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Xiao-Feng YangView profile

Professor

• Cardiovascular Sciences
• Epigenetic Pathology
• Vascular Inflammation
• +4 more

Xiao-Feng Yang, MD, PhD, FAHA is a Professor and Associate Director at the Lemole Center for Integrated Lymphatics and Vascular Research at Temple University's Lewis Katz School of Medicine. He holds multiple professorial appointments across departments including Cardiovascular Sciences, Microbiology, Immunology and Inflammation, and Biomedical Education and Data Science. His research focuses on epigenetic mechanisms in cardiovascular diseases (CVD), particularly how CVD risk factors influence histone modification and gene expression in vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis. Education: MD from JiangXi Medical University (1979), MS in Immunology from Chinese National Academy of Medical Sciences (1982), PhD in Biochemistry from University of Montreal (1994), and fellowship training in Immunology at Harvard Medical School (1999). Research interests span epigenetic pathology, metabolic disease pathways, thrombosis, and vascular immunology. Notable contributions include studies on metabolic crosstalk in metabolic syndrome, lysophospholipid signaling in atherosclerosis, and regulatory T cell epigenetics. His work integrates basic science with translational medicine, addressing mechanisms of vascular inflammation and therapeutic targets. Awards include Fellow of the American Heart Association (FAHA). Active in multiple research centers including the Sol Sherry Thrombosis Research Center and Center for Metabolic Disease Research. His publications (over 100) emphasize interdisciplinary approaches to cardiovascular and metabolic disorders.

• Clinical Sciences
• Cardiorespiratory Medicine and Haematology
• Biochemistry and Cell Biology
• +3 more

Graeme Birdsey is an Associate Professor in Vascular Science at the National Heart & Lung Institute, part of Imperial College London's Faculty of Medicine. His research focuses on transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of endothelial cell gene expression in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis. He has held affiliations with the CDT in Chemical Biology, the Institute of Chemical Biology, the Stem Cell Regenerative Medicine Network, and the Vascular Science Network. Dr. Birdsey earned a BSc in Applied Biochemistry from Liverpool John Moores University and a PhD in Molecular Cell Biology from University College London (UCL). His postdoctoral training included work in Prof. Chris Danpure's lab (UCL) on alanine:glyoxylate aminotransferase (AGT) targeting, followed by studies on nitric oxide regulation under Prof. Patrick Vallance at UCL. His research spans vascular biology, with emphasis on ERG transcription factor roles in endothelial cell function, vascular inflammation, and disease mechanisms. Key areas include lymphatic malformations, cardiovascular diseases, and genetic syndromes linked to ERG mutations. His work integrates molecular biology, genomics, and 3D modeling approaches. Publications highlight contributions to vascular biology, including ERG's role in angiogenesis regulation, therapeutic strategies using ultrasound-microbubble systems, and genetic insights into rare diseases. His research bridges basic science and clinical applications in cardiovascular and inflammatory disorders.

Joseph NicolazzoView profile

Professor

• Blood-Brain Barrier
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Drug Transport
• +3 more

Joseph Nicolazzo is a Professor and Director of the Centre for Drug Candidate Optimisation (CDCO) at the Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University. He concurrently serves as Associate Dean (International) in the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. With a PhD in buccal mucosal drug delivery (2004, Monash University), he has led research on BBB transport mechanisms, Alzheimer’s disease, and neurodegenerative disorders since 2007. His work spans in vitro/in vivo models to understand drug transport dynamics and BBB dysfunction in diseases like ALS and Alzheimer’s. Nicolazzo has authored 115+ peer-reviewed papers and holds editorial roles in journals like the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Fluids and Barriers of the CNS . Education: PhD in Pharmacy (2004, Monash University). Research Focus: Blood-brain barrier transporters, Alzheimer’s pathobiology, CNS drug delivery. Awards: FIP Award of Recognition (2014), Early Career Researcher Award (2013). His teaching includes coordinating PHR2021 and lecturing in drug delivery and pharmacokinetics. Nicolazzo leads ~32 active research projects, including drug delivery strategies for brain cancer and BBB-targeted therapies. He collaborates internationally on BBB biology and chairs FIP’s Pharmaceutical Sciences Board. Labs/Teams: Directs the CDCO, a hub for ADME expertise in drug development. Active in interdisciplinary teams exploring BBB dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases.

• Lymphatic Biology
• Drug Delivery
• Metabolic Diseases
• +4 more

Dr. Enyuan Cao is a Research Fellow in the Department of Drug Delivery Disposition & Dynamics at Monash University. His research focuses on lymphatic biology, drug delivery systems, and metabolic diseases, with particular emphasis on how lymphatic dysfunction contributes to obesity, inflammation, and therapeutic efficacy. Cao leads major projects funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC) and National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), including initiatives on lymph-targeted cancer therapies and nanoemulsion drug design. His recent work explores lymphatic transport mechanisms for antibodies (e.g., anti-CTLA4), brain-draining lymphatics, and obesity-induced lymphatic leakage. Collaborations span institutions globally, addressing topics like ceramide metabolism in chylomicrons and hyaluronan's role in drug delivery. Cao also organizes professional development workshops for early-career researchers. Key projects include: 2023-2027: NHMRC-funded investigation into lymph-resident targets for inflammatory diseases 2025-2028: ARC-funded development of biomimetic lipid drug carriers 2023-2027: Pancreatic cancer research targeting lymph-pancreas interactions Publications highlight advancements in lymphatic drug delivery, metabolic syndrome mechanisms, and lymphatic dysfunction's role in insulin resistance. His lab innovates methods like cervical lymph collection in rodents and software (Vmeasur) for lymphatic flow analysis.

• Platelet Biology
• Cardiovascular Sciences
• Molecular Signal Transduction
• +2 more

Professor Steve Watson holds the British Heart Foundation Chair of Cardiovascular Sciences at the University of Birmingham , leading the Birmingham Platelet Group . His research focuses on platelet receptors , signaling pathways , and translational studies in patients with platelet function disorders. The group has pioneered the identification of the GPVI-FcR gamma-chain complex as the major collagen receptor and discovered the C-type lectin receptor role in lymphatic development. Research interests include: Platelet surface receptors and signaling Thrombosis mechanisms Inflammatory processes in platelet activation Development of anti-thrombotic therapies Translational applications in hemostasis disorders Recent publications analyze: Salmonella infection's inflammatory signatures in thrombosis Adenoviral SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-induced thrombocytopenia Affimer-based GPVI dimer targeting Hydroxychloroquine's antithrombotic effects T cell cross-reactivity in adenovirus vaccines Scientific contributions include: British Heart Foundation Chair 291+ peer-reviewed publications 99+ research projects Current projects: BHF-funded GPVI structure-function studies MRC collaborations on nanobody therapies Investigations into FcgRIIA activation variability

Mariana De NizView profile

Assistant Professor

• Infectious Diseases
• Host-Pathogen Interactions
• Microscopy
• +3 more

Dr. Mariana De Niz serves as Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology and Manager of the Nikon Imaging Center at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine since 2023. With two decades of international experience across Europe, Africa, and Latin America, she specializes in infectious disease research and advanced imaging techniques for studying host-pathogen interactions, particularly in parasitic infections. Her educational background includes a BS from the University of Glasgow (2010), MS from London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (2011), and a PhD from the University of Bern (2016), complemented by specialized training in tropical medicine and vaccine development. Postdoctoral work at Harvard School of Public Health (2018), Instituto de Medicina Molecular (2021), and Institut Pasteur (2022) honed her expertise in microscopy and infectious diseases. Dr. De Niz's research integrates intravital, super-resolution, and optoacoustic imaging to investigate parasite sequestration mechanisms in trypanosomiasis. She pioneers open-access microscopy tools and advocates for democratizing imaging technology globally. Her work spans parasitology, vascular biology, and bioengineering, with recent focus on AI-powered microscopy and 3D microvessel models to understand parasite behavior in host vasculature. Analysis of her 38+ publications reveals strong emphasis on innovative imaging approaches to parasitology, including microfluidics for parasite behavior studies and computational methods for image analysis. These works bridge molecular mechanisms with translational applications in tropical disease research, particularly regarding Trypanosoma species sequestration and vascular damage. Professional memberships include Quarep-LiMI (2024-present), where she contributes to global guidelines for imaging scientist career development. She actively builds bioimaging networks across the Americas to enhance research capacity and promote open science practices in microscopy. No scientific awards were reported in the provided materials. While specific grant details are unavailable, her leadership in core facility management and extensive publication record indicate active research support. Dr. De Niz mentors researchers through the Nikon Imaging Center, providing technical training in advanced microscopy techniques. As Nikon Imaging Center Manager, she oversees state-of-the-art microscopy resources and collaborates with international consortia to advance imaging science. Her initiatives focus on sustainable career paths for imaging professionals and expanding access to cutting-edge microscopy worldwide, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Deborah StrokaView profile

Professor

• Molecular Biology
• Hepatology
• Cancer Research
• +3 more

Prof. Deborah Stroka is a Professor and Head of Research Group at the Department of Biomedical Research (DBMR), Faculty of Medicine, University of Bern, with dual affiliation to the Department of Visceral Surgery and Medicine at Bern University Hospital. Her research bridges molecular mechanisms of liver disease, cancer biology, and infectious disease pathogenesis through the Multidisciplinary Center for Infectious Diseases (MCID). Her primary research focuses on DNA replication stress in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), tight junction protein functions (particularly claudin-3) in hepatic barrier integrity, bacterial ATP-mediated inflammation in sepsis, and nanoplastic biodistribution. She investigates tumor budding mechanisms in colorectal cancer, MET receptor signaling in DNA damage response, and lymphatic regulation in gut-liver axis pathologies using advanced spatial transcriptomics and lipidomics approaches. Recent publications reveal strong emphasis on molecular intersections between infection, metabolism, and tissue repair, with innovative techniques in X-ray fluorescence imaging for nanotoxicology and Skyline-based lipid isomer analysis. Recurring themes include bacterial translocation impacts on liver regeneration, replication stress in aging, and therapeutic targeting of fibrosis pathways. As Head of Research Group within MCID, she leads interdisciplinary teams developing models for abdominal sepsis, radiation-induced liver disease, and orthotopic cancer systems while pioneering analytical methods for nanoplastics and lipid isomers in disease contexts.

Ronald W. WoodView profile

Researcher

• Behavioral Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Inhalant Abuse
• +7 more

Dr. Ronald W. Wood is a part-time Research Associate Professor at the University of Rochester, affiliated with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Department of Neuroscience , and Department of Urology (joint appointments). His career spans over four decades, with early work in behavioral pharmacology and toxicology of abused inhalants, followed by a shift to urogynecologic disorders, voiding dysfunction, and pelvic pain. He has contributed to medical imaging techniques and lymphatic system research. Education : B.A. in Psychology (1968, Grinnell College); M.A. (1974) and Ph.D. (1975) in Psychology (University of Rochester). Dr. Wood's research focuses on urogynecologic disorders , lymphatic function in arthritis , and medical imaging . He pioneered studies linking behavioral pharmacology to clinical applications, particularly in bladder diseases and pelvic pain . His recent work explores lymphatic drainage , inflammatory biomarkers , and sex-dependent arthritis pathology . His publications span 15 recent years , with a focus on lymphatic system dynamics , urology , arthritis , and medical imaging . Key trends include murine models for inflammatory diseases, anti-TNF therapy , and multi-omics approaches to biomarker discovery. Scientific awards include: Best Scientific Paper (2006) Centennial Award for Early Career Contribution to the Science Directorate (1992) Karl F. Heiser Presidential Award for Advocacy (1992) NIDA Research Scientist Development Award (1987-1992) Dr. Wood holds patents for antimuscarinic compounds and urologic imaging devices . His work bridges basic science and clinical applications , with grants from the NIH and collaborations across urology , rheumatology , and medical imaging . He has contributed to animal models of drug self-administration and toxicokinetics of industrial chemicals.

• Obesity Pathophysiology
• Diabetes Treatment
• Clinical Trials
• +5 more

Professor John Wilding is a leading academic in obesity and diabetes research at the University of Liverpool, where he has served as Professor of Medicine since 2005. He leads Clinical Research into Obesity, Diabetes and Endocrinology, directing specialist services for severe obesity at University Hospital Aintree – designated a Centre for Obesity Management by UK and European Associations. His leadership extends to chairing the NIHR Clinical Research Network Metabolic and Endocrine Speciality Group and contributing to NICE guidelines. His educational background includes graduation from Southampton University (1985), followed by clinical training and specialist diabetes/endocrinology training at London's Royal Postgraduate Medical School at Hammersmith Hospital, where he conducted three years of laboratory research on obesity neurobiology. Wilding's research focuses on developing novel treatments to reduce obesity-related disease burden , with expertise spanning: Clinical trials in obesity/diabetes (orlistat, sibutramine, GLP-1 analogues, SGLT2 inhibitors) Adipocyte biology and metabolism studies Functional neuroimaging of appetite regulation Autonomic nervous system assessment in metabolic disorders Non-invasive vascular measurements in insulin-resistant states His 15 most recent publications (2021-2025) reveal strong trends in GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, tirzepatide), obesity pharmacotherapy in special populations (elderly, non-diabetic), clinical guideline development , and economic burden analysis . Key themes include cardiovascular safety, real-world implementation of weight management services, and mechanistic studies of metabolic complications. Scientific recognition includes: Founding Fellow of International Obesity Taskforce (2004) Past Chair of UK Association for the Study of Obesity Immediate Past President of World Obesity Federation As an academic leader, Wilding has examined over 15 PhD/MD theses across UK institutions (Imperial College, Cambridge, Manchester), secured major grants from NIHR, MRC, and industry partners, and established Liverpool's first NHS-funded obesity service (now expanded regionally). His collaborative network spans neurology, cardiology, respiratory medicine, and psychology. Current major projects include PROGROUP (group obesity treatment), STRIVE (liraglutide in obesity services), and M3 Research Programme (early-onset type 2 diabetes). His research infrastructure includes a clinical investigation laboratory at Aintree Clinical Sciences Centre, featuring capabilities for hyperinsulinaemic euglycaemic clamps, indirect calorimetry, autonomic function testing, and body composition analysis – supporting both mechanistic studies and clinical trials.

Rudolph L. GleasonView profile

Professor

• Biomechanics
• Mechanobiology
• Cardiovascular mechanics
• +5 more

Rudolph L. Gleason is a Professor jointly appointed in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering and the School of Biomedical Engineering within the College of Engineering at the Georgia Institute of Technology . He began his tenure at Tech in Fall 2005 as an Assistant Professor after completing a postdoctoral fellowship at Texas A&M University. He also serves as the Georgia Tech Institute for People and Technology initiative lead for research activities related to global health and well-being. Education: Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University, 2004 M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida, 2000 B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, University of Florida, 1996 Research Focus: Gleason’s research is centered on soft tissue biomechanics , cardiovascular mechanics , and tissue engineering . His work is divided into two primary aims: (1) quantifying the link between biomechanics, mechanobiology, and tissue growth and remodeling in vascular and soft tissue diseases, and (2) translating engineering innovations to address global health disparities and promote sustainable development in low-resource settings. His lab integrates theoretical modeling, experimental validation, and multiscale observations to advance understanding and clinical applications. Scientific Contributions & Awards: Texas A&M University Fred J. Benson Graduate Fellowship in Engineering (2000) Reviewer for leading journals including ASME Journal of Biomechanical Engineering , American Journal of Physiology: Heart and Circulatory Physiology , Biomechanics and Modeling in Mechanobiology , and Journal of Physiology Research Impact: With over 100 peer-reviewed publications, Gleason has made significant contributions to understanding arterial remodeling, lymphatic biomechanics, and the effects of aging, genetics, and disease on vascular mechanics. His recent work includes advanced MRI-based modeling of aortic dissection, development of low-cost diagnostic devices for global health, and deep learning-based patient-specific cardiac modeling. Contact: Email: rudy.gleason@me.gatech.edu Phone: 404-385-7218 Office: TEP 205 / IBB 2305

Gabor CsanyiView profile

Professor

• Vascular Biology
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Oxidative Stress
• +7 more

Gabor Csanyi is a Professor at Augusta University's Medical College of Georgia and a member of the Graduate School. His research focuses on vascular biology, cardiovascular disease, and oxidative stress mechanisms. Ph.D. in Physiology, University of Szeged, 2008 MS and BA in Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Szeged, 2003 His laboratory investigates NADPH oxidase (Nox) isoforms, redox signaling pathways, and the TSP1-CD47-Nox axis in atherosclerosis, aneurysms, and vascular inflammation. Recent work explores macropinocytosis in foam cell formation and lymphangiogenesis in plaque regression. His 2023-2025 publications highlight roles of ENaC-α in mitigating SARS-CoV2 vasculopathy, CD47 deletion in atherosclerosis suppression, and macropinocytosis in lipid uptake. Key subfields include redox regulation, inflammatory signaling, and endothelial dysfunction. Distinguished Researcher Award (2023), Emerging Scientist (2018) AHA Great Rivers Postdoctoral Fellowship (2012), New Investigator Travel Award (2012) He serves on Augusta University committees (IACUC, GRD, VBC Faculty Search) and teaches graduate courses in cardiovascular physiology, methods in research, and vascular biology seminars.

Lena Claesson-WelshView profile

Professor

• Vascular Biology
• Angiogenesis
• Endothelial Permeability
• +5 more

Lena Claesson-Welsh is a Professor in Medical Biochemistry at Uppsala University, affiliated with the Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, where she leads the Vascular Biology research program. Her academic career includes roles at the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research (1986-1996) and postdoctoral training at the University of Chicago (1984-1986). She holds a PhD from Uppsala University (1981-1984). Her research focuses on molecular mechanisms of angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and tumor vascularization. Key interests include signal transduction pathways involving VEGF and endothelial cell dynamics. Her work integrates advanced imaging techniques like confocal and multiphoton microscopy. Notable achievements include the Rudbeck Award (2014), Wallenberg Scholar title (2009), and Royal Swedish Science Academy membership (2003). Her group investigates therapeutic targets for diseases involving abnormal vasculature, such as cancer and inflammatory conditions. Claesson-Welsh advises a team of researchers and collaborates internationally. Her lab's recent work highlights breakthroughs in understanding endothelial barrier function and lymphatic vessel metastasis mechanisms. Ongoing projects explore vascular normalization in tumors and the role of novel proteins like Neuropilin-1 in permeability regulation.

• Vascular Biology
• Cell Signaling
• Molecular Medicine
• +3 more

Federico Corti is an Associate Research Scientist in the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Yale School of Medicine, Yale University. His research focuses on vascular biology, proteoglycan signaling, and the molecular mechanisms underlying endothelial cell function. Dr. Corti holds a PhD from the University of Siena (2010) and an MSc in Medicinal Chemistry from the same institution (2006). His work investigates syndecan proteins, VEGF receptor signaling, and their roles in vascular permeability, angiogenesis, and lymphatic development. Key contributions include identifying Syndecan-2's selective regulation of VEGF-induced vascular permeability and elucidating the role of Syndecan-4 in endothelial alignment and atheroprotective signaling. Recent studies explore anti-Syndecan 2 antibody treatments for reducing edema in CNV models. Dr. Corti collaborates with prominent researchers such as Martin Schwartz and Michael Simons, advancing translational research in cardiovascular and vascular biology. His findings have implications for treatments targeting vascular disorders, including ischemic stroke and diabetic complications.

Alayna E. LoiselleView profile

Professor

• Tendon Healing
• Musculoskeletal Biology
• Fibrosis
• +3 more

Alayna E. Loiselle, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Orthopaedics and holds joint appointments in Biomedical Engineering and Pathology & Laboratory Medicine at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry (SMD). She leads the Musculoskeletal and Soft Tissue Fibrosis and Regeneration Lab, focusing on tendon healing mechanisms, fibrosis, and aging-related degeneration. Her work integrates molecular, cellular, and biomechanical approaches to identify therapeutic targets for tendon injuries. Dr. Loiselle's research has been recognized with awards such as the 2022 Kappa Delta Young Investigator Award and the Goldner Pioneer Award (2014). Education includes a PhD from the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry (2009), a BS in Biology from Niagara University (2004), and postdoctoral training at Penn State College of Medicine (2013). Her lab investigates cellular lineages (e.g., Scleraxis/S100a4) driving fibrotic responses, age-related tendon dysfunction, and diabetes-induced healing impairments. Recent studies highlight macrophage-myofibroblast interactions and spatial transcriptomics in tendon healing. Key projects include tendon regeneration strategies, lifespan maintenance of tendon structure, and soft tissue fibrosis mechanisms. Dr. Loiselle advises graduate students like Katherine Best and Jess Ackerman, and collaborates with institutions like the Center for Musculoskeletal Research. Her lab actively seeks candidates for PhD and postdoctoral positions in musculoskeletal biology. Scientific contributions span over 50 peer-reviewed articles, including work on NF-κB signaling in tendon fibrosis and partial reprogramming to combat aging-related degeneration. Grants support investigations into biologic factors in tendon healing and translational therapies. Lab affiliations include the BME PhD Program and Cell Biology of Disease PhD Program at URMC.

Hong ChenView profile

Associate Professor

• Vascular Biology
• Atherosclerosis
• Lymphatic System
• +5 more

Hong Chen is a Principal Investigator at Boston Children's Hospital and an Associate Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School . Their work bridges vascular biology, computational methods, and metabolic disease research, with a focus on atherosclerosis, diabetes, and lymphatic system regulation. Harvard Medical School, Department of Surgery Boston Children's Hospital, Chen Lab Research spans endothelial cell signaling , single-cell RNA sequencing , and metabolite-mediated communication . Key areas include: FOXM1/Dab2 pathways in diabetic wound healing Epsin proteins in atherosclerosis and lipid metabolism Development of MEBOCOST algorithm for metabolite-CRC detection CXCL12/CXCR4 in neuro-lymphatic communication VEGFR3 and caveolae inhibition in lymphatic fate determination Recent publications highlight machine learning applications for cell identity genes, metabolite signaling in adipose tissue, and transcriptional regulators in cardiovascular disease. No explicit scientific awards or student advisement details were found in the provided text.