Xingyu Chen | Cancer Biology | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Xingyu Chen | Cancer Biology | Young Scientist Award

Research Bioinformatician | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center | United States

Dr. Xingyu Chen is a research bioinformatician and computational oncologist specializing in sex chromosome genomics, cancer immunology, and precision medicine. His work has revealed the Loss of the Y Chromosome (LOY) as a causal driver of cancer immune evasion in men, demonstrating its role in tumor progression, immune dysfunction, and therapy resistance. He pioneered the development of the world’s first Sex Chromosome-Aware Genomic Large Language Model, integrating AI with genomic data to enhance cancer diagnostics and guide precision therapies. His research combines multi-omics analysis, single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, and deep-learning models to uncover mechanisms of tumor evolution, T-cell exhaustion, and sex-specific cancer vulnerabilities. Chen has contributed to high-impact publications in journals such as Nature, Oncogene, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences, with 800 citations, an h-index of 15, and multiple first/co-first author contributions, reflecting his influence in the field. His work extends to translational applications, including LOY-informed cellular therapies and radiogenomic predictive algorithms for bladder cancer, leading to patentable innovations. He has also mentored trainees, co-supervised projects, and collaborated with international institutions to advance integrative cancer genomics and AI-driven therapeutics. Overall, his research advances the understanding of male-biased cancer mechanisms and supports the development of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, bridging fundamental biology, computational modeling, and clinical applications to improve outcomes for men with cancer.

Featured Publications

Abdel-Hafiz, H. A., Schafer, J. M., Chen, X., Xiao, T., Gauntner, T. D., Li, Z., … et al. (2023). Y chromosome loss in cancer drives growth by evasion of adaptive immunity. Nature, 619(7970), 624–631.

Jin, Y., Wang, Z., He, D., Zhu, Y., Chen, X., & Cao, K. (2021). Identification of novel subtypes based on ssGSEA in immune‐related prognostic signature for tongue squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Medicine, 10(23), 8693–8707.

Ayesha Ahmed | Cancer Biology | Research Excellence Award

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Ms. Ayesha Ahmed | Cancer Biology | Research Excellence Award

Roosevelt University | United States

Ms. Ayesha Ahmed is an emerging pharmacist and pharmaceutical sciences researcher with a strong interdisciplinary foundation spanning clinical practice, pharmaceutical manufacturing, research coordination, and academic support. Her academic and professional journey reflects a commitment to advancing global healthcare through evidence-based practice, scientific inquiry, and collaborative learning. She has contributed to research projects that integrate stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and analytical evaluation, enabling the development of targeted research approaches within the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. Her scientific interests encompass drug formulation, regulatory science, clinical pharmacy, and translational research aimed at improving therapeutic outcomes. She has co-authored publications exploring corrosion-resistant polymer modifications for industrial applications, barriers and enablers influencing community pharmacists’ participation in deprescribing initiatives, and molecular insights into CRP interactomes related to cellular signaling and tumorigenicity. These works demonstrate her ability to engage with both laboratory-based and clinical-conceptual research, bridging basic science with healthcare practice. She possesses strong communication and instructional skills refined through academic tutoring roles, where she supported learners in developing scientific writing, analytical reasoning, and pharmacy-related competencies. Her international training exposure has strengthened her understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, regulatory frameworks, and quality-assurance practices within diverse healthcare systems. Motivated by a passion for patient-centered care, interdisciplinary research, and global health development, she continues to expand her expertise through advanced study in pharmaceutical sciences. She aims to contribute to innovations in drug development, clinical decision-making, and pharmacy practice through research that supports safety, effectiveness, and equitable access to healthcare.

Featured Publication

Gerhardt, A., Nanakaliy, D., Shah, H. D., Sarfaraz, S., Madigan, C., Downing, M., Elliott, R. P., Dipto, R., Vrapciu, B., Noetzel, J. W., et al. (2025). Evaluating the CRP interactome: Insights into possible novel roles in cellular signaling and tumorigenicity. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 47(12), Article 1003.

Elshazly, M., Wilkinson, J., Jawad, S., Ahmed, A., ElGeed, H., & Yusuff, K. B. (2025). Enablers and barriers to community pharmacists’ readiness to implement deprescribing of inappropriate medications for older adults in Qatar. PLOS ONE, 20(1), Article e0316363.

Mutthuraj Dasegowda | Cancer Biology | Young Researcher Award

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Mr. Mutthuraj Dasegowda | Cancer Biology | Young Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Jss Academy Of Higher Education & Research, India.

Mutthuraj D, based in Mysuru, Karnataka, is a dedicated PhD scholar in Cancer Biology and Epigenetics at JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER), focusing on the anticancer properties of Moringa oleifera in epithelial ovarian cancer. With a robust academic foundation in Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology, and a Master’s in Molecular Biology, he excels in cancer therapeutics, molecular diagnostics, and phytopharmacology. He has co-authored over 15 peer-reviewed publications and actively participates in international conferences, sharing novel insights into inflammation, phytomedicine, and cancer biology. A Junior Research Fellow and multi-patent contributor, he has experience in teaching, scientific writing, peer-reviewing for journals, and collaborating on interdisciplinary biomedical projects. His contributions to ginger nanoparticle therapeutics and plant-derived anti-inflammatory agents reflect his deep commitment to translational research. Mutthuraj is affiliated with international societies like ASM and AACR and is recognized for his scholarly excellence, innovation, and collaborative research contributions in molecular medicine.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education 

Mutthuraj D began his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Botany, and Zoology from the University of Mysore in 2017, graduating with First Class with Distinction. He pursued an M.Sc. in Molecular Biology at JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER), Mysuru, graduating in 2019 with top honors. He is currently a PhD Scholar in Cancer Biology and Epigenetics at JSS AHER (since January 2024), investigating the anticancer properties of Moringa oleifera leaves in epithelial ovarian cell lines. His academic pursuits include comprehensive training in bioinformatics, molecular docking, DNA/RNA extraction, chromatography, nanoparticle synthesis, and clinical assay techniques. He has been deeply engaged in interdisciplinary learning, blending biotechnology, pharmacology, and cancer research. His education also includes practical exposure to analytical tools such as HPLC, ELISA, SEM, and Western blotting, reinforcing his capacity to design and interpret high-impact biomedical research in cancer and immunology.

💼 Experience 

Mutthuraj D’s academic and research experience spans molecular biology, pharmacognosy, and cancer biology, starting with his M.Sc. project at JSS AHER (2018–2019) focused on ginger nanoparticle synthesis for arthritis therapy. He currently serves as a Junior Research Fellow exploring Moringa-based anticancer therapeutics. His technical expertise includes nanoparticle characterization, PCR, microscopy, ELISA, phytochemical analysis, and molecular diagnostics. As a Guest Faculty, he has taught undergraduate and postgraduate students, delivering lectures on molecular biology, pharmacology, and biochemistry. Mutthuraj actively contributes to peer-reviewed journals as a reviewer and assistant editor, including Taylor & Francis and Sparkling Press. He has also participated in scientific event organization, research seminars, and student mentorship. His hands-on research, manuscript writing, conference presentations, and patent contributions demonstrate a well-rounded skill set. He consistently integrates laboratory innovation with community health perspectives, making him a capable and collaborative biomedical researcher and educator.

🏆 Awards and Honors 

Mutthuraj D received the Best Article of the Issue award for his publication on COVID-19 in Acta Scientific Pharmacology (2020), reflecting his contribution to pandemic-related awareness. In January 2025, he was awarded the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) by JSS AHER for academic excellence and innovative research in epigenetics and cancer biology. He is credited as an inventor in two Indian patents—on a UHPLC device for plasma drug estimation and a hot plate analgesiometer for stress studies in animals—demonstrating his contributions to lab instrumentation and translational research. He has been actively involved as an editorial board member and reviewer for multiple international journals and is affiliated with prestigious organizations such as the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), and Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (ASPB). His awards recognize his research impact, scientific innovation, and commitment to molecular and clinical sciences.

🔬 Research Focus 

Mutthuraj D’s research focuses on exploring the therapeutic potential of plant-derived bioactive compounds in cancer and inflammatory diseases. His current PhD research at JSS AHER investigates the anti-cancerous effects of Moringa oleifera in epithelial ovarian cancer, targeting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. His broader research interests encompass phytochemicals, chemoprevention, neurobiology, rheumatoid arthritis, and epigenetics. He has synthesized and characterized ginger-based nanoparticles for anti-inflammatory therapy, integrating nanotechnology and traditional medicine. His studies have evaluated immune biomarkers, inflammatory proteins (CRP, ASO), and haemolytic assays to validate herbal therapeutics. Additionally, his work includes bioinformatics modeling, molecular docking, and pathway analysis, aiming to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying natural product efficacy. With multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations, he contributes to scientific discussions on green therapeutics, cancer modulation, and biomedical innovation. His ultimate goal is to develop cost-effective, plant-based alternatives to conventional cancer therapies with minimized toxicity and enhanced cellular response.

🌟Conclusion

Mr. Mutthuraj D exemplifies the attributes of a promising and dedicated young researcher. His strong academic foundation, diverse research portfolio, innovative patents, and active editorial involvement collectively indicate a high level of scientific maturity and commitment. While opportunities remain to expand his international presence and translational research integration, his current achievements already position him as an outstanding candidate for the Young Researcher Award. With sustained support and strategic growth, he is likely to become a leading contributor in the fields of cancer biology, molecular medicine, and natural product-based therapeutics.

📝Publications 

3D Printing and 4D Printing: Sustainable Manufacturing Techniques for Green Biomaterials
2025 | Book chapter
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-79062-1_5
Contributors: Oishani Sarkar; Yukta Mourya; K. L. Kavya; D. Mutthuraj; Pasupuleti Visweswara Rao; Kanthesh M. Basalingappa

Advances in Biohybrid Microbots in Colon Cancer Therapy
2025 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1201/9781032706979-8
Contributors: K. Girish Kanavi; Gowrav Bharadwaj; R. Mythreyi; D. Mutthuraj; B. M. Kanthesh; Gobianand Kuppannan

Plant-Derived Biomaterial and Their Use in Cardiac Tissue Repair
2025 | Book chapter
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-79110-9_5
Contributors: Sudipta Choudhury; D. Mutthuraj; M. Maghimaa; Suresh Sagadevan; Kanthesh M. Basalingappa

The Role of Magnetic Microbots in Colorectal Cancer
2025 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1201/9781032706979-9
Contributors: KR Arjun; Avipsa Hazra; R Mythreyi; D Mutthuraj; BM Kanthesh; S Umamaheshwari

A critical review on: Comprehending breast cancer in men with reference to female
2024 | Journal article
DOI: 10.22271/27889262.2024.V4.I1A.93
Contributors: Veda A Vasudev; Mutthuraj D; GL Aruna; Kanthesh BM

Assessment of anti-proliferative effects of berberine through RAS pathway using saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism
2024 | Journal article
DOI: 10.33545/26646501.2024.V6.I1A.66
Contributors: Girish Kanavi K; Mythreyi R; Mutthuraj D; Arjun KR; Gowrav Baradwaj; Dr. Kanthesh M Basalingappa

Assessment of the anti-diabetic potential of berberine chloride on diabetes mellitus-2 induced Drosophila melanogaster
2024 | Journal article
DOI: 10.33545/26648822.2024.V6.I1A.15
Contributors: Arjun KR; Mythreyi R; Mutthuraj D; Girish Kanavi K; Gowrav Baradwaj; Varshitha BR; Dr. Kanthesh M Basalingappa

Effect of edible seeds against PCOS like disease in Drosophila Melanogaster as a model organism
2024 | Journal article
DOI: 10.33545/26649004.2024.V6.I1A.24
Contributors: Avipsa Hazra; Logesh; Mythreyi R; Mutthuraj D; Gowrav Baradwaj; Girish Kanavi K; Dr. Kanthesh M Basalingappa

Probiotic, Prebiotic, and Gut–Brain Connection in Cancer Development
2024 | Book chapter
DOI: 10.1007/978-981-96-0297-1_6
Contributors: K. R. Arjun; D. Mutthuraj; Neha Foferkar; Dhanush Nagendra; R. Mythreyi; S. Umamaheshwari; Kanthesh M. Basalingappa