Yi Sun | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award China

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yi Sun | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

China Pharmaceutical University China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yi Sun embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Nanjing Medical University (2006–2010), where she laid the foundation for her future work in pharmaceutical sciences. Her academic rigor led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Pharmacology at the prestigious Peking University (2010–2016), where she cultivated a strong grounding in pharmacological mechanisms and experimental therapeutics. These formative years solidified her dedication to neuropharmacology and translational medicine.

🏛️ Professional Endeavors

Dr. Sun’s academic career began in 2016 as a Lecturer at China Pharmaceutical University, where she steadily rose through the ranks. In 2024, she was appointed both as an Associate Professor and a Xingyao Associate Researcher at the same institution, reflecting her dual impact in both research and education. Her work spans across pharmacological research, drug discovery, and neurodegenerative disease mechanisms, with a continual commitment to institutional growth and student mentorship.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Sun’s core research revolves around the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway, especially in relation to Alzheimer’s disease, type 2 diabetes, and cognitive dysfunction. She has successfully led multiple grants, including a National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) project (81703520) focusing on the role of Nrf2 in Alzheimer’s pathogenesis, and a Key R&D Program of Ningxia grant (2019BFG02017) on sulfonamide lead compounds for cognitive disorders. Her current ongoing project investigates the antidepressant mechanisms of Keap1-Nrf2 protein interaction inhibitors. This demonstrates her keen interest in translational medicine, targeting neurological and metabolic dysfunctions.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Sun has made notable contributions to both scientific research and educational innovation. Her awards, such as the Special Prize in the National College Pharmacy Teaching Competitions and the First Prize in multiple ideological and political teaching contests, mark her as a leader in pedagogical innovation. Her research not only advances pharmacological science but also addresses pressing societal health challenges like aging-related cognitive decline.

📚 Academic Citations & Editorial Contributions

While specific citation metrics aren’t listed, Dr. Sun’s work has been recognized by national funding bodies and institutional stakeholders. Her editorial board roles in textbooks such as “Physiological Pharmacology” and “Pharmacology Experiment”, as well as her involvement with the journal Central South Pharmacy as a young editor, highlight her influence in shaping academic literature and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

🛠️ Technical Skills & Research Methods

Dr. Sun possesses comprehensive expertise in pharmacodynamic modeling, in vivo animal studies, cognitive function assays, and drug target interaction studies. Her work consistently employs molecular pharmacology techniques and biochemical pathway analyses, particularly targeting the Keap1-Nrf2 interaction. These technical proficiencies have allowed her to drive forward both mechanistic and applied pharmacological research.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Dr. Sun’s teaching portfolio is both diverse and decorated. She has received accolades including the “Teaching Newcomer Award” and the Best Style Award from China Pharmaceutical University. Her projects such as “Pharmacology Progress” and the “Pharmacology Course Ideological and Political Teaching Exploration” demonstrate a commitment to educational reform and the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) model. Additionally, she has been actively involved in textbook editing, MOOC development, and online course delivery, reflecting her adaptability in both traditional and modern teaching platforms.

🧑‍🎓 Student Mentorship and Development

Her mentorship record includes provincial-level projects under the College Students Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program, showcasing her role in fostering student-led research. Notably, she guided a project on RIPK1 inhibitors and cognitive dysfunction, aligning with her research interests and encouraging translational thinking among students.

🧬 Academic and Scientific Community Engagement

Dr. Sun plays a vital role in China’s academic pharmacological landscape. She serves as a Youth Committee Member of the Cardiovascular and Renal Pharmacology Committees of the Chinese Pharmacological Society, and is also affiliated with the Lingzhi Professional Committee of the Chinese Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine. These affiliations emphasize her interdisciplinary approach to medicine, integrating Western and traditional Chinese pharmaceutical sciences.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Sun’s work bridges molecular pharmacology, clinical relevance, and teaching innovation. Her current research and teaching reforms position her as a forward-looking scholar, aiming to integrate scientific discovery with educational excellence. Her ongoing and future contributions are expected to advance therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases, and shape the next wave of pharmacology education in China and beyond.

📖Notable Publications

Design of anti-depressant phosphodiester amino acidic Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction inhibitors
Authors: Yi Sun*, Jue Wang*, Wenxin Ding*, Qingqing Qin*, Rui Wang, Ruizhi Yu, Jianyu Yan, Ruilin Hou, Guodong Liu, Xiangming Cai, Zhuo Qu, Wannian Zhang, Jianqiang Yu, Chengguo Xing, Chunlin Zhuang#
Journal: Redox Biology
Year: 2025

A potent phosphodiester Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction inhibitor as the efficient treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Yi Sun*, Lijuan Xu*, Dongpeng Zheng, Jue Wang, Guodong Liu, Zixin Mo, Chao Liu, Wannian Zhang, Jianqiang Yu, Chengguo Xing, Ling He#, Chunlin Zhuang#
Journal: Redox Biology
Year: 2023

Discovery of a trifluoromethoxy cyclopentanone benzothiazole receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) inhibitor as the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yi Sun*, Lijuan Xu*, Hongming Shao, Danni Quan, Zixin Mo, Jue Wang, Wannian Zhang, Jianqiang Yu, Chunlin Zhuang#, Ke Xu#
Journal: Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
Year: 2022

Adenosine A2A receptor antagonist SCH58261 improves the cognitive function in Alzheimer’s disease model mice through activation of Nrf2 via an autophagy-dependent pathway
Authors: Yi Sun*, Chao Liu*, Ling He#
Journal: Antioxidants & Redox Signaling
Year: 2024

Direct inhibition of Keap1-Nrf2 Protein-Protein interaction as a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Yi Sun*, Jiaxuan Huang*, Yufei Chen, Hao Shang, Wannian Zhang, Jianqiang Yu, Ling He, Chengguo Xing, Chunlin Zhuang#
Journal: Bioorganic Chemistry
Year: 2020

 

Mingguo Zhou | Chemical Biology | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Prof. Mingguo Zhou | Chemical Biology | Outstanding Scientist Award

Nanjing Agricultural University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Prof. Mingguo Zhou’s academic journey began at Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU), where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Plant Protection. He quickly advanced to an academic career, starting as an Assistant for teaching and research in Plant Pathology at NAU. Over the following years, he progressed to Lecturer and then Associate Professor in the same department. His outstanding academic trajectory led him to a full Professorship, where he specialized in Plant Pathology and Pesticide Science. He currently holds the position of Outstanding Professor at NAU.

Professional Endeavors 🏆

Prof. Zhou’s dedication to advancing knowledge in Plant Pathology took him beyond the academic confines of NAU. He worked on several significant international collaborations, including postdoctoral research at prestigious institutions such as the University of Bristol (UK), University of Bari (Italy), and Michigan State University (USA), amongst others. His academic appointments and research stints globally reflect his commitment to international scientific cooperation and the advancement of plant protection. Notably, he chaired the Plant Disease Chemical Control Committee of the Chinese Society for Plant Pathology and has led various committees, including the Fungicide Committee of the China Association of Pesticide Development and Application.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌱

Prof. Zhou’s research focuses on the intersection of plant pathology and pesticide science, with an emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices and disease management strategies. His expertise has contributed to significant advancements in pesticide resistance management and the chemical control of plant diseases. His leadership in plant pathology societies and as a member of government advisory groups has directly influenced agricultural policies. Over his career, he has fostered collaborations that resulted in numerous advancements in both theoretical and practical aspects of plant disease management.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Prof. Zhou’s influence extends far beyond the academic and scientific community. His participation in high-level advisory roles has shaped national agricultural strategies. He is widely recognized as a leading authority in plant pathology, not only in China but globally. His research has significantly impacted agricultural practices, disease control methods, and pesticide management strategies worldwide, promoting the health and sustainability of global crop systems.

Academic Cites 📚

Throughout his career, Prof. Zhou’s work has received numerous citations, underscoring the importance and relevance of his research. His influence in the field is reflected in his role as an editor for several scientific journals and his advisory positions in scientific committees. His numerous honors, including national awards and recognition for contributions to science and technology, highlight his impactful academic legacy. His continued involvement in both research and education ensures his contributions will shape the field for many years to come.

Technical Skills 🛠️

Prof. Zhou has extensive technical expertise in plant pathology, particularly in the areas of pesticide resistance, chemical control of plant diseases, and fungicide development. His in-depth knowledge of plant protection technologies has been fundamental in advancing both research and practical applications in agricultural pest management. His collaborative efforts with international researchers have further expanded his technical proficiency and contributed to the development of innovative solutions for pest control.

Teaching Experience 👨‍🏫

Prof. Zhou has made significant contributions to the education and mentorship of students at Nanjing Agricultural University, where he has guided numerous graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and PhD candidates in their academic journeys. His role as a National Excellent Key Teacher and his recognition for excellence in teaching highlight his dedication to fostering the next generation of plant pathologists. His ability to impart knowledge and encourage critical thinking has helped shape the careers of many students who have gone on to make their own contributions in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Prof. Zhou’s legacy is not just in the accolades he has received but in the lasting impact of his research and teaching. He has mentored and inspired a new generation of researchers, and his leadership in plant pathology and pesticide science has advanced the discipline. Looking ahead, Prof. Zhou is focused on continuing his research into sustainable pest management solutions and influencing policies that promote environmentally friendly agricultural practices. His ongoing work ensures that future agricultural systems will be more resilient, sustainable, and capable of addressing the challenges posed by global climate change and pesticide resistance.

Honors and Awards 🏅

Prof. Zhou has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to science with numerous prestigious awards, including the Special Subsidy from the State Council of China, the National Excellent Key Teacher award, and several Science and Technology Awards from the State Council and Ministry of Education. His work continues to be celebrated for its depth, innovation, and global significance in plant pathology and pesticide science.

📖Notable Publications