Tuo Zhang | Reproductive Toxicology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Tuo Zhang | Reproductive Toxicology | Best Researcher Award

Doctor, Guizhou Medical University, China

Dr. Tuo Zhang is a distinguished reproductive biologist and associate professor at Guizhou Medical University, China. He earned his Ph.D. from China Agricultural University in 2020 and has since emerged as a leading researcher in the field of ovarian biology. Dr. Zhang’s research primarily focuses on the molecular regulation of follicular development, particularly the signaling pathways that govern primordial follicle dormancy and activation. His pioneering contributions have been featured in top-tier journals and are transforming our understanding of female fertility.

🔷 Professional Profile

ORCID

🏆 Strengths for the Award

  • High Research Productivity (Post-PhD)
    Since completing his Ph.D. in 2020, Dr. Tuo Zhang has published multiple high-impact journal articles (2023–2024), showing a strong postdoctoral research trajectory in a competitive field.

  • Clear Research Focus and Relevance
    His research is focused on the molecular mechanisms of follicular development, particularly primordial follicle dormancy and activation—an area highly relevant to reproductive biology and fertility medicine. This niche is biomedically significant, with both basic and translational importance.

  • Publications in Prestigious Journals
    His works have been published in Theranostics, Science Bulletin, PNAS Nexus, and the American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology—reputable, peer-reviewed journals with strong impact factors and wide readerships.

  • Collaborative Research Approach
    Dr. Zhang appears as a co-lead or senior author in many studies, demonstrating effective collaboration within large, interdisciplinary teams—key for scientific leadership.

  • Innovation and Mechanistic Insights
    His studies provide mechanistic insights into how specific molecular factors (HDAC6, ROCK1, LSD1, Polycomb complex, cAMP, etc.) regulate follicular development. These findings advance fundamental knowledge and may lead to clinical applications in fertility preservation or ovarian aging.

🎓 Education

Dr. Zhang began his academic journey with a strong foundation in biological sciences, culminating in the attainment of his Ph.D. in Reproductive Biology from China Agricultural University in 2020. During his doctoral training, he developed a deep interest in the epigenetic and signaling mechanisms regulating ovarian follicle development. His educational background laid the groundwork for his future innovations in fertility research.

💼 Experience

Following his doctoral degree, Dr. Zhang joined Guizhou Medical University as a faculty member. Currently an Associate Professor, he leads a dynamic research team investigating the complex regulatory networks that control folliculogenesis. His work bridges molecular biology, cell physiology, and translational reproductive medicine. In addition to his research, Dr. Zhang is an active mentor and educator, guiding graduate students and collaborating with both national and international researchers.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Zhang’s research centers around the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms that maintain the delicate balance between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles—a crucial process for female reproductive longevity. His work investigates pathways involving HDAC6, cAMP, ROCK1, Polycomb Repressive Complex 1, LSD1, and other signaling molecules. Through innovative models and techniques, he has uncovered how disruptions in these pathways may contribute to premature ovarian insufficiency or infertility, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies.

📚 Publications Top Notes

HDAC6-dependent deacetylation of NGF dictates its ubiquitination and maintains primordial follicle dormancy

Theranostics (2024)
DOI: 10.7150/thno.95164
Authors: Tuo Zhang, Yuntong Tong, Rengguang Zhu, et al.

🔍 Summary: This study reveals that HDAC6-mediated deacetylation of NGF is a crucial regulator of primordial follicle dormancy. It shows that deacetylation promotes NGF ubiquitination, thus maintaining dormancy. This discovery sheds light on how epigenetic modification influences follicle fate, offering potential fertility preservation targets.

Polycomb repressive complex 1 modulates granulosa cell proliferation in early folliculogenesis to support female reproduction

Theranostics (2024)
DOI: 10.7150/thno.89878
Authors: Meng Gao, Tuo Zhang, Tengxiang Chen, et al.

🔍 Summary: This paper explores the role of Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 (PRC1) in regulating granulosa cell proliferation during the early stages of follicle development. Findings highlight PRC1’s function in chromatin remodeling and gene silencing, essential for supporting female reproductive capacity.

LSD1 promotes the FSH responsive follicle formation by regulating autophagy and repressing Wt1 in the granulosa cells

Science Bulletin (2024)
DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2024.01.015
Authors: Zijian Zhu, Meina He, Tuo Zhang, et al.

🔍 Summary: The study demonstrates how LSD1 (lysine-specific demethylase 1) enhances follicular development by modulating autophagy and suppressing Wt1 in granulosa cells. This mechanistic insight connects hormonal signaling with epigenetic control, broadening our understanding of FSH-driven follicle recruitment.

ROCK1 is a multifunctional factor maintaining the primordial follicle reserve and follicular development in mice

American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology (2024)
DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00019.2023
Authors: Tuo Zhang, Huan Lin, Tianhe Ren, et al.

🔍 Summary: This publication uncovers the role of ROCK1 as a key regulator in sustaining the primordial follicle pool and promoting healthy follicular development. The research identifies ROCK1 as a multifunctional kinase, coordinating cytoskeletal dynamics, cell survival, and signaling in the ovary.

cAMP controls the balance between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles in mouse ovaries

PNAS Nexus (2023)
DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad055
Authors: Wenying Zheng, Tuo Zhang, Ting Zhao, et al.

🔍 Summary: This foundational paper shows how cyclic AMP (cAMP) signaling functions as a molecular switch between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles. The study emphasizes the dynamic interplay between signaling pathways and follicle fate, contributing to therapeutic prospects in reproductive aging.

🏆 Conclusion

Dr. Tuo Zhang’s body of work represents a remarkable contribution to the field of reproductive biology. His research uncovers critical molecular mechanisms that regulate ovarian follicle development—findings that carry significant implications for female fertility, reproductive lifespan, and fertility preservation therapies. Through a combination of rigorous science, innovative methodology, and collaborative research, Dr. Zhang has solidified his place as a rising star in biomedical research. His ongoing efforts continue to inspire both peers and students, making him an exceptional candidate for this award.

Shunbin Ning | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shunbin Ning | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Professor, East Tennessee State University, United States

Professor Shunbin Ning is a renowned expert in viral oncology and immunology, with a passion for uncovering the intricate mechanisms of chronic viral infections and immune deregulation. 🌐🔍 His groundbreaking work explores how viruses like EBV and HTLV1 disrupt immune checkpoints, DNA damage response, and metabolic pathways to establish latency and drive cancer progression. 🧬🛡️ As a Professor at ETSU’s Quillen College of Medicine and a Scientist at the Mountain Home VA Medical Center, he has led NIH- and DoD-funded research projects focused on long noncoding RNAs, selective autophagy, and oncogenic IRFs. 📚🧪 With over 100 publications and editorial roles across several scientific journals, he is a respected voice in the field. 📖🧠 His mentorship and leadership have significantly contributed to the advancement of viral immunopathology and novel immunotherapeutic strategies. 🌟👨‍🔬

💠Professional Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education 

Professor Ning began his academic journey at Wuhan University, China, earning his B.S. in Cell Biology in July 1996. 🎓🔬 He further pursued a Ph.D. in Cell Biology and Genetics at the same institution, which he completed in December 2001. 🧬📘 Driven by a passion for research, he moved to the United States for postdoctoral training in Viral Oncology and Immunology at UNC Chapel Hill, completing it in March 2007. 🇺🇸🧫 His academic path continued with roles as Research Associate and later as Research Assistant Professor at UNC, where he deepened his expertise in host-pathogen interactions, chronic infections, and immune system regulation. 🧠🧪 His education set a strong foundation for a prolific research career at the intersection of virology, immunology, and cancer biology. 🌍📚

💼 Experience 

With over two decades of academic and research excellence, Professor Ning has held significant positions in top institutions. 🏛️🧑‍🔬 Since 2024, he has served as Professor in Internal Medicine at ETSU’s Quillen College of Medicine and a Scientist at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Tennessee. 🇺🇸⚕️ Previously, he held roles as Associate and Assistant Professor at ETSU and the University of Miami’s Sylvester Cancer Center. 🧪📍 He also contributes as Affiliate Assistant Professor at the University of Central Florida. 🧑‍🏫 His leadership extends into the VA system as a WOC employee, reflecting his dedication to veteran health. 🪖❤️ His academic journey spans teaching, mentorship, and pioneering research in viral oncology and immunopathogenesis, making him a pivotal figure in translational medicine. 🔄🎓

🧪 Research Focus 

Professor Ning’s research is anchored in viral immunology and oncogenesis, particularly chronic infections like EBV and HTLV1. 🧫🧬 He explores how these viruses manipulate host immunity via DNA damage response (DDR), autophagy, immune checkpoints, and non-coding RNAs. 🔍🧠 His studies decode how these mechanisms foster viral latency, immune evasion, and cancer transformation. 🦠💥 Key areas include oxidative stress, interferon regulation, and ubiquitin-mediated signaling, revealing novel insights into inflammaging and tumor microenvironments. 🌡️🧪 His translational work identifies new immunotherapeutic targets for virus-associated diseases, especially in hematological malignancies. 🎯🧬 He also pioneers research into lncRNAs’ role in lymphoma development and IRF4 regulation in oncogenesis. 📊🧬 Through innovative methodologies, including phosphoproteomics and transcriptomics, he advances understanding of virus-host interactions, helping bridge molecular mechanisms with therapeutic strategies. 🧪💡

🏅 Awards and Honors 

Professor Ning’s excellence has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards. 🏆🎓 He is a two-time awardee of the American Society of Hematology (ASH), receiving both a Scholarship (2012) and Bridge Grant (2020) for his impactful research. 🔬💰 His accolades include the Leukemia Research Foundation Award (2010), Florida Department of Health New Investigator Award (2010), and an International Professorship Award from the ASM (2009). 🌍📜 Early in his career, he earned the Excellent PhD Thesis Award from both Wuhan University (2003) and China’s Ministry of Education (2005), as well as being named a top graduate student (2002). 🧑‍🎓🌟 His commitment to mentoring and service has also been honored by ASM for outstanding contributions to online mentoring and international programs. 💻🤝 These accolades reflect his scientific impact and dedication to global research advancement. 🌐💡

📘 Publications Top Notes

Guidelines for the Use and Interpretation of Assays for Monitoring Autophagy (4th Edition)

Authors: D.J. Klionsky, A.K. Abdel-Aziz, S. Abdelfatah, M. Abdellatif, A. Abdoli, S. Abel, et al. (including S. Ning)
Journal: Autophagy, Volume 17, Issue 1, Pages 1–382 (2021)
Summary:
This comprehensive and collaborative work offers updated guidelines for monitoring autophagy in both in vivo and in vitro systems. 🧪📚 With contributions from hundreds of experts, including Dr. Ning, it covers key assays, markers, and interpretations critical for studying autophagy accurately. 🔍🧫 These standardized protocols ensure reproducibility across labs and support the effective application of autophagy-related research in fields such as cancer, neurodegeneration, and infectious diseases. 🌍🔬 An essential resource, this publication has become the gold standard for autophagy research worldwide. 🌟

IRF7: Activation, Regulation, Modification and Function

Authors: S. Ning, J.S. Pagano, G.N. Barber
Journal: Genes & Immunity, Volume 12, Issue 6, Pages 399–414 (2011)
Summary:
This review article highlights the central role of IRF7, a key transcription factor in antiviral immunity. 🛡️🧬 Dr. Ning and colleagues discuss its activation pathways, post-translational modifications, and regulatory networks, especially in the context of type I interferon production. ⚙️📊 The paper emphasizes IRF7’s importance in immune responses to viral infections like EBV, and its manipulation by viruses to evade immunity. 🦠⚠️ A valuable resource for understanding host-virus interactions and the molecular immunology of viral pathogenesis. 🧫📖

Salt Stress Induces Programmed Cell Death in Prokaryotic Organism Anabaena

Authors: S.B. Ning, H.L. Guo, L. Wang, Y.C. Song
Journal: Journal of Applied Microbiology, Volume 93, Issue 1, Pages 15–28 (2002)
Summary:
This early study by Dr. Ning explores how salt stress triggers programmed cell death (PCD) in the cyanobacterium Anabaena. 🧂🔬 The research identifies morphological and molecular changes indicative of apoptosis-like pathways, suggesting that even prokaryotes possess regulated death mechanisms under stress. ⚡🧫 This foundational work contributes to the broader understanding of cell death evolution and microbial stress responses. 🌱🧠

TRAF6 and the Three C-terminal Lysine Sites on IRF7 Are Required for Its Ubiquitination-mediated Activation by the Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Family Member Latent Membrane Protein 1

Authors: S. Ning, A.D. Campos, B.G. Darnay, G.L. Bentz, J.S. Pagano
Journal: Molecular and Cellular Biology, Volume 28, Issue 20, Pages 6536–6546 (2008)
Summary:
This experimental study details how Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) protein LMP1 activates IRF7 via TRAF6-dependent ubiquitination. 🧬🔁 Dr. Ning and co-authors show that three specific lysine residues on IRF7 are essential for its activation, linking viral oncogenesis with host immune signaling. 🧪⚙️ This discovery sheds light on viral immune evasion and provides targets for antiviral strategies. 🦠💡

Interferon Regulatory Factor 7 Is Negatively Regulated by the Epstein-Barr Virus Immediate-Early Gene, BZLF-1

Authors: A.M. Hahn, L.E. Huye, S. Ning, J. Webster-Cyriaque, J.S. Pagano
Journal: Journal of Virology, Volume 79, Issue 15, Pages 10040–10052 (2005)
Summary:
This research reveals that EBV gene BZLF-1 suppresses the expression and function of IRF7, undermining the host’s antiviral interferon response. 🚫🧬 Dr. Ning contributed to showing how BZLF-1 impairs IRF7-mediated signaling, helping the virus establish latency and avoid immune detection. 🧫👁️ This work provides crucial insight into the immune evasion tactics of herpesviruses and their impact on host immunity. 🧠🦠

Professor Shunbin Ning stands at the forefront of viral immunology and cancer biology, contributing transformative insights into virus-host interactions. 🧬🌍 His pioneering research on EBV, immune regulation, and non-coding RNAs bridges fundamental biology with therapeutic potential. 🎯🧠 His dedication to mentorship, global collaboration, and editorial leadership enriches the scientific ecosystem. 🌱🌐 Through over 100 publications, continuous NIH/DoD-funded projects, and service on international boards and review panels, Professor Ning continues to inspire innovation and excellence in biomedical science. 📚🏅 His work not only deepens our understanding of chronic viral infections but also charts new paths toward immunotherapeutic breakthroughs. 💡💊 A true leader and visionary in his field, he exemplifies the synergy of scientific rigor and clinical relevance. 🧑‍🔬❤️