Giulia Pascolini | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Giulia Pascolini | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Best Researcher Award 

Dermopathic Institute of the Immaculate, IDI-IRCC | Italy 

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🌟 Biography of Giulia Pascolini, MD, PhD

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Giulia Pascolini's journey in medical science began with a Degree in Medicine from Sapienza University of Rome in 2008, which she completed with honors. Following this, she pursued specialization in Medical Genetics at Tor Vergata University of Rome, graduating with honors in 2015 after five years of in-depth study. Driven by her passion for genetics, Dr. Pascolini went on to earn her Ph.D. in Medical Genetics from Sapienza University in 2019, establishing her expertise in a rapidly advancing field. In 2022, she further expanded her knowledge with a Master of II level in Rare Diseases, also from Sapienza University, solidifying her role as a leading expert in rare genetic disorders.

🩺 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Pascolini's professional career is marked by extensive experience across multiple prestigious institutions. Currently, she is a Clinical Geneticist and head of the Clinical Genetics Service at the Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata (IDI-IRCCS) in Rome, Italy. Since September 2023, she also holds a position as Professor of Medical Genetics at the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery at Tor Vergata University of Rome. Over the years, she has held various roles, including serving as a clinical geneticist at Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital and a researcher at San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital. Her long-standing commitment to clinical genetics spans over 15 years, with a focus on intellectual disability syndromes, dysmorphology, and developmental disorders.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 

Dr. Pascolini's research primarily centers around Developmental Disorders of Chromatin Remodeling (DDCRs), intellectual disability (ID) syndromes, and genodermatoses. She has played a crucial role in the study of the skin phenotype in rare genetic diseases, and her work on deep learning technologies for diagnosing genetic syndromes using facial phenotype recognition is groundbreaking. Her involvement with FDNA Inc. and the DeepGestalt technology is a testament to her contributions to advancing medical genetics through innovative platforms. She is also a principal investigator for multiple research projects, including studies on rare cutaneous tumors and familial melanoma, with funding of over €47,000 for these projects.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

As a Scientific Board Member of the ADNP Syndrome Italian Association and an editorial board member of the Journal of Pediatric Genetics, Dr. Pascolini has made significant contributions to the broader medical community. Her work has helped shape new approaches to the clinical understanding of complex genetic disorders, particularly in rare diseases and neurodevelopmental syndromes. Through her collaborative efforts with international organizations and her academic roles, she continues to influence both current medical practices and future research directions.

📚 ACADEMIC CITES AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Pascolini has authored several impactful works, including her involvement in the DeepGestalt technology article on SETD5-associated intellectual disability published in the Journal of Translational Genetics and Genomics. Her contributions to book chapters, such as her writing on Genomic Copy Number Variants (CNVs) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), have added substantial value to academic literature. Her expertise has also been recognized through invitations to write for special issues in leading journals, enhancing her standing as a key voice in her field.

🏅 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

In 2019, Dr. Pascolini was awarded the Franca Dagna Bricarelli Award for her clinical research on genetic mutations associated with the BAF complex. This prestigious award highlights her excellence in medical genetics and clinical research. Her contributions to the field, recognized by peers and institutions alike, reflect her profound impact on the study and treatment of genetic disorders.

🌟 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With her leadership in clinical genetics, active research on rare skin diseases, and innovative work in genetic syndrome diagnostics, Dr. Pascolini is poised to continue shaping the future of medical genetics. Her contributions to understanding the genetic basis of intellectual disabilities and her work on cutting-edge diagnostic technologies ensure her legacy as a pioneering figure in genetics. As she continues her role in both clinical and academic settings, her future contributions will likely further advance the study and treatment of rare genetic conditions, helping countless individuals worldwide.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

"The face of Non-photosensitive trichothiodystrophy phenotypic spectrum: A subsequent study on paediatric population" 

  • Authors: Pascolini, G. , Lipari, M. , Gaudioso, F. , Di Zenzo, G. , Didona, B.
  • Journal: Molecular Genetics and Genomic Medicine
  • Year: 2024

"Usmani-Riazuddin syndrome can have a recognizable phenotype: Report of a novel AP1G1 variant" 

  • Authors: Gnazzo, M. , Pascolini, G. , Parlapiano, G. , Novelli, A. , Baban, A.
  • Journal: Clinical Genetics
  • Year: 2024

"Extended phenotypic characterization of a novel Helsmoortel-van der Aa syndrome case series" 

  • Authors: Pascolini, G., Di Zenzo, G., Panebianco, A., Didona, B., Gozes, I.
  • Journal: American Journal of Medical Genetics
  • Year: 2024

"Ectoderm-derived findings in Aymè-Gripp syndrome" 

  • Authors: Pascolini, G., Di Zenzo, G., Morani, P., Didona, B., Panebianco, A.
  • Journal: Journal of Dermatology
  • Year: 2024

"Defining the clinical spectrum of ichthyosis follicularis, atrichia and photophobia clinical association type 1 (IFAP1)" 

  • Authors: Pascolini, G., Fortugno, P., Chandramouli, B., Didona, B., Castiglia, D.
  • Journal: European Journal of Dermatology
  • Year: 2023

Havva Ortabozkoyun | Gene Regulation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Havva Ortabozkoyun | Gene Regulation | Best Researcher Award

University of Miami Miller School of Medical / Sylvester Cancer Center | United States

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🧬 Havva Ortabozkoyun-Kara, PhD: Pioneering Epigenetics and Cancer Biology Researcher

🧑‍🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Havva Ortabozkoyun-Kara, PhD, embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara, Turkey. Graduating with a stellar GPA of 3.80/4.00 in 2010, she demonstrated early on her dedication to understanding complex biological systems. Her education continued at Utrecht University in the Netherlands, where she pursued a Master of Science in Cancer Genomics and Developmental Biology. With a perfect GPA of 4.00/4.00, she excelled in this program, setting a strong foundation for her future research in cancer biology. Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara then achieved her PhD in Stem Cell Biology from New York University (NYU), where she graduated with a GPA of 3.89/4.00. During her doctoral studies, she delved into stem cell and developmental biology, further refining her focus on the mechanisms that drive cellular diversity and disease processes.

🧑‍🔬 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara’s professional journey is marked by her extensive research experience in some of the most prestigious laboratories in the world. She began as a rotation student in the lab of Iannis Aifantis at NYU, where she explored the role of the ubiquitin system in cancer and stem cell function. Her doctoral research, conducted in the lab of Danny Reinberg at NYU School of Medicine, involved pioneering work on the insulation function of CTCF and the characterization of Polycomb Repressive Complex (PRC1) during differentiation. After completing her PhD, she continued her research as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Reinberg Lab, focusing on gene regulation and the role of MAZ, CTCF, and other factors in disease processes. Currently, she holds a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where she is studying novel insulation factors on gene regulation during developmental and disease processes.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON GENE REGULATION

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara’s research has significantly advanced our understanding of epigenetics, stem cell biology, and cancer biology. Her work has centered on the intricate mechanisms of gene regulation, particularly the insulation functions that control the expression of Hox genes during development and in disease states. Through innovative CRISPR genetic screens and biochemical assays, she has identified key factors that cooperate with CTCF in these processes. Her research on the differences in Polycomb Repressive Complex composition during cellular differentiation has provided new insights into how these complexes contribute to the regulation of gene expression.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara’s contributions to the fields of epigenetics and stem cell biology have had a profound impact on our understanding of how genetic and biochemical mechanisms lead to cellular diversity and disease. Her findings on the role of insulation factors in gene regulation have opened new avenues for research in developmental biology and cancer, influencing the direction of studies in these fields. Her expertise is recognized internationally, and she continues to collaborate with leading scientists to push the boundaries of what we know about gene regulation and its implications for human health.

📚 ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara’s work has been widely cited in the academic community, reflecting the importance of her contributions to the scientific understanding of gene regulation. Her publications in high-impact journals are frequently referenced by other researchers in the fields of molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. These citations underscore the relevance of her work to ongoing research and its potential to inform new therapeutic approaches for diseases linked to epigenetic regulation.

🏆 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara continues her research at the University of Miami, her legacy is one of innovation and discovery. Her future contributions are expected to further illuminate the complex mechanisms of gene regulation and their role in development and disease. With her deep expertise in epigenetics and stem cell biology, she is poised to make significant advances in the understanding and treatment of diseases driven by genetic and epigenetic alterations. Her work will undoubtedly continue to influence the fields of molecular biology and genetics for years to come, inspiring future generations of scientists.

💡 INNOVATIVE APPROACHES

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara is known for her creative and methodical approaches to scientific research. She has developed novel genetic and biochemical methods that have expanded the toolkit available to researchers studying epigenetic mechanisms. Her work not only provides critical insights but also equips the scientific community with new strategies for investigating and manipulating gene expression in various biological contexts.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

"CRISPR and biochemical screens identify MAZ as a cofactor in CTCF-mediated insulation at Hox clusters" 

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun, Pin-Yao Huang, Hyunwoo Cho, Varun Narendra, Gary LeRoy, Edgar Gonzalez-Buendia, Jane A Skok, Aristotelis Tsirigos, Esteban O Mazzoni, Danny Reinberg
  • Journal: Nature Genetics
  • Year: 2022

"A CRISPR Screen Identifies Myc-associated Zinc Finger Protein (MAZ) as an Insulator Functioning at CTCF boundaries in Hox Clusters" 

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun-Kara, Pin-Yao Huang, Hyunwoo Cho, Varun Narendra, Gary Leroy, Jane A. Skok, Aristotelis Tsirigos, Esteban O. Mazzoni, Danny Reinberg
  • Journal: BioRxiv
  • Year: 2020

"Members of an array of zinc finger proteins specify distinct Hox chromatin boundaries"

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun, Pin-Yao Huang, Edgar Gonzalez-Buendia, Hyein Cho, Sang Kim, Aristotelis Tsirigos, Esteban Mazzoni, Danny Reinberg
  • Journal: bioRxiv
  • Year: 2023

"Members of a Family of Zinc Finger Proteins Demarcate Chromatin Boundaries at Hox Clusters during Development, Ortabozkoyun et. al"

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun, Pin-Yao Huang, Edgar Gonzalez-Buendia, Hyunwoo Cho, Sang Y Kim, Aristotelis Tsirigos, Esteban O Mazzoni, Danny Reinberg
  • Journal: Mendeley Data
  • Year: 2024

"Novel chromatin insulating activities uncovered upon eliminating known insulators in vivo"

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun, P. Huang, H. Cho, E. Mazzoni, A. Tsirigos, D. Reinberg
  • Year: 2023

Wei Wu | DNA Methylation and Male Reproductive Health | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Wei Wu | DNA Methylation and Male Reproductive Health | Best Researcher Award

Nanjing Medical University | China

AUTHOR PROFILE

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EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Wei Wu began his academic journey at Nanjing Medical University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Preventive Medicine in 2007. He continued his studies at the same institution, obtaining a Ph.D. in Toxicology in 2012. His doctoral research was conducted in the Department of Toxicology, focusing on toxicological mechanisms and their implications for public health. Following his Ph.D., Wu completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Reproductive and Developmental Toxicology at the State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, also at Nanjing Medical University. In 2017-2018, he broadened his research horizons as a guest researcher at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences in the United States, specializing in Epidemiology.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Wei Wu's professional career is anchored at Nanjing Medical University, where he has ascended from a research assistant to a professor. His roles include:

  • 2022-present: Professor, Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health
  • 2022-present: Assistant Dean, School of Public Health
  • 2022-present: Secretary General, Jiangsu Society of Toxicology
  • 2021-present: Associate Department Chair, Department of Scientific Research Sharing Platform (Core Facility)
  • 2018-present: Associate Department Chair, Department of Toxicology
  • 2016-2022: Associate Professor, Department of Toxicology
  • 2012-2016: Lecturer, Department of Toxicology
  • 2010-2012: Research Assistant, School of Public Health

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON DNA METHYLATION AND MALE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

Wei Wu has made significant contributions to the field of toxicology, particularly in reproductive and developmental toxicology. His research has focused on the toxicological effects of environmental and chemical exposures on reproductive health. His work also delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying these toxicological impacts, aiming to develop preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Wei Wu has received numerous honors and awards that reflect his impact and influence in the field of toxicology. Notable accolades include:

  • 2023: "Good Youth Around Us" by the Communist Youth League Jiangsu Provincial Committee
  • 2022: Friendship Teaching Award of Nanjing Medical University
  • 2020: Ministry of Education Fok Ying Tung Young Teachers' Award
  • 2019: Clarivate Publons Peer Review Awards (top 1% reviewers in Crossfield and Clinical Medicine)
  • 2018: Publons Peer Review Awards (top 1% reviewers in Clinical Medicine)
  • 2017: Multiple awards for excellent papers and teaching achievements

ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Wei Wu holds various editorial positions, contributing to the dissemination of scientific knowledge in toxicology and related fields. He serves on the editorial boards of several prestigious journals, including:

  • Scientific Reports
  • SM Journal of Environmental Toxicology
  • Global Journal of Genitourinary Cancer
  • Austin Journal of Reproductive Medicine & Infertility
  • Journal of Clinical Obstetrics, Gynecology & Infertility
  • Medicine
  • Frontiers in Endocrinology
  • Frontiers in Physiology

As an editor-in-chief, he leads the International Journal of Sexual Health and Reproductive Health Care and the Research International Journal of Endocrinology and Diabetes.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Wei Wu’s ongoing research and professional activities suggest a lasting legacy in the field of toxicology. His leadership roles within professional societies, such as the Jiangsu Society of Toxicology and the Jiangsu Provincial Preventive Medical Association, underline his influence in shaping future research directions and policies. His dedication to teaching and mentoring the next generation of toxicologists ensures that his impact will continue to resonate in the academic and scientific communities.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS