Zhanjuan Chen | New Drug Discovery | Applied Scientist Award

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Prof. Zhanjuan Chen | New Drug Discovery | Applied Scientist Award

Professor at Hainan Medical University, China

Professor Zhanjuan Chen, currently serving at Hainan Medical University, is an accomplished academic with focused research expertise in the pathogenesis and drug screening for cancer and related diseases such as pulmonary hypertension. Her pioneering investigations have identified MEIS1 and LDHA as potential therapeutic targets for acute myeloid leukemia and pulmonary hypertension, respectively. Her contributions are grounded in both traditional Chinese medicine and modern biomedical science, demonstrating a unique interdisciplinary strength. Professor Chen is leading the development of Callicarpa Tissue-Regenerating Gel, an innovative treatment for chronic non-healing wounds. Her scientific output includes two SCI-indexed articles, one with 17 citations, as well as one book publication, a patent, and multiple collaborative R&D efforts. A member of the Chinese Pharmacological Society and the Hainan Provincial Laboratory Animal Science Association, she has actively contributed to academic and professional communities. Her efforts bridge theoretical research and translational application, demonstrating significant potential in therapeutic development. Professor Chen has completed and is continuing several high-impact research projects and has gained valuable experience through industry collaborations. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and patient care, her work aligns well with the mission of the Applied Scientist Awards. She stands as a strong candidate for recognition based on her impactful contributions to science and medicine.

Professional Profile

Education

Professor Zhanjuan Chen’s academic journey reflects her unwavering dedication to biomedical science. She pursued her higher education with a strong emphasis on pharmacology, traditional Chinese medicine, and translational oncology. Although specific institutional details of her academic degrees are not provided in the nomination form, her academic foundation is clearly rooted in multidisciplinary and clinically oriented research, evidenced by her current academic role and her published outputs. Her studies prepared her extensively in molecular biology, pathogenesis of chronic diseases, pharmacodynamics, and drug discovery techniques. Her background integrates both conventional research methodologies and cutting-edge approaches, such as high-throughput screening and mechanistic investigations of disease pathways. Through her academic training, she acquired expertise in understanding the molecular underpinnings of cancer and pulmonary diseases, allowing her to formulate novel hypotheses and experimental strategies. Additionally, her immersion in traditional Chinese pharmacology has provided her with a holistic outlook toward therapeutic discovery, particularly in the development of tissue-regenerating formulations. Her educational trajectory is also complemented by continued scholarly engagement, including contributions to scientific publications and patents. Professor Chen’s education has laid a strong intellectual and practical foundation for her impactful research career, positioning her well to address current challenges in oncology and pharmacology with innovative, evidence-based solutions.

Professional Experience

Professor Zhanjuan Chen has accumulated significant experience in both academic and translational research environments. As a faculty member at Hainan Medical University, she has led multiple research initiatives that combine experimental pharmacology with clinical application. Her academic appointments reflect a career trajectory marked by continuous advancement and increasing research responsibility. Notably, her role as principal investigator for projects such as “Astragalin Regulates Proliferation of Acute Myeloid Leukemia Cells by Targeted Inhibition of MEIS1 Protein” underscores her leadership in the field of targeted cancer therapy. She is also the innovator behind the Callicarpa Tissue-Regenerating Gel, a formulation developed to promote healing in chronic wounds—a major challenge in geriatric and diabetic care. Beyond her institutional duties, Professor Chen has collaborated with industry partners on the development of Zizhu Shengji Gel, showcasing her ability to translate laboratory findings into real-world healthcare solutions. Her professional engagements extend to managing patents, publishing research articles, and authoring a scientific book. Her affiliations with professional bodies further strengthen her academic presence. In every role, Professor Chen has demonstrated scientific rigor, mentorship, and a passion for innovation. Her broad experience, spanning research, development, and clinical application, equips her with a unique skillset to contribute meaningfully to the scientific community.

Research Interest

Professor Chen’s research interests center on elucidating the molecular pathogenesis of cancer and cancer-like diseases, particularly pulmonary hypertension, and discovering therapeutic agents through both conventional and traditional medical approaches. Her work is heavily influenced by the integration of modern biomedical techniques with traditional Chinese pharmacology. Her early contributions included identifying MEIS1 as a therapeutic target for acute myeloid leukemia, which she continues to explore through targeted therapeutic strategies using compounds like astragalin. She has also identified LDHA as a critical regulatory target in pulmonary hypertension, offering new hope for treatment development in this complex disease. Currently, her research expands into regenerative medicine, exemplified by her work on Callicarpa Tissue-Regenerating Gel, which bridges pharmacological insights with practical wound care solutions. She is also engaged in the R&D of Zizhu Shengji Gel, an innovative traditional Chinese medicine for wound healing. These interests position her at the forefront of translational medicine and drug innovation. Her ability to connect basic molecular discoveries to clinical and therapeutic applications is a distinctive strength. Her research vision is to continue combining molecular biology, pharmacology, and traditional medicine to deliver accessible, effective treatments for some of today’s most challenging medical conditions.

Research Skills

Professor Zhanjuan Chen possesses a robust skill set that spans multiple domains of biomedical research. Her core competencies include target discovery using molecular biology techniques, pharmacological screening, disease modeling, and translational application. She is adept in methodologies such as Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, gene expression profiling, and cellular proliferation assays. Her ability to evaluate drug efficacy, particularly natural compounds like astragalin, is enhanced by her skills in in vitro and in vivo disease models. Additionally, her knowledge in formulating traditional Chinese medicine into modern therapeutic agents—like tissue-regenerating gels—exemplifies her interdisciplinary capabilities. Her patent and book publication demonstrate proficiency in scientific writing and product development. Professor Chen is also experienced in project management and collaborative R&D, coordinating with academic and industrial stakeholders to move innovations from the bench to the bedside. Her skills are continuously refined through her active engagement in research projects and industry partnerships. Furthermore, her understanding of regulatory frameworks and translational research pipelines ensures that her discoveries are positioned for clinical applicability. These capabilities make her not just a scientist but a comprehensive innovator in healthcare. She combines scientific rigor with creativity, making her research both impactful and implementable in real-world clinical settings.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors were not detailed in the application, Professor Zhanjuan Chen’s academic and research trajectory clearly demonstrates the caliber worthy of prestigious recognition. Her identification of MEIS1 and LDHA as key therapeutic targets represents a significant advancement in the fields of oncology and pulmonary medicine. The development of her Callicarpa Tissue-Regenerating Gel also highlights her contribution to regenerative medicine, offering a new avenue for treating chronic, non-healing wounds. These innovations underline her eligibility for honors such as the Best Researcher Award or Excellence in Innovation. Her selection as a principal investigator on multiple projects, including industry collaborations, speaks to the trust placed in her expertise by peers and stakeholders alike. Publishing in SCI-indexed journals, authoring a book, and patenting her inventions all reflect professional acknowledgment of her work’s quality and relevance. Moreover, her memberships in national academic societies signify her integration into scholarly networks that recognize her contributions. Though formal accolades may not yet be numerous, the tangible impact of her work—on science, clinical practice, and traditional medicine modernization—places her in strong contention for distinguished recognition in applied science domains.

Conclusion

Professor Zhanjuan Chen exemplifies the ideal candidate for the Applied Scientist Award. Her work seamlessly integrates cutting-edge biomedical research with the time-tested principles of traditional Chinese medicine, reflecting a unique and impactful research philosophy. From identifying novel therapeutic targets to formulating new medicinal gels, she has consistently demonstrated innovation, rigor, and a commitment to improving human health. Her ability to bridge the gap between fundamental science and clinical application ensures that her work not only advances knowledge but also delivers real-world solutions. Through her collaborations with academic institutions and industry partners, she has expanded the reach and relevance of her research. Her dual expertise in modern molecular pharmacology and traditional healing systems places her at the nexus of innovation and tradition—an increasingly valuable perspective in global healthcare. Professor Chen’s career reflects sustained excellence and growth, making her a role model for interdisciplinary research and a strong ambassador for translational science. Recognizing her achievements with an award would not only honor her contributions but also inspire continued progress in applied medical research. She stands as a testament to the transformative potential of integrating science with tradition to solve pressing medical challenges.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Identification of LDHA as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Pulmonary Hypertension Through Modulation of Endothelial‐To‐Mesenchymal Transition
    Authors: Maozhong Yao, Keyan Zhong, Xinbin Zheng, Zhaoxin Yang, Chunying Li, Yong Gu, Zhanjuan Chen
    Year: 2025

  • Title: MEIS1 and its Potential as a Cancer Therapeutic Target (Review)
    Authors: Maozhong Yao, Yong Gu, Zhaoxin Yang, Keyan Zhong, Zhanjuan Chen
    Year: 2021

Hsu-Shan Huang | Drug Development | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Prof. Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang | Drug Development | Outstanding Scientist Award

Professor at Taipei Medical University, Taiwan

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang is a distinguished professor and biomedical researcher whose career spans over three decades in academia, pharmaceutical sciences, and translational medicine. Currently serving as a Professor at the Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery and the Ph.D. Program in Biotechnology Research and Development at Taipei Medical University, he is also an Adjunct Professor at the National Defense Medical Center. Dr. Huang holds a doctorate (Dr.rer.nat.) in Pharmacy from the University of Regensburg, Germany, and has made groundbreaking contributions to cancer therapeutics, drug development, and pharmacological sciences. He has published over 70 high-impact scientific articles in internationally renowned journals and has held significant leadership positions, including Dean and Director roles at the NDMC and Chief Pharmacist at Tri-Service General Hospital. His expertise lies in structure-based drug design, computational biology, and pharmacoinformatics, with his research actively contributing to the discovery of targeted therapies for cancer, diabetes, and inflammatory diseases. Dr. Huang’s multidisciplinary collaborations across Germany, Italy, the USA, and Taiwan have amplified his impact in global pharmacological research. He is widely recognized for integrating academic rigor with applied biomedical innovation, making him a vital contributor to advancing modern therapeutic strategies in Asia and beyond.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang’s educational trajectory reflects a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences, built upon rigorous academic training across both national and international institutions. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the National Defense Medical Center (NDMC) in Taipei, Taiwan, in 1985. Motivated to deepen his expertise, he pursued a Master of Science degree at the Graduate Institute of Pharmacy, NDMC, graduating in 1987. His academic excellence and research curiosity led him to Germany, where he completed his Doctorate in Natural Sciences (Dr.rer.nat.) at the Institute of Pharmacy, University of Regensburg, in 1996. This doctoral program equipped him with advanced research skills and a global perspective on pharmaceutical development. Throughout his academic progression, Dr. Huang immersed himself in interdisciplinary training, combining pharmacology, drug design, and molecular biology. His international education not only broadened his scientific insights but also fostered a collaborative mindset that has become central to his professional identity. These formative experiences laid a robust foundation for a prolific research and teaching career, enabling him to contribute significantly to pharmacological sciences, particularly in cancer biology, drug discovery, and bioinformatics-driven medicine.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang has amassed an extensive and impactful professional career, marked by leadership roles, academic appointments, and international collaborations. Since 2014, he has been serving as Professor at Taipei Medical University, contributing to both the Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery and the Ph.D. Program in Biotechnology Research and Development. His previous roles include Professor and Dean at the School of Pharmacy, NDMC, and Director of both the Department of Pharmacy Practice and the Department of Research and Development at Tri-Service General Hospital and NDMC, respectively. Dr. Huang has also held prestigious visiting positions at the University of Pavia (Italy), University of Münster (Germany), and The Scripps Research Institute (USA), highlighting his international recognition. Additionally, he served as Secretary General for the Consortium for Globalization of Chinese Medicine, demonstrating his commitment to integrating traditional and modern biomedical sciences. With a teaching and research career beginning in 1987, Dr. Huang progressed from Lecturer to Associate Professor, and then to full Professor, reflecting his consistent contributions and leadership. His career exemplifies a unique blend of academic scholarship, pharmaceutical innovation, and cross-border collaboration, significantly advancing the fields of pharmacology and biomedical research.

Research Interest

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang’s research interests are rooted in the intersection of cancer biology, drug discovery, and computational pharmacology. His primary focus is on developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting complex diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neuroinflammation through bioinformatics-driven drug design. He is particularly engaged in the identification of oncogenic biomarkers and the synthesis of small-molecule inhibitors that disrupt key signaling pathways involved in tumor progression, metastasis, and resistance. A significant aspect of his work includes the application of structure-based design and multi-omics analysis to uncover novel drug targets and elucidate mechanisms of drug action. Dr. Huang’s research also explores the therapeutic repurposing of bioactive compounds derived from natural sources and the development of nanomedicine-based delivery systems for targeted therapy. Collaborating globally with computational biologists, chemists, and clinicians, he contributes to preclinical evaluations of potential drug candidates across a range of cancers, including glioblastoma, ovarian, and colorectal cancers. His research aligns with current trends in precision medicine, aiming to personalize treatments based on molecular signatures. By integrating in vitro, in vivo, and in silico methodologies, Dr. Huang is at the forefront of translational science bridging lab-based discovery with clinical application.

Research Skills

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang possesses a comprehensive repertoire of research skills that span molecular pharmacology, bioinformatics, and translational medicine. His expertise includes structure-based drug design, molecular docking, virtual screening, and multi-omics data integration—tools he employs to identify novel drug targets and evaluate therapeutic efficacy. He is proficient in using computational platforms for in silico modeling and simulation, enabling high-throughput analysis of molecular interactions and predicting pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics profiles. Dr. Huang is also skilled in chemical synthesis and biological evaluation of small molecules, conducting rigorous in vitro and in vivo experiments to assess anticancer, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. He demonstrates advanced capabilities in biomarker identification, gene expression profiling, and signaling pathway elucidation through next-generation sequencing and proteomic techniques. His collaborative work often involves pharmacoinformatics-based compound optimization and target validation using cell line models, animal studies, and patient-derived samples. Additionally, Dr. Huang’s experience with nanomedicine formulation and targeted delivery systems adds a translational dimension to his skill set, enabling bench-to-bedside applications. These multidisciplinary competencies allow him to address complex biomedical challenges, contributing to the development of innovative therapies with enhanced specificity and reduced side effects.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang has been widely recognized for his contributions to pharmacological and biomedical sciences through numerous awards, honors, and prestigious appointments. Over the years, he has received commendations for academic excellence, leadership in pharmaceutical education, and groundbreaking research in drug discovery and translational medicine. His appointment as Professor at top-tier institutions such as Taipei Medical University and National Defense Medical Center is a testament to his professional stature. He served as Secretary General of the Consortium for Globalization of Chinese Medicine, a role highlighting his leadership in integrating traditional medicine with contemporary biomedical approaches. Dr. Huang has been invited as a visiting scientist and professor at renowned international institutes including the University of Pavia, University of Münster, and The Scripps Research Institute, reflecting the global acknowledgment of his expertise. His research articles, many of which are published in Q1 journals with high impact factors, have received significant citations, establishing his influence in the field. In addition to academic accolades, his mentorship of young scientists and leadership in research collaborations further cement his status as a respected figure in pharmacological innovation.

Conclusion

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang’s career exemplifies the seamless integration of academic excellence, innovative research, and global collaboration in the field of pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences. With over three decades of impactful work, he has not only shaped the landscape of drug discovery and cancer biology in Taiwan but also contributed significantly to international biomedical advancements. His multidisciplinary expertise—spanning molecular pharmacology, computational biology, and translational research—positions him as a thought leader in the development of next-generation therapeutics. Dr. Huang’s contributions have bridged the gap between laboratory research and clinical application, particularly through his work on small-molecule inhibitors, nanomedicine, and biomarker-driven therapies. His dedication to mentorship and collaboration underscores his commitment to cultivating future generations of researchers. Recognized both nationally and internationally, Dr. Huang continues to push the boundaries of biomedical science with a vision centered on precision, innovation, and patient-centered outcomes. As a scholar, educator, and scientific innovator, he stands as a pillar in Taiwan’s scientific community and a valuable collaborator on the global stage.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Computer‑aided drug discovery of a dual‑target inhibitor for ovarian cancer: therapeutic intervention targeting CDK1/TTK signaling pathway and structural insights in the NCI‑60

    • Authors: Tang S.L., Rachmawati M.S., Kuo Y.C., Hsu H.L., Ansar M., Huang S.L., Lee S.Y., Wang H.J., Lawal B., Wu A.T.H., Chen L.C., Huang H.S. et al.

    • Year: 2025

  2. Bioprospection of Hura crepitans metabolites against oxidative stress and inflammation: An in vitro and in silico exploration

    • Authors: Kuo Y.C., Lawal B., Lukman H.Y., Chen L.C., Huang S.L., Chen Y.F., Fadaka A.O., et al.

    • Year: 2025

  3. Evaluation of terpenes‑rich Hura crepitans extract on glucose regulation and diabetic complications in STZ‑induced diabetic rats

    • Authors: Lukman H.Y., Kuo Y.C., Owolabi M.S., Lawal B., Chen L.C., Ajenifujah O.T., Fadaka A.O., et al.

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 4

  4. Structure‑based design, synthesis and biological evaluation of N‑substituted 6H‑thiochromeno[2,3–c]quinolin‑12(12H)-one as potential breast cancer drugs

    • Authors: Rachmawati M.S., Chen L.C., Tsai W.C., Ansar M., Lawal B., Mokgautsi N., Guh J.H., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 1

  5. Mechanistic study of dual‑function inhibitors targeting topoisomerase II and Rad51‑mediated DNA repair pathway against castration‑resistant prostate cancer

    • Authors: Chiang Y.C., Leu W.J., Chen Y.C., Ye P.C., Hsiao Y.C., Hsu J.L., Hsu L.C., Huang H.S., Guh J.H., et al.

    • Year: 2023

  6. Identification of CDK1, PBK, and CHEK1 as an Oncogenic Signature in Glioblastoma: A Bioinformatics Approach to Repurpose Dapagliflozin as a Therapeutic Agent

    • Authors: Chinyama H.A., Wei L., Mokgautsi N., Lawal B., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 6

  7. In Silico Evaluation of HN‑N07 Small Molecule as an Inhibitor of Angiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis Oncogenic Signatures in Non‑Small Cell Lung Cancer

    • Authors: Chen L.C., Mokgautsi N., Kuo Y.C., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 3

  8. Multi‑Omics Identification of Genetic Alterations in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Therapeutic Efficacy of HNC018 as a Novel Multi‑Target Agent for c‑MET/STAT3/AKT Signaling Axis

    • Authors: Mokgautsi N., Kuo Y.C., Chen C.H., Huang Y.J., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 6

  9. Apigetrin‑enriched Pulmeria alba extract prevents assault of STZ on pancreatic β‑cells and neuronal oxidative stress with concomitant attenuation of tissue damage and suppression of inflammation in the brain of diabetic rats

    • Authors: Rachmawati M.S., Chen L.C., Tsai W.C., Ansar M., Lawal B., Mokgautsi N., Guh J.H., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 8

  10. In silico study of novel niclosamide derivatives, SARS‑CoV‑2 nonstructural proteins catalytic residue‑targeting small molecules drug candidates

    • Authors: Lawal B., Tsai S.K., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    •  Citations: 3

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