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

Sara Salvador | Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sara Salvador | Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Gregorio Maranon University Hospital | Spain

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EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Since 2017, I have been dedicated to advancing the field of pharmacogenetics, beginning as a research assistant and progressing through to postdoctoral researcher at the Pharmacogenetics Laboratory of the Gregorio Marañón General University Hospital. My journey started with foundational research roles and evolved into leadership positions within various pharmacogenomic studies.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Starting as a research assistant, I gradually transitioned to roles as a predoctoral and postdoctoral researcher, accumulating invaluable experience and expertise in pharmacogenetics. My work has been primarily focused on pharmacogenomic studies in diverse medical areas such as colorectal cancer, multiple sclerosis, psychiatry, and intestinal inflammatory diseases.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON PHARMACOGENMICS AND PERSONALIZED MEDICINE

Throughout my career, I have actively contributed to 21 publications in pharmacogenomics, with a particular emphasis on colorectal cancer, multiple sclerosis, psychiatry, and intestinal inflammatory diseases. Of these publications, I served as the first author for 14, showcasing my significant contributions to the field. Notably, my doctoral thesis in 2020 centered on intestinal inflammatory disease, underscoring my commitment to advancing knowledge in this area.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

My contributions have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by receiving the AEFA (Spanish Clinical Laboratory Association) award for quality and innovation in 2019. Additionally, my research has been recognized through presentations at 20 national and international conferences, including 5 oral communications. I have been honored with the best oral communication award at three conferences, highlighting the impact of my work.

ACADEMIC CITES

My research has contributed to the academic discourse, with citations in various publications, further validating the significance and influence of my work in pharmacogenetics awards and related fields.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As an active member of the Spanish Society of Pharmacogenetics awards and the Spanish Association of Human Genetics, I continue to contribute to the advancement and dissemination of knowledge in these critical areas of public health. My ongoing commitment to research and collaboration ensures that my contributions will continue to shape the future of pharmacogenetics.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Jian Luo | Immunogenetics and Autoimmune Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jian Luo | Immunogenetics and Autoimmune Diseases | Best Researcher Award

University of Oxford | United Kingdom

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EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Jian Luo embarked on his academic journey at West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Care in 2012. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue further studies, culminating in a Master of Medicine from the same institution in 2015.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Armed with a solid foundation in respiratory medicine, Jian Luo pursued a dual degree program, earning his M.D. and Ph.D. in Respiratory Medicine from West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, China, in 2018. His academic pursuits then took him to the prestigious University of Oxford, where he completed a Joint DPhil in Respiratory Medicine Unit, NDM Experimental Medicine, in 2018.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON IMMUNOGENETICS AND AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES

Throughout his career, Jian Luo has focused on advancing our understanding of respiratory diseases, particularly inflammatory airway diseases such as asthma and COPD, as well as respiratory critical care medicine, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). His research efforts have delved into various aspects of immunology and clinical medicine, with notable investigations into the mechanisms of steroid resistance in various immune cells, the role of cytokines in eosinophil priming, and the immunological signatures of COVID-19 and Immunogenetics Award, particularly in relation to asthma.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Jian Luo's contributions to the field of respiratory medicine are underscored by his extensive publication record, boasting over 25 peer-reviewed papers with an impressive cumulative impact factor of 406.36. Notably, his work has been recognized in high-impact journals such as Cell, Lancet Respiratory Medicine, and the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Jian Luo's research findings have garnered attention within the scientific community, evident in the numerous citations his work has received. His studies have contributed valuable insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of respiratory diseases, earning him recognition as a leading authority in the field.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As a senior immunologist and clinician, Jian Luo's legacy extends beyond his academic achievements to his mentorship of future generations of researchers and clinicians. His continued dedication to advancing respiratory medicine promises to shape the landscape of healthcare, paving the way for improved diagnostics, treatments, and ultimately, better outcomes for patients worldwide.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

Xiaohu Ren | Metabolic disorders and their genetic basis | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Xiaohu Ren | Metabolic disorders and their genetic basis | Best Researcher Award

Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention | China

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EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS:

Dr. Xiaohu Ren commenced his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Shenzhen University (2005-2009), followed by a Master of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2009-2012) from the same institution. Subsequently, he pursued a Ph.D. in Health Toxicology at Southern Medical University (2012-2015), where he laid the foundation for his research expertise in the field of toxicology.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS:

Since 2015, Dr. Ren has served as an Associate Chief Physician and Assistant Researcher at the Modern Toxicology Laboratory, Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Prior to this, he contributed as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Shenzhen CDC from 2015 to 2017. These roles have provided him with ample opportunities to delve into the intricacies of environmental pollutants and occupational toxicants research.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON METABOLIC DISORDERS AND THEIR GENETIC BASIS:

Dr. Ren's research endeavors have predominantly revolved around unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying the damage inflicted on the human body by toxic substances. His expertise spans various analytical techniques, including proteomics, untargeted lipidomics, metabolomics, and cell phenotyping. Noteworthy among his contributions are the establishment of several toxicological testing and analysis methodologies, which have significantly advanced the field.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE:

As an active member of numerous toxicological societies and committees in China, Dr. Ren has played a pivotal role in shaping the discourse surrounding toxicology research in the country. His work has garnered attention both nationally and internationally, contributing to the broader understanding of environmental health and toxicology.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS:

Dr. Ren's research findings have been cited extensively in the academic community, attesting to the significance and relevance of his contributions to the field. His publications have enriched the scientific literature on DNA repair pathways affected by environmental toxicants and carcinogenesis, shedding light on critical aspects of human health and disease.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS:

With a solid foundation established through years of academic pursuit and professional engagement, Dr. Xiaohu Ren continues to be a driving force in toxicology research. His legacy encompasses a body of work that has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also contributed to the development of practical solutions for mitigating the adverse effects of environmental pollutants. Moving forward, Dr. Ren remains committed to furthering his research agenda, with a focus on addressing emerging challenges in the field and making lasting contributions to public health and environmental well-being.

Notable Publications

Jinghan Song | Bioactive Materials and Genomic Research | Best Scholar Award

Ms. Jinghan Song | Bioactive Materials and Genomic Research | Best Scholar Award

The Fourth Military University  | China

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EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Jinghan Song demonstrated exceptional academic prowess early on, laying a solid foundation during their undergraduate studies at Xi’an Jiaotong University. With a Bachelor of Science in Medicine, Jinghan excelled in major courses such as Bioinformatics, Physiology, Immunology, and Pathology, achieving an impressive average score of 90.1/100.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Building upon their undergraduate success, Jinghan pursued a Master of Science in Medicine at The Fourth Military Medical University. Throughout their academic journey, they delved into advanced topics including Advances in Cell Biology, Electron Microscopy, and Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine. Their commitment to excellence is evident in their remarkable average score of 85.47/100.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON BIOACTIVE MATERIALS AND GENOMIC RESEARCH

Jinghan has contributed significantly to the field of biomedical research, notably as a member of projects focusing on innovative materials and their applications. Noteworthy projects include the development of collagen materials cross-linked with DNA and the preparation method and application of polyphosphate modified collagen material. These endeavors underscore Jinghan's dedication to advancing biomedical science through innovative research.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Jinghan's research has garnered attention within the academic community, as evidenced by their participation in prestigious academic conferences such as the 25th Academic Conference of Chinese Stomatological Association, where they presented posters and gave oral presentations. Their contributions have earned them recognition, including the First Prize for Poster at the aforementioned conference.

ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Jinghan's work has the potential for significant academic impact, as indicated by their involvement in patent projects and participation in academic conferences. Their research outputs may serve as valuable references for future studies in the fields of biomaterials and regenerative medicine.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As an outstanding graduate of Xi’an Jiaotong University and a recipient of multiple scholarships and awards, Jinghan is poised to make enduring contributions to the field of medicine and biomedical research. Their dedication to academic excellence and innovative research methodologies positions them as a promising scholar with the potential to shape the future of healthcare and biotechnology.

Notable Publications

Advances in materials-based therapeutic strategies against osteoporosis 2023(20)

Engineered extracellular vesicles: Regulating the crosstalk between the skeleton and immune system 2022(7)

Inflammation-associated ectopic mineralization 2023(1)