Njayou Frederic Nico | Drug Discovery | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Njayou Frederic Nico | Drug Discovery | Best Researcher Award

Researcher |University of Yaounde 1 | Cameroon

Prof. Njayou Frederic Nico, is a Full Professor of Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology at the University of Yaounde I, where he has built an outstanding career in scientific research, teaching, and community development. His expertise spans the study and valorization of medicinal plants and wild mushrooms for the treatment of inflammatory, parasitic, viral, bacterial, and neurological diseases, including hepatitis, gastric ulcer, malaria, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. He has made significant contributions through in vitro and in vivo studies using chemistry, molecular biology, enzymology, and biochemistry tools, leading to the discovery of several plant and mushroom species with strong therapeutic potential. A Fulbright Visiting Scholar at the University of Connecticut (2012–2013), he gained advanced training in cell culture, western blotting, and PCR, which enhanced his capacity to conduct high-quality research. He has supervised numerous Master’s and PhD theses, published widely, and contributed to innovation, including the development of improved traditional medicines and cosmetics. Beyond academia, he is engaged in training communities on sustainable harvesting and health awareness. His scientific output includes 311 citations from 35 indexed documents with an h-index of 11, underscoring his impact in pharmacology and biochemistry research.

Profile : Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  • Magoudjou Pekam, J. N., Efange, N. M., Mishro, L., Keumoe, R., Ndjakou, B. L., Ayong, L., Njayou, F. N., Moundipa, P. F., & Rajendran, V. (2025). In vitro antiplasmodial activities of extracts and fractions from Lepidobotrys staudtii against sensitive and resistant blood-stage parasites of Plasmodium falciparum. International Journal for Parasitology: Drugs and Drug Resistance.

  • Fils Armand Ella, A., Dupon Akamba Ambamba, B., Njayou, F. N., & Moundipa, P. F. (2025). Khaya grandifolia exerts multitarget neuroprotective potential against neurodegenerative disorders: In vitro and in silico studies. IBRO Neuroscience Reports, 19, 400–408.

  • Tchana, J. C. T., Ayissi Owona, B., Messi, N. A., Kouam Kamgue, T. N., Sebdou, A., Ngoungoure Ndam, V., Kouamo, M. M. F., Njayou, F. N., & Moundipa, P. F. (2025). Effects of Garcinia Manni Oliv. biflavonoids on a model of aluminum chloride (AlCl3)-induced Alzheimer’s disease in Drosophila. International Journal of Biochemistry Research & Review, 34(4), 369–388.

  • Deussom, P. M., Ewonkem, M. B., Enang, B., Kamdem, M. H. K., Mbock, M. A., Fotsing, M. C. D., Ndinteh, D. T., Njayou, F. N., & Toze, F. A. (2025). Synthesis and biological evaluation of esterified anti-inflammatory drugs with ethylene glycol linkers: Cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Royal Society Open Science, 12, 241413.

  • Ngohoba, V. S., Pechangou, N. S., Njayou, F. N., & Moundipa, P. F. (2025). Therapeutic targets associated with medical research in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. medtigo JPharmacol, 1(1), e14202205.

Bonewendé Mohamed Belemlilga | Drug Development | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Bonewendé Mohamed Belemlilga | Drug Development | Best Researcher Award

Reseacher at Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Sante, Burkina Faso

Bonewendé Mohamed BELEMLILGA is a distinguished Burkinabè research associate specializing in Animal Pharmacology and Physiology at the Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS/CNRST). With a career marked by extensive contributions to ethnopharmacology, phytomedicine development, and preclinical drug evaluation, he has become a central figure in advancing traditional medicine through scientific validation in Burkina Faso and across West Africa. His leadership extends to key roles such as Head of the Research and Evaluation Department at IRSS and editorial board member for the Science de la Santé journal. He is also actively involved in national research strategy formulation, having served on committees crafting the CNRST’s 2025–2029 strategic research plan. Dr. BELEMLILGA’s expertise is further reflected in over 50 peer-reviewed publications focusing on pharmacological studies, toxicity assessments, and the pharmacodynamic properties of medicinal plants. His dedication to bridging traditional knowledge and modern science has led him to coordinate and participate in several national and international research projects, educational programs, and clinical investigations. With a solid background in both experimental research and academic supervision, he represents a dynamic blend of scholarly depth, technical skill, and visionary research leadership in African health science innovation.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Bonewendé Mohamed BELEMLILGA pursued his higher education at the University of Ouagadougou, where he demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence in health and biological sciences. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences in 2007, followed by a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences with a specialization in Animal Biology and Physiology in 2008. He then advanced to complete a DEA (Diplôme d’Études Approfondies) in Applied Pharmacology and Toxicology from the UFR-SDS in 2011, achieving honors for his academic performance. His doctoral studies culminated in a Ph.D. in Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences, with a specialization in Applied Pharmacology, awarded by the Doctoral School of Health in 2019. His dissertation focused on the pharmacological and phytochemical properties of Saba senegalensis, a plant traditionally used to treat parasitic infections. This strong academic foundation equipped Dr. BELEMLILGA with the skills necessary for rigorous scientific research in pharmacology and ethnomedicine. In addition, his multilingual proficiency in French and English and his strong computer skills enhance his ability to operate effectively in both national and international academic settings. His academic path reflects a deep-seated dedication to public health through biomedical innovation.

Professional Experience

Dr. BELEMLILGA’s professional journey is marked by a rich tapestry of research, teaching, and leadership roles. Since 2020, he has served as a research associate in Animal Pharmacology-Physiology at IRSS/CNRST, while also heading the Research and Evaluation Department since January 2024. He has been instrumental in multiple strategic planning committees, including the Commission for Research and Innovation, the CNRST’s disciplinary board, and the drafting of national research strategies for 2025–2029. As a temporary lecturer at Université Saint Thomas d’Aquin, he has also been active in academic mentorship, supervising multiple master’s and doctoral theses. His expertise has been recognized internationally, exemplified by training certifications in Good Clinical Practice (ICH E6 R2), clinical research, and laboratory quality systems. Dr. BELEMLILGA has coordinated numerous clinical and pharmacological projects, notably on phytomedicines for gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses. His fieldwork includes internships and collaborative research across France, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana. He is a founding member of the Société de Pharmacologie et Toxicologie du Burkina (SOPHATOX-B) and a contributor to numerous workshops and training programs. Through these roles, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to evidence-based health science rooted in traditional knowledge.

Research Interest

Dr. BELEMLILGA’s research interests lie at the dynamic intersection of ethnopharmacology, parasitology, toxicology, and pharmacognosy. His central scientific pursuit focuses on validating traditional medicinal practices by elucidating the pharmacological properties of plant-based therapies used in Burkina Faso and West Africa. With a special emphasis on parasitic diseases and gastrointestinal infections, he has conducted extensive in vitro and in vivo experiments to evaluate antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, and anthelmintic activities of natural plant extracts. Plants like Saba senegalensis, Balanites aegyptiaca, and Gomphrena serrata are frequently featured in his studies. His research also involves toxicological screening to ensure the safety of phytomedicines intended for human or veterinary use. In recent years, Dr. BELEMLILGA has expanded his interest into clinical trial design, especially in the context of plant-based antimalarial and anti-parasitic formulations. He is also actively engaged in capacity building and promoting best practices in traditional medicine production and usage. His research aims to bridge the gap between indigenous healing systems and modern biomedicine, contributing to global health initiatives through culturally grounded scientific innovation.

Research Skills

Dr. BELEMLILGA has cultivated a robust set of interdisciplinary research skills that underpin his expertise in ethnopharmacology and biomedical sciences. His core competencies include phytochemical screening, bioassay-guided fractionation, pharmacodynamic and toxicological testing of natural extracts, and the standardization of phytomedicines. He is well-versed in both qualitative and quantitative experimental techniques, ranging from in vivo efficacy trials to molecular analytical methods such as chemical profiling via molecular networking. His hands-on experience includes high-level laboratory procedures, animal experimentation, and clinical trial coordination adhering to international GCP standards. Dr. BELEMLILGA is proficient in project management, having led and contributed to multiple funded research initiatives across Africa and Europe. He is also skilled in academic writing and peer-review processes, serving as an excellent reviewer for several scientific journals. As a scientific trainer and lecturer, he has transferred knowledge to students and health professionals through numerous workshops, including those hosted by the WHO-TDR and local universities. His ability to design, implement, and evaluate complex biomedical studies places him at the forefront of research promoting safe and effective traditional medicine integration.

Awards and Honors

Dr. BELEMLILGA’s contributions have been acknowledged through numerous awards, certifications, and prestigious appointments. In 2022 and 2023, he was recognized with the Certificate of Excellence for his role as a peer reviewer in leading scientific journals. His leadership in the IRSS/CNRST has earned him positions on key national committees, such as the Commission for Research and Innovation and the Editorial Board of Sciences et Technique. He has received multiple certifications from renowned organizations like WHO-TDR and the Global Health Network, reflecting international recognition of his expertise in clinical research and pharmacological evaluation. As a founding member of SOPHATOX-B and a certified trainer in ethnopharmacology, Dr. BELEMLILGA has significantly contributed to capacity-building initiatives across West Africa. His scientific publications have garnered citations and respect within the fields of traditional medicine and drug development. His work has not only influenced policy frameworks in Burkina Faso but has also enhanced the global visibility of African medicinal plant research. These accolades underscore his commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation in public health research and education.

Conclusion

Dr. Bonewendé Mohamed BELEMLILGA exemplifies a new generation of African researchers bridging traditional medicine with modern pharmacological science. With a career grounded in rigorous education and enriched by international collaborations, he continues to push the boundaries of phytomedicine research in West Africa. His work has had a tangible impact on both policy and practice, particularly in the validation and clinical assessment of indigenous medicinal formulations. As a research associate, academic mentor, strategic planner, and scientific communicator, he has made enduring contributions to the biomedical landscape in Burkina Faso and beyond. His dedication to interdisciplinary research, ethical scientific practice, and public health empowerment demonstrates a holistic vision for African health innovation. Through an impressive portfolio of publications, funded projects, and leadership roles, Dr. BELEMLILGA is shaping the future of pharmacological research rooted in cultural relevance and scientific integrity. His continued efforts promise to yield new therapies, foster research capacity, and inspire the next generation of scholars committed to sustainable, evidence-based healthcare solutions in Africa and globally.

Publications Top Notes

  1. chemical analysis by molecular networking methods on extracts of saba senegalensis and its anthelmintic activity on caenorhabditis elegans
    Authors: Mohamed B. Belemlilga, Hazrina Hazni, Aristide Traore, Indira Dennemont, Sébastien Pomel, Sandrine Cojean, Mehdi A. Beniddir, Sylvin Ouedraogo, Christian Bories, Philippe M. Loiseau
    Year: 2025

  2. evaluation of anti-inflammatory activities and acute toxicity of the leaves aqueous macerate of boscia senegalensis
    Authors: Mohamed B. Belemlilga, Mathieu Nitiema, Aristide Traore, Eric Nanema, Souleymane Compaore, G. Geoffroy Ouedraogo, Sylvain Ilboudo, Lazare Belemnaba, Noufou Ouedraogo, Félix B. Kini
    Year: 2025

  3. toxicity assessment of a phytomedicine based on an almond extract from the fruit of balanites aegyptiaca intended for helminthiases care in burkina faso
    Authors: G. G. Ouedraogo, M. B. Belemlilga, T. Kouguilima, G. D. Somda, S. Ilboudo, S. Ouedraogo, A. Traore, L. Belemnaba, F. B. Kini, S. Ouedraogo
    Year: 2025

  4. acute toxicity and anthelmintic effects of gomphrena serrata extracts on adult worms and eggs of haemonchus contortus
    Authors: H. Ouedraogo, M. B. Belemlilga, A. Traore, G. A. L. Boly, F. Moyenga, G. G. Ouedraogo, S. Ilboudo, L. Belemnaba, S. Ouedraogo
    Year: 2024

  5. antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of an acazy herbal formula used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory infections
    Authors: M. B. Belemlilga, B. Bayala, G. A. L. Boly, M. A. Ouédraogo, A. R. Boina, B. Yaro, F. Badea, C. Diguti, M. Koala, D. P. Ilboudo, et al.
    Year: 2024

  6. optimization and standardization of the extraction method of balanites aegyptiaca seeds used in the formulation of an antiparasitic phytomedicine
    Authors: M. B. Belemlilga, S. Ouedraogo, G. A. L. Boly, D. H. Dao, J. T. Coulibaly, J. C. R. P. Ouedraogo, S. Compaoré, S. Traore, M. Koala, E. N. H. Youl
    Year: 2024

  7. evaluation of acute and subacute toxicity and sedative effect of feretia apodanthera leaves
    Authors: A. S. Silue, S. Ilboudo, T. A. Djadji, G. Ouedraogo, M. B. Belemlilga, G. Kouakou-Siransy, R. Semdé
    Year: 2024

  8. phytochemical profile, acute toxicity, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of hydroethanolic extracts from odontonema strictum root and stem
    Authors: M. Nitiema, L. Belemnaba, C. W. R. Ouedraogo, M. B. Belemlilga, S. Ouedraogo, M. Koala, A. Traore, J. F. Aïkpe, N. Ouedraogo, F. B. Kini
    Year: 2024

  9. phytochemical and in vitro anthelmintic properties of mesocarp of fruit extracts from balanites aegyptiaca
    Author: Mohamed Bonewendé Belemlilga
    Year: 2024

Zecong Xiao | Precision Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zecong Xiao | Precision Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Associate Research Fellow at The Third Affiliated Hospitial of Sun Yat sen University, China

Dr. Zecong Xiao is a distinguished Associate Research Fellow and Master’s Supervisor at the Nanomedicine Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. As a recognized member of Sun Yat-sen University’s prestigious “Hundred Talents Program” for Young Talents, Dr. Xiao is known for his pioneering research in nanomedicine, tumor immunotherapy, and tissue engineering. Born on January 5, 1992, he has swiftly risen through the academic ranks, demonstrating a strong commitment to translational biomedical research. His scientific contributions are substantiated by an H-index of 24 and over 1,900 citations. Dr. Xiao has published 49 SCI-indexed articles, with 41 of them as first or corresponding author in high-impact journals like Science Advances, ACS Nano, Bioactive Materials, and Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy. He has effectively integrated interdisciplinary strategies in engineering, pharmacology, and immunotherapy to advance cancer treatment methodologies. Beyond his publication record, he has served as a principal investigator in numerous national and provincial research grants, with total funding exceeding 2 million RMB. His ongoing commitment to innovation, mentoring, and collaborative science positions him as a prominent thought leader in applied biomedical research in China and beyond.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Zecong Xiao has received comprehensive academic training across multiple disciplines relevant to pharmaceutical and biomedical research. He earned his Ph.D. in Engineering with a focus on Materials Science from Sun Yat-sen University in June 2020, where he initiated his foundational research into drug delivery systems and nanomedicine. His doctoral work equipped him with interdisciplinary expertise blending materials science, pharmacology, and immunotherapy—areas central to his current research pursuits. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed a Master’s degree in Medicine with a specialization in Pharmacology at Wenzhou Medical University in 2017. This phase of his education provided a critical understanding of drug mechanisms and therapeutic interventions at the cellular and systemic levels. Dr. Xiao began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Jiangxi University of Chinese Medicine in 2014, grounding him in pharmaceutical sciences and traditional Chinese medicine. Each phase of his education not only broadened his technical skills but also deepened his commitment to translational research, laying a strong foundation for his contributions to cancer immunotherapy and advanced drug delivery technologies. His academic background showcases a rare integration of pharmacological principles and engineering applications.

Professional Experience

Dr. Zecong Xiao currently serves as an Associate Research Fellow and Master’s Supervisor at the Nanomedicine Center of The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. Since March 2023, he has been actively involved in cutting-edge research focused on nanodrug delivery, tumor-targeting immunotherapy, and tissue engineering repair. His role involves supervising graduate students, leading national and university-level research projects, and publishing high-impact papers. Before this, from August 2020 to August 2022, Dr. Xiao completed a productive postdoctoral fellowship at The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University. During this period, he developed a number of innovative nanomedicine strategies for targeted cancer therapy, earning national-level funding and recognition. Dr. Xiao’s professional experience reflects a trajectory of consistent scientific growth, marked by deep collaborations across disciplines such as bioengineering, immunology, and clinical oncology. His participation in multi-million RMB projects, both as principal investigator and key contributor, highlights his strategic thinking and leadership. At every career stage, he has demonstrated a clear vision for applying laboratory innovation to clinical contexts. His position in Sun Yat-sen’s “Hundred Talents Program” further affirms his status as a rising star in translational biomedical research in China.

Research Interest

Dr. Zecong Xiao’s research interests lie at the dynamic interface of nanomedicine, immunotherapy, and materials science. His work is primarily focused on the design and development of smart drug delivery systems that can effectively target tumors and modulate the immune microenvironment for enhanced therapeutic efficacy. He is particularly interested in functional nanomaterials that can bypass biological barriers to deliver payloads such as siRNA, small molecules, and proteins directly to diseased tissues. Dr. Xiao’s lab explores methods for improving T-cell infiltration into solid tumors using bioorthogonal nanodrug strategies and CAR-T cell modifications. He is also deeply involved in the study of tumor interstitial pressure and how to engineer delivery platforms that overcome this hurdle. Recently, his research has expanded into tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, with projects investigating hydrogel-based scaffolds and MOF-based delivery systems for spinal cord injury and wound healing. His translational approach aims to bridge the gap between fundamental materials science and clinical applications in oncology and regenerative therapy. Overall, Dr. Xiao’s interdisciplinary focus on applying nanoscale innovations to solve complex biomedical problems situates him at the forefront of next-generation therapeutic development.

Research Skills

Dr. Zecong Xiao possesses an extensive and advanced skill set that supports his multidisciplinary research in nanomedicine and cancer immunotherapy. He is proficient in the synthesis and characterization of functional nanomaterials, including stimuli-responsive nanoparticles, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and hydrogel-based delivery systems. He demonstrates expertise in drug encapsulation techniques, bioorthogonal chemistry, and surface functionalization, which are critical for targeted delivery and controlled release. Dr. Xiao is also well-versed in various in vitro and in vivo experimental models, enabling comprehensive evaluation of therapeutic efficacy and biocompatibility. His ability to integrate imaging technologies such as fluorescence microscopy and ultrasound enhances his work in biodistribution and real-time tracking of nanodrugs. In immunological applications, he is skilled in flow cytometry, ELISA, cytokine profiling, and T-cell modification techniques such as CAR-T engineering. Computational modeling and statistical analysis are further tools he utilizes for experimental design and data interpretation. In addition to laboratory competencies, Dr. Xiao has demonstrated proficiency in academic writing, grant proposal development, and project management, contributing to his success in securing multiple national research grants. Collectively, these skills empower him to conduct high-impact, translational research aimed at improving clinical outcomes in oncology and tissue regeneration.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Zecong Xiao has earned significant recognition for his research contributions, highlighted by his selection into the prestigious “Hundred Talents Program” at Sun Yat-sen University—a testament to his exceptional promise as a young scientist. This competitive initiative supports top-tier early-career researchers, offering substantial research funding and institutional support. He has also received the First-Class Grant from the China Postdoctoral Science Foundation, acknowledging his groundbreaking work on matrix clearance-based nanodelivery systems to improve T-cell tumor infiltration. Dr. Xiao has served as Principal Investigator on multiple nationally and provincially funded projects, including grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Guangdong Provincial Science Fund for Applied Basic Research. His cumulative research funding exceeds 2 million RMB, reflecting the strong institutional and governmental trust in his work. In addition to funding awards, his published works have garnered widespread academic acclaim, accumulating over 1,900 citations and an H-index of 24—extraordinary achievements for a researcher of his age. His papers frequently appear in top-tier journals with impact factors exceeding 10, further underscoring the innovation and relevance of his research in the global scientific community.

Conclusion

Dr. Zecong Xiao exemplifies the next generation of translational researchers, leveraging multidisciplinary expertise to address some of the most pressing challenges in medicine. Through a strong foundation in materials science, pharmacology, and nanotechnology, he has developed innovative solutions for cancer immunotherapy and tissue engineering. His prolific academic output—comprising 49 high-impact publications and a rapidly growing citation record—reflects both the depth and breadth of his contributions. As a core member of Sun Yat-sen University’s “Hundred Talents Program,” he continues to inspire through mentorship, collaboration, and leadership in scientific research. His success in securing major research grants highlights both his visionary research goals and his strategic planning capabilities. With demonstrated excellence in both fundamental science and clinical translation, Dr. Xiao is poised to make lasting contributions to global healthcare, particularly in oncology, regenerative medicine, and nanomedicine. His career trajectory is a powerful example of how dedicated research, supported by institutional trust and personal perseverance, can drive scientific innovation with real-world impact. As his research continues to evolve, Dr. Xiao is set to remain at the forefront of biomedical discovery and application.

Publications Top Notes

1. Title: Endothelia-targeting eye drops deliver a STING inhibitor to effectively reduce retinal neovascularization in ischemic retinopathy
Authors: Siying Wen, Xuemin He, Jiachen Wang, Zheyao Wen, Heying Ai, Mengyin Cai, Yi Yang, Hejun Li, Shasha Li, Guojun Shi, Aimin Xu, Zecong Xiao, Xintao Shuai
Year: 2025

2. Title: Targeting m6A demethylase FTO to heal diabetic wounds with ROS-scavenging nanocolloidal hydrogels
Authors: Xinyao Zheng, S.Z. Deng, Yuan Li, Zhipeng Luo, Ziqi Gan, Zheng Zhang, Rui Xu, Shan Xiao, Yuxiong Cai, Jiazheng Meng, Li Li, Changxing Li, Xianghong Xue, Wei Dai, Qin Si, Mengying Wang, Kang Zeng, Zecong Xiao, Lai-Xin Xia
Year: 2025
Citations: 2

3. Title: A dissolvable microneedle platform for the delivery of tumor-derived total RNA nanovaccines for enhanced tumor immunotherapy
Authors: Jiachen Wang, Siying Wen, Yujie Jiang, Zheyao Wen, Minghao Zhang, Yuchen Li, Jujian Ye, Zecong Xiao, Xintao Shuai
Year: 2025

4. Title: A PD-L1 siRNA-Loaded Boron Nanoparticle for Targeted Cancer Radiotherapy and Immunotherapy
Authors: Shaohui Deng, Lijun Hu, Guo Chen, Jujian Ye, Siying Wen, Zecong Xiao, Xintao Shuai
Year: 2025
Citations: 2

5. Title: Tertiary lymphoid structure formation induced by LIGHT-engineered and photosensitive nanoparticles-decorated bacteria enhances immune response against colorectal cancer
Authors: Lijun Hu, Tan Li, Shaohui Deng, Honglin Gao, Yujie Jiang, Qiu Chen, Hui Chen, Zecong Xiao, Xintao Shuai, Zhongzhen Su
Year: 2025
Citations: 4