Dr. Shenglong Tan | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shenglong Tan | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Stomatological Hospital of Southern Medical University, China

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

ShengLong Tan’s journey in academia began with his enrollment at LuDong University, where he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Materials Chemistry (2007–2011). His undergraduate education laid a strong foundation in the principles of chemistry and materials science, sparking a keen interest in the development and application of innovative materials. Tan’s early work demonstrated his innate curiosity and drive to understand the fundamental properties and behaviors of materials, which would later define his career trajectory.

Continuing his academic journey, he pursued a Master’s degree in Materials Physics and Chemistry at Tianjin University of Science and Technology (2011–2014). During this time, Tan delved deeper into the physics of materials, exploring thermolysis parameters and kinetic studies in complex systems. His research on copolyamide 66 crystallization and thermodynamics revealed a meticulous approach to experimental design and analysis, reflecting his growing expertise in material science.

Fueled by his ambition to contribute to interdisciplinary advancements, Tan embarked on a PhD in Biomedical Engineering at the Huazhong University of Science and Technology (2014–2021). His doctoral research, combining materials science with biomedical applications, laid the groundwork for his future contributions to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Tan’s postdoctoral tenure at Southern Medical University (2021–present) further solidified his position as a leader in clinical medicine and biomaterials. His work has primarily focused on exploring the potential of odontoblast exosomes in regulating dental pulp stem cell differentiation and repairing pulpitis. Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, this project underscored his ability to integrate cellular biology with material science to address critical challenges in dental health.

A notable achievement in his professional journey is his leadership in a Youth Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (2022). His work on biomimetic mineralization has paved the way for enhanced degradation, absorption, and osteogenesis of monetite-based biomaterials, securing funding of 300,000 RMB. This project exemplifies his innovative approach to combining natural principles with synthetic advancements to drive impactful outcomes in bone repair.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Tan’s prolific research output reflects his unwavering commitment to advancing biomaterials for dental and bone applications. Some of his key contributions include:

  1. Dental Hypersensitivity Solutions: Dr. Tan has developed biphasic calcium phosphate materials with high acid-resistance stability for long-term treatment of dentin hypersensitivity. His innovative work, published in Dental Materials (2023), offers promising solutions for this widespread condition.
  2. Bone Tissue Engineering: His exploration of biomimetic non-collagenous proteins-calcium phosphate complexes has demonstrated superior osteogenesis by regulating macrophage IL-27 secretion. This research, published in Biomaterials (2024), highlights the therapeutic potential of these materials in promoting bone repair and regeneration.
  3. 3D-Printed Scaffolds: Dr. Tan’s involvement in the design of Bosutinib-laden 3D-printed zein scaffolds, which promote osteogenesis, showcases his expertise in leveraging cutting-edge printing technologies for advanced biomedical applications.
  4. Core-Shell Nanomaterials: His work on nano-hydroxyapatite-silica composites has offered groundbreaking insights into managing dentin hypersensitivity, emphasizing long-term stability and performance.

These contributions demonstrate a clear focus on biomaterials for dental health and bone regeneration, blending fundamental material science with clinical relevance.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Tan’s achievements have been widely recognized through multiple avenues:

  • Funding Support: Securing competitive grants such as the Youth Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China highlights his research credibility and innovation.
  • High-Impact Publications: With numerous papers in prestigious journals like Biomaterials, iScience, and ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, Dr. Tan has established himself as a prolific researcher in biomaterials and biomedical engineering.
  • Collaborative Endeavors: His co-authored works with leading researchers worldwide underscore his ability to engage in impactful collaborations.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Tan’s research has contributed significantly to the fields of dental health and bone regeneration. By addressing pressing clinical challenges, such as dentin hypersensitivity and bone defects, his work has directly influenced the development of more effective and accessible treatments. Beyond his technical contributions, Dr. Tan serves as a role model for aspiring scientists, demonstrating the power of interdisciplinary approaches in solving real-world problems.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Tan is poised to expand his influence in the biomaterials domain. His ongoing research on injectable bone cements with magnesium-containing microspheres highlights his dedication to innovation and practical application. His vision for the future includes:

  • Advancing the design of biomimetic materials for enhanced regenerative outcomes.
  • Establishing frameworks for clinical translation of lab-scale innovations.
  • Mentoring the next generation of scientists in pursuing interdisciplinary and impactful research.

Through his tireless dedication to research, education, and collaboration, Dr. Tan is shaping a legacy that bridges fundamental science with clinical practice, ensuring that his contributions will resonate for generations to come.

📝Notable Publications

A monetite/amorphous silica complex for long-term dentine hypersensitivity treatment through the acid stability and mineralization promoting effect of silica

Authors: Yifan Wang, Shangsi Chen, Shenglong Tan

Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry B

Year: 2024

3D-printed Mg-substituted hydroxyapatite/gelatin methacryloyl hydrogels encapsulated with PDA@DOX particles for bone tumor therapy and bone tissue regeneration

Authors: Shangsi Chen, Yue Wang, Junzhi Li, Haoran Sun, Ming-Fung Francis Siu, Shenglong Tan

Journal: International Journal of Bioprinting

Year: 2024

Bosutinib Laden Three-Dimensional Printed Zein Scaffolds Promote Osteogenesis

Authors: Xianghui Zou, Jingyao Yin, Qian Lei, Xinghong Luo, Shuoling Chen, Xiaoshan Yang, Shenglong Tan, Dandan Ma

Journal: ACS Applied Polymer Materials

Year: 2024

Multilayered Shape-Morphing Scaffolds with a Hierarchical Structure for Uterine Tissue Regeneration

Authors: Shangsi Chen, Shenglong Tan, Liwu Zheng, Min Wang

Journal: ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

Year: 2024

Structure and Properties of Gelatin Methacryloyl (GelMA) Synthesized in Different Reaction Systems

Authors: Shangsi Chen, Yue Wang, Jiahui Lai, Shenglong Tan, Wang M

Journal: Biomacromolecules

Year: 2023

Prof Keun-Ah Cheon | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Prof Keun-Ah Cheon | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Yonsei University College of Medicine, Severance Hospital, Seoul, South Korea

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Keun-Ah Cheon’s academic journey began at Yonsei University College of Medicine, one of South Korea’s most prestigious medical schools. She earned her Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree in 1994 after completing her six-year program, laying the foundation for her career in psychiatry. She pursued a Master’s degree in Medical Science from the same institution between 1996 and 1999. Her master’s thesis, titled “The Effect of Haloperidol on Regional Cerebral Blood Flow Assessed with 99m-Tc-ECD SPECT in Schizophrenic Patients,” reflected her early interest in understanding the neurological underpinnings of psychiatric disorders.

Dr. Cheon’s academic journey continued with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, also from Yonsei University, where she developed a diagnostic instrument for Korean children with ADHD and explored the genetic links between ADHD and the Dopamine D4 receptor gene (DRD4). This work was pivotal in expanding the understanding of ADHD in the South Korean context, aligning her research with both clinical practice and genetic psychiatry.

Professional Endeavors 🩺

Dr. Cheon’s professional career took off at Kwandong University College of Medicine, where she served as Assistant Professor and Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry from 2003 to 2008. Her leadership in this role set a strong foundation for her future endeavors. During this period, Dr. Cheon not only contributed to the academic community but also gained hands-on experience as the Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, solidifying her reputation as a leading expert in the field.

In 2009, Dr. Cheon expanded her horizons with a year-long visiting scholar position at the Developmental Neuroimaging Laboratory in the Center for Autism Research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, part of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. This experience exposed her to cutting-edge research in developmental neuroimaging, enabling her to apply advanced techniques and global perspectives to her work in South Korea.

Upon returning to Yonsei University College of Medicine, Dr. Cheon was promoted to Associate Professor in 2010, continuing to direct the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. In 2017, she was promoted to Professor, a position she continues to hold, making substantial contributions to psychiatric education and research.

Contributions and Research Focus 🧠

Dr. Cheon’s research interests span several critical areas of child and adolescent psychiatry, with a particular focus on developmental disorders such as ADHD and autism. Her early research centered on understanding the genetic foundations of ADHD, specifically investigating the association between ADHD and the Dopamine D4 receptor gene (DRD4). This focus on neurobiological mechanisms highlighted her commitment to bridging clinical psychiatry with molecular science.

As Director of the Severance Autism and Developmental Disorder Center since 2023, Dr. Cheon has expanded her research into autism spectrum disorders. Under her leadership, the center has become a hub for innovative research and treatment strategies, designated by South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare. This role also underscores her ability to translate research findings into real-world therapeutic interventions for children with developmental disorders.

Her contributions are not limited to clinical psychiatry and research; Dr. Cheon is actively involved in the development of diagnostic tools tailored to the South Korean population, reflecting her focus on culturally sensitive psychiatric care. She has made significant strides in improving the understanding of child and adolescent mental health issues in the local context, contributing to a body of work that has influenced national policies and practices.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Dr. Cheon’s dedication to the field has earned her numerous accolades. Since March 2024, she has been serving as the President of the Korean Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (KACAP), a prestigious role that recognizes her leadership and expertise in the field. Her election to this position is a testament to her influence and the respect she commands within the psychiatric community in South Korea.

Additionally, her leadership roles at Yonsei University and beyond have further solidified her reputation as a key figure in psychiatric research and education. As Deputy Director of the Institute of Behavioral Science in Medicine and Director of the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Cheon plays a crucial role in shaping psychiatric research and clinical practice.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Cheon’s influence extends beyond South Korea. Her work in neuroimaging, autism, and ADHD has earned international recognition, particularly her collaboration with the Center for Autism Research at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. This experience allowed her to integrate global best practices into her research and clinical work, contributing to improved diagnostic and treatment methodologies in South Korea.

As an educator, Dr. Cheon has mentored countless students, residents, and fellows in psychiatry, shaping the next generation of child and adolescent psychiatrists. Her role as a professor at Yonsei University has provided her with a platform to share her expertise and knowledge, influencing both clinical practice and psychiatric education.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Looking forward, Dr. Cheon’s contributions are poised to leave a lasting legacy in child and adolescent psychiatry. Her leadership at the Severance Autism and Developmental Disorder Center and her presidency at KACAP indicate that she will continue to be a driving force in shaping the future of psychiatric care and research in South Korea.

Her ongoing work in understanding the genetic basis of psychiatric disorders, combined with her commitment to improving diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions, will likely lead to groundbreaking advancements in the field. As a trailblazer in child and adolescent psychiatry, Dr. Cheon’s influence will undoubtedly continue to grow, ensuring her legacy as a leader in both South Korean and global psychiatry.

Conclusion 🔍

Dr. Keun-Ah Cheon’s career exemplifies a dedication to improving the understanding and treatment of psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. From her early academic pursuits at Yonsei University to her current leadership roles, her contributions to psychiatry have had a profound impact both nationally and internationally. Through her research, clinical work, and mentorship, Dr. Cheon has cemented her place as a pivotal figure in child and adolescent mental health, and her legacy will continue to shape the field for years to come.

📝Notable Publications

Prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in a total population sample

Authors: Y.S. Kim, B.L. Leventhal, Y.J. Koh, E. Fombonne, E. Laska, E.C. Lim, K.A. Cheon, et al.
Journal: American Journal of Psychiatry
Volume: 168
Issue: 9
Pages: 904-912
Year: 2011

Genomic relationships, novel loci, and pleiotropic mechanisms across eight psychiatric disorders

Authors: P.H. Lee, V. Anttila, H. Won, Y.C.A. Feng, J. Rosenthal, Z. Zhu, E.M. Tucker-Drob, et al.
Journal: Cell
Volume: 179
Issue: 7
Pages: 1469-1482.e11
Year: 2019

The reliability and validity of kiddie-schedule for affective disorders and schizophrenia-present and lifetime version-Korean version (K-SADS-PL-K)

Authors: Y.S. Kim, K.A. Cheon, B.N. Kim, S.A. Chang, H.J. Yoo, J.W. Kim, S.C. Cho, et al.
Journal: Yonsei Medical Journal
Volume: 45
Issue: 1
Pages: 81-89
Year: 2004

Characteristics of brains in autism spectrum disorder: structure, function and connectivity across the lifespan

Authors: S. Ha, I.J. Sohn, N. Kim, H.J. Sim, K.A. Cheon
Journal: Experimental Neurobiology
Volume: 24
Issue: 4
Pages: 273
Year: 2015

A comparison of DSM-IV pervasive developmental disorder and DSM-5 autism spectrum disorder prevalence in an epidemiologic sample

Authors: Y.S. Kim, E. Fombonne, Y.J. Koh, S.J. Kim, K.A. Cheon, B.L. Leventhal
Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Volume: 53
Issue: 5
Pages: 500-508
Year: 2014