Azhar Mehmood | Cancer Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Azhar Mehmood | Cancer Genetics
| Best Researcher Award

Rawalpindi Medical University | Pakistan

Dr. Azhar Mehmood is a biochemistry and molecular biology researcher whose work spans cancer genetics, DNA damage response pathways, exosomal biomarker discovery, and infectious disease molecular diagnostics. His research contributions include extensive investigation of breast, gastric, thyroid, and head and neck cancers, with a strong emphasis on genetic polymorphisms, pathway deregulation, epigenetic mechanisms, and survival-associated molecular markers. He has explored the prognostic significance of DDR pathway genes, including ATM, ATR, Chk1, and SIRT3/FOXO3a/SOD2 regulatory axes, and conducted SNP-based risk analyses for various malignancies. His work on exosomal microRNAs—such as miR-19a/b, miR-144-3p, miR-4262, and the miR-17-92a cluster—has advanced understanding of their diagnostic and therapeutic potential in breast and brain tumors. His research background also includes contributions to molecular profiling of HCV persistence, viral immunology, and transfusion-transmitted infections. He has applied molecular techniques such as qPCR, LORD-qPCR, IHC, ELISA, genotyping, exosome characterization, and multiple biochemical assays to uncover disease mechanisms and improve diagnostic precision. His publications collectively highlight a strong focus on cancer risk assessment, biomarker identification, and translational molecular research aimed at supporting early detection, targeted therapy development, and improved patient outcomes across multiple cancer types.

Featured Publications

Haris, M. S., Hussain, M. Z., Mehmood, A., Kayani, M. A., & Mahjabeen, I. (2025). hsa-miR-144-3p and hsa-miR-4262 are exosomal biomarkers and function as tumor suppressors in HCMV positive brain tumor. Future Oncology. https://doi.org/10.1080/14796694.2025.2569097

Mehmood, A., Mahjabeen, I., Reed, S., Errington, R. J., Umar, M., Pervaiz, F., & Kayani, M. A. (2025). Association of DDR pathway proteins and breast cancer risk in a Pakistani population. Future Oncology. https://doi.org/10.1080/14796694.2025.2581508

Grace Ababio | Biomarkers | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Grace Ababio | Biomarkers | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher, University of Ghana Medical School, Ghana

🌟 Dr. Grace K. Ababio is a dedicated Senior Research Fellow at the University of Ghana Medical School. With a profound interest in biomarker research, she has significantly contributed to advancing medical science and mentoring future researchers. Dr. Ababio is known for her impactful teaching style, integrating innovative instructional strategies and technology to inspire lifelong learning among her students. She is also a respected reviewer for prestigious scientific journals and an accomplished author of numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education🎓

Dr. Ababio completed her undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the University of Ghana. Her academic journey includes an MPhil where she explored diabetes risk factors, and a PhD that delved into genetic polymorphisms linked to phenotypic diversity in sickle cell disease.

Experience💼

Dr. Ababio progressed from an Assistant Lecturer to Senior Research Fellow at the University of Ghana Medical School. She has successfully led research projects on stress, nutrition, and preeclampsia while serving as a trusted advisor for academic theses. Her collaborations extend across national and international research networks, including the Pan African Vivax and Ovale Network.

Awards and Honors🏆

Dr. Ababio’s excellence in research and mentorship has earned her recognition within academia. Her contributions have enhanced understanding in areas like nutraceuticals, cardiac health, and malaria research, fostering innovation and knowledge dissemination.

Research Focus

Dr. Ababio is passionate about exploring biomarkers in diseases, with current research emphasizing malaria dynamics involving Vivax and Ovale species. Her work bridges the gap between clinical and molecular research, advancing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Conclusion

Dr. Grace K. Ababio is a trailblazer in medical research, education, and mentorship. Her dedication to scientific exploration and her role as a mentor have left an indelible mark on the academic and medical communities.

Publications

Ababio, G.K. (2018). Nutraceuticals: The Dose Makes the Difference. Chapter 2. DOI:10.4018/978-1-5225-2970-5.ch002

Ababio, G.K. (2024). Herbal Nutraceuticals in Health and Neurodegenerative Diseases. Academic Press. DOI:10.1016/B978-0-443-18951-7.00012-8

Ababio, G.K. (2024). Role of Vitamins in Heart Disease. Apple Academic Press. ISBN: 9781774917565

Ababio, G.K. (2024). Role of Nutraceuticals in Hypertension. Apple Academic Press. ISBN: 9781774917565

Ababio, G.K. (2024). Effects of Polyphenols in Hypertension. Apple Academic Press. ISBN: 9781774917565

Ababio, G.K. (2022). Forensic Science & The Forensic Biochemist. Office of Research, Innovation and Development, UG, Legon. ISBN: 978-9988-3-2844-3.