Yang Cheng - Malaria - Best Researcher Award

Institute for Prevention and Control of Tropical Diseases and Chronic Diseases, Hainan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🎓

Dr. Yang Cheng’s academic journey began with a profound interest in medicine and parasitology. Born in May 1986, he pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Medicine from Bengbu Medical College, China, graduating in 2009. Motivated by the complex biology of parasites and their interactions with human hosts, he pursued a Ph.D. in Human Parasitology at Kangwon National University, South Korea, and obtained his doctorate in 2014. His time abroad broadened his exposure to international research perspectives, laying the groundwork for a robust academic career. Post-Ph.D., Dr. Cheng further honed his expertise through a postdoctoral research position at the prestigious NIH-NIAID (USA) from 2014 to 2016. This phase was instrumental in sharpening his scientific acumen, allowing him to work with globally respected researchers in immunology and infectious diseases. His diverse academic background—spanning Asia and the United States—prepared him to tackle global parasitic diseases with a cross-disciplinary approach. With each academic milestone, Dr. Cheng cultivated a deepening focus on malaria infection and host immune response, eventually positioning himself as a key thought leader in tropical disease research.

PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY & LEADERSHIP 🧑‍🔬

Dr. Cheng’s professional trajectory is distinguished by leadership roles and impactful research. In 2016, he became an Associate Professor at Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China, where he also assumed the role of Chief Leader of the Pathogenic Infection and Immunity Laboratory. His leadership extends to Hainan, where he directs the Institute for Prevention and Control of Tropical Diseases and Chronic Diseases at the Hainan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention. His dual appointments reflect his commitment to both academic advancement and public health application. Beyond titles, Dr. Cheng has led numerous high-profile research initiatives. He currently heads multiple funded projects, including grants from the Natural Science Foundation of China, Jiangsu Province, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Central Universities' Fundamental Research Funds. His ability to manage interdisciplinary research, mentor junior scientists, and lead disease prevention programs solidifies his reputation as a leader in the field. Balancing lab discovery with field implementation, Dr. Cheng bridges research with policy and practice, especially in endemic regions.

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE IN MALARIA & IMMUNOLOGY 🧬

At the heart of Dr. Cheng’s career lies his passion for understanding malaria pathogenesis and immune response. His work focuses on four interconnected areas: the invasion mechanisms of Plasmodium, the host’s immune response and immune evasion, screening of malaria vaccine candidates, and public prevention of parasitic diseases. Through a combination of molecular biology, immunology, and epidemiology, he has advanced knowledge in how Plasmodium interacts with host cells and evades immune detection. His research has resulted in over 20 SCI-indexed publications as first or corresponding author, underscoring both volume and scientific rigor. Notably, his recent work has revealed important roles for proteins such as PvMSP1P-19, PvTRAg23, and GAMA in malaria pathogenesis and immune modulation. By identifying targets for potential vaccines and therapeutics, Dr. Cheng's contributions support global efforts to eradicate malaria. His innovative experiments, often involving collaborative research teams, have been well-recognized in journals such as The Journal of Biological Chemistry, Frontiers in Immunology, and Infection and Immunity. Dr. Cheng's research doesn’t just decode molecular interactions—it creates practical pathways for disease control strategies.

GLOBAL COLLABORATIONS & SCIENTIFIC IMPACT 🌏

Dr. Cheng has actively collaborated across borders, enhancing the global footprint of his research. His postdoctoral tenure at the NIH-NIAID fostered early international experience, but his collaborations have since extended through participation in multi-national conferences, international grants, and co-authored studies. Notably, his research supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation highlights global trust in his work’s applicability to malaria control. Additionally, his papers often include international co-authors from diverse regions such as Africa, Korea, and Southeast Asia, indicating the geographic relevance and appeal of his findings. His participation in One Health discussions and COVID-19 response analysis showcases his versatility and responsiveness to emerging global threats. Dr. Cheng’s research on the genetic diversity and immunogenicity of Plasmodium species imported from Africa to China speaks to his role in transcontinental disease tracking. These partnerships have enabled knowledge transfer and capacity building in endemic regions, strengthening public health infrastructures. By working with global teams, Dr. Cheng has become a conduit for scientific exchange, policy dialogue, and technological innovation in tropical medicine.

AWARDS AND DISTINCTIONS 🏅

Recognition of Dr. Cheng’s outstanding research and leadership is reflected in the accolades he has received. In 2014, he was honored with the PhD of Excellence by Kangwon National University, a testament to his exceptional doctoral work. Six years later, in 2020, he was named Honor Young Scientist Scholar at Jiangnan University, affirming his continued contribution to academic research and student mentorship. He also received the Science and Technology Award from the China General Chamber of Commerce the same year, which acknowledged his applied scientific efforts and innovation in health-related research. These awards highlight his dual strengths: theoretical rigor and practical impact. Dr. Cheng’s ability to transform complex research into public health strategies, particularly in parasitic disease control, has been critical in earning these distinctions. His awards not only validate his contributions but also set a benchmark for emerging researchers under his mentorship. As a role model and thought leader, he has cultivated a research environment focused on excellence, integrity, and social relevance.

SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTIONS & PUBLICATIONS 📚

Dr. Cheng’s publication record is both prolific and impactful, with over 20 SCI-indexed articles that span molecular parasitology, immunology, and public health. His 2024 study in The Journal of Biological Chemistry revealed how PvMSP1P-19 binds with membrane proteins band3 and CD71, advancing our understanding of Plasmodium vivax reticulocyte invasion. In another 2024 paper in Infection and Immunity, he examined the interaction between PySRA and macrophage receptors, shedding light on how malaria parasites manipulate host immune responses. His interdisciplinary approach also led to studies on PvTRAg23’s effect on spleen fibroblasts, COVID-19 epidemiology, and immune signaling pathways like cGAS-STING. His work demonstrates a continuous thread of innovation—from bench research to field-level application. Each publication not only contributes to scientific discourse but also serves as a building block for vaccine development, diagnostic tool refinement, and epidemiological forecasting. His research frequently bridges basic science and translational outcomes, with far-reaching implications for disease surveillance and health policy.

LEGACY AND FUTURE ASPIRATIONS 🔮

Dr. Cheng stands at the forefront of infectious disease research with a legacy defined by innovation, leadership, and global vision. His future trajectory promises continued advancement in malaria vaccine development, immune evasion mechanisms, and public health interventions. As Director of a key disease control institute and a research lab leader, he is well-positioned to influence both academic inquiry and practical policy. He envisions building a multidisciplinary center for tropical diseases, incorporating genomics, immunology, and big data analytics to combat emerging parasitic threats. Moreover, he remains committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists, creating a ripple effect of knowledge and skill development across borders. With growing international collaborations, sustained publication momentum, and a strong foundation in both theory and practice, Dr. Cheng’s legacy is still in the making—one that aligns with global health goals and scientific excellence.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: Proteomic profiling of spleen in rat infected with Clonorchis sinensis using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry analysis
Authors: S. Han, Su; J. Wan, Jie; X. Zhang, Xiaoli; J. Wu, Jianlin; R. Chen, Rui
Journal: Acta Tropica
Title: MicroRNAs in opisthorchiids and their definitive hosts: Current Status and Perspectives
Authors: X. Li, Xiang; J. Ding, Jian; X. Zhang, Xiaoli; J. Cao, Jianping; S. Han, Su
Journal: [Journal not specified] (Full text link is disabled, and journal name not shown)
Title: Plasmodium vivax tryptophan-rich antigen reduces type I collagen secretion via the NF-κBp65 pathway in splenic fibroblasts
Authors: W. Kong, Weizhong; H. Zhang, Hangye; Y. Sun, Yifan; S. Han, Su; Y. Cheng, Yang
Journal: Parasites and Vectors
Title: ASIC1 promotes migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma via the PRKACA/AP-1 signaling pathway
Authors: Y. Liu, Youyi; B. Wang, Boshi; Y. Cheng, Yang; Y. He, Youzhao; C. Jin, Cheng
Journal: Carcinogenesis
Title: The Plasmodium vivax MSP1P-19 is involved in binding of reticulocytes through interactions with the membrane proteins band3 and CD71
Authors: S. Zuo, Shenghuan; J. Lu, Jiachen; Y. Sun, Yifan; E. Han, Eun-Taek; Y. Cheng, Yang
Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry

🌱 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Chenyu Zhu began her academic journey with a focused curiosity in the intricate relationship between environmental science and human health. As a master’s candidate at Jinan University, she chose to specialize in Environment and Health, an area demanding interdisciplinary knowledge and scientific rigor. Her academic path was marked by early excellence, culminating in her recognition at the International Graduate Forum on Environmental Toxicology, where she earned First Place in 2023. This achievement highlighted not just her scholarly promise, but also her dedication to exploring the toxicological mechanisms behind pollutants and their impact on public health. This early phase of academic life laid a strong foundation for her future contributions in the field, combining both theoretical insight and practical research. Supported by a robust academic environment and consistent mentorship, she swiftly developed a unique research identity that bridged environmental toxicology with molecular biology.

🔬 RESEARCH FOCUS AND INNOVATION

Zhu’s primary research area centers on RNA epigenetic modifications in the context of environmental pollution-induced diseases. Her groundbreaking work investigates the mechanisms of cellular senescence triggered by toxic pollutants, particularly focusing on RNA methylation types such as m6A and m7G. Her involvement in three major Guangdong Natural Science Foundation projects speaks to her active role in uncovering how molecules like TRMT61B and METTL14 influence mitochondrial and cellular function under environmental stressors. These research initiatives have deepened our understanding of molecular aging and the role pollutants play in accelerating degenerative diseases. Her innovations go beyond lab work—they offer critical insights that may inform therapeutic strategies for mitigating public health risks associated with environmental contaminants. Her ability to decode complex biological interactions places her at the frontier of environmental health sciences and positions her research as vital for pollution-related disease prevention and early intervention.

📚 SCHOLARLY CONTRIBUTIONS

Despite being early in her academic career, Zhu has already published five peer-reviewed SCI-indexed papers that address key biological and toxicological questions. Her publications span reputable journals, including Scientific Reports, Food Science & Nutrition, and Biochimica et Biophysica Acta Reviews on Cancer. These papers explore pivotal topics like RNA methylation’s role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, premature cellular senescence, cancer, and even liver diseases linked to PFAS exposure. Each article contributes unique molecular insights and collectively, they shape a more nuanced understanding of the cellular response to environmental stress. Through these studies, Zhu has established herself as a credible and impactful voice in environmental toxicology. Her work not only adds to academic literature but also offers potential pathways for diagnostics and targeted interventions in environmental health. The breadth and depth of her research speak volumes about her dedication to contributing meaningfully to her field.

🏆 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Recognition for Zhu’s contributions has been swift and well-deserved. Her award-winning presentation at the International Graduate Forum on Environmental Toxicology in 2023 was a testament to her ability to communicate complex scientific ideas with clarity and impact. This distinction, combined with her inclusion in the prestigious Wiley China Excellent Author Program, underscores her rising influence in the research community. These accolades are more than ceremonial; they validate the originality and relevance of her work. They also provide her with platforms to reach broader audiences and network with experts worldwide. Such honors are particularly significant for early-career scientists, offering both encouragement and credibility. Zhu’s ability to translate molecular science into practical insights for environmental health makes her an exemplary young researcher. Her recognitions are not just markers of past achievements—they are milestones pointing toward a promising scientific future.

🧠 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Zhu’s career growth has been guided by hands-on research involvement and consistent academic mentorship. Her participation in multiple Guangdong Natural Science Foundation projects reflects an early integration into high-level scientific inquiry. This experience has enabled her to refine experimental methodologies, analyze complex biological systems, and develop interdisciplinary perspectives. Moreover, her role as a member of the Chinese Society of Toxicology signifies her commitment to staying connected with professional networks and emerging scientific conversations. Though still in the early phase of her career, she exemplifies professional maturity, demonstrated through her contributions to collaborative projects and her proactive engagement with scientific communities. Her trajectory is not just about individual achievement—it reflects an earnest commitment to leveraging science in service of public health and environmental safety. With each research milestone, she moves closer to becoming a leading expert in environmental toxicology and RNA-based disease mechanisms.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Chenyu Zhu’s work carries both scientific and societal relevance. By focusing on the molecular underpinnings of pollution-related diseases, she directly addresses one of the world’s most urgent public health challenges. Her studies reveal how environmental toxins contribute to aging and disease through RNA modifications, which could revolutionize how we understand environmental risk at the cellular level. This intersectional work has the potential to shape policy, inform risk assessments, and guide the development of new treatments. As environmental health continues to gain global importance, Zhu’s research offers a much-needed bridge between molecular science and actionable solutions. Her findings contribute to early detection strategies and potential biomarker development, making her impact both forward-looking and practical. Through her scholarly dedication, she is helping to build a safer, more scientifically informed world—one cellular mechanism at a time.

🚀 LEGACY AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Looking ahead, Zhu Chenyu is poised to make enduring contributions to environmental toxicology and public health. Her strong foundation in RNA epigenetics positions her to expand into developing diagnostic tools and interventions that can detect or reverse pollution-induced cellular damage. Future research may delve deeper into gene-environment interactions, aging-related diseases, or the long-term effects of emerging contaminants. She envisions using her scientific skills not just for academic acclaim, but to advocate for cleaner environments and healthier populations. With her clear sense of purpose and proven research capability, Zhu stands ready to shape the next generation of environmental health innovations. Her legacy will likely be defined by how she uses cutting-edge science to tackle real-world problems. By combining curiosity, expertise, and compassion, she is not only shaping her own career but also contributing to a global shift toward evidence-based environmental protection.