İlhan Sabancılar | Molecular Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. İlhan Sabancılar | Molecular Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Bitlis Eren University | Turkey

Assist. Prof. Dr. İlhan Sabancılar is a biochemist and medical researcher at Bitlis Eren University, Turkey, whose work bridges biochemistry, molecular medicine, and pharmaceutical sciences. His research primarily focuses on the anticancer, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties of bioactive compounds, natural extracts, and nanomaterials. Assist. Prof. Dr. İlhan Sabancılar has contributed to the synthesis and biological evaluation of novel heterocyclic and aza-acyclic nucleoside derivatives, investigating their potential as therapeutic agents through molecular docking and cytotoxicity studies. His publications in journals such as Pharmaceuticals, Current Issues in Molecular Biology, and Reviews on Environmental Health reflect his expertise in oxidative stress, trace element biochemistry, and drug development. With 9 publications and 247 citations, he has established a growing scientific presence supported by multiple research projects on oxidative stress, viral inhibition, and cancer therapeutics. A member of the Turkish Biochemical Society and the Molecular Cancer Research Association, Assist. Prof. Dr. İlhan Sabancılar’s multidisciplinary approach and consistent research output position him as a promising scholar contributing significantly to the advancement of biomedical and biochemical sciences.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Unsal, V., Cicek, M., & Sabancilar, İ. (2021). Toxicity of carbon tetrachloride, free radicals and role of antioxidants. Reviews on Environmental Health, 36(2), 279–295.

2. Bilden, A., Sabancılar, İ., Yalçın Azarkan, S., Karadağlı, K., Kaya, S., Kahraman, M., & Çiçek, M. (2025). Investigating the therapeutic potential of crude leech saliva based on its anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 47(5), 328.

3. Sabancilar, İ., Unsal, V., Demir, F., Toprak, G., & Pekkolay, Z. (2023). Does oxidative status affect serum sclerostin levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus? Folia Medica, 65(1), 46–52.

4. Alhilal, M., Alhilal, S., Gomha, S. M., Farag, B., Sabancilar, İ., & Ouf, S. A. (2025). Biological evaluation and molecular docking studies of novel aza-acyclic nucleosides as putative antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant agents. BMC Chemistry, 19(1), 255.

5. Muhammed Ayral, H. T., Toprak, S. F., Dedeoğlu, S., & Sabancılar, İ. (2021). Kronik Otitis Media’da Tiyol-Disülfid Homeostazının Değişikliği. Dicle Tıp Dergisi, 48(1), 197–204.

6. Toprak, G., Sabancılar, İ., Özcan, N., & Alkan, H. (2020). Total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), ferritin and vitamin D levels in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 4(2), 1–4.

 

Sharada Mokkapati | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sharada Mokkapati | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sharada Mokkapati, The UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, United States

Dr. Sharada Mokkapati is an Assistant Professor of Urology (Research) at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, specializing in oncology, molecular biology, and gene therapy. With a PhD in Genetics from the University of Cologne, Germany (2007), Dr. Mokkapati has contributed significantly to bladder cancer research. She was a key team member in the first FDA-approved gene therapy for bladder cancer and has extensive experience with gene therapy vector development, RNA/DNA molecular techniques, and NextGen sequencing. Her research also includes the identification of miRNA biomarkers and the study of tumor metabolism in gene therapy responses. Dr. Mokkapati has received multiple awards, including the Dodie P. Hawn Fellowship and the Lennox K. Black International prize for excellence in medicine. She is also an adhoc reviewer for journals like BMC Cancer and has co-authored numerous influential publications on bladder cancer and cancer therapy.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Sharada Mokkapati earned her PhD in Genetics from the University of Cologne, Germany, in February 2007. Her academic journey has focused on genetic research, exploring complex biological systems to understand various genetic disorders. With a robust foundation in genetic principles, she has contributed significantly to the scientific community through research, publications, and collaborations. Dr. Mokkapati’s work has emphasized advancing knowledge in molecular genetics, genetic markers, and hereditary diseases, making a lasting impact on the field. Her dedication continues to inspire the next generation of genetic researchers. 🌱📚

 

Professional Experience 🌟

Dr. Sharada Mokkapati has an extensive career in academia and research. Since 2020, she has served as an Assistant Professor in Urology (Research) at the UT MD Anderson Cancer Center. Previously, she was an Instructor in Urology (Research) at the same institution from 2015 to 2020. Dr. Mokkapati’s academic journey began with a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Genetics at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center (2008-2015). Her early career includes graduate studies in Dermatology at the University of Cologne (2002-2007), and research roles at SPIC Science Foundation and Malladi Drugs & Pharmaceuticals in India. 🧬🔬

 

 

Research Achievements 🧬🔬

Dr. Sharada Mokkapati has made significant contributions to the field of oncology and gene therapy. She was a key team member in the development of the first FDA-approved gene therapy for bladder cancer. With extensive experience in oncology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, and biomedical research, Dr. Mokkapati has developed and validated vectors for gene therapy. She is highly proficient in RNA, DNA, protein molecular techniques, biochemical assays, and NextGen sequencing. Additionally, Dr. Mokkapati excels in using both xenograft and genetically engineered mouse models for translational biology studies and managing research-related compliance and clinical trial databases. 🧪💡

 

Awards and Honors 🏅🎓

Dr. Sharada Mokkapati has been recognized with several prestigious awards throughout her career. She was honored with the “Dodie P. Hawn Fellowship in Genetics” at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Mokkapati also received the “Travel Award-Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine” for her contribution to the 12th International Symposium on Basement Membranes in Philadelphia. As a team member, she contributed to the technology transfer for amylase and tannase at SPIC Science Foundation, India. Additionally, she qualified the “National Eligibility Test for Lectureship (NET)” and received the “Dr. T. Ramachandra Rao Memorial Gold Medal” for academic excellence in her Master’s studies. 🏆🧬

 

 

Research Focus 🔬💡

Dr. Sharada Mokkapati’s research primarily focuses on oncology, molecular biology, and gene therapy in the context of bladder cancer. She has contributed extensively to the molecular profiling of bladder cancer, identifying relevant subtypes for biomarker discovery. Her work also includes the development and validation of gene therapy vectors, particularly in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer. Dr. Mokkapati is proficient in RNA/DNA/protein molecular techniques, biochemical analysis, and NextGen sequencing, using mouse models to address both basic biological and translational studies. Her efforts aim to integrate gene therapies into bladder cancer treatment paradigms. 🧬🧫🎯

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Molecular profiling of bladder cancer xenografts defines relevant molecular subtypes and provides a resource for biomarker discovery (2025) – Cited by 0 🔬📚
  • Integrating gene therapy into the treatment paradigm for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (2025) – Cited by 0 🧬💡
  • Concomitant antihistamine administration improves survival outcomes in urothelial carcinoma treated with atezolizumab (2025) – Cited by 0 💊📈
  • Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis identifies acute changes in the tumor microenvironment induced by interferon α gene therapy in a murine bladder cancer model (2024) – Cited by 0 🧪🧬
  • Interferon gene therapy with nadofaragene firadenovec for bladder cancer: from bench to approval (2023) – Cited by 7 🏥🔬
  • The current status of gene therapy in bladder cancer (2023) – Cited by 8 📖🔍
  • Lentiviral interferon: A novel method for gene therapy in bladder cancer (2022) – Cited by 8 🧬🧪
  • Antiadenovirus Antibodies Predict Response Durability to Nadofaragene Firadenovec Therapy in BCG-unresponsive Non-muscle-invasive Bladder Cancer (2022) – Cited by 16 🧪🔬
  • TCF21 promotes luminal-like differentiation and suppresses metastasis in bladder cancer (2020) – Cited by 7 🧬💥
  • Generation of a novel mouse strain with conditional, cell-type specific, expression of DND1 (2019) – Cited by 2 🐁🔬

 

 

 

Hadi Alizadeh | Cancer stem cells | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Hadi Alizadeh | Cancer stem cells | Best Researcher Award

Graduate Master Student, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran

Mr. Hadi Alizadeh is a Master’s graduate in Molecular Genetics from Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, with a thesis on AGPAT3 gene and cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer cells. His research encompasses gene expression analysis, drug discovery, and epigenomic profiling, focusing on chemoresistance mechanisms in cancer. He has contributed to various publications and presented at international conferences. Skilled in PCR, RNA-seq, flow cytometry, and bioinformatics, he is proficient in machine learning and molecular dynamics. Hadi has been recognized for his academic excellence, ranking highly in national exams. He also has hands-on experience in medical genetics and as a teaching assistant. 🧬💉🔬

 

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Mr. Hadi Alizadeh completed his Master’s in Molecular Genetics at Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, from October 2021 to November 2023, achieving an impressive average of 18.2/20. His thesis, titled “Introduction of AGPAT3 gene as a regulator of cisplatin resistance in A2780 ovarian cancer cell line,” was supervised by Dr. Soltani. Prior to this, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Genetics from Islamic Azad University, North Tehran, from October 2016 to May 2020, with a strong academic performance, securing an average of 17.83/20. His solid educational background highlights his commitment to molecular genetics and cancer research. 📚🧬

 

Research Experience

Mr. Hadi Alizadeh’s research experience includes significant work in molecular genetics and cancer research. For his Master’s thesis, he explored AGPAT3 gene as a regulator of cisplatin resistance in ovarian cancer cells, performing RNA-seq and various functional assays like RT-qPCR, western blotting, and apoptosis assays, revealing AGPAT3’s role in survival and cell cycle arrest under cisplatin treatment. He also studied the synergistic effect of dendrosomal nano-curcumin (DNC) with cisplatin in reducing cisplatin resistance. Additionally, he worked on epigenomic profiling of oxaliplatin-resistant HCT116 colorectal cancer cells and drug discovery targeting mTORC1 signaling. 🧬💻

 

Honors & Awards 🏆🎓

Mr. Hadi Alizadeh has demonstrated exceptional academic achievements throughout his career. In 2021, he ranked 18th out of nearly 10,000 participants in the national entrance exam for medical genetics in the healthcare system, showcasing his expertise and dedication. Additionally, he secured the 25th position among approximately 7,000 candidates in the national entrance exam for a Master’s program in genetics. These prestigious rankings highlight his strong academic foundation and passion for genetics research, setting the stage for his future contributions to the field. 🌟📚

 

Professional Experience 💼🔬

Mr. Hadi Alizadeh has gained valuable hands-on experience in various research and clinical settings. As a volunteer at Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran, he collected samples and performed RNA extraction for various projects. In his role as an apprentice at the Cytogenetic Lab, he conducted karyotyping as part of clinical genetic analyses, gaining key insights into genetic disorders. Additionally, as a Genetic Laboratory Technician prior to his Master’s, Mr. Alizadeh contributed to the COVID-19 response by performing RNA extraction and real-time PCR on samples, further honing his technical expertise in molecular genetics. 🧬🔬

 

Research Focus

Mr. Hadi Alizadeh’s research primarily focuses on molecular genetics and cancer biology. His work explores the mechanisms of chemoresistance in cancer, particularly involving the mTORC1 signaling pathway and its role in platinum-based chemotherapy resistance. He also investigates the epigenomic and transcriptomic changes related to chemoresistance in colorectal cancer cells. His expertise extends to drug discovery, with a focus on molecular dynamics and virtual screening for targeting cancer resistance mechanisms. Alizadeh’s research contributes significantly to understanding cancer cell survival and potential therapeutic strategies. 🧬💉💡

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Introduction of AGPAT3 gene as a regulator of cisplatin resistance in A2780 ovarian cancer
    cell line (under review after revision in PLOS ONE)
  •  Phosphatidic acid as a cofactor of mTORC1 in platinum-based chemoresistance: Mechanisms
    and therapeutic potential (Review article) (Published)
  •  Epigenomic and Transcriptomic Profiling of Oxaliplatin Resistant HCT116 Colorectal
    Cancer Cells Reveals Super-Enhancer-Driven Mechanisms of Chemoresistance
    (Bioinformatic article) (Revision in Scientific Reports)
  • Comparison of Machine Learning Algorithms and Feature Selection Methods for Identifying
    Important Features of Expression Data (Manuscript preparation)
  • Bioinformatic Analysis to find drugs Inhibiting mTORC1 as a Phosphatidic AcidDisplacement Strategy (Manuscript preparation)
  •  Comparison of Signaling Pathways and Genetic Modifications of Cancer Stem Cells with
    Normal Stem Cells (Review article) (ready to submit)

 

 

 

Ching-Chuan Kuo | Cancer Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ching-Chuan Kuo | Cancer Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ching-Chuan Kuo, National Health Research Institutes, Taiwan

🎓 Prof. Dr. Ching-Chuan Kuo earned her Ph.D. in food chemistry and nutraceutical functionality from National Taiwan University. She is an Investigator at the National Health Research Institutes (NHRI) and a Professor at the Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University. 🔬 Her research focuses on cancer biology, experimental therapeutics, precision medicine, and translational research. Key contributions include developing four cancer drug candidates that achieved US and Taiwan FDA IND approvals. 📚 Dr. Kuo has authored 108 SCI articles with 5,153 citations, an H-index of 48, and holds two patents. Her work has transformed cancer treatment and precision therapeutics. 🧬

 

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid

Education Background 🎓

Prof. Dr. Ching-Chuan Kuo completed her Ph.D. in Nutritional Biochemistry and Natural Product Chemistry at the Institute of Food Science and Technology, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, from September 1995 to July 2001. 🌱 Her doctoral research laid the foundation for her distinguished career in cancer biology and experimental therapeutics, blending the fields of food chemistry and biotechnology. Her strong academic background in biochemistry and natural products has driven her groundbreaking work in drug discovery and cancer treatment. 📘 This education has been crucial in her continued success and innovations in translational medicine. 🧬

 

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Dr. Ching-Chuan Kuo has held various prestigious positions throughout her career. Since August 2022, she has been a jointly appointed Professor at the Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan. 🌱 In January 2022, she became an Investigator at the Institute of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Research, NHRI, after serving as an Associate Investigator from 2013 to 2021. 🔬 Dr. Kuo’s journey began in 2001 as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Division of Cancer Research, NHRI, followed by roles as a Research Associate and Assistant Investigator at the National Institute of Cancer Research. Her extensive career reflects her expertise and dedication to advancing cancer research. 🧬

 

Research Interests 🔬

Prof. Dr. Ching-Chuan Kuo’s research focuses on several key areas within cancer biology. Her work involves the identification and validation of novel oncotargets, the development of clinically relevant tumor models, and the discovery of new anticancer drugs. 💡 She also explores cancer pharmacology and experimental therapeutics, aiming to improve cancer treatment. Her research extends to understanding chemo- and radio-resistance mechanisms and discovering strategies to overcome them. 🧬 Additionally, Prof. Kuo is deeply invested in precision medicine and translational research, seeking to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and clinical applications to enhance cancer therapies. 🌱

 

Publication Top Notes

  • Cytotoxic triterpenes from the aerial roots of Ficus microcarpa – 259 citations, 2005 📚🍃
  • BPR0L075, a novel synthetic indole compound with antimitotic activity in human cancer cells – 259 citations, 2004 🧪💥
  • Effects of drying and extrusion on colour, chemical composition, antioxidant activities and mitogenic response of sweet potatoes – 196 citations, 2009 🍠🔬
  • 4-Ketopinoresinol, a novel naturally occurring ARE activator – 142 citations, 2012 🌱💪
  • Salvinal, a novel microtubule inhibitor isolated from Salvia miltiorrhizae Bunge – 137 citations, 2004 🌿🔬
  • 2,2‘-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl Radical-Scavenging Active Components from Adlay – 137 citations, 2002 🌾🧪
  • Surface α-enolase promotes extracellular matrix degradation and tumor metastasis – 136 citations, 2013 🧬🏙️
  • Antagonism of free-radical-induced damage of adlay seed – 111 citations, 2001 🌱🔬
  • Scaffold-hopping strategy: synthesis and biological evaluation of 5, 6-fused bicyclic heteroaromatics – 107 citations, 2011 🧬🔬
  • Synthesis and evaluation of 3-aroylindoles as anticancer agents – 107 citations, 2009 💊🔬
  • 7-Aroyl-aminoindoline-1-sulfonamides as a novel class of potent antitubulin agents – 106 citations, 2006 🧪💡
  • Four new 6-nor-5 (6→ 7) abeo-abietane type diterpenes from the bark of Taiwania cryptomerioides – 103 citations, 2005 🌲🔬

 

 

Ammu Kutty Radhakrishnan | Cancer Immunology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Ammu Kutty Radhakrishnan | Cancer Immunology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Ammu Kutty Radhakrishnan, Monash University Malaysia, Malaysia

 

Prof. Ammu Kutty Radhakrishnan is a distinguished immunologist with a PhD from the University of Cambridge (1994), an MSc in Biochemistry (1990), and a BSc (First Class Honours) from the University of Malaya (1987). Currently, a Professor of Immunology at Monash University Malaysia, she has over 25 years of academic leadership and research experience. Prof. Ammu specializes in immunotherapy and food as medicine research, serving as Head of this research strength. Her career spans significant roles at International Medical University and Oxford. She is a research consultant, active in COVID-19 vaccine efforts, and supervises PhD and MSc students. 🌿🧬📚

 

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Academic Excellence

Prof. Ammu Kutty Radhakrishnan has an exceptional academic background, with a PhD in Immunology from the University of Cambridge (1994) and degrees in Biochemistry from the University of Malaya. Her education forms a solid foundation for her expertise in immunology and biomedical sciences, contributing to her distinguished career.

Professional Experience

Prof. Radhakrishnan has held key roles, such as Professor at Monash University Malaysia and the International Medical University (IMU). Her leadership in academic programs, such as head of the Food as Medicine Research Strength and chief examiner roles, showcases her commitment to advancing education and research.

Research Contributions

Prof. Radhakrishnan has supervised numerous PhD and Master’s students, guiding 39 doctoral and 20 master’s research projects to completion. Her extensive research supervision experience highlights her dedication to fostering scientific inquiry and innovation. Additionally, her collaborative efforts with industry partners demonstrate her ability to apply research to real-world problems.

Conclusion

Prof. Ammu Kutty Radhakrishnan’s outstanding academic credentials, extensive research supervision, leadership roles, and global health contributions, she is an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work in immunology, biomedicine, and collaboration with industry partners demonstrates her excellence in both academic and applied research, making her a worthy contender for this prestigious recognition.

 

Publication Top Notes  

  • Protective effect of aqueous extract from Spirulina platensis against cell death induced by free radicals (2010) – 292 citations 🧪
  • Human cell-adhesion molecule CD2 binds CD58 (LFA-3) with very low affinity and an extremely fast dissociation rate but does not bind CD48 or CD59 (1994) – 259 citations 🧬
  • Rind of the rambutan, Nephelium lappaceum, a potential source of natural antioxidants (2008) – 193 citations 🍇
  • Current concepts of neurodegenerative mechanisms in Alzheimer’s disease (2018) – 176 citations 🧠
  • Bioactive Compounds: Natural Defense Against Cancer? (2019) – 169 citations 🌿
  • Protective mechanisms of flavonoids in Parkinson’s disease (2015) – 162 citations 🧑‍⚕️
  • Tocotrienol research: past into present (2012) – 157 citations 🌰
  • Standardised Mangifera indica extract is an ideal antioxidant (2009) – 149 citations 🥭
  • Nose to brain delivery of rotigotine loaded chitosan nanoparticles in human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells and animal model of Parkinson’s disease (2020) – 128 citations 🚀
  • Tocotrienol-rich fraction from palm oil affects gene expression in tumors resulting from MCF-7 cell inoculation in athymic mice (2004) – 126 citations 🧫
  • Rutin, a bioflavonoid antioxidant protects rat pheochromocytoma (PC-12) cells against 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-induced neurotoxicity (2013) – 124 citations 🧪

 

Roger KoggeEnang | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Roger Kogge Enang | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gabriel Espinosa Carrasco, University of Dschang, Cameroon

Dr. Roger Kogge Enang is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his extensive background and contributions in soil science and environmental research. Here’s why he stands out:

Publication profile

Orcid

Extensive Research Output:

Since 2016, Dr. Enang has been actively publishing, with at least two scientific articles per year. His research spans various critical areas in soil science, including soil classification, nutrient cycling, and pollution remediation.

Educational Background:

He holds a Ph.D. and MSc in Soil Science, and a BSc in Chemistry, with a specialization in environmental chemistry and soil fertility. His academic credentials underpin his solid research foundation.

Diverse Research Interests:

His research covers vital topics such as soil mineralogy, soil organic matter, and digital soil mapping. He has contributed significantly to understanding soil properties and their implications for agriculture and environmental management.

Professional Involvement:

Dr. Enang is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Cameroon Soil Science Society and the International Network on Soil Pollution. His roles in these organizations reflect his commitment to advancing the field.

Field and Laboratory Experience:

His practical experience includes extensive soil surveys, experimental design, and advanced laboratory analyses. This hands-on expertise enhances the applicability and impact of his research findings.

Notable Publications:

Dr. Enang has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in reputable journals, demonstrating his ability to contribute valuable knowledge to the scientific community.

Given his track record of impactful research, extensive publications, and professional dedication, Dr. Roger Kogge Enang is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award.

 

Dr Gabriel Espinosa Carrasco | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

 Gabriel Espinosa Carrasco | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Dr at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center,Spain.

Dr. Gabriel Espinosa Carrasco is a distinguished immunologist affiliated with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. His research primarily focuses on T cell activation and the mechanisms of self-antigen recognition in immunology. Dr. Espinosa Carrasco’s work advances our understanding of immune responses in various contexts, bridging the gap between basic science and clinical applications.

Profile:

orcid

Education:

  1. Ph.D. in Biological Sciences and Immunology (2011-2016)
    University of Montpellier, INSERM Unit 1183 (France)
    Title: CD8+ and CD4+ T cell activation in response to self-antigens: from the lymphoid tissue to the target organ.
  2. Master in Advanced Immunology (2010-2011)
    University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona (Spain)
  3. Bachelor’s Degree in Biology (2004-2010)
    Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona (Spain)

Research Experience:

  1. Post-doctoral Scholar (2022-now)
    Cancer Virotherapy and Immunotherapy Group, Bellvitge Institute for Biomedical Research (IDIBELL)
    Department: Molecular Mechanisms and Experimental Therapy in Oncology
    Supervisor: Dr. Ramon Alemany
    🌟 Focus: Investigating novel virotherapy and immunotherapy approaches for cancer treatment.
  2. Post-doctoral Research Scholar (2017-2022)
    Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Immunology Program, New York
    Project: Intratumoral immune triads are required for immunotherapy-mediated elimination of solid tumors.
    Supervisor: Dr. Andrea Schietinger
    🔬 Focus: Enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapies in solid tumors.
  3. Ph.D. Student (2011-2016)
    INSERM Unit 1183, Montpellier
    Projects:
    a) Study the cooperation of effector CD8+ and CD4+ T cells in pancreas infiltration and beta cell destruction in real-time.
    b) Role of bacterial product translocation in the breakdown of CD8+ T cell peripheral tolerance under lymphopenic conditions.
    Supervisor: Dr. Javier Hernández
    📚 Focus: Understanding T cell interactions and their role in autoimmune responses.
  4. Master Internship (2010-2011)
    Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Barcelona
    Analysis of peptides directory associated with HLA class I molecules from human thymus and spleen.
    Supervisor: Dr. Iñaki Alvarez
    🔬 Focus: Peptide analysis and immune recognition.
  5. Bachelor’s Internship (2008-2009)
    Institute of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Barcelona
    Composition analysis of the HLA-DR-associated human thymus peptidome.
    Supervisor: Dr. Iñaki Alvarez
    🔬 Focus: Immune system peptide composition.

Research Interests:

Dr. Espinosa Carrasco’s research primarily focuses on T cell activation, self-antigen recognition, and the development of new therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases and cancer immunotherapy. His work aims to elucidate the complex interactions within the immune system to enhance treatment efficacy

Awards and Honors:

  • 2024: Provisionally selected for the “Best Researcher Award 2024” (ACA awards)
  • 2022: Selected Speaker, Recent insights into Immuno-Oncology, Leuven, Belgium
  • 2021-2022: Grant recipient, Ludwig Center Basic and Translational Immunology Postdoctoral RFA Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA. $100,000/year
  • 2019: Third prize poster presentation award, Tumor Microenvironments: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implication 6th Annual Symposium, New York, USA
  • 2017: Invited seminar speaker, Georgetown University, Department of Microbiology and Immunology
  • 2016: Excelente Cum Laude Tesis Doctoral, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
  • 2015: Best poster presentation award, Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapy Annual Retreat, Montpellier, France
  • 2014: Travel Grant, European Association for the Study of Diabetes conference
  • 2012-2015: Research grant from the French Ministry of Research (MRT scholarship), €21,000/year
  • 2009-2010: ERASMUS scholarship from the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), University of Nancy

Publications:

  • Intratumoral immune triads are required for immunotherapy-mediated elimination of solid tumors. Cancer Cell, 2024. Link.
  • TCR signal strength defines distinct mechanisms of T cell dysfunction and cancer evasion. J Exp Med, 2022. Link.
  • Fate bifurcation of beta cell-specific CD8 T cells drives type 1 diabetes. Nature, 2022. Link.
  • Cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes expressing ALS-causing SOD1 mutant selectively trigger death of spinal motoneurons. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA, 2019. Link.
  • Integrin beta 1 optimizes diabetogenic T cell migration and function in the pancreas. Frontiers in Immunology, 2018. Link.
  • CD4+ T helper cells play a key role in maintaining diabetogenic CD8+ T cell function in the pancreas. Frontiers in Immunology, 2018. Link.
  • Gilz-Activin A as a Novel Signaling Axis Orchestrating Mesenchymal Stem Cell and Th17 Cell interplay. Theranostics, 2018. Link.
  • PPARβ/δ directs the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells in arthritis. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 2016. Link.
  • Metabolism Regulates Exposure of Pancreatic Islets to Circulating Molecules In Vivo. Diabetes, 2016. Link.
  • Systemic LPS Translocation Activates Cross-Presenting Dendritic Cells but Is Dispensable for the Breakdown of CD8+ T Cell Peripheral Tolerance in Irradiated Mice. PLoS One, 2015. Link.

 

Ken Kato | Oncology Award | Excellence in Research

Dr. Ken Kato | Oncology Award | Excellence in Research

Dr. Ken Kato, National Cancer Center Hospital, Japan

Dr. Ken Kato is a distinguished Japanese oncologist specializing in gastrointestinal and esophageal cancers. With a robust career at the National Cancer Center Hospital in Tokyo, he leads divisions in translational research and medical oncology 🏥. Holding both an M.D. and a Ph.D. from prestigious institutions 🎓, Dr. Kato has a notable presence in clinical and research domains, with expertise in molecular targets and immunotherapy for cancer 🧬. His extensive publications in top medical journals highlight his dedication to advancing cancer treatment 📚. Dr. Kato is also an active member of several professional societies worldwide 🌏.

Publication profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Kato earned his Ph.D. from Kyushu University in 2001 and his M.D. in 1995. He graduated from the University of Occupational and Environmental Health in 1989 🎓.

Research Focus

Dr. Ken Kato is a leading researcher in gastrointestinal and esophageal cancers, focusing primarily on early detection, treatment, and the molecular mechanisms of these malignancies 🧬. His work includes innovative studies on serum microRNAs for early gastric cancer detection, biomarkers for chemotherapy response, and the genetic underpinnings of cancer resistance 📊. He has explored the efficacy of various chemotherapeutic combinations, such as S-1 plus cisplatin for HER2-positive gastric cancer, and has investigated the impact of gene mutations in treatment outcomes 🚑. Dr. Kato’s research aims to advance precision medicine in oncology, improving patient survival and treatment efficacy 🌟.

Publication Top Notes

  • A novel combination of serum microRNAs for the detection of early gastric cancer – Abe, S., Matsuzaki, J., Sudo, K., … Saito, Y., Ochiya, T. Gastroenterological Endoscopy, 2021, 63(6), pp. 1310 📅, Cited by: 0 🔍
  • ZNF695 methylation predicts a response of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma to definitive chemoradiotherapy – Takahashi, T., Yamahsita, S., Matsuda, Y., … Nagino, M., Ushijima, T. Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology, 2015, 141(3), pp. 453–463 📅, Cited by: 21 📊
  • Efficacy of S-1 plus cisplatin combination chemotherapy in patients with HER2-positive advanced gastric cancer – Honma, Y., Shimada, Y., Takashima, A., … Sekine, S., Kushima, R. International Journal of Clinical Oncology, 2014, 19(5), pp. 863–870 📅, Cited by: 3 📈
  • Clinicopathological features and prognostic roles of KRAS, BRAF, PIK3CA and NRAS mutations in advanced gastric cancer – Takahashi, N., Yamada, Y., Taniguchi, H., … Hamaguchi, T., Shimada, Y. BMC Research Notes, 2014, 7(1), 271 📅, Cited by: 41 🔬
  • Clinical impact of c-MET expression and genetic mutational status in colorectal cancer patients after liver resection – Shoji, H., Yamada, Y., Taniguchi, H., … Hamaguchi, T., Shimada, Y. Cancer Science, 2014, 105(8), pp. 1002–1007 📅, Cited by: 24 🧬
  • Combined Assessment of Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Dual Color In Situ Hybridization and Immunohistochemistry with Downstream Gene Mutations in Prediction of Response to the Anti-EGFR Therapy for Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer – Takahashi, N., Yamada, Y., Taniguchi, H., … Hamaguchi, T., Shimada, Y. Archives of Medical Research, 2014, 45(5), pp. 366–374 📅, Cited by: 7 🔍
  • A phase II study of nedaplatin and 5-fluorouracil in metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus: The Japan Clinical Oncology Group (JCOG) Trial (JCOG 9905-DI) – Kato, K., Muro, K., Ando, N., … Nagai, K., Kato, H. Esophagus, 2014, 11(3), pp. 183–188 📅, Cited by: 30 🩺
  • Survival prolongation after treatment failure of first-line chemotherapy in patients with advanced gastric cancer: Combined analysis of the Japan Clinical Oncology Group Trials JCOG9205 and JCOG9912 – Takashima, A., Boku, N., Kato, K., … Shimada, Y., Ohtsu, A. Gastric Cancer, 2014, 17(3), pp. 522–528 📅, Cited by: 26 📊
  • Biomarkers of reactive resistance and early disease progression during chemotherapy plus bevacizumab treatment for colorectal carcinoma – Hayashi, H., Arao, T., Matsumoto, K., … Nishio, K., Yamada, Y. Oncotarget, 2014, 5(9), pp. 2588–2595 📅, Cited by: 33 🧪
  • Feasibility of endoscopic mucosal resection as salvage treatment for patients with local failure after definitive chemoradiotherapy for stage IB, II, and III esophageal squamous cell cancer – Makazu, M., Kato, K., Takisawa, H., … Yamada, Y., Shimada, Y. Diseases of the Esophagus, 2014, 27(1), pp. 42–49 📅, Cited by: 31 🩹