Laila Jaragh-Alhadad | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Assist. Prof. Dr. Laila Jaragh-Alhadad | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Kuwait University | Kuwait

Dr. Laila Jaragh-Alhadad is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Kuwait University, with extensive expertise in clinical bio-analytical chemistry and anticancer drug discovery. She earned her Ph.D. from Cleveland State University, USA, focusing on the in-vitro evaluation of HSP27 inhibitors through the HER2 pathway for ovarian cancer therapy. Prior to that, she received her M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Chemistry from Kuwait University, specializing in petroleum chemistry. Dr. Jaragh-Alhadad’s research centers on the synthesis, characterization, and biological evaluation of novel anticancer agents that target key cancer-related proteins such as HSP27, HER2, and tubulin. Her work integrates both in silico and in vitro approaches to design dual-targeted therapies that aim to overcome drug resistance and enhance therapeutic efficacy in female cancers. She is also a pioneer in developing nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems using low-density lipoprotein (LDL), liposomes, and cholesterol conjugates to improve drug specificity and reduce systemic toxicity. She has led several competitive research grants supported by Kuwait University’s Research Sector, including projects on dual HSP27-HER2 inhibitors, triazole derivatives, and novel SIRT2 inhibitors. Her research output includes over 23 peer-reviewed publications indexed in Scopus, with 303 total citations across 275 documents, and an H-index of 12, reflecting the scientific impact and relevance of her work in molecular oncology and nanotechnology-based therapeutics. In recognition of her contributions, Dr. Jaragh-Alhadad has received numerous honors, including Best Research Awards at international conferences in Oxford, the USA , and the International Chemistry Research Awards. She is also a recipient of the Distinguished Teaching Award from Kuwait University. Dr. Jaragh-Alhadad serves as a national and international editor for the Kuwait Journal of Science and Nanotechnology. She holds memberships in several professional organizations, including the Kuwait Chemical Society and the American Institute of Professional Studies.

Profiles : Scopus | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Saleh, M. M., El-Moselhy, T., El-Bastawissy, E., Ibrahim, M. A. A., Sayed, S. R. M., Hegazy, M.-E. F., Efferth, T., Jaragh-Alhadad, L. A., & Sidhom, P. A. (2023). The mystery of titan hunter: Rationalized striking of the MAPK pathway via newly synthesized 6‐Indolylpyridone‐3‐Carbonitrile derivatives. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 259, 115675.

Elkamhawy, A., Jaragh-Alhadad, L., Mekheimer, R. A., Abdullah, O., Abd-Elmonem, M., Moustafa, M. S., Abdel-Hameed, A., Mohamed, T. M., & Sadek, K. U. (2023). Visible-light-assisted base-catalyzed, one-pot synthesis of highly functionalized cinnolines. Green Processing and Synthesis, 12, 20230121.

Zaky, O. S., Hisham, M., Abd-Elmonem, M., Yahia, R., Jaragh-Alhadad, L. A., Mekheimer, R. A., Abuo-Rahma, G. E. A., Moustafa, M. S., Ebied, M. M., & Sadek, K. U. (2025). A novel one-pot microwave-assisted green synthesis of pyridinyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine hybrids as potent antimicrobial agents. BMC Chemistry, 19, 200.

Jaragh-Alhadad, L. A. (2025). Nano LDL drug delivery systems of triazole derivatives: Synthesis, characterization, anticancer evaluation and in silico investigation targeting HER2 and β-tubulin proteins. Andrology, 14(1), Article 1000351.

Zaky, O. S., Hisham, M., Abd Elmonem, M., Yahia, R., Jaragh-Alhadad, L. A., Mekheimer, R. A., Abuo Rahma, G. E. A., Moustafa, M. S., Ebied, M. M., & Sadek, K. U. (2025). A novel one-pot microwave-assisted green synthesis of pyridinyl-1,3,5-triazine-2,4-diamine hybrids as potent antimicrobial agents. BMC Chemistry, 19, 200.

Rosaria Saletti | Chemical Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Prof. Rosaria Saletti | Chemical Biology | Best Researcher Award

University of Catania | Italy

Prof. Rosaria Saletti is an Associate Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Catania, where she leads the Organic Mass Spectrometry Laboratory within the Department of Chemical Sciences. Graduating cum laude in Chemistry from the same university, Prof. Saletti has established herself as an expert in mass spectrometry, proteomics, and protein structural characterization. Her research is centered on the application of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) techniques for the analysis of proteins in various biological and food matrices. Her investigations have contributed significantly to the comparative proteomics of cereal kernels, characterization of milk proteins, and the study of VDAC (Voltage-Dependent Anion Channel) proteins. Notably, her work has helped clarify the molecular underpinnings of allergenicity in milk and advanced the understanding of disulfide bonding and post-translational modifications in mitochondrial proteins. Prof. Saletti has participated in numerous national and European research projects, including the Italian Human ProteomeNet (FIRB), SAMOTHRACE, and multiple PRIN projects (2006, 2022). She also contributes to international networks such as the European Network CHRX CT94-0425 and FAIR CT96-1170. Her industry collaborations include partnerships with SIFI SpA, Wyeth-Lederle, and Zoetis Manufacturing Italia. She is the author of over 100 publications indexed in Scopus, with 2,008 citations and an h-index of 29 (Scopus) and 2,650 citations with an h-index of 31 on Google Scholar. Prof. Saletti has also co-authored several book chapters on mass spectrometry and proteomics and holds editorial roles in journals like Foods and Current Clinical Pharmacology. Her international collaborations span renowned institutions such as the University of Mainz, Technical University of Denmark, and Rothamsted Research, UK. She is an active member of the Italian Chemical Society, Italian Proteomic Association, and European Proteomics Association. Prof. Saletti’s scientific rigor and contributions to analytical chemistry have made her a respected figure in proteomic research worldwide.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid | Google scholar

Featured Publications

Pittalà, M. G. G., Cucina, A., Conti-Nibali, S., Cunsolo, V., Di Francesco, A., Saletti, R., & Reina, S. (2025). Structural characterization of intra- and intermolecular disulfide bonds in voltage-dependent anion channel 3 (VDAC3) protein from Rattus norvegicus by high-resolution mass spectrometry. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, 1–16.

Di Francesco, A., Lanzoni, A., De Santis, M. A., Pittalà, M. G. G., Saletti, R., Cunsolo, V., & Righetti, P. G. (2025). In-depth shotgun proteomic characterization of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.): A case study on the genotype Pascià grown using two water regimes. ACS Agricultural Science & Technology.

Pittalà, M. G. G., Reina, S., Cucina, A., Cunsolo, V., Guarino, F., Di Francesco, A., Saletti, R., & De Pinto, V. (2024). Intramolecular disulfide bridges in voltage-dependent anion channel 2 (VDAC2) protein from Rattus norvegicus revealed by high-resolution mass spectrometry. Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry, 35(7), 1422–1433.

Di Francesco, A., De Santis, M. A., Lanzoni, A., Pittalà, M. G. G., Saletti, R., & Cunsolo, V. (2024). Mass spectrometry characterization of the SDS-PAGE protein profile of legumins and vicilins from chickpea seed. Foods, 13(6), 887.

Pittalà, M. G. G., Di Francesco, A., Cucina, A., Saletti, R., Zilberstein, G., Zilberstein, S., Cappellini, E., & Righetti, P. G. (2023). Count Dracula resurrected: Proteomic analysis of Vlad III the Impaler’s documents by EVA technology and mass spectrometry. Analytical Chemistry, 95(34), 12732–12744.

Punginelli, D., Catania, V., Vazzana, M., Mauro, M., Spinello, A., Barone, G., Cunsolo, V., Saletti, R., Di Francesco, A., Arizza, V., & Schillaci, D. (2022). A novel peptide with antifungal activity from red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii. Antibiotics, 11(12), 1792.

 

Jiang Wu | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Analytical Chemistry

Prof. Jiang Wu | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Wenzhou Medical University | China

Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Jiang Wu began her academic journey in pharmaceutical sciences with a solid foundation in biology and chemistry, completing both undergraduate and doctoral studies at a leading Chinese university. Her early curiosity in material science and biomedical applications laid the groundwork for a lifelong interest in regenerative medicine. During her doctoral studies, she further enhanced her international academic exposure through a visiting research stint in the United States. This period catalyzed her exploration into biomaterials and biofunctional hydrogels research directions that would later become central to her career.

Professional Endeavors

Professor Wu embarked on her professional academic career as an assistant professor, quickly advancing through academic ranks due to her significant research output and dedication to teaching. She also gained international academic experience as a visiting professor in the United States, where she collaborated with global experts in drug delivery systems and regenerative medicine. Returning to China, she steadily rose through the academic hierarchy, eventually attaining full professorship. Her professional trajectory reflects a deep commitment to both institutional growth and global scientific collaboration.

Contributions and Research Focus

Professor Wu’s research contributions have significantly advanced the field of wound healing and regenerative medicine. Her core research interests revolve around three major themes: the underlying mechanisms of wound regeneration, the development of smart and functional biomaterials, and the design of hydrogel-based delivery systems. Her work frequently explores innovative uses of stimuli-responsive hydrogels, microneedles, and bioactive wound dressings to improve the treatment of diabetic wounds, burns, and spinal cord injuries. She has consistently focused on translational research bridging the gap between laboratory development and clinical application.

Impact and Influence

Professor Wu’s research has left a profound impact on the fields of biomedical engineering and pharmaceutics, particularly in the development of novel wound dressings and transdermal delivery systems. She has been instrumental in designing multifunctional materials that are both responsive to biological stimuli and effective in promoting tissue repair. Her work is often cited in studies related to polymer science, drug delivery, and regenerative therapies. Her influence is evident not only in academic literature but also in the development of practical medical solutions being explored for clinical applications.

Academic Citations 

Having authored over 40 high-impact publications in prestigious journals such as Advanced Healthcare Materials, Biomaterials, Small, and the Journal of Controlled Release, Professor Wu’s work has garnered widespread recognition. She frequently serves as a corresponding author, reflecting her leadership in collaborative research projects. Her publications are well-cited by peers, indicating the relevance and timeliness of her findings in fields ranging from material chemistry to tissue engineering. Her inclusion in regional talent and leadership programs further underlines her academic prestige.

Technical Skills

Professor Wu possesses deep technical expertise in polymer chemistry, nanofabrication, and biomaterial engineering. Her lab routinely employs techniques such as electrospinning, hydrogel synthesis, drug conjugation, and surface modification. She is proficient in the development of biodegradable scaffolds, microneedle systems, and zwitterionic hydrogels with tailored release profiles. These skills have allowed her to innovate across multiple domains, from antimicrobial dressings to spinal cord regeneration systems.

Teaching Experience and Mentorship

In parallel with her research, Professor Wu has been an active educator and mentor. She has taught both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in pharmaceutical sciences, materials science, and biomedical engineering. Known for fostering a research-driven learning environment, she has supervised numerous graduate theses and contributed to curriculum development. Many of her students have co-authored papers with her and gone on to pursue academic or industry careers, reflecting her dedication to shaping future scientists.

Awards and Honors

Professor Wu has received numerous honors for her academic excellence and leadership in science and technology. These include recognition by provincial and city-level government programs for leading talents and innovative researchers. Her appointment as a vice president for science and technology by a provincial authority highlights her influence in shaping regional innovation policy. These accolades underscore her dual role as a scholar and policy influencer.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Professor Wu’s legacy is characterized by a relentless pursuit of innovation in regenerative medicine and biomaterials. Her work has pushed boundaries in tissue engineering and smart material design, offering practical solutions for chronic wound care and therapeutic delivery. Looking ahead, she is poised to further impact the biomedical field through interdisciplinary collaborations, continued mentorship, and translational research aimed at clinical implementation. Her future endeavors are expected to focus on scalable biomaterials, personalized medicine approaches, and next-generation therapeutic platforms.

Notable Publications

General fabrication of bioactive dissolving microneedles from whole grain seeds derived starch for transdermal application

  • Authors: Zhang, J.; Xu, D.; Li, B.; Wang, K.; Ni, Y.; Xu, J.; Wu, J.; Li, X.; He, H.

  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

  • Year: 2025

Drug conjugates crosslinked bioresponsive hydrogel for combination therapy of diabetic wound

  • Authors: Zheng, M.; Song, W.; Huang, P.; Huang, Y.; Lin, H.; Zhang, M.; He, H.; Wu, J.

  • Journal: Journal of Controlled Release

  • Year: 2024

Bio-inspired aFGF modification functionalized piezoelectric chitosan films for promoting scald wound healing

  • Authors: Luo, Y.; Luo, H.; Yang, X.; Ding, X.; Wang, K.; Zhang, M.; Wei, J.; An, Y.; Xu, J.; He, H.; Wu, J.

  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

  • Year: 2024

Tissue-Adaptive BSA Hydrogel with Dual Release of PTX and bFGF Promotes Spinal Cord Injury Repair via Glial Scar Inhibition and Axon Regeneration

  • Authors: Zhu, S.; Wu, Q.; Ying, Y.; Mao, Y.; Lu, W.; Xu, J.; Cai, X.; He, H.; Wu, J.

  • Journal: Small

  • Year: 2024

Microneedle Patch for Transdermal Sequential Delivery of KGF-2 and aFGF to Enhance Burn Wound Therapy

  • Authors: He, H.; Huang, W.; Zhang, S.; Li, J.; Zhang, J.; Li, B.; Xu, J.; Luo, Y.; Shi, H.; Li, Y.; Xiao, J.; Ezekiel, O. C.; Li, X.; Wu, J.

  • Journal: Small

  • Year: 2024

Conclusion

Professor Jiang Wu stands as a distinguished scholar whose work bridges fundamental science and medical application. Her contributions to smart hydrogels, wound healing, and biomaterials reflect a harmonious blend of creativity, rigor, and purpose. With a strong publication record, a commitment to mentorship, and growing recognition in both national and international scientific communities, she is well-positioned to lead future advancements in pharmaceutical sciences and biomedical engineering. Her journey exemplifies the transformative potential of science when coupled with vision and dedication.