Dr. Luciano Fusco | Immunology | Best Research Article Award

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Dr. Luciano Fusco | Immunology | Best Research Article Award

CONICET y UNNE, Argentina

Author Profile

Orcid 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Luciano Sebastian Fusco, born on January 2, 1986, in Corrientes, Argentina, has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for science and a commitment to understanding biochemical processes from an early stage in his career. He pursued his foundational studies at the National University of the Northeast (UNNE), where he earned his degree as a Biochemist in 2010. He continued on this academic trajectory, completing a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences at UNNE in 2015, a decision that marked a turning point in his scientific journey. During this period, Dr. Fusco began his in-depth exploration of snake venom toxicology and immunology—fields that would come to define his career. In addition to his formal degrees, he expanded his academic horizons by completing over 20 specialized postgraduate courses, focusing on immunotoxicology, proteomics, biotechnology, and pedagogical training for higher education, laying a solid foundation for both research and teaching.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Fusco currently serves as an Adjunct Researcher at CONICET—Argentina’s most prestigious scientific institution—and as a faculty member at UNNE’s Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences and Surveying. Over the past 15 years, he has cemented his place as an authority in snakebite toxicology, immunology, and protein chemistry, tackling one of the world’s most neglected tropical diseases. His work combines rigorous laboratory research with practical applications in public health, particularly in developing more effective antivenoms. Dr. Fusco’s scientific career includes strong collaborative links with leading international institutions such as UNICAMP, Fiocruz, and Butantan Institute in Brazil, and the Institute of Biomedicine of Valencia (IBV–CSIC) in Spain. These collaborations have enriched his scientific output and brought global perspectives into his lab in Argentina, positioning him as a bridge between Latin American and European scientific networks.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

At the heart of Dr. Fusco’s research is a relentless drive to innovate antivenom production techniques and make them more efficient, affordable, and widely available in regions where snakebites are a major health issue. His projects focus on immunological strategies that incorporate nanostructured adjuvants, aiming to enhance the body’s immune response and increase the efficacy of antivenoms. His groundbreaking investigations have led to the development of experimental antivenoms using novel adjuvants such as CpG-ODN and ascorbyl palmitate, combining cutting-edge immunology with tangible health benefits. He has authored or co-authored more than 15 peer-reviewed publications, contributing significantly to the academic discourse on venom immunogenicity, PLA2 enzyme inhibition, and venom component characterization.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Fusco’s scientific excellence has been consistently recognized through competitive funding and research support from institutions like CONICET, FONCYT, SGCyT, and the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTMH) in the UK. The RSTMH Early Career Grant he received in 2022 is a testament to his international credibility and the global relevance of his research. These accolades not only reflect the scientific value of his work but also acknowledge his growing leadership in the field of neglected diseases and biomedical innovation.

🌎 Impact and Influence

The societal relevance of Dr. Fusco’s research is profound. In regions such as Latin America, where snakebites are a significant public health burden, his work contributes to saving lives and improving the quality of emergency response systems. By pushing for more immunogenic and affordable antivenoms, he is directly addressing gaps in health equity. Moreover, his dedication to human resource development is notable; he has mentored doctoral students, undergraduate researchers, and research fellows, effectively shaping the next generation of biomedical scientists in Argentina. His interdisciplinary and collaborative approach encourages knowledge sharing across borders, institutions, and cultures.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Dr. Luciano Fusco is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the realm of immunotherapeutics and venom research. His scientific endeavors will likely continue to evolve, incorporating tools from biotechnology, nanomedicine, and systems biology to refine and revolutionize antivenom production. Equally important is his role as an educator and mentor, ensuring that the future of biochemical research in Argentina remains vibrant and globally connected. His work not only uplifts national scientific capacity but also aligns with global health priorities such as reducing mortality from neglected tropical diseases.

📝Notable Publications

Venomic and F(ab’)₂ antivenomic studies of Bothrops alternatus venom proteins

Author(s): Luciano S. Fusco, Emidio Beraldo-Neto, Juan J. Calvete, Libia Sanz, Laura C. Lanari, Carolina Lorente, Laura C. Leiva, Daniel Pimenta, Adolfo R. de Roodt, Davinia Pla
Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
Year: 2025

Evaluation of a nanostructured CpG-ODN/ascorbyl palmitate as a safe and effective adjuvant for anticrotalic PLA2 serum

Author(s): Luciano S. Fusco, Gisela L. Lopez, Franco Maslovski, Sofía Brignone, María G. Chaves, Juan J. Calvete, Yanet G. Franco, David Hernandez, Andrea Van de Velde, Constanza Marin et al.
Journal: Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Year: 2025

 Ascorbyl palmitate (ASC16) as a potential inhibitor of toxicity induced by Crotalus durissus terrificus venom

Author(s): Franco Maslovski, Emilio Angelina, María Alonso, Laura Leiva, Luciano Fusco
Journal: Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part C: Toxicology & Pharmacology
Year: 2024

Potential low-impact immunogen for the production of anti-bothropic serum: Bothrops alternatus venom treated with Na₂EDTA

Author(s): Gisela Lumila Lopez, Andrea Van de Velde, David Hernández, Soledad Bustillo, Laura Leiva, Luciano Sebastian Fusco
Journal: Toxicon
Year: 2024

 CpG-ODN formulated with a nanostructure as adjuvant for anticrotalic serum production. Studies in mice

Author(s): Luciano S. Fusco, María M. Pascual, David Hernandez, María F. Sánchez Vallecillo, María B. Arrieta, Gabriel Moron, Santiago Palma, Belkys A. Maletto, Laura C. Leiva
Journal: Toxicon
Year: 2022

Dr. Yiyuan Zheng | Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yiyuan Zheng | Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China

Author Profile

Scopus

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yiyuan Zheng’s journey into the world of medicine began with a strong foundational education in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Driven by a deep curiosity about the ancient wisdom of herbal remedies and natural healing, Dr. Zheng pursued higher education in TCM, laying a robust academic foundation. Her passion for blending tradition with modern science was evident from the outset, as she immersed herself in both classical texts of Chinese medicine and emerging scientific research.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zheng serves as an associate researcher and associate professor at Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, where she seamlessly bridges clinical practice with research. Her dual roles allow her to not only guide patients towards better health through TCM techniques but also to explore and validate these techniques through rigorous scientific investigation. Her professional journey is marked by a commitment to enhancing the understanding and application of TCM for chronic metabolic diseases, particularly fatty liver and obesity.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

A defining aspect of Dr. Zheng’s work is her focus on the integrative application of traditional Chinese medicine techniques, including herbal tea formulations, aromatherapy, and acupoint embedding. Her research primarily targets the prevention and treatment of chronic metabolic diseases such as fatty liver disease and obesity. Notably, she has conducted extensive clinical and foundational research on the efficacy of traditional Chinese herbal tea in addressing metabolic dysfunction-related fatty liver disease. This work has provided valuable insights into the therapeutic potential of herbal medicine, bridging the gap between traditional practices and modern healthcare.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Zheng’s dedication to TCM research has earned her recognition within the medical community. As an associate professor and researcher at a prestigious institution, she has established herself as an expert in the field. Her contributions have been acknowledged through various academic and professional accolades, and she is frequently invited to share her insights at national and international conferences, contributing to the global understanding of TCM.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Beyond her direct research contributions, Dr. Zheng’s work has significantly impacted the field of TCM, particularly in the area of metabolic diseases. By validating the efficacy of traditional techniques through clinical research, she has strengthened the credibility of TCM within modern medical practice. Her research has also informed clinical guidelines, benefiting countless patients suffering from chronic metabolic disorders.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Yiyuan Zheng’s commitment to advancing traditional Chinese medicine is evident in her ongoing research and patient care. As she continues to explore the integrative application of TCM for metabolic health, her work is poised to further enhance the understanding of how ancient wisdom can complement modern medicine. Her legacy will be defined by her contributions to evidence-based TCM practice, her role in educating the next generation of TCM practitioners, and her unwavering dedication to patient well-being.”)

📝Notable Publications

📄 Ursolic Acid Modulates Estrogen Conversion to Relieve Inflammation in Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatotic Liver Disease via HSD17B14

Authors: Simin Gu, Hui Zhang, Zhekun Xiong, Yiyuan Zheng, Yong Li

Journal: Journal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology

Year: 2025

📄 Research Progress on the Molecular Mechanisms of Saikosaponin D in Various Diseases (Review)

Authors: Simin Gu, Yiyuan Zheng, Chong Chen, Jing Liu, Yanping Wang, Junmin Wang, Yong Li

Journal: International Journal of Molecular Medicine

Year: 2025

Krystal Cervantes-Kidney Transplantation-Best Researcher Award 

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Dr. Krystal Cervantes-Kidney Transplantation-Best Researcher Award 

National Kidney and Transplant Institute-Philippines 

Author profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

Krystal C. Cervantes began her academic journey with a strong foundation in the sciences. Graduating as a High School Honor Student from Sacred Heart College in Lucena City, Quezon, she went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Pre-med Physics at De La Salle University – Manila. Her commitment to academic excellence was evident with her consistent inclusion in the Dean's List, showcasing her dedication and intellectual prowess.

Determined to make a significant impact in the medical field, Krystal entered the prestigious University of Santo Tomas for her Doctor of Medicine degree. Her four-year journey at UST was marked by an impressive Cumulative Grade Point Average of 85.63, a testament to her academic prowess and dedication to her chosen path.

Professional Endeavors

Following her successful completion of medical school, Krystal embarked on a series of professional experiences that showcased her versatility and commitment to healthcare. From her role as an Examining Physician at Halcyon Marine Healthcare Systems, where she assessed the health condition of individuals prior to employment, to her time as a Post Medical Doctor at Ship to Shore Medical Assist, diagnosing and treating repatriated patients, Krystal demonstrated a holistic approach to patient care.

Her extensive Internal Medicine Residency at The Medical City, with a stint as Chief Resident, further solidified her clinical expertise. Krystal's commitment to continuous learning and specialization led her to become a certified Adult Nephrology Fellow at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, where she eventually served as Chief Fellow, highlighting her leadership and proficiency in the field.

Contributions and Research Focus

Krystal actively contributed to the advancement of medical knowledge through her involvement in various research initiatives. As the principal investigator in a retrospective matched cohort study on the outcomes of kidney transplantation among COVID-19 recovered patients, she showcased her dedication to understanding the complexities of contemporary health challenges.

Additionally, her role as a co-investigator in the nationwide PCP Ph COVID-19 Study reflects her commitment to addressing the ongoing pandemic's clinical aspects. Noteworthy contributions also include her participation in the development of the Philippine Tuberculosis Clinical Practice Guidelines, specifically focusing on gastrointestinal extrapulmonary tuberculosis.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Krystal garnered several accolades and recognitions. As the Most Outstanding Intern in Emergency Medicine at Manila Doctors Hospital during her post-graduate medical internship, she demonstrated exceptional skills and dedication.

Her consistent inclusion as an Academic Scholar during various stages of her education, including her time at the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery and De La Salle University – Manila, attests to her sustained commitment to academic excellence.

Impact and Influence on Kidney Transplantation

Krystal's impact extends beyond her clinical roles, evident in her role as a Guidelines Coordinator for the ongoing revision of the Philippine Tuberculosis Clinical Practice Guidelines. Her leadership and coordination skills were crucial in facilitating collaboration among committee members and ensuring the development of comprehensive and updated guidelines.

As a member of professional organizations like the Philippine Medical Association, Diplomate of the Philippine College of Physicians, and Member in Training of the Philippine Society of Nephrology, Krystal actively contributes to the medical community's growth and development.

In the realm of kidney transplantation, Krystal Cervantes stands as a beacon of excellence and innovation. Renowned for her groundbreaking research, she has dedicated her expertise to unraveling the intricacies of this life-saving medical procedure. With a relentless pursuit of knowledge, Krystal's work has not only advanced our understanding of kidney transplantation but has also earned her accolades as a distinguished researcher and practitioner in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Krystal C. Cervantes has already left an indelible mark on the medical landscape through her academic achievements, professional endeavors, and research contributions. Her legacy lies in the lives she has touched, the knowledge she has advanced, and the standards of excellence she has set.

Looking ahead, Krystal is poised to make even greater contributions to the field of nephrology, building on her experience as an Adult Nephrology Fellow and Chief Fellow. Her dedication to research and her leadership roles position her as a future influencer in shaping medical practices and guidelines. The combination of her skills, experiences, and passion for healthcare ensures that Krystal's impact will continue to resonate in the medical community for years to come.

Krystal's contributions extend beyond the laboratory, as she actively engages in advocacy and awareness initiatives, promoting the significance of organ donation and emphasizing the transformative impact of successful kidney transplantation. Her commitment to enhancing patient outcomes and fostering advancements in renal medicine underscores Krystal Cervantes' pivotal role in shaping the future of kidney transplantation, making her a respected figure and a catalyst for positive change in the medical community.

Notable publications