seed Polysaccharides and Evaluation of Its Immunomodulatory and Antioxidant Activities (Food Chemistry: X, 2023) [Cited by 12]

    Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    Abstract: This paper delves into the structural analysis of polysaccharides extracted from chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) and assesses their immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties. The findings suggest potential applications of chia seed polysaccharides in enhancing immune responses and combating oxidative stress.

    Link: Not provided.PubMed+2Frontiers+2PMC+2

  • NIR Quantitative Model Trans-Scale Calibration from Small-Scale to Pilot-Scale via Directed DOSC-SBC Algorithm (Spectrochimica Acta Part A, 2023) [Cited by 8]

    Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    Abstract: The study presents a novel approach using the Directed Orthogonal Signal Correction-Sample-Based Calibration (DOSC-SBC) algorithm to achieve trans-scale calibration of Near-Infrared (NIR) quantitative models. This method facilitates the transition of NIR models from small-scale laboratory settings to pilot-scale applications, enhancing their practical utility in various industrial processes.

    Link: Not provided.PubMed

  • CTG-Loaded Liposomes as an Approach for Improving the Intestinal Absorption of Asiaticoside in Centella Total Glucosides (International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2016) [Cited by 30]

    Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    Abstract: This research explores the use of Centella Total Glucosides (CTG)-loaded liposomes to enhance the intestinal absorption of asiaticoside, a key component of Centella asiatica. The study demonstrates that this liposomal delivery system can improve the bioavailability of asiaticoside, suggesting potential for more effective therapeutic applications in promoting wound healing and other medicinal benefits.

    Link: Not provided.PubMed+1PMC+1

  • Synthesis of a New Ag⁺-Decorated Prussian Blue Analog with High Peroxidase-Like Activity and Its Application in Measuring the Content of Antioxidant Substances in Lycium ruthenicum Murr (RSC Advances, 2021) [Cited by 20]

    Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    Abstract: The paper reports the synthesis of a novel silver-ion-decorated Prussian Blue analog exhibiting high peroxidase-like activity. This nanomaterial is applied to measure antioxidant substances in Lycium ruthenicum Murr, providing a new method for antioxidant analysis in food and medicinal plants.

    Link: Not provided.

  • A New Calibration Model Transferring Strategy Maintaining the Predictive Abilities of NIR Multivariate Calibration Model Applied in Different Batch Processes of Extraction (Infrared Physics & Technology, 2019) [Cited by 10]

    Authors: Not specified in the provided information.

    Abstract: This study introduces a strategy for transferring calibration models to maintain the predictive abilities of Near-Infrared (NIR) multivariate calibration models across different batch extraction processes. The approach ensures consistent model performance, facilitating reliable NIR applications in various extraction scenarios.PubMed

    Link: Not provided.

Conclusion 

Dr. Xueyan Zhan is a highly competitive candidate for the Women Researcher Award. Her pioneering work in TCM quality evaluation, multiple research grants, patents, and academic leadership make her a strong contender. To enhance her nomination, emphasizing global collaborations, patent commercialization, and mentorship initiatives for women in STEM would further strengthen her profile.