Milad Shirvaliloo | Cancer Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Milad Shirvaliloo | Cancer Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award 

Research Associate | Iran University of Medical Sciences | Iran

Dr. Milad Shirvaliloo is an accomplished physician–researcher specializing in epigenetics with a focus on cancer and pulmonary medicine. Holding a Doctor of Medicine and a Master of Business Administration in Health Sciences, he combines clinical expertise with research innovation to advance precision medicine. As a Postgraduate Researcher at the Finetech in Medicine Research Center, he leads studies on nanoparticle-based therapeutic interventions and their effects on histone acetylation in cancer. Dr. Shirvaliloo has authored more than forty peer-reviewed publications and a book chapter, contributing extensively to understanding molecular and epigenetic mechanisms in disease pathogenesis. His scholarly output includes first-author and single-author papers in leading journals, where he explores the roles of histone modifications, long noncoding RNAs, and nanobiosensor technologies in diagnostics and therapeutics. He has demonstrated academic leadership as an Editorial Board Member for Epigenomics and Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and has served as a peer reviewer for over sixty high-impact journals. Recognized for his scientific excellence and editorial contributions, he has received the Best Researcher Award for his outstanding achievements in biomedical science. His ongoing work reflects a strong commitment to translational research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship of emerging scientists. With a clear vision for integrating molecular biology, nanotechnology, and clinical application, Dr. Shirvaliloo exemplifies the future of innovative medical research and continues to make significant contributions to global health advancement.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Heris, R. M., Shirvaliloo, M., Abbaspour-Aghdam, S., Hazrati, A., Shariati, A., & others. (2022). The potential use of mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes in Parkinson’s disease treatment. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 13(1), 371.

2. Sheervalilou, R., Shirvaliloo, M., Dadashzadeh, N., Shirvalilou, S., Shahraki, O., & others. (2020). COVID‐19 under spotlight: A close look at the origin, transmission, diagnosis, and treatment of the 2019‐nCoV disease. Journal of Cellular Physiology, 235(12), 8873–8924.

3. Aghbash, P. S., Eslami, N., Shirvaliloo, M., & Baghi, H. B. (2021). Viral coinfections in COVID‐19. Journal of Medical Virology, 93(9), 5310–5322.

4. Shirvalilou, S., Khoei, S., Esfahani, A. J., Kamali, M., Shirvaliloo, M., & others. (2021). Magnetic hyperthermia as an adjuvant cancer therapy in combination with radiotherapy versus radiotherapy alone for recurrent/progressive glioblastoma: A systematic review. Journal of Neuro-Oncology, 152(3), 419–428.

5. Razlansari, M., Jafarinejad, S., Rahdar, A., Shirvaliloo, M., Arshad, R., & others. (2023). Development and classification of RNA aptamers for therapeutic purposes: An updated review with emphasis on cancer. Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, 478(7), 1573–1598.*

Dr. Milad Shirvaliloo’s pioneering research in epigenetics and nanomedicine bridges molecular science with clinical application, driving innovations in cancer and pulmonary disease diagnostics and therapies. His work advances precision medicine and fosters global scientific collaboration, contributing to more effective, personalized healthcare solutions.

Jiachen Shen | Nanomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jiachen Shen | Nanomedicine | Best Researcher Award

 Jiachen Shen | Harbin Medical University | China

Dr. Jiachen Shen is a promising researcher specializing in nanomedicine, focusing on the development of functional carriers for anti-vascular migration therapies. Their work demonstrates a strong integration of material engineering and biomedical applications, particularly in optimizing mesoporous silica nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery. Dr. Shen has shown exceptional skills in designing experiments, organizing research strategies, and effectively communicating complex scientific concepts through high-quality illustrations and publications. Collaborative efforts with leading institutions highlight their interdisciplinary approach and ability to work in team-driven research environments. Their contributions have practical implications for improving therapeutic outcomes in conditions such as cancer and age-related diseases. With a proactive approach to scientific inquiry and innovation, Dr. Shen is well-positioned to advance the field of nanomedicine through high-impact research. Their measurable research impact, as indexed by Scopus, includes 2 documents, 36 citations, and an h-index of 2.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publication

1. L. Zhang, J. Shen, et al., “PKM2 allosteric converter: A self-assembly peptide for suppressing renal cell carcinoma and sensitizing chemotherapy,” Biomaterials, 2023.

Dr. Laura Cerchia | translational cancer research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Laura Cerchia | translational cancer research | Best Researcher Award

PI, Group Leader at Institute of Endotypes in Oncology, Metabolism and Immunology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council, Italy

Dr. Laura Cerchia is a leading researcher in cancer-targeting RNA aptamer technologies, serving as Group Leader at the Institute of Endotypes in Oncology, Metabolism and Immunology (CNR, Italy). She pioneered the cell-SELEX method, widely adopted across international labs, and developed multiple aptamers targeting tumor biomarkers such as EGFR, AXL, and PDGFRβ. These aptamers have significant applications in imaging, immunotherapy, and targeted drug delivery, with some now used globally in advanced nanomedicine platforms. Author of over 90 peer-reviewed publications with an H-index of 36, she also holds four international patents. Dr. Cerchia has received numerous grants and serves on several national and international scientific committees, including Horizon Europe’s PHIRE project. Her expertise is recognized through roles as evaluator, editorial board member, and scientific advisor. Her work bridges fundamental research and therapeutic innovation, making her a key figure in translational oncology and a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Laura Cerchia earned her PhD in Biochemical Sciences, building a strong academic foundation in molecular biology and biochemistry. Her educational background equipped her with expertise in RNA biology, molecular diagnostics, and therapeutic development. Her advanced training allowed her to explore the structural and functional aspects of nucleic acids, which later became central to her innovative work in aptamer development. During her academic years, she developed an early interest in translational research, which led her to specialize in the design of synthetic oligonucleotides for medical applications. Her doctoral and postdoctoral studies laid the groundwork for her pioneering approach in using aptamers for targeted cancer therapy. Her education not only deepened her scientific knowledge but also instilled a critical problem-solving mindset that continues to influence her research directions. Her scholarly path reflects a combination of academic rigor and innovative thinking, forming the basis for her future contributions to biomedical science.

Professional Experience

Dr. Laura Cerchia is currently Group Leader at the Institute of Endotypes in Oncology, Metabolism and Immunology “G. Salvatore” (IEOMI) within the National Research Council of Italy (CNR). Her professional journey has been marked by impactful roles in both scientific leadership and collaborative research. She developed the widely used cell-SELEX procedure and generated several clinically relevant RNA aptamers targeting key tumor markers. Beyond laboratory research, Dr. Cerchia serves on editorial boards of journals such as Scientific Reports and Molecules, and holds evaluative and advisory roles in national and international research bodies, including the Horizon Europe-funded PHIRE project. Her career reflects a balance of scientific innovation, project management, and institutional leadership. She has successfully secured multiple research grants, built interdisciplinary teams, and advanced new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Her professional experience showcases her ability to lead complex research initiatives and influence the broader scientific and clinical communities.

Research Interest

Dr. Cerchia’s research focuses on the development of nuclease-resistant RNA aptamers for cancer theranostics, therapeutics, and targeted drug delivery. She is especially interested in the use of aptamers as precision tools for recognizing and binding specific biomarkers in tumors, such as EGFR, AXL, and PDGFRβ. Her work involves designing aptamers that can be used for in vitro and in vivo imaging, antagonistic therapies, and as carriers for chemotherapeutics, small molecule inhibitors, siRNAs, or photosensitizers. Her innovations in cell-SELEX have enabled the selection of highly specific aptamers against aggressive cancer types like glioblastoma, NSCLC, and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). She is also exploring the potential of aptamers in immunotherapy, including their integration with nanomedicine platforms. Her interest lies in translating basic molecular discoveries into clinical applications, with a strong focus on personalized medicine. Overall, her research aims to bridge gaps between molecular biology, oncology, and therapeutic delivery systems.

Award and Honor

Dr. Laura Cerchia has received multiple national and international recognitions for her contributions to cancer research and aptamer technology. She is the recipient of prestigious research grants and has been invited to serve on scientific evaluation panels, including for the Wellcome Trust (UK), ANR SHAMS, PRIN, and Horizon Europe projects. In 2018, she achieved the National Scientific Qualification, allowing her to function as a Full Professor in general and clinical pathology within Italian universities—an acknowledgment of her academic and professional excellence. She also serves as President and expert evaluator for PRIN 2022 PNRR – ERC Sector LS1, reinforcing her leadership role in shaping national research priorities. Her aptamers are cited and utilized worldwide, further validating the high translational value of her work. In addition to her editorial board positions, these honors demonstrate her broad influence, scientific credibility, and sustained contributions to advancing biomedical research on both national and international levels.

Conclusion

Dr. Laura Cerchia exemplifies the qualities of a world-class biomedical researcher through her pioneering work in RNA aptamer technologies, extensive publication record, and active leadership in the international scientific community. With a robust educational background, decades of impactful professional experience, and deep research expertise, she has made significant contributions to translational cancer therapy. Her innovations have enabled more precise targeting of tumors, enhancing both diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. Her work has not only influenced academic circles but also spurred technological advances in nanomedicine and drug delivery. The widespread adoption of her aptamers across global research groups attests to the relevance and utility of her discoveries. Coupled with numerous awards, advisory roles, and editorial contributions, her profile reflects excellence, leadership, and a forward-looking vision in biomedical science. Dr. Cerchia’s continued efforts make her a strong candidate for high honors such as the Best Researcher Award and a role model in scientific innovation.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: A novel therapeutic approach targeting PD-L1 in HNSCC and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells hampers pro-metastatic features in vitro: perspectives for blocking tumor-stroma communication and signaling
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2025

  • Title: A novel CD44-targeting aptamer recognizes chemoresistant mesenchymal stem-like TNBC cells and inhibits tumor growth
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Preclinical Toxicological Characterization of Porphyrin-Doped Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles for Photodynamic Therapy
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Urine-Stable Aptamer-Conjugated Gold Nanorods for the Early Detection of High-Grade Bladder Cancer Residual Disease
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Bispecific aptamer-decorated and light-triggered nanoparticles targeting tumor and stromal cells in breast cancer derived organoids: implications for precision phototherapies
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Ferroptosis in Cancer: Epigenetic Control and Therapeutic Opportunities
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: Not available
    Citations: 6

  • Title: Subtype Transdifferentiation in Human Cancer: The Power of Tissue Plasticity in Tumor Progression
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: Not available
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Correction to: Bispecific aptamer-decorated and light-triggered nanoparticles targeting tumor and stromal cells in breast cancer derived organoids
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Correction to: Selective Photo-Assisted Eradication of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells through Aptamer Decoration of Doped Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 1