Gaetano Balenzano | Antioxidants | Excellence in Research Award

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Dr. Gaetano Balenzano | Antioxidants | Excellence in Research Award

 University Of Bari Aldo Moro | Italy

Dr. Gaetano Balenzano is a researcher affiliated with the Università degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy, where he contributes to advancing scientific knowledge in fields connected to mycology, nutritional biochemistry, and natural product antimicrobial research. With a growing academic footprint reflected through his, Dr. Balenzano has produced five peer-reviewed scientific publications  5, accumulating 15 citations from 13 citing documents and establishing an h-index of 2, underscoring the emerging influence of his work in the scientific community. His recent open-access contribution, a study on the nutritional composition and antimicrobial properties of the culinary-medicinal mushroom Leccinum scabrum, reflects his research interest in bioactive compounds, functional foods, and the therapeutic potential of natural resources, and has already garnered seven citations, signaling its relevance in contemporary mycology and natural-product research. Across his publications, Dr. Balenzano has collaborated with 23 co-authors, demonstrating strong interdisciplinary engagement and an ability to contribute to multi-institutional scientific efforts. Although specific educational details and editorial responsibilities are not listed in the available record, his research profile showcases a commitment to evidence-based inquiry, collaborative scholarship, and the development of knowledge that supports innovations in health-related and environmental biological sciences. Dr. Balenzano’s evolving body of work positions him as a promising contributor to the global scientific community, with the potential for continued impact through future research, international collaborations, and expanding publication activities.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Microwave-assisted extraction of Pleurotus mushrooms cultivated on ‘Nero di Troia’ grape pomace and evaluation of the antioxidant and antiacetylcholinesterase activities.

2. Ferraro, V., Spagnoletta, A., Rotondo, N. P., Marsano, R., et al. (2024). Hypoglycemic properties of Leccinum scabrum extracts—An in vitro study on α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition and metabolic profile determination. Journal of Fungi.

3. Gargano, M. L., Venturella, G., Balenzano, G., Ferraro, V., et al. (2024). Pleurotus nebrodensis (Basidiomycota), a rare endemic mushroom of Sicily: Current and future issues. Italian Botanist.

4. Cirlincione, F., Venturella, G., Gargano, M. L., Mirabile, G., et al. (2024). Medicinal wood decay fungi on large old oaks in the Madonie Mountains (Sicily). Italian Journal of Mycology.

5. Balenzano, G., Lentini, G., Cavalluzzi, M. M., Ferraro, V., Spagnoletta, A., Cirlincione, F., & Gargano, M. L. (2024). Microwave-assisted extraction of Pleurotus mushrooms cultivated on wine grape pomace and antioxidant activity evaluation. In Book of Abstracts – 12th International Medicinal Mushrooms Conference.

 

Dr. Mirjana Popadic | Skin Cancer Prevention | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mirjana Popadic | Skin Cancer Prevention | Best Researcher Award

Dermatologist-Oncologist | Medigroup | Serbia

Dr. Mirjana Popadic is a researcher affiliated with the University of Belgrade, Serbia, where she has established a growing academic profile in her field.  Over her career, Dr. Popadic has authored 15 scholarly publications, which have collectively received 121 citations from 99 documents, demonstrating the steady influence of her contributions and culminating in an h-index of 7. Her work spans several key research domains, reflecting interdisciplinary strength and a commitment to advancing scientific understanding within her specialty. Through collaborations with at least nine co-authors, she has contributed to studies that highlight collaborative scientific inquiry and cross-disciplinary relevance. Her publications, indexed in reputable international venues, cover impactful themes aligned with contemporary scientific priorities, positioning her as an emerging scholar whose research continues to gain recognition within the academic community. Although no awarded grants or editorial roles are listed in the provided record, her publication performance and citation trajectory underscore her potential for expanded leadership roles in future scientific initiatives. Dr. Popadics scholarly output reflects methodological rigor, thematic relevance, and a commitment to addressing meaningful research questions. Her growing citation footprint indicates that her work is not only referenced but also utilized by peers for further advancements, contributing to broader scientific development. Through her contributions at the University of Belgrade, she continues to support the advancement of knowledge, strengthen collaborative networks, and contribute to the international visibility of Serbian research. With sustained productivity and a demonstrated record of influence, Dr. Popadic represents a dedicated academic whose work carries both scientific and societal impact.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Popadić, M. (2018). Dermatoscopy of multiple piloleiomyomas with disseminated and segmental distribution. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology.

2. Popadić, M. (2018). Cutaneous Polyarteritis Nodosa: Uncommon and Rare Form of Cutaneous Vasculitis. Serbian Journal of Dermatology and Venereology.

3. Popadić, M. (2015). Dermoscopy of aggressive basal cell carcinomas. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology.

4. Popadić, M., & Vukićević, J. (2015). What is the impact of tumour size on dermoscopic diagnosis of BCC? Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

5. Popadić, M. (2015). Dermoscopy of cutaneous Abrikossoff tumor (granular cell tumor) in a pediatric patient. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Dengke Chen | Biosurface | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dengke Chen | Biosurface | Best Researcher Award

Executive Assistant To The Dean | College Of Transportation, Ludong University | China

Dr. Dengke Chen, currently a researcher at Ludong University, Yantai, China, is an accomplished materials scientist whose work bridges advanced surface engineering, biomimetic design, and functional materials innovation. He holds a strong academic foundation shaped through progressive training in materials science and engineering, culminating in a research-intensive career dedicated to developing high-performance interfaces and smart surfaces. Dr. Chen’s research focuses on anti-icing/de-icing technologies, slippery and photothermal surfaces, and bio-inspired drag-reduction structures, areas in which he has produced influential contributions, including studies on transparent quasi-solid slippery surfaces with photothermal and electrothermal properties and surface modification of 3D biomimetic shark-skin denticles for hydrodynamic optimization. Over the course of his career, he has authored 24 scientific publications, accumulated over 307 citations across  and achieved an h-index of 11, reflecting both productivity and research impact in his field. His collaborations span more than 50 co-authors, demonstrating his active role in multidisciplinary research networks and his contributions to advancing materials solutions with environmental, industrial, and societal relevance. Dr. Chen’s work has appeared in respected scientific outlets, including Science China Technological Sciences and Advanced Materials, underscoring the originality and technical depth of his research. In addition to his publication achievements, he contributes to the global scientific community through peer-review activities and editorial support roles for specialized materials and engineering journals, helping uphold scholarly standards and foster innovation in emerging research domains. Dr. Chen’s growing body of work spanning functional surfaces, energy-responsive materials, and biomimetic engineering continues to influence the development of next-generation technologies with broad applications in transportation, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Research Gate

Publications

1. Chen, D., Zhang, H., Zhang, X., et al. (2025). A self-floating solar evaporator based on carbon black/polydimethylsiloxane for highly efficient and stable desalination. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces (Accepted).

2. Chen, D., Shangguan, Z., Zhang, B., et al. (2025). Biomimetic spanwise riblet coupled with hydrogel coating for drag reduction. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects.

3. Chen, D., Shangguan, Z., Zhang, B., et al. (2025). Laser induced biomimetic fish scale arrays composite with superhydrophobic nanoscale SiO₂ particles for drag reduction. Biosurface and Biotribology.

4. Chen, D., Zhang, B., Zhang, H., et al. (2024). Laser ablating biomimetic periodic array fish scale surface for drag reduction. Biomimetics.

5. Chen, D., Li, W., Zhao, Y., et al. (2024). Drag reduction capacity of multi-scale and multi-level riblet in turbulent flow. Biosurface and Biotribology.

Dorota Olszewska-Słonina | Skin Penetration Enhancers | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Dorota Olszewska-Słonina | Skin Penetration Enhancers | Best Researcher Award

Head Of Department Of Pathobiochemistry And Clinical Chemistry | Collegium Medicum Of Nicolaus Copernicus University | Poland

Dr. Dorota M. Olszewska-Słonina is a distinguished researcher at the Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Poland, where she contributes extensively to biomedical and nutritional sciences. With a strong foundation in biochemistry and human physiology, she has dedicated her career to understanding the biochemical mechanisms underlying nutrition, health, and disease prevention. Her primary research areas include antioxidant mechanisms, phenolic compounds, the human milk microbiome, and bioactive components in plant-based foods. Dr. Olszewska-Słonina’s work explores how naturally occurring compounds can improve human health, enhance skin function, and prevent oxidative stress-related disorders. Her recent publications have examined topics such as the phenolic profiles and antioxidant properties of Morus alba L. infusions, composition and antioxidant status of vegan milk, and modifications of ion transport in skin microenvironments due to cryoconservation. To date, she has authored 85 peer-reviewed scientific papers, which have collectively received 1,023 citations, reflecting her research influence and recognition in the global scientific community. With an h-index of 15 and collaborations with over 170 international co-authors, Dr. Olszewska-Słonina exemplifies excellence in multidisciplinary and cross-institutional research. Her studies are frequently published in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports, Antioxidants, Nutrients, Biology, and the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Dr. Olszewska-Słonina also contributes to the academic community through her involvement in editorial and peer-review activities, ensuring the integrity and quality of scientific literature. Her research has meaningful societal implications, promoting sustainable nutrition, maternal health, and evidence-based approaches to natural product development.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Olszewska-Słonina, D. M., et al. (2025). Phenolic profiles and antioxidant activity of Morus alba L. infusions prepared from commercially available products and naturally collected leaves. Scientific Reports.

2. Olszewska-Słonina, D. M., et al. (2025). Cryoconservation modifies ion transport pathways in the skin microenvironment: An in vitro study. Processes.

3. Olszewska-Słonina, D. M., et al. (2025). Human milk microbiome  in from Polish women giving birth via vaginal delivery—Pilot study. Biology.

4. Olszewska-Słonina, D. M., et al. (2024). Composition and antioxidant status of human milk of women living in Bydgoszcz (Poland). Nutrients.

5. Olszewska-Słonina, D. M., et al. (2024). The Eleutherococcus senticosus fruits' intractum affects changes in the transepithelial electric potential in the distal section of the rabbit's large intestine and inhibits hyaluronidase. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.

Xin Li | Skin Inflammation | Best Research Paper Award

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Prof. Xin Li | Skin Inflammation | Best Research Paper Award

Professor | Nanchang University | China

Prof. Xinu Li, currently serving at Nanchang University, China, is an accomplished researcher whose work bridges pharmaceutical sciences, biochemistry, and molecular medicine. Holding advanced degrees in biomedical and pharmaceutical research, Prof. Li has cultivated a distinguished academic record with 175 scientific publications, 3,138 citations, and an h-index of 31, underscoring the global influence and relevance of his research. His primary research areas encompass natural product chemistry, pharmacokinetics, skin biology, inflammation, and nanomedicine-based drug delivery systems. Prof. Li’s studies often focus on identifying bioactive compounds from herbal sources and elucidating their therapeutic mechanisms in dermatological and systemic diseases. He has collaborated extensively with over 290 international co-authors, contributing to interdisciplinary projects that merge traditional Chinese medicine with modern molecular biology and nanotechnology. His significant contributions have earned him recognition in leading journals, positioning him as a thought leader in natural pharmacology and skin research. Beyond his research achievements, Prof. Li actively participates in peer review and holds editorial roles in reputed international journals, promoting scientific excellence and innovation. His dedication to translational science and sustainable healthcare solutions continues to shape emerging paradigms in dermatological therapy and drug design. Prof. Li’s commitment to advancing evidence-based natural medicine exemplifies his broader impact on improving human health and fostering cross-cultural scientific collaboration on a global scale.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1.  X., et al. (2025). Cleavage specificity of the pitcher fluid proteases from Nepenthes × miranda and their reduction on allergenicity of cow's milk proteins. Food Chemistry.
2. Li, X., et al. (2025). High-fat diet-induced obesity accelerates the progression of food allergy through synergistic effect of gut microbiota and lipid metabolism. Food Bioscience.
3. Li, X., et al. (2025). Interaction between Bacteroides and HG-type pectins with different molecular weights. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
4. Li, X., et al. (2025). 2′-FL in dairy matrices attenuates allergic symptoms in mice by reducing BLG hypersensitivity and modulating gut microecology. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
5. Li, X., et al. (2025). Identification and validation of key amino acids in IgE linear epitopes of β-lactoglobulin: Comparison of recognition patterns of Chinese bovine milk-allergic sera with different symptoms. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Zhenyan Xia | Skin Penetration Enhancers | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zhenyan Xia | Skin Penetration Enhancers | Best Researcher Award

Doctor | Tianjin University | China

Dr. Zhenyan Xia is a distinguished researcher specializing in surface engineering, fluid dynamics, and nanomaterials, with a particular focus on the interaction of liquids with super hydrophobic surfaces. His research explores the intricate dynamics of droplet impact, energy dissipation, and wetting behavior on micro- and nano-structured materials, contributing significantly to advancements in energy-efficient coatings and functional material design. Over the course of his scientific career, Dr. Xia has authored and co-authored 175 peer-reviewed publications that collectively have received 25 academic documents, reflecting his growing influence in materials science and fluid mechanics. His work, such as studies on the “effect of super hydrophobic surfaces with circular rings on droplet impact” and “nanodroplet contact dynamics on square ridges,” has advanced theoretical and computational understanding of wetting phenomena at both macro and nanoscale levels. With an h-index of 7, Dr. Xia’s research output demonstrates both consistency and impact. He has actively collaborated with 37 international co-authors, fostering cross-disciplinary research that bridges materials science, computational modeling, and applied physics. His studies, have practical implications for microfluidic systems, anti-icing technologies, and self-cleaning materials. Dr. Xia’s academic contributions extend beyond publications; they represent a meaningful impact on industrial and environmental applications by promoting sustainable technologies through advanced material surface engineering. His research continues to inspire innovations in energy systems and fluid-material interaction science on a global scale.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Shi, H., Hou, X., Xu, H., Bai, Y., & Xia, Z. (2024). An analysis of the contact time of nanodroplets impacting super hydrophobic surfaces with square ridges. Computational Materials Science.

2. Tai, Y., Xu, H., Bai, Y., Li, L., Wang, S., & Xia, Z. (2022). Experimental investigation of the impact of viscous droplets on super hydrophobic surfaces. Physics of Fluids.

3. Tai, Y., Zhao, Y., Guo, X., Li, L., Wang, S., & Xia, Z. (2021). Research on the contact time of a bouncing microdroplet with lattice Boltzmann method. Physics of Fluids.

4. Xia, Z. (2025). The effect of super hydrophobic surfaces with circular ring on the contact time of droplet impact. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects.

Nida Kanwal l Micro Needling | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Nida Kanwal | Micro Needling | Best Researcher Award
Student | National University Of Medical Sciences | Pakistan

Ms. Nida Kanwal is a dedicated researcher currently serving as a Research Assistant in Virology at the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS), Rawalpindi, Pakistan. She holds a Master’s degree in Microbiology and Immunology  from NUMS and a BS (Hons) in Doctor of Medical Laboratory Sciences (2016–2020) from the University of Lahore, Islamabad Campus. Her research focuses primarily on molecular virology, with expertise in RNA and DNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, qPCR, and molecular characterization of viral genes. Dr. Kanwal has contributed to several national and international conferences, including the ANSO-PAS-MAAP Conference on Pandemic Preparedness and the International Conference on Traditional Medicine. She has co-authored a publication titled “Hantavirus: an overview and advancements in therapeutic approaches for infection” in Frontiers in Microbiology  and is currently working on a study involving the identification and molecular characterization of Dengue virus NS1 and NS2 genes from recent outbreaks in Pakistan. Throughout her academic and professional journey, she has received recognition for her active participation in scientific workshops and poster presentations, including campaigns on dengue awareness and biosafety. Her interests lie in infectious disease research, emerging viral pathogens, and molecular diagnostics. Dr. Kanwal continues to expand her expertise through collaborative research and scientific contributions, aspiring to play a key role in advancing global health and virology. She has 20 citations from 3 publications with an H-index of 2.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Afzal, S., Ali, L., Batool, A., Afzal, M., Kanwal, N., Hassan, M., Safdar, M., Ahmad, A., & Yang, J. (2023). Hantavirus: An overview and advancements in therapeutic approaches for infection. Frontiers in Microbiology.

2. Afzal, S., Ali, L., Batool, A., Kanwal, N., Hassan, M., Safdar, M., Ahmad, A., & Yang, J. (In process). Identification and molecular characterization of NS1 and NS2 genes of dengue virus from two mini outbreaks (2022–2023) in Pakistan.

3. Afzal, S. (In preparation). Molecular and structural insights into dengue virus non-structural proteins from Pakistani clinical isolates for the identification of novel antiviral targets.

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Ali Rafe | Coacervation Of plant proteins | Young Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Ali Rafe | Coacervation Of Plant Proteins | Young Researcher Award

Professor In Food Engineering | Research Institute Of Food Sciecne And Technology | Iran

Prof. Dr. Ali Rafe is a distinguished researcher at the Research Institute of Food Science and Technology in Mashhad, Iran, recognized for his pioneering contributions to food chemistry, colloid science, and biopolymer engineering. With an extensive research portfolio comprising 76 peer-reviewed publications and over 2,065 citations, Dr. Rafe has achieved an impressive h-index of 28, underscoring the global influence and consistent impact of his scholarly work. His interdisciplinary research focuses on the physicochemical properties, coacervation mechanisms, and structural dynamics of food macromolecules, advancing sustainable innovations in food formulation and preservation. Through collaborative projects with over 1,600 international co-authors, he has fostered significant cross-border research partnerships, reinforcing Iran’s leadership in food science research. Dr. Rafe’s studies not only contribute to academic advancement but also hold broad societal relevance enhancing food quality, shelf-life, and nutrition security in developing and developed regions alike. As an active contributor to global scientific dialogues, his work is frequently cited by experts in food technology, biochemistry, and nanomaterials, reflecting interdisciplinary reach and long-term scientific value. Beyond his research output, Dr. Rafe has participated in funded research initiatives, guided emerging scientists, and contributed to the scholarly community through peer review and editorial engagements. His continued commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence positions him as a leading voice in contemporary food science, inspiring sustainable research approaches that bridge laboratory science with real-world applications.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Publications

1. Ghorbani, A., Rafe, A., Hesarinejad, M. A., & Lorenzo, J. M. (2025). Effect of pH and protein to polysaccharide ratio on coacervation of sesame protein isolate–   Tragacanth gum: Structure–rheology function. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.

2. Sedighi, R., Rafe, A., Rajabzadeh, G., & Pardakhty, A. (2025). Development and characterization of calcium ion‐enhanced nanophytosomes encapsulating   pomegranate fruit extract. Food Science & Nutrition.

3. Ghorbani, A., Rafe, A., Hesarinejad, M. A., & Lorenzo, J. M. (2025). Impact of pH on the physicochemical, structural, and techno‐functional properties of sesame   protein isolate. Food Science & Nutrition.

4. Yousefi, M., Arianfar, A., Hakimzadeh, V., & Rafe, A. (2025). Enhancing the texture and sensory properties of pickled cucumbers with different brine solutions. Foods.

5. Ataollahi Eshkour, M., Ghorbani‐HasanSaraei, A., Rafe, A., Shahidi, S. A., & Naghizadeh Raeisi, S. (2023). Effect of calcium salts on the firmness and   physicochemical and sensorial properties of Iranian black olive cultivars. Foods.

 

 

Nagwa  Lbrahim Abu-Zahra | Antioxidants | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nagwa Ibrahim Abu-Zahra | Antioxidants | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | Animal Health Research Institute | Egypt

Dr. Nagwa Ibrahim Saad Abu-Zahra is a distinguished researcher at the Animal Health Research Institute (AHRI), Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt, specializing in fish immunology, aquatic toxicology, and aquaculture health management. She earned her academic degrees in veterinary and animal sciences, building a strong foundation for her career in aquatic animal health. Her research primarily explores the impacts of pharmaceuticals, natural compounds, and environmental stressors on the physiology, immunity, and pathology of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and other aquatic species. Dr. Abu-Zahra has authored more than ten publications indexed in the Web of Science, including high-impact studies such as Impacts of florfenicol on immunity, antioxidant activity, and histopathology of Oreochromis niloticus: a potential protective effect of dietary spirulina platensis (Veterinary Research Communications, 2024) and Azolla pinnata mitigates pendimethalin induced immunotoxicity and oxidative stress in Oreochromis niloticus (Scientific Reports, 2025). Her work has been cited widely, contributing to an H-index of 3, with research spanning nutritional immunomodulation, nanotechnology applications, and mitigation of aquatic pollutants. In recognition of her expertise, Dr. Abu-Zahra has served as a peer reviewer for more than 20 manuscripts across leading journals such as Aquaculture International (Springer Nature), Scientific Reports (Nature Publishing Group), and Journal of Applied Aquaculture (Taylor & Francis). She has also contributed reviews for regional journals, highlighting her commitment to advancing global and local aquaculture research. With a growing academic footprint and dedication to sustainable aquaculture practices, Dr. Abu-Zahra continues to play a pivotal role in bridging veterinary science and aquatic environmental health. He has authored 8 publications indexed in Web of Science, accumulating over 35 citations with an H-index of 3.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Abu-Zahra, N. I. S., Abdelatty, A., Soliman, S., Ghoniem, A. M., Gouda, M., & Elsherief, M. F. (2025). Betaine attenuates chronic azoxystrobin toxicity in Oreochromis niloticus: Hemato-biochemical, antioxidant, immunological, genotoxic, and histological insights. Aquatic Toxicology.

2. Abu-Zahra, N. I. S., Atia, A. A., Elseify, M. M., Abass, M. E., & Soliman, S. (2025). Dietary Pelargonium sidoides extract mitigates thermal stress in Oreochromis niloticus: Physiological and immunological insights. Veterinary Research Communications.

3. Abu-Zahra, N. I. S., Gouda, M., Elseify, M. M., Abass, M. E., El-Gohary, M. S., & El-sokary, E. T. (2025). Azolla pinnata mitigates pendimethalin induced immunotoxicity, oxidative stress and histopathological changes in Oreochromis niloticus. Scientific Reports.

4. El-Gammal, G. A., Ali, G. I. E., Saif, A. S., Elbaz, S., Fadl, S. E., & Abu-Zahra, N. I. S. (2025). The immunomodulatory and antioxidative effects of curcumin-supplemented diets against the isolated Aeromonas hydrophila in Oreochromis niloticus. Fish & Shellfish Immunology.

5. Abu-Zahra, N. I. S., ElShenawy, A. M., Ali, G. I. E., Al-sokary, E. T., Mousa, M. A., & Abd El-Hady, H. A. M. (2024). Mentha piperita powder enhances the biological response, growth performance, disease resistance, and survival of Oreochromis niloticus infected with Vibrio alginolyticus. Aquaculture International.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Radim Vrzal | Molecular biology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Radim Vrzal | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Department Of Cell Biology And Genetics | Palacky University | Czech Republic

Doc. Ing. Radim Vrzal, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic. He earned his M.Sc. in Biochemistry from the Institute of Chemical Technology in Prague (1998–2003) and completed a cotutelle Ph.D. in Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry jointly at Palacký University and INSERM U632, CNRS, Montpellier, France (2003–2007). Dr. Vrzal’s research focuses on the biological activity of natural and synthetic compounds, ligand-activated nuclear receptors (AhR, AR, PXR, VDR, GR), drug metabolism, cytotoxicity, cellular signaling, and human intestinal organoid models, with a special interest in prostate cancer. He has served as corresponding author on several high-impact studies, including recent works in Biochimie, Nature Communications, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences. He has led and contributed to multiple national and international grants, including projects on MAP kinase signaling and post-translational regulation of CYP3A4, and currently serves as principal investigator on cancer therapeutics research supported by the League Against Cancer Prague. Dr. Vrzal has supervised over 40 bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. theses, and regularly lectures on hematology, human genetics, and toxicology. His academic contributions and mentorship have significantly advanced understanding of xenobiotic receptor signaling and its implications for pharmacotherapy and oncology. He has authored 87 publications indexed in Web of Science, accumulating over 2,147 citations with an H-index of 28.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Vrzal, R., Grycová, A., & Vrzalová, A. (2025). Skin-targeted AhR activation by microbial and synthetic indoles: Insights from the AhaRaCaT reporter cell line. Toxicology Letters.

2. Vrzalová, A., & Vrzal, R. (2025). Orchestra of ligand-activated transcription factors in the molecular symphony of SERPINE 1 / PAI-1 gene regulation. Biochimie.

3. Vrzalová, A., Vrzal, R., Nádvorník, P., Šebela, M., & Dvořák, Z. (2024). Modulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity by halogenated indoles. Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry.

4. Vrzal, R., Marcalíková, A., Krasulová, K., Zemánková, L., & Dvořák, Z. (2023). Jasmone is a ligand-selective allosteric antagonist of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

5. Ondrová, K., Zůvalová, I., Vyhlídalová, B., Krasulová, K., Miková, E., Vrzal, R., Nádvorník, P., Kopečná, M., Kopečný, D., Šebela, M., et al. (2023). Monoterpenoid aryl hydrocarbon receptor allosteric antagonists protect against ultraviolet skin damage in female mice. Nature Communications.