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Jiang ZhongView profile

Associate Professor

• Single-Cell Genomics
• Microfluidics
• Cancer Biology
• +13 more

Jiang Zhong, PhD , is an Associate Professor in the Microbiology Division of the School of Medicine at Loma Linda University. His research focuses on developing innovative microfluidic single-cell technologies for the molecular characterization of individual mammalian cells, with applications in cancer diagnosis, treatment evaluation, and understanding carcinogenesis. Research Interests: Single-cell transcriptomics and digital reconstruction of carcinogenesis Microfluidic platforms for cell isolation and analysis Cancer stem cells and tumor heterogeneity Molecular mechanisms in leukemia and solid tumors Stem cell therapy and immunomodulation in transplantation Computational deconvolution of bulk sequencing data His recent research leverages single-cell RNA sequencing and microfluidics to dissect tumor evolution, identify biomarkers, and improve therapeutic strategies. His work spans basic science to clinical applications, supported by funding from the NSF and NIH. He frequently collaborates across disciplines, integrating engineering, genomics, and clinical oncology. Scientific Awards: No awards explicitly mentioned in the provided text. Advising and Grants: Dr. Zhong leads a research laboratory focused on single-cell technologies and their clinical translation in oncology. His work is supported by grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), indicating a strong record of external funding. While specific students are not named, his numerous publications with trainees suggest active mentorship of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. Laboratory and Team: His lab develops and applies microfluidic platforms for single-cell analysis, particularly in cancer specimens. He collaborates extensively with physicians and engineers to address clinical challenges in cancer resistance and precision treatment.

• Mitochondrial Genetics
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Genetic Variants and Disease
• +6 more

AURORA GOMEZ DURAN is a Ramón y Cajal contract researcher at the University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), affiliated with the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS). She leads the MeMoEn research group focusing on molecular mechanisms of disease, particularly mitochondrial genetics and its role in neurodegeneration and late-onset disorders. Her work bridges population genetics, pharmacogenomics, and clinical applications, emphasizing mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variants' impact on disease risk and pathophysiology. Dr. Gomez Duran holds a PhD from the University of Zaragoza (2012), where her thesis explored genetic variants of mtDNA from population genetics to pharmaceutical genomics under the supervision of Dr. Eduardo Ruiz-Pesini. Her research integrates single-cell analysis, genomic sequencing (including Oxford Nanopore), and in vivo models to study mitochondrial dysfunction in aging, neurodegenerative diseases, and metabolic disorders. Key contributions include identifying mtDNA heteroplasmy's role in aging biomarkers and developing protocols for CpG methylation detection in mtDNA. Her publications highlight studies on cryptic mtDNA mutations in mid-to-late life, mitophagy's anti-inflammatory role, and genotype-phenotype associations in large cohorts like the UK Biobank. She has also explored therapeutic strategies such as cysteine supplementation for mitochondrial translation deficiencies and read-through therapy for mtDNA nonsense mutations. While no specific awards are listed, her work has advanced mitochondrial pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine approaches. Dr. Gomez Duran collaborates on projects investigating mitochondrial dysfunction in liver failure, antibiotic therapy optimization via mtDNA profiling, and mitochondrial-nuclear interactions in disease. Her interdisciplinary approach spans biochemistry, genetics, and clinical research, positioning her at the forefront of mitochondrial medicine.

Basant Kumar ThakurView profile

Researcher

• Oncology
• Molecular Oncology
• Extracellular Vesicles
• +7 more

PD Dr. Basant Kumar Thakur is a researcher at the University Hospital Essen, affiliated with the Medical Faculty of the University of Duisburg-Essen. He leads the Cancer Exosome Research Lab within the Department of Pediatrics III, focusing on the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in cancer progression, particularly in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML). His work bridges molecular oncology, liquid biopsy development, and cancer immunology. His research centers on three major themes: (i) identification and purification of cancer-specific EVs carrying dsDNA for clinical biomarker development; (ii) mechanisms of EV-DNA transfer into recipient cells; and (iii) functional consequences of this transfer on metastatic progression, including immune modulation via the cGAS/STING pathway. He has developed bead-based methods to isolate homogeneous EV populations and is analyzing large patient cohorts to establish EV-DNA as a tool for detecting minimal residual disease. The recent publications highlight a strong focus on EV biology, with applications in glioma therapy, plant-derived vesicles for drug delivery, and EV-DNA's role in immune activation and stem cell dysfunction. Keywords across articles include oncology, molecular biology, immunology, and nanomedicine, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to cancer research. Scientific awards are not mentioned in the provided text. Dr. Thakur actively collaborates with Prof. Bernd Giebel (Transfusion Medicine, UK Essen) and contributes to EU and DFG-funded research programs. He is involved in PhD training through the ZMB (Centre for Medical Biotechnology) and participates in the European Liquid Biopsy Society. His lab investigates EV-based diagnostics and therapeutic strategies, particularly in pediatric cancers and solid tumors. The Cancer Exosome Research Lab is part of the ZMB and contributes to the Oncology research program. The team employs advanced techniques like single molecule localization microscopy and functional assays to study EV-DNA transfer and its impact on tumor microenvironment and metastasis.

• Cancer Biology
• Innate Immunity
• Antiviral Mechanisms
• +4 more

Professor Bryan Williams is an Adjunct Professor at Monash University’s Department of Molecular and Translational Science and an Emeritus Director/Distinguished Scientist at the Hudson Institute of Medical Research. His research focuses on innate immunity, cancer biology, and antiviral mechanisms of interferons. He holds leadership roles in multiple organizations, including chairing BioGrid Australia and serving on scientific advisory boards globally. Williams has received numerous awards, including the Milstein Award and Fellowships from prestigious academies. Education: PhD in Microbiology, University of Otago, New Zealand Postdoctoral training at National Institute for Medical Research, UK Research Interests: Williams’ work centers on antiviral mechanisms, innate immune pathways, and cancer therapies. His discoveries in the 2-5A-RNaseL pathway and protein kinase R have advanced therapeutic strategies. Current research emphasizes translational applications in cancer and immune-related diseases. Recent Contributions: His articles highlight innovative approaches in cancer cell profiling, immune response modulation via vaccines, and regulatory mechanisms in colitis and tumors. These studies bridge basic science and clinical translation. Awards & Grants: Over 300 research outputs and 29 projects since 2006, including leadership in pediatric precision medicine and cytokine signaling studies. His grants include funding from the NHMRC and industry collaborations. Leadership & Outreach: Chair of ICIS Award Committee, member of Australian Living Organoid Alliance, and editor for Journal of Virology . Engages in global science policy and industry advisory roles.

Mark HewView profile

Academic

• Allergy
• Immunology
• Respiratory Medicine
• +9 more

Mark Hew is an Adjunct Clinical Professor in Planetary Health at Monash University’s Faculty of Medicine, with a strong clinical and research focus in allergy, immunology, and respiratory medicine. He is actively involved in advancing asthma care, allergen immunotherapy, and precision medicine approaches to allergic diseases. MBBS, University of Melbourne (1995) PhD, Imperial College London (2007) MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care, University of Oxford (2015) His research spans molecular diagnostics in allergy, clinical trials in asthma therapeutics, and immune mechanisms in allergic diseases. He emphasizes translational research to improve patient outcomes, particularly in severe and difficult-to-treat asthma. His work also contributes to planetary health and sustainable development goals in health. The recent publications highlight trends in allergen immunotherapy, precision diagnostics (e.g., CytoBas for dust mite sensitization), immune monitoring in vaccination (e.g., IgG4 responses to COVID-19 boosters), and inflammatory mechanisms in allergic airway disease. These reflect a cohesive research program integrating clinical insight with molecular immunology. Scientific Awards: Dan Czarny Prize for Research in Allergy & Asthma, Alfred Health (2015) Alfred Health Recognising Excellence Award – Leading Innovation: Difficult Asthma Service (2016) Mark Hew is actively engaged in advising PhD students and supervising research projects. He leads or contributes to multiple NHMRC and industry-funded research initiatives, including multicenter clinical trials and molecular studies on allergen sensitization. His collaborations span Monash University, Alfred Health, and international partners. He also serves on advisory boards for pharmaceutical companies such as GSK and Sanofi-Aventis, and contributes to national registries like the International Severe Asthma Registry (ISAR). His research is conducted within collaborative teams focused on immunology and respiratory disease, often in partnership with leading researchers such as Professor Robyn O’Hehir, Professor Menno van Zelm, and Professor Philip Hogarth. These teams are based at Monash University and the Alfred Hospital, forming a strong hub for allergy and immunology research in Australia.

• Drug Delivery Systems
• Immunotherapy
• Nanotechnology
• +3 more

Sachin Haresh Bhagchandani is a researcher at the Yale School of Medicine specializing in drug delivery systems , immunotherapy , and nanotechnology . As an Instructor/Lecturer in the Department of Biomedical Data Science, his work focuses on developing advanced materials for targeted cancer treatment and immune modulation. 2025: Lead research on mechanically resilient hydrogels for post-traumatic osteoarthritis 2024: Pioneered two-dose vaccine delivery systems synchronizing germinal center responses 2023: Innovated TLR7/8 agonist bottlebrush prodrugs for tumor-focused immunity His publications demonstrate expertise in biomaterials engineering , with applications spanning multiple myeloma , prostate cancer , and autoimmune diseases . Current projects involve polyMOF ligand optimization and PEG-lipid nanodiscs for enhanced therapeutic indices in immunochemotherapy.

Wei GaoView profile

Assistant Professor

• Nanomedicine
• Cancer Immunotherapy
• Immunomodulation
• +5 more

Wei Gao is an Assistant Professor of Pharmacology at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy, specializing in the Department of Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences. With a focus on nanomedicine and immunotherapy, Dr. Gao develops innovative strategies to modulate B cells and myeloid cells for treating cancer and immune diseases. B.S., School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University Master, School of Pharmacy, University of Calabria, Italy M.S. in Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University Ph.D. in Pharmaceutics, Peking University Health Science Center Postdoctoral Research Fellow (2017-2021) and Assistant Research Scientist (2022-2024), University of Michigan College of Pharmacy Dr. Gao’s research emphasizes nanovaccine development and overcoming STING pathway resistance in pancreatic cancer through regulatory B cell elimination. His work also explores albumin-based nanoformulations for lymphatic system targeting. Recent publications highlight advancements in tumor microenvironment-responsive nanoparticles, multidrug resistance reversal, and combinatorial immunotherapy strategies. Dr. Gao is a co-investigator on the NIH R01 CA285790-01 grant (2024-2029) and a member of the American Association for Cancer Research, Controlled Release Society, American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists, and Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer.

Afsaneh AmouzegarView profile

Assistant Professor

• Ophthalmology
• Immunology
• Oncology
• +3 more

Afsaneh Amouzegar, MD is an Assistant Professor in the Medicine School of the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) . Her academic journey includes an MD from Tehran University of Medical Sciences (2014) , a Residency in Internal Medicine at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (2022) , and a Fellowship in Hematology/Oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center (2025) . She is affiliated with UCSF and collaborates with institutions like MD Anderson and UC Davis. Research Interests: Ophthalmology : Corneal transplantation, dry eye disease, mesenchymal stem cell applications. Immunology : Regulatory T cells, IL-23/IL-2 signaling, neurokinin-1 receptor antagonism. Oncology : Melanoma immunotherapy, BRAF-targeted therapies, brain metastases management. Transplantation : Graft survival, immune tolerance, alloimmunity mechanisms. Publication Trends: Recent work focuses on radiomics for melanoma immunotherapy response, brain metastases management, and ocular inflammatory disease mechanisms. Her earlier studies explore corneal graft rejection, dry eye pathogenesis, and stem cell therapy. Collaborations: She works with researchers at UC Davis (Parisa Emami-Naeini) UCSF (Hamed Kordbacheh) UCLA (Antoni Ribas, Anthony Aldave).

• Innate Immunology
• Macrophage Biology
• Toll-Like Receptor Signaling
• +5 more

Dr. Darren J. Perkins is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and a scientist at the Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center. His research focuses on fundamental questions about how the human innate immune system maintains constant surveillance for infection by a vast array of microbes (viral, bacterial and fungal) as well as simultaneously searching for signs of malignant tumor formation. Dr. Perkins' research interests center on innate immunology, particularly the roles of innate pattern recognition systems and the regulation of key genes driving inflammatory responses. His laboratory investigates how cells detect infection by pathogens and how host defense mechanisms are controlled to restrict microbial growth. Specific areas of focus include Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs), type I Interferon signaling, macrophage biology, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) responses, and Salmonella pathogenesis. His work demonstrates sophisticated understanding of signaling pathways including TRIF, autophagy, and prostaglandin feedback mechanisms in immune regulation. Dr. Perkins' recent publications reveal a strong focus on the interplay between bacterial pathogens and host immune responses, particularly examining how pathogens like Salmonella co-opt host immune systems. His research spans diverse areas including STING innate immune responses, calcium signaling in lysosomal damage, and transcriptomic analyses of severe malarial anemia. The work demonstrates a progression from fundamental mechanisms of innate immune recognition to complex host-pathogen interactions in disease contexts. Dr. Perkins received his B.S. in Biology from Duke University in 1996 and his Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from Emory University in 2003. He completed postdoctoral training with Dr. Stefanie Vogel, studying how Toll-Like Receptors sense bacterial pathogens and orchestrate inflammatory responses. He currently maintains an active laboratory environment focused on creating an aspirational setting that fosters both trainee progress and concept development in innate immunology through data-driven approaches.

Christopher NorburyView profile

Professor

• Immunology
• Microbiology
• Viral Diseases
• +5 more

Christopher Norbury is a Professor in the Department of Cell and Biological Systems at the Penn State Cancer Institute. His research spans immunology, virology, and wound healing, with a focus on viral immune evasion and antiviral signaling pathways. Academic Rank: Professor Institution: Penn State Cancer Institute Department: Cell and Biological Systems Research Interests include: Cytomegalovirus and Herpes Simplex Virus pathogenesis Interferon signaling (Type III IFNs) Dendritic cell and T-cell biology Wound healing mechanisms Antiviral immunity and immune evasion Recent Publications highlight work on: Mechanisms of HCMV cytoplasmic envelopment Virus-induced lipid peroxidation γδ T-cell roles in poxvirus wound healing Grants & Projects include NIH-funded studies on: Cytomegalovirus spread via IFN-λ PTP1B in HSV-1 cell-to-cell transmission STAT1-mediated antiviral immunity HCMV tegument formation and maturation Virus impact on cutaneous wound healing Scientific Awards : Dean's Award for Excellence in Teaching (2019)

Christopher DonnellyView profile

Assistant Professor

• Pain Biology
• Neuroimmunology
• Cancer Biology
• +3 more

Christopher Donnelly is an Assistant Professor in Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, and Neurobiology at Duke University School of Medicine. He is a member of the Duke Cancer Institute and the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, with a research focus on neuroimmunology and applied pain research. D.D.S., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (2018) Ph.D., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (2018) Postdoctoral Training, Duke University (2018-2020) His multidisciplinary research program explores the bidirectional relationship between pain and inflammation, emphasizing molecular crosstalk between sensory neurons and immune cells, glial cells, cancer cells, and microorganisms. Key projects include understanding neuroimmune mechanisms in bone cancer pain, temporomandibular joint disorders, and neuropathic pain, with techniques ranging from conditional genetics to single-cell transcriptomics. Recent publications highlight roles of the STING pathway in pain modulation, PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint in neuronal excitability, and Toll-like receptors in inflammatory pain. His grants include NIH awards for neuroimmune pain research, adrenergic antagonist development, and TMJ neural architecture studies. Hatton Award, Post-doctoral Category - 1st Place, AADOCR (2020) Hatton Award, Post-doctoral Category - 1st Place, IADR (2020) Dr. Donnelly serves as an Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan, directing a neuroscience course for dental students. His lab team includes postdoctoral associates, technicians, and graduate students.

• Neuroscience
• Pain Research
• Neuroimmune Interactions
• +7 more

Ru-Rong Ji is the William Maixner Professor of Anesthesiology at Duke University School of Medicine, with additional professorships in Neurobiology and Cell Biology. He serves as Director of the Center for Translational Pain Medicine and is a Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences. His extensive academic career spans over 25 years across multiple prestigious institutions including Duke University (2012-present), Harvard Medical School (1998-2012), Johns Hopkins Medical School, Karolinska Institute, and Peking University. Dr. Ji's research focuses on identifying molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying pathological pain and developing novel pain therapeutics. His work centers on neuroimmune interactions, with specific interests in: How inflammation induces and resolves pain through immune cell interactions with sensory neurons Neuroinflammation driving chronic pain via glial cell activation in CNS and PNS Specialized pro-resolution mediators (SPMs) controlling pain through GPCR signaling Immunotherapies regulating pain through PD-L1/PD-1 and STING/IFN pathways Secreted miRNAs regulating pain via surface receptors and ion channels Nerve terminal interactions with cancers in chronic pain and itch Toll-like receptors in sensory neurons sensing danger signals Regenerative approaches for long-term pain relief His recent publications show a strong trend toward translational pain research, with emphasis on neuroimmune mechanisms, specialized pro-resolving mediators, and novel therapeutic targets. Dr. Ji's work spans multiple pain conditions including chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, postoperative pain, inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain, and cancer-related pain, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to understanding pain mechanisms across diverse conditions. Dr. Ji has been recognized as a Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate Analytics (Cross Field), reflecting his significant impact in the field. His research has led to numerous patents for translational studies in pain management. As Director of the Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Dr. Ji provides scientific and administrative leadership for research projects. His lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies including animal behaviors, electrophysiology, molecular biology, cell biology, and transgenic animal models. His work has identified numerous therapeutic targets for pain management. Dr. Ji leads the Center for Translational Pain Medicine at Duke, fostering collaboration across disciplines to advance pain research from bench to bedside. His team integrates expertise in neuroscience, immunology, molecular biology, and clinical pain management to develop innovative approaches for treating chronic pain conditions.

Subhash SinhaView profile

Research Professor

• Neuroscience
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Neurodegeneration
• +3 more

Subhash Sinha serves as Professor of Research in Neuroscience at the Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College, Cornell University. His work bridges molecular neuroscience and therapeutic development for neurodegenerative disorders, with emphasis on Alzheimer's disease mechanisms and intervention strategies. His academic foundation includes: B.Sc. from Patna University (India), 1980 M.Sc. from Patna University (India), 1983 Ph.D. from Banaras Hindu University (India), 1988 Dr. Sinha's research integrates molecular biology, immunology, and computational approaches to investigate cGAS-STING pathway dysregulation in neurodegeneration. Key interests include tau pathology mechanisms, microglial senescence, sex-specific demyelination processes, and development of cGAS inhibitors and tau-targeted immunotherapies. His work explores genetic resilience factors like APOE3-R136S and cellular mechanisms underlying cognitive preservation. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a dominant focus on cGAS inhibition (appearing in 7 articles), tau pathology (10 articles), and neuroinflammation (12 articles). Methodologically, his team employs iPSC models, murine disease systems, high-throughput screening, and molecular modeling to identify therapeutic targets with translational potential for Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Sinha currently leads or co-leads seven major research initiatives including NIH-funded projects on cGAS inhibitors (NIA, 2021-2026) and acetylated tau immunotherapy (NIA, 2025-2026). His grant portfolio spans the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, Rainwater Charitable Foundation, and Harrington Discovery Institute, focusing on target validation, lead optimization, and disease mechanism studies. He maintains active industry collaborations as Consultant for Aeton Therapeutics Inc. and CGA Therapeuticals Incorporated, and holds Leadership Roles at LSG Therapeutics, LLC, facilitating translation of academic discoveries into therapeutic pipelines.

Mingrui ZhaoView profile

Associate Professor

• Neuroscience
• Neurodegenerative Diseases
• Epilepsy
• +5 more

Mingrui Zhao is an Associate Professor of Research in Neuroscience at the Brain and Mind Research Institute , Weill Cornell Medical College , with a focus on neurovascular coupling, epilepsy, and neurodegenerative diseases. Their work integrates advanced imaging techniques and genetic models to study seizure mechanisms and tau pathology. Education : M.S. from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (1996), Ph.D. from Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (1999), B.M. from Hebei Medical University (1993) Research Interests include neurovascular coupling dynamics during seizures, optogenetic tools for epilepsy network analysis, and molecular pathways in tauopathy. Their studies use animal models and human iPSC-based systems to uncover therapeutic targets. Recent Articles highlight work on APOE3 mutations in tau resilience, laser-based seizure control, and neurovascular uncoupling mechanisms. Publications span journals like Immunity , Cell , and Nature Neuroscience . Primary Email : miz2003@med.cornell.edu

Ralf AggerView profile

Associate Professor

• Immunology
• Dendritic Cells
• Vaccine Development
• +3 more

Ralf Agger is an Associate Professor affiliated with the Department of Medicine and Health Technology under the Faculty of Health Sciences at Aalborg University. His research focuses on immunology, dendritic cell biology, vaccine development, and cancer immunotherapy, with expertise in flow cytometry and electroporation techniques. His recent work explores dendritic cell-targeted cancer vaccines, cholesterol-binding motifs in STING signaling, and combination immunotherapy approaches for pancreatic cancer metastasis. Key subfields include tumor immunology, antigen presentation, and nucleotide-based vaccine technologies. Agger has co-authored 104 publications over his career, with active research in 2024 involving clinical trials (e.g., EPIC-1 study on electroporation-potentiated immunotherapy) and high-impact articles in journals like Nature Communications and Vaccine .