Fang Wang | Respiratory Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Genetics and Genomics

Fang Wang | Respiratory Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Jilin University | China

Author Profile

Orcid ID

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Professor Fang Wang’s academic journey is rooted in a strong foundation of biomedical sciences. He demonstrated a commitment to medical research early in his career, focusing on genetics and respiratory medicine. With a solid academic background and advanced education in the medical sciences, he rose through the ranks in academia to eventually become a leading figure in his field. His early interest in Mendelian genetics and inheritance patterns, combined with a scientific curiosity about regional diseases, laid the groundwork for his lifelong research pursuits.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Professor Fang Wang currently holds several prestigious leadership roles at Jilin University, where he serves as the Dean of the School of Basic Medicine, the Dean of the Institute of Translational Medicine, and the Dean of the Ginseng Research Institute. In addition to these leadership positions, he is also a doctoral supervisor, mentoring the next generation of medical researchers. His distinguished service has been recognized by the State Council, where he is a recipient of the Special Government Allowance, a significant national honor. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his dedication to public health and medical innovation earned him recognition as an advanced individual in the national science and technology system.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON RESPIRATORY MEDICINE

Professor Wang’s research has primarily focused on the pathogenesis of airway diseases in cold regions and translational medicine. His work is known for bridging basic scientific findings with clinical applications, particularly in the field of respiratory medicine. A significant part of his research explores genetic and environmental interactions in respiratory disorders, especially in populations exposed to cold climates. His studies often incorporate innovative approaches in functional materials, redox biology, and drug delivery systems, contributing to both academic and clinical advancements.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Over the years, Professor Wang’s work has had a substantial impact on both national and international levels. He has published more than 60 SCI-indexed articles in prominent journals such as the European Respiratory Journal, Advanced Functional Materials, Redox Biology, Respiratory Medicine, and the Journal of Controlled Release. These publications are widely cited and have influenced ongoing research in respiratory genetics, cold-region pathophysiology, and biomedical interventions. His achievements have earned him more than 10 prestigious awards, including the Chinese Medical Science and Technology Award, the Jilin Provincial Science and Technology Award, and the Jilin Provincial Science and Technology Achievement Transformation Contribution Award.

ACADEMIC CITES

Professor Fang Wang’s academic output is both prolific and impactful. His more than 60 publications in high-impact journals are frequently cited by researchers in genetics, respiratory diseases, and translational medicine. His citation record reflects the relevance and scientific merit of his research. Furthermore, his seven invention patents highlight his contributions to medical innovation and the practical application of scientific knowledge in healthcare.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Professor Wang’s legacy lies in his dual contributions to academic excellence and public health innovation. As a mentor, leader, and researcher, he has shaped institutional development at Jilin University and elevated the standard of translational research in China. Looking forward, he is poised to further contribute to global respiratory medicine, particularly through interdisciplinary research combining genetics, environmental science, and clinical therapeutics. His ongoing efforts in the transformation of scientific achievements into practical healthcare solutions are expected to leave a lasting mark on the future of medicine.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

"Correction: Tang et al. Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals Mountain-Cultivated Ginseng Ameliorates Cold-Stimulated Steroid-Resistant Asthma by Regulating Interactions among Microbiota, Genes, and Metabolites." 

  • Author: Daohao Tang; Chao Wang; Hanlin Liu; Junzhe Wu; Luying Tan; Sihan Liu; Haoming Lv; Cuizhu Wang; Fang Wang; Jinping Liu
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • Year: 2024

"Mechanisms Underlying the Therapeutic Effects of JianPiYiFei II Granules in Treating COPD Based on GEO Datasets, Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulations" 

  • Authors: Liyuan Pang; Yongjuan Zhao; Yang Xu; Chencheng Gao; Chao Wang; Xiao Yu; Fang Wang; Kan He
  • Journal: Biology
  • Year: 2024

"Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals Mountain-Cultivated Ginseng Ameliorates Cold-Stimulated Steroid-Resistant Asthma by Regulating Interactions among Microbiota, Genes, and Metabolites" 

  • Authors: Daohao Tang; Chao Wang; Hanlin Liu; Junzhe Wu; Luying Tan; Sihan Liu; Haoming Lv; Cuizhu Wang; Fang Wang; Jinping Liu
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • Year: 2024

"The Role of Metabolomics and Microbiology in Urinary Tract Infection" 

  • Authors: Haoyu Zheng; Chao Wang; Xiao Yu; Wenxue Zheng; Yiming An; Jiaqi Zhang; Yuhan Zhang; Guoqiang Wang; Mingran Qi; Hongqiang Lin et al.
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • Year: 2024

"PLGA-Based Micro/Nanoparticles: An Overview of Their Applications in Respiratory Diseases" 

  • Authors: Xiaoping Guo; Xu Zuo; Zhengjie Zhou; Yinuo Gu; Haoyu Zheng; Xinlei Wang; Guoqiang Wang; Caina Xu; Fang Wang
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • Year: 2023

Kang Yang | Metabolic Disorders | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Genetics and Genomics

Dr. Kang Yang | Metabolic Disorders | Best Researcher Award

Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital affiliated with Yangzhou University | China

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid Id

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Kang Yang embarked on his academic journey at Shandong First Medical University, where he pursued a Bachelor of Medicine (BM) in 2017 under the mentorship of Professor Jianhong Qi. His early interest in sports medicine and rehabilitation laid a strong foundation for his future contributions in the field.

Building on this, he further honed his expertise at Yangzhou University, obtaining a Master of Medicine (MM) in 2020 under the guidance of Professor Xianghe Chen. His postgraduate studies deepened his understanding of rehabilitation techniques, patient care, and innovative treatments in sports medicine.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 💼

As a rehabilitation physician and therapist, Kang Yang is committed to enhancing the quality of life for patients recovering from injuries, surgeries, and physical impairments. His work integrates advanced rehabilitation methodologies with patient-centered approaches to ensure effective recovery and functional restoration.

Throughout his career, he has actively contributed to both clinical practice and academic research, focusing on rehabilitation strategies tailored for athletes and individuals with musculoskeletal disorders.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON METABOLIC DISORDERS🔬

Kang Yang’s research primarily revolves around sports medicine and rehabilitation medicine. His investigations explore:

  • Innovative rehabilitation techniques for sports-related injuries.
  • Physiological and biomechanical adaptations in long-distance runners and athletes.
  • Post-injury recovery protocols aimed at optimizing healing and preventing re-injury.

His dedication to research has led to significant advancements in sports rehabilitation, with a particular focus on marathon runners and endurance athletes.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🔍

Kang Yang's contributions extend beyond clinical settings. His work has influenced:

  • Rehabilitation strategies for sports professionals.
  • Medical education, through his involvement in teaching and mentoring young medical students.
  • Public awareness on the importance of injury prevention and rehabilitation in sports.

His clinical expertise and research have helped shape modern rehabilitation protocols, making a positive impact on both patient outcomes and medical practices.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND RECOGNITION 🏆

Kang Yang’s academic excellence has been recognized through multiple prestigious awards:

  • Special Prize (2018) & First Prize (2019) at the Jiangsu Sports Graduate Innovation Forum.
  • 2019 National Scholarship for Postgraduates (China).
  • First-class academic scholarship from Yangzhou University.

These accolades highlight his commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and contributions to the medical community.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS🏰

Looking ahead, Kang Yang aims to:

  • Expand his research on sports rehabilitation and injury prevention.
  • Develop advanced therapeutic protocols for athletes and individuals recovering from physical trauma.
  • Collaborate with international experts to enhance rehabilitation medicine globally.
  • Continue mentoring students and young professionals in the field of rehabilitation sciences.

His unwavering passion and dedication position him as a future leader in the evolving landscape of sports medicine and rehabilitation.

BEYOND MEDICINE: PERSONAL INTERESTS 📚

Outside of his professional life, Kang Yang enjoys:

  • Long-distance running and marathons, reflecting his deep understanding of sports medicine from both a theoretical and practical perspective.
  • Reading, staying updated with the latest medical advancements and broadening his intellectual horizons.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS📑

"Exercise alleviates renal interstitial fibrosis by ameliorating the Sirt1-mediated TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway in T2DM mice" 

  • Authors: X., Chen, Xianghe , X., Zeng, Xinyu , X., Qiu, Xiao , X., Zhou, Xiangxiang , K., Yang, Kang
  • Journal: Endocrine Connections
  • Year: 2024

Ehab Darwish | Host Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Genetics and Genomics

Dr. Ehab Darwish | Host Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid ID

Faculty of Medicine, King Faisal University | Saudi Arabia

Biography of Dr. Ehab Mohamed Ibrahim Darwish: A Pioneer in Tropical Medicine, Gastroenterology, and Infectious Diseases 🌍

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Dr. Ehab Mohamed Ibrahim Darwish embarked on his medical journey at Zagazig University, Egypt, where he earned his M.B., B.Ch. in Medicine in 1999. Driven by a passion for advancing his expertise in health sciences, Dr. Darwish pursued a Master’s degree in Tropical Medicine in 2004, followed by a Doctorate in Tropical Medicine in 2009. These foundational years shaped his deep interest in infectious diseases, hepatology, and gastroenterology, setting the stage for a dedicated career in medicine and research.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🏥

Dr. Darwish has held prestigious academic positions, including his role as an Assistant Professor of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Infectious Diseases at Zagazig University. In June 2015, he joined King Faisal University in Saudi Arabia, where he currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at the College of Medicine. His international experience has enabled him to bring a wealth of knowledge to his students and to the broader medical community in Saudi Arabia.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON HOST GENETICS 📊

Throughout his career, Dr. Darwish has actively contributed to research in infectious diseases, hepatology, and gastroenterology. He has published numerous studies, several of which appear in Scopus-indexed and Web of Science journals. His research often addresses genetic factors in infectious diseases, an area where he has made impactful discoveries that are critical to understanding disease susceptibility and treatment response. Dr. Darwish's research accomplishments include 17 completed projects and 3 ongoing research initiatives, marking him as a prolific contributor to medical science.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌟

With a Scopus H-index of 3 and 61 citations, Dr. Darwish’s work has been recognized for its contributions to the fields of tropical medicine and infectious diseases. His research has provided essential insights into the prevention and treatment of various gastrointestinal and liver-related illnesses. Through both his teaching and research, he has influenced medical students and peers alike, emphasizing the importance of scientific inquiry in clinical practice.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS 📈

Dr. Darwish’s publications include six research articles in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, underscoring his commitment to producing high-quality, peer-reviewed research. His work is frequently cited, reflecting his influence in tropical medicine and internal medicine. His dedication to understanding the genetic basis of infectious diseases has added a valuable dimension to his research, enhancing its applicability in both clinical and research settings.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🌍

Looking forward, Dr. Darwish aims to expand his research on genetics in infectious diseases, with plans to contribute to advancements in personalized medicine. His legacy is marked by his commitment to bridging clinical practice with research, fostering a generation of medical professionals trained in both the practical and theoretical aspects of medicine. Through continued collaborations, publications, and mentorship, Dr. Darwish is set to make lasting contributions to the global medical community.

OTHER SIGNIFICANT TOPICS AND PROFESSIONAL HIGHLIGHTS 🏆

  • Areas of Research: Dr. Darwish’s expertise spans infectious diseases, hepatology, and gastroenterology, focusing on improving patient outcomes in these critical areas.
  • Completed and Ongoing Research Projects: With 17 completed and 3 ongoing projects, Dr. Darwish has maintained a productive and impactful research portfolio.
  • Professional Memberships and Collaborations: His involvement in professional networks and collaborations has strengthened his contributions and broadened the scope of his research.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 📑

"Value of Serum miRNA-96-5p and miRNA-99a-5p as Diagnostic Biomarkers for Hepatocellular Carcinoma, " 

  • Authors: Gharib, A.F., , Eed, E.M., Khalifa, A.S., Darwiesh, E., Essa, A.,
  • Journal: International Journal of General Medicine
  • Year: 2022

"BAR Score Performance in Predicting Survival after Living Donor Liver Transplantation: A Single-Center Retrospective Study " 

  • Authors: Zakareya, T. , Taha, M. , Elzohry, H. ,Deif, M. , Abbasy, M.
  • Journal:  Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
  • Year: 2022

"Role of interferon gamma in SARS-CoV-2-positive patients with parasitic infections " 

  • Authors: Abdel-Hamed, E.F. , Ibrahim, M.N. , Mostafa, N.E. , Al-Khoufi, E.A. , Hindawi, S.I.
  • Journal: Gut Pathogens
  • Year: 2021

"Endoscopic removal of foreign bodies from the upper gastrointestinal tract: 5-year experience" 

  • Authors: Emara, M.H. , Darwiesh, E.M. , Refaey, M.M. , Galal, S.M.
  • Journal: Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology
  • Year: 2014

"Endoscopic injection of autologous blood versus diluted epinephrine for control of actively bleeding gastroduodenal ulcers: A randomized-controlled study" 

  • Authors: Emara, M.H. , Darwiesh, E.M. , Bihery, A.S. , Zaher, T.I.
  • Journal: European Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
  • Year: 2014

Sang Yeon Cho | Molecular Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Genetics and Genomics

Dr. Sang Yeon Cho | Molecular Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Chungna National University | South Korea

Author Profile 

Scopus

Google Scholar

BIOGRAPHY OF SANG YEON CHO 🌟

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Sang Yeon Cho embarked on his academic journey at Chungnam National University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry in 2012. He further pursued an M.S. in Medicine, obtaining his MD degree in 2021. Currently, he is completing his Ph.D. in New Drug Discovery and Development, expected to graduate in February 2025. His strong foundation in the sciences has equipped him with the skills necessary for innovative research in the medical field.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🏥

Currently, Dr. Cho serves as the Vice Director of the Metro Neurosurgery Clinic in Daejeon, South Korea, since October 2022. Prior to this role, he was the Vice Director of Hurisarang Hospital from March 2021 to September 2022. His leadership positions reflect his commitment to advancing medical practice and enhancing patient care.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON MOLECULAR CANCER BIOLOGY 🔬

As the Director of ChoLab since 2018, Dr. Cho has focused on cancer genomics and new drug discovery. His research has investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer, emphasizing drug resistance and therapeutic targets. He has actively contributed to several labs, including the Neuroglia Lab and the Nano Primo Research Center, showcasing his multidisciplinary approach to tackling complex medical challenges.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Dr. Cho's work has significantly influenced the field of medical genetics and cancer research. His publications in high-impact journals highlight the clinical significance of his findings, making substantial contributions to understanding cancer prognosis and treatment. Through his research, he aims to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications, improving patient outcomes.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS 📚

His research output includes numerous peer-reviewed articles in respected journals such as BMC Medical Genomics, Scientific Reports, and BMC Cancer, where he explores topics like drug resistance, immunotherapy biomarkers, and cancer prognosis. His findings have garnered attention and citations within the academic community, underscoring the relevance and quality of his work.

LEGACY 🏆

Dr. Cho's dedication to advancing cancer research and patient care has already left a mark on the field. His innovative approach, exemplified by multiple patents related to AI in healthcare and cancer diagnostics, positions him as a forward-thinking researcher poised to shape future developments in medical science.

FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🔮

Looking ahead, Dr. Cho aims to continue his research in cancer treatment and drug discovery, integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence to enhance therapeutic strategies. With his expected Ph.D. completion in 2025, he is set to further expand his contributions to the field and inspire the next generation of medical researchers.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 📑

"A method for the observation of the primo vascular system in the thoracic duct of a rat" 

  • Authors: Kim, S., Jung, S.J., Cho, S.Y., Soh, K.-S., Kim, S.
  • Journal: Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine
  • Year: 2013

"Protocol for the Observation of the Primo Vascular System in the Lymph Vessels of Rabbits" 

  • Authors: Jung, S.J., Cho, S.Y., Bae, K.-H., ... Song, Y.-K., Soh, K.-S.
  • Journal:  Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies
  • Year: 2012

Ofon Elvis Amih | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Genetics and Genomics

Dr. Ofon Elvis Amih | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

University of Buea | Cameroon

Author Profile

Scopus

Biography of Dr. Ofon Elvis Amih 🌍🧬

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Dr. Ofon Elvis Amih’s academic journey is rooted in his commitment to biochemistry, starting with his undergraduate studies at the University of Dschang, Cameroon. From 2006 to 2010, he pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a specialty in Clinical Biochemistry. His passion for this field led him to continue his studies at the same institution, where he earned a Master of Science in Biochemistry between 2010 and 2013, further specializing in Clinical Biochemistry. In 2014, Dr. Amih embarked on his doctoral studies, culminating in a PhD in Biochemistry with a specialty in Clinical Biochemistry from the University of Dschang in 2019. His doctoral research solidified his expertise in biochemistry and set the stage for his future contributions to the field.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS AND TEACHING 📚

Dr. Amih’s career in academia began at the University of Dschang, where he served as a Graduate Teaching Monitor from 2014 to 2021. In this role, he assisted in tutorials, practical lessons, and exam invigilation. His teaching career advanced further when he joined the University of Buea as an Assistant Lecturer at the Faculty of Health Sciences in October 2021. His work at the University of Buea involves mentoring students and imparting valuable knowledge in the field of biochemistry. In addition to teaching, Dr. Amih engaged in postdoctoral research with the TrypanoGEN+ Consortium from 2019 to 2022, where he worked on groundbreaking research related to genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Furthermore, he became a Bioinformatics Fellow with H3Abionet/H3Africa, contributing to the intersection of bioinformatics and biochemistry through collaborative projects across Africa.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON INFECTIOUS DISEASES🔬

Dr. Amih's research is deeply focused on the genetic markers associated with Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT). His manuscript, currently in press, titled "A Genome-wide association study reveals novel genetic markers associated with Human African Trypanosomiasis," marks a significant contribution to understanding this tropical disease. His research work bridges biochemistry and bioinformatics, with an emphasis on using advanced genomic tools to address pressing health issues in Africa.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌟

Dr. Amih has had a considerable influence in his field, particularly through his involvement in internationally recognized initiatives like the TrypanoGEN+ Consortium and H3Abionet/H3Africa. His contributions extend beyond research, as he is also shaping future generations of scientists and biochemists through his academic roles. His work has impacted the global scientific community, with his insights contributing to scientific journals and conferences worldwide. He has actively participated in numerous workshops and conferences, from local events in Cameroon to international collaborations, such as the H3ABioNet Online ‘Introduction to Bioinformatics’ training course in South Africa.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS🏅

Dr. Amih’s academic impact is further validated by his involvement in journal review activities for reputable publications such as Plos Computational Biology and the Journal of Bioscience and Medicine. His own manuscripts, particularly the upcoming publication on genetic markers for Human African Trypanosomiasis, are anticipated to contribute valuable citations in the field of clinical biochemistry and tropical disease research.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🔮

As Dr. Amih continues his academic and research endeavors, his legacy is likely to be defined by his contributions to both biochemistry and bioinformatics. His ongoing role at the University of Buea, coupled with his research collaborations across Africa, ensures that his work will leave a lasting impact on the scientific community, particularly in the areas of neglected tropical diseases and genetic research. Looking ahead, Dr. Amih is poised to expand his contributions through more collaborative research projects, potentially leading future generations of scientists and continuing to address critical health challenges in Africa. His deep expertise in both biochemistry and bioinformatics uniquely positions him as a leader in these intertwined disciplines.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 📑

"High Levels of Genetic Diversity within Nilo-Saharan Populations: Implications for Human Adaptation" 

  • Authors: Mulindwa, J., Noyes, H., Ilboudo, H., Ahouty, B., & Kabore, J.
  • Journal: Human Genetics
  • Year: 2020

"Copy number variation in human genomes from three major ethno-linguistic groups in Africa" 

  • Authors: Nyangiri, O.A. , Noyes, H. , Mulindwa, J. ,Hertz-Fowler, C. , Matovu, E.
  • Journal: Genomics
  • Year: 2020

"Molecular identification of different trypanosome species in tsetse flies caught in the wildlife reserve of Santchou in the western region of Cameroon"

  • Authors: Kamdem, C.N. , Tiofack, A.A.Z. , Mewamba, E.M. , Gomseu, E.B.D. , Simo, G.
  • Journal: Parasitology Research
  • Year: 2020

"Association between polymorphisms of IL4, IL13, IL10, STAT6 and IFNG genes, cytokines and immunoglobulin E levels with high burden of Schistosoma mansoni in children from schistosomiasis endemic areas of Cameroon"

  • Authors: Mewamba, E.M. , Noyes, H. , Tiofack, A.A.Z. , MacLeod, A. , Simo, G.
  • Journal: Genetics and Evolution
  • Year: 2023

"Evaluation of ITS1 rDNA primers for the detection and identification of African trypanosomes in mammalian hosts and tsetse flies."

  • Authors: Ofon, E.A. , Metiadjoue, M.C.C. , Kante, S.T. ,Fogue, S.P. , Simo, G.
  • Journal: Acta Tropica
  • Year: 2024

Bijina Balakrishnan | Molecular Basis of Genetic Disease | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Genetics and Genomics

Dr. Bijina Balakrishnan | Molecular Basis of Genetic Disease | Best Researcher Award

University of Utah | United States

Author Profile

Scopus

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Bijina Balakrishnan embarked on her academic journey in the field of biotechnology with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology & Chemistry from the University of Calicut, Kerala, India, in 1999. She further pursued her passion for biotechnology by obtaining a Master of Science degree in Biotechnology from Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala, India, in 2002. Her dedication to advancing knowledge in the field led her to pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biotechnology, which she successfully completed at Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kerala, India, in 2008.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Balakrishnan's professional journey has been characterized by a steadfast commitment to research excellence and innovation. She has held various significant positions in esteemed academic and research institutions, including:

RESEARCH SCIENTIST University of Utah, Salt Lake City (2021 - Present)

RESEARCH ASSOCIATE University of Utah, Salt Lake City (2019 - 2021)

POST-DOCTORAL FELLOW University of Utah, Salt Lake City (2014 - 2019)

POST-DOCTORAL FELLOW Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (2008)

SENIOR RESEARCH FELLOW Kannur University, India (2007 - 2008)

GRADUATE RESEARCHER Cochin University of Science and Technology, India (2003 - 2007)

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON MOLECULAR BASIS OF GENETICS DISEASE

Balakrishnan's contributions to the field of biotechnology are multifaceted and impactful, spanning from basic research to translational applications. Her research endeavors have primarily focused on rare metabolic disorders, with a particular emphasis on Galactosemia and dilated cardiomyopathy. Some notable contributions include:

  • Development and optimization of preclinical therapeutic interventions for Galactosemia and dilated cardiomyopathy.
  • Characterization of mouse models for Galactosemia and elucidation of disease mechanisms.
  • Design and execution of gene therapy strategies for cardiac-specific conditions.
  • Profiling small molecule modulators for novel therapeutic targets.
  • Investigation of cellular responses to viral proteins, such as the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, and evaluation of potential therapeutic interventions.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Balakrishnan's work has made a significant impact on both the scientific community and the broader field of biotechnology. Her research findings have been presented at numerous conferences and workshops, contributing to the dissemination of knowledge and fostering collaboration among scientists. Additionally, her efforts have led to the development of novel therapeutic approaches for rare metabolic disorders, offering hope to patients and clinicians alike.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Balakrishnan's research contributions have been recognized through academic honors and awards, including the Best Researcher Award at the International Research Awards on Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine. Moreover, she has received prestigious grants and funding support from organizations such as the Galactosemia Foundation and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Balakrishnan's legacy in the field of biotechnology is characterized by her dedication to scientific inquiry, innovation, and translational research. As she continues her professional journey, she remains committed to advancing knowledge, developing novel therapeutic interventions, and mentoring the next generation of scientists. Her future contributions are poised to further shape the landscape of biotechnology and positively impact the lives of individuals affected by rare metabolic disorders.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Novel mRNA-Based Therapy Reduces Toxic Galactose Metabolites and Overcomes Galactose Sensitivity in a Mouse Model of Classic Galactosemia 2020(38)

Structure-Based Optimization of Small Molecule Human Galactokinase Inhibitors 2021(3)

AAV-based gene therapy prevents and halts the progression of dilated cardiomyopathy in a mouse model of phosphoglucomutase 1 deficiency (PGM1-CDG) 2023(3)

AAV9-based PMM2 gene replacement augments PMM2 expression and improves glycosylation in primary fibroblasts of patients with phosphomannomutase 2 deficiency (PMM2-CDG)

Whole-body galactose oxidation as a robust functional assay to assess the efficacy of gene-based therapies in a mouse model of Galactosemia