Hengbing Zu | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hengbing Zu | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Jinshan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China

Dr. Hengbing Zu is a distinguished neurologist with over 30 years of academic and research experience. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Anhui Medical University, his Master’s in Neurology from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and his Doctorate from Fudan University’s Shanghai Medical College. As a professor and dean at the Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, Dr. Zu has dedicated over two decades to researching the relationship between altered brain cholesterol metabolism and the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). His pioneering work suggests that brain neuronal cholesterol deficiency is a shared neurochemical mechanism in both Familial and Sporadic AD. Through in-vitro studies, he demonstrated that cholesterol deficiency can trigger key pathological features of AD, including Aβ generation, tau hyperphosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. Dr. Zu’s unified “AD-cholesterol hypothesis” offers a novel perspective on AD progression, making significant contributions to the field of neurodegenerative disease research.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Hengbing Zu has a strong and comprehensive educational background in clinical medicine and neurology. He obtained his Bachelor of Medicine from Anhui Medical University between 1981 and 1986, laying a solid foundation in medical sciences. He continued his academic journey by pursuing a Master’s degree in Neurology at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from 1996 to 1999, where he deepened his specialization in neurological disorders. Seeking to further advance his expertise, Dr. Zu earned his Doctor of Medicine degree in Neurology at the prestigious Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University from 2007 to 2011. His educational progression across top Chinese institutions reflects both his dedication to continuous learning and his commitment to excelling in the field of neurology. This extensive academic preparation has equipped Dr. Zu with a strong theoretical and practical understanding, which has underpinned his later research innovations in Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegenerative disorders.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hengbing Zu is an experienced academic leader and clinical practitioner with over three decades of service in neurology. He currently serves as a Professor and Dean of the Department of Neurology at Jinshan Hospital, affiliated with Fudan University. In this capacity, Dr. Zu oversees clinical services, research programs, and educational initiatives, playing a pivotal role in shaping the department’s strategic direction. His professional career has been distinguished by a strong focus on integrating clinical practice with research, especially in neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Zu has consistently contributed to advancing neurological care by combining patient-centered treatment with cutting-edge scientific research. His leadership has helped foster an environment that promotes both academic inquiry and clinical excellence. Throughout his career, he has mentored young researchers, collaborated across disciplines, and worked to enhance the understanding and management of Alzheimer’s disease. His extensive experience solidifies his reputation as a respected figure in Chinese neurology.

Research Interest

Dr. Hengbing Zu’s primary research interest centers on the neurochemical mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with a particular focus on brain cholesterol metabolism. For over twenty years, he has explored how alterations in neuronal cholesterol contribute to the onset and progression of both Familial and Sporadic forms of AD. His groundbreaking work demonstrated that a deficiency in brain neuronal cholesterol can induce AD-associated pathological processes such as amyloid-beta accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. Based on these findings, Dr. Zu proposed the unified “AD-cholesterol hypothesis,” suggesting that neuronal cholesterol deficiency could be a common pathogenic mechanism for all types of AD. His research bridges basic science with potential clinical applications, offering new perspectives for understanding, diagnosing, and eventually treating Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Zu’s dedication to unraveling the molecular basis of AD has positioned him as a leading figure in cholesterol-related neurodegenerative research, significantly advancing knowledge in this critical area.

Award and Honor

Although specific awards and honors were not detailed in the provided information, Dr. Hengbing Zu’s academic and professional standing suggest a high level of recognition within his field. Serving as the Professor and Dean of the Department of Neurology at a leading university hospital indicates his peers’ strong acknowledgment of his contributions to neurology and research. It is reasonable to infer that he has been honored for his long-term dedication to Alzheimer’s disease research and academic leadership. His original proposal of the “AD-cholesterol hypothesis” represents a major intellectual achievement likely recognized through institutional and possibly national awards. In addition to formal accolades, Dr. Zu’s influence is reflected in the respect he commands within academic and medical communities. Future nominations and recognitions at the international level could further highlight his critical contributions to understanding neurodegenerative diseases, reinforcing his stature as a thought leader in neuroscience research.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Hengbing Zu is an outstanding researcher, clinician, and academic leader whose career has been dedicated to advancing the field of neurology. Through his extensive education, clinical practice, and innovative research, he has made a lasting impact on the understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, particularly through his development of the “AD-cholesterol hypothesis.” His professional experience reflects a seamless blend of clinical excellence and scientific inquiry, ensuring that his research remains deeply connected to patient needs. Dr. Zu’s long-standing focus on brain cholesterol metabolism in AD has opened new avenues for diagnosis and potential treatment strategies. Although further global recognition could strengthen his profile, his current achievements already place him among the leading experts in his field. Dr. Zu’s contributions exemplify the spirit of scientific advancement and dedication, making him a highly deserving candidate for awards recognizing excellence in research and innovation in neurological sciences.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: New insight into the role of altered brain cholesterol metabolism in the pathogenesis of AD: A unifying cholesterol hypothesis and new therapeutic approach for AD

    • Authors: Yang, Xiaobo; Yao, Kai; Zhang, Mengqi; Zhang, Wenbin; Zu, Hengbing

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: Cellular Cholesterol Loss Impairs Synaptic Vesicle Mobility via the CAMK2/Synapsin-1 Signaling Pathway

    • Authors: Qurban, Atikam; Zhang, Mengqi; Zu, Hengbing; Yao, Kai

    • Journal: Frontiers in Bioscience

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: The association between plasma trans-fatty acids level and migraine: A cross-sectional study from NHANES 1999–2000

    • Authors: Yao, Kai; Zu, Hengbing

    • Journal: Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids

    • Year: 2024

Pilar Bosque Varela | Neuroscience | Best Scholar Award

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela | Neuroscience | Best Scholar Award

Neurologist, PhD at Christian Doppler klinik, Austria

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela is a highly accomplished clinician-scientist specializing in epilepsy, with a particular focus on status epilepticus and neuroimaging. She has delivered numerous invited talks and oral presentations at major international conferences, including the American Epilepsy Congress, the European Epilepsy Congress, and the London-Innsbruck Colloquium. Dr. Bosque Varela has published extensively in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to advancing the understanding of MRI abnormalities in status epilepticus. Her work has been recognized with the prestigious Ernst Niedermeyer Prize from the Austrian Epilepsy Society in 2024. Committed to academic excellence, she has also pursued continuous professional development through specialized training programs such as the VIREPA EEG course. Through her research, international collaborations, and clinical expertise, Dr. Bosque Varela has made notable contributions to the field of neurology, positioning herself as a rising leader in epilepsy research. Her dedication and achievements make her a strong candidate for top academic honors.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has built a strong educational foundation in neurology and epilepsy research. She has completed rigorous medical and specialized training with a focus on epilepsy diagnostics and neuroimaging, particularly using advanced MRI techniques. Her commitment to academic excellence is reflected in her completion of internationally recognized programs, such as the VIREPA EEG course offered by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), earning 42 academic credits. Dr. Bosque Varela’s educational path combines a solid medical education with advanced subspecialty training, positioning her with the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to the field of epilepsy research. Her early investment in both clinical and research skills has enabled her to develop a unique profile that bridges practical neurological care with academic inquiry. Her continuous learning and pursuit of excellence have equipped her to conduct high-quality research and contribute to innovation in neurological sciences.

Professional Experience

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has amassed significant professional experience through clinical work, research, and academic contributions, primarily centered around epilepsy and neuroimaging. She has served in various clinical settings, gaining expertise in diagnosing and managing complex cases of status epilepticus. Her professional journey is marked by her participation in key conferences as an invited speaker and presenter, representing her institutions at international platforms across Europe and the United States. She is actively involved in collaborative research networks, contributing to large cohort studies and prospective investigations into MRI findings in epilepsy. Dr. Bosque Varela’s career reflects a balance between hands-on clinical excellence and academic productivity. Her consistent involvement in prestigious congresses like the American Academy of Neurology and the European Epilepsy Congress showcases her growing reputation as a clinician-researcher. Through her dual roles, she continues to impact both patient care and the scientific understanding of epilepsy, especially in acute seizure emergencies.

Research Interest

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela’s primary research interest lies in the neuroimaging and pathophysiology of status epilepticus, with a focus on developing diagnostic and prognostic tools using MRI technology. She has dedicated her academic efforts to making “the invisible visible,” enhancing early diagnosis and outcome prediction in patients suffering from acute epileptic events. Her work has explored critical topics such as the relationship between seizure duration and MRI abnormalities, hyperperfusion imaging using arterial spin labeling, and differentiation between stroke and status epilepticus using advanced imaging techniques. In addition to epilepsy research, she has contributed to understanding neurological implications of systemic illnesses like COVID-19. Her approach combines clinical neurology, imaging science, and patient-centered research to drive better diagnostic protocols. By investigating peri-ictal MRI changes and their long-term consequences, Dr. Bosque Varela aims to improve patient outcomes, refine treatment strategies, and foster a deeper understanding of epilepsy at both cellular and systems levels.

Award and Honor

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has received significant recognition for her outstanding contributions to epilepsy research. Notably, she was awarded the prestigious Ernst Niedermeyer Prize by the Austrian Epilepsy Society in 2024 for her groundbreaking paper titled “MRI fingerprints of status epilepticus: A case-control study.” This honor reflects her pioneering work in advancing neuroimaging techniques to better understand and diagnose status epilepticus. Beyond this, her research has consistently been selected for oral and poster presentations at highly competitive international conferences, including the American Epilepsy Congress, the European Epilepsy Congress, and the London-Innsbruck Colloquium. Her high-rated abstracts and invited speaker roles underscore the academic community’s recognition of the quality and impact of her work. Dr. Bosque Varela’s awards and accolades are a testament not only to her innovative research but also to her growing leadership in the field of neurology and epilepsy, highlighting her as a future leader in medical research.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated clinician-scientist whose contributions span high-impact research, clinical innovation, and educational advancement. Her academic rigor, professional dedication, and focused research interests in status epilepticus position her as an emerging leader in epilepsy research. With a strong record of publications, invited talks, prestigious awards, and international collaborations, Dr. Bosque Varela has demonstrated a profound commitment to advancing the understanding and treatment of epilepsy. Her work not only enriches the scientific community but also directly improves patient care outcomes, embodying the mission of translational medicine. Given her exceptional achievements and potential for continued leadership, Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela stands out as a highly deserving candidate for any scholarly recognition, including the Best Scholar Award. Her career trajectory promises ongoing contributions that will shape the future of epilepsy diagnosis and management globally.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title:
    Epilepsy and employment: A qualitative interview study with heads of human resources and occupational physicians in Austria — A call for legislative optimization according to the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan

  • Authors:
    M. Leitinger, C. Klampfer, L. Obermeyr, F. Schwimmbeck, E. Trinka

  • Year:
    2025

  • Citation (APA Style):
    Leitinger, M., Klampfer, C., Obermeyr, L., Schwimmbeck, F., & Trinka, E. (2025). Epilepsy and employment: A qualitative interview study with heads of human resources and occupational physicians in Austria — A call for legislative optimization according to the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan. Epilepsia.bd268