Assoc. Prof. Dr. Teodora Daneva, Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgaria
Dr. Teodora Daneva (b. 04 November 1968, Troyan, Bulgaria) is a distinguished Bulgarian biologist and physiologist, internationally recognized for her groundbreaking research in endocrinology, reproductive immunology, and molecular diagnostics. With over two decades of scientific excellence, she has bridged collaborations across Austria, Turkey, and Egypt, advancing research in diabetes, reproductive biology, and biotechnology. Dr. Daneva serves as an Associate Professor of Human and Animal Physiology at the Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, where her passion for scientific discovery and translational medicine continues to inspire the next generation of researchers.
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🏆 Strengths for the Award
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Extensive Research Experience:
Teodora Daneva demonstrates more than two decades of experience in biomedical and reproductive research, especially in endocrinology, diabetes, and reproductive physiology. Her active roles in international collaborative projects with Austria, Turkey, and Egypt highlight her global scientific engagement.
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Interdisciplinary Contributions:
Her work spans molecular biology, immunology, endocrinology, animal physiology, and biotechnology, as evident in her publications on calcium-binding proteins, diabetes biomarkers, reproductive health, and genetic polymorphisms.
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Project Leadership:
She has served as a project coordinator or senior researcher in multiple cross-national research collaborations, such as:
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Bulgaria–Austria: Theranostic agents in breast cancer, and SCGN biomarker research.
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Bulgaria–Egypt: Animal reproduction under stress, semen extender innovation.
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Bulgaria–Turkey: Early sex determination in hen embryos.
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Scientific Publications & Impact:
Her work includes peer-reviewed Q1 publications in high-impact journals like the International Journal of Molecular Sciences and Int J Mol Sci. Publications on CRISPR, diabetes, and endocrinology demonstrate a wide scientific scope and contemporary relevance.
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Teaching and Mentoring:
Active as an Associate Professor and university lecturer, Daneva contributes to academic development by teaching subjects like pharmacogenetics and guiding students in biology and chemistry.
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Innovative Research Themes:
Topics like 3D-bioprinting of islets, theranostic cancer treatment, and Kombucha extract biotechnology show her openness to innovation and novel scientific approaches.
🎓 Education
Dr. Daneva’s academic journey reflects her deep-rooted commitment to life sciences. She earned her PhD in Biology from the University of Vienna (2004), specializing in endocrinology and beta-cell calcium signaling. She previously completed an MSc in Biology at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” in 1995 and is an alumna of Vassil Drumev High School, Shumen, where her scientific interests first took shape.
🧬 Experience
Dr. Teodora Daneva has cultivated a rich and dynamic career in biomedical science and education, demonstrating leadership and versatility across academic, clinical, and international research settings. Since 2013, she has held the position of Associate Professor of Human and Animal Physiology at the Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. In this role, she has led numerous scientific investigations and mentored young researchers in physiology and immunobiology.
🧪 Research Focus On Biology
Dr. Daneva’s research lies at the intersection of neuroendocrinology, immunobiology, and translational physiology. Her work has profoundly contributed to our understanding of calcium-binding proteins such as Secretagogin in diabetes, polymorphisms in immune markers (IP-10/CXCL10), and the molecular pathways underlying reproductive and metabolic disorders. More recently, her research explores 3D bioprinting of islets for diabetes treatment, sperm cryopreservation technologies, and theranostic agents for breast cancer — blending molecular biology with cutting-edge applications in biotechnology.
📚 Publications Top Notes
Title: Crystal Structure and Properties of Thallium(I) Salinomycinate
Authors: Petkov, N.; Dorkov, P.; Ugrinov, A.; Encheva, E.; Abrashev, M.; Zasheva, D.; Daneva, T.; Pantcheva, I.N.
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/ijms26136504
Summary: This landmark study presents the first detailed crystallographic analysis of Thallium(I) Salinomycinate, a novel metal–ion complex with potential theranostic applications in oncology. Using X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and thermal analysis, the authors elucidated the structural arrangement, stability profile, and bioactive properties of the compound.
Title: Effects of Late Gestational Fetal Exposure to Dexamethasone Administration on the Postnatal Hypothalamus–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis Response to Hypoglycemia in Pigs
Authors: Schiffner, R.; Rodríguez-González, G.L.; Rakers, F.; Nistor, M.; Nathanielsz, P.W.; Daneva, T.; Schwab, M.; Lehmann, T.; Schmidt, M.
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/ijms18112241
Summary: In this interdisciplinary publication, the authors explore how prenatal exposure to synthetic glucocorticoids (specifically dexamethasone) during late gestation affects neuroendocrine stress responses in postnatal life. Using a neonatal pig model — physiologically similar to humans in endocrine development — the study demonstrated that such prenatal exposure impairs the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing the organism’s ability to mount a robust response to hypoglycemic stress after birth.
🏁 Conclusion
Dr. Teodora Daneva is a pillar in Bulgaria’s biomedical research community, combining profound scientific acumen with an unrelenting commitment to translational impact. Her research has pushed the frontiers of reproductive immunology, diabetes, and molecular diagnostics, making her an inspiring nominee for any prestigious scientific award. Fluent in both lab and classroom, she brings science to life — in cells, in clinics, and in young minds. 🌟