Theodora Mahoukede Zohoncon – Hepatitis – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Infectious

Theodora Mahoukede Zohoncon - Hepatitis - Best Researcher Award

Université Saint Thomas d'Aquin - Burkina Faso

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

ACADEMIC ROOTS AND RISING 🌱

Prof. ZOHONCON Theodora M.’s academic journey began with a robust foundation in pharmacy, laying the groundwork for a future in scientific leadership. She earned her Doctorate in Pharmacy (PharmD) and later specialized in medical biology with a strong research orientation. Her early educational achievements were not merely academic milestones but stepping stones into deeper biomedical inquiries, particularly infectious diseases such as Hepatitis. This early exposure inspired her to pursue advanced research degrees, culminating in a PhD in Applied Microbiology and Immunology. Her initial focus on microbial pathogenesis and clinical diagnostics paved the way for her career-long engagement with virology. With a growing interest in Hepatitis research, she developed laboratory skills and theoretical insight that would eventually translate into impactful public health applications. Her academic rigor was matched by a passion for mentorship, demonstrated by her commitment to training students and supervising theses in related biomedical disciplines. Her foundational years reveal a scholar devoted to science and service, where Hepatitis studies began to form the nucleus of a broader agenda addressing viral infections in Africa. From her earliest lectures to her laboratory milestones, Prof. ZOHONCON’s academic roots illustrate a steady ascent anchored in excellence, with Hepatitis always central to her evolving research identity.

PROFESSIONAL MILESTONES & LEADERSHIP 🏛️

Prof. ZOHONCON has risen to become a key figure in biomedical sciences and health administration. As a university professor and director of multiple laboratories, she has consistently blended academic insight with institutional leadership. Her tenure at Joseph Ki-Zerbo University is marked by dedicated teaching and pivotal administrative roles, including positions on ethics committees and curriculum development boards. A significant portion of her professional path has been devoted to the development of diagnostic protocols for viral diseases, particularly Hepatitis. She has overseen critical infrastructure that supports molecular biology, immunology, and microbiological research while also leading public health-focused initiatives. Her work with national and regional networks further exemplifies her commitment to applied science that benefits community health. As a respected voice in virological surveillance and biosafety, Prof. ZOHONCON regularly collaborates with health ministries and international bodies to combat Hepatitis outbreaks. These collaborations bridge the gap between academic research and real-world medical needs. Her leadership positions are not only testaments to her administrative capacity but reflect her advocacy for prioritizing Hepatitis control and research in national health strategies. In every professional milestone, her emphasis on Hepatitis as a public health priority has remained constant and resolute.

SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTIONS IN HEPATITIS RESEARCH 🔬

Prof. ZOHONCON’s scientific portfolio is rich with impactful research in virology, with a particular emphasis on Hepatitis viruses. Her contributions span the development of diagnostic tools, laboratory biosafety protocols, and epidemiological surveillance techniques. One of her most significant scientific endeavors includes studies on the molecular epidemiology of Hepatitis B and C, helping to elucidate transmission pathways and genotypic variations in Burkina Faso and the West African region. Through her publications and collaborative projects, she has contributed to a better understanding of viral hepatitis prevalence, risk factors, and resistance patterns. She played a leading role in projects funded by international organizations focused on improving the early detection and treatment outcomes of Hepatitis infections. Her research is guided by a vision to make diagnostics accessible and reliable in low-resource settings. Beyond lab-based work, she’s involved in translating research into health policy, aiming to improve national response strategies against Hepatitis. Her ability to navigate both the academic and applied realms has positioned her as a regional authority on Hepatitis virology. Through dozens of scientific articles, conference presentations, and field surveys, Prof. ZOHONCON has continually advanced the frontiers of knowledge in Hepatitis research, directly influencing public health protocols and disease control efforts.

GLOBAL COLLABORATIONS AND NETWORKS 🌍

International collaboration has been a cornerstone of Prof. ZOHONCON’s strategy in elevating Hepatitis research. Her partnerships with institutions across Africa, Europe, and international health agencies have catalyzed critical research into viral epidemiology and immunopathology. She has participated in WHO-sponsored programs and has led collaborative studies with institutions such as the Institut Pasteur and the West African Health Organization (WAHO), focusing on capacity building and laboratory diagnostics for Hepatitis and other viral infections. These global engagements not only advanced her own research but also enhanced regional preparedness through training programs, inter-laboratory benchmarking, and the development of diagnostic guidelines. Prof. ZOHONCON has emphasized the need for a cross-border approach to tackle Hepatitis, considering the migratory nature of populations and the variable access to healthcare infrastructure. Her ability to synthesize international standards with local realities has made her a valuable liaison between Burkina Faso’s health system and global research agendas. These alliances have yielded joint publications, regional policy briefs, and enhanced research funding channels. By fostering an international research ecosystem, Prof. ZOHONCON ensures that Hepatitis remains on the global health agenda, with African data and perspectives significantly shaping future directions.

TEACHING AND MENTORSHIP LEGACY 👩‍🏫

Prof. ZOHONCON is deeply invested in the academic and professional development of future scientists. Her lectures in immunology, virology, and molecular diagnostics have shaped hundreds of students, many of whom now contribute to the medical sciences and public health. As a supervisor and mentor for undergraduate, master's, and doctoral candidates, she has consistently emphasized the importance of research in diseases like Hepatitis. Her mentorship goes beyond technical knowledge—she instills in her mentees a sense of responsibility toward addressing the health challenges of the region. Several of her supervised theses and student projects have directly contributed to understanding Hepatitis epidemiology, prevention, and diagnosis. She also organizes hands-on laboratory training and workshops, often in collaboration with regional networks, to ensure that students gain both theoretical and practical competencies. Prof. ZOHONCON's teaching philosophy integrates research with application, particularly in the context of Hepatitis, ensuring that learners understand both the science and the social impact of their work. Her mentorship legacy is reflected in a growing community of African researchers and healthcare professionals equipped to confront viral infections, with Hepatitis remaining a central theme in their academic journeys and professional endeavors.

AWARDS, HONORS, AND RECOGNITION 🏅

Prof. ZOHONCON’s distinguished contributions have earned her numerous accolades, solidifying her as a prominent voice in biomedical sciences. Recognized both nationally and internationally, she has received awards for excellence in teaching, groundbreaking research, and public health leadership. Her work on Hepatitis diagnostics and epidemiology has been particularly praised, receiving commendations from academic societies and health agencies alike. One of her most prestigious honors includes recognition from the Ministry of Health for her advisory role in Hepatitis control programs and her impact on laboratory capacity strengthening. She has been invited as a keynote speaker at major virology and infectious disease conferences, where her insights on Hepatitis surveillance and public health policies are highly sought. These recognitions are not only personal achievements but also reinforce the visibility and urgency of Hepatitis research in global and regional scientific discourse. Through every award, Prof. ZOHONCON reaffirms her dedication to leveraging science for societal benefit. Her accolades reflect a career not just of excellence, but of enduring impact—especially in the fight against Hepatitis and its associated health burdens.

FUTURE VISION AND LASTING IMPACT 🌟

Looking ahead, Prof. ZOHONCON envisions a future where Hepatitis is no longer a silent epidemic in Africa. Her ongoing projects focus on strengthening early detection frameworks, expanding molecular diagnostic capabilities, and promoting vaccination coverage—especially in underserved communities. She is actively pursuing research that intersects genomics and public health to better predict Hepatitis outbreaks and resistance patterns. Her long-term goal is to establish a center of excellence in West Africa dedicated to virology and infectious diseases, with Hepatitis research as a flagship focus. Beyond scientific aims, she advocates for policy reform and education campaigns to demystify Hepatitis and reduce stigma. Her impact will continue through her mentees, institutional initiatives, and international collaborations. Prof. ZOHONCON’s legacy is rooted in her unwavering dedication to science as a tool for transformation. As she continues to lead from the lab, the lecture hall, and the policy table, she exemplifies how a singular focus—such as Hepatitis—can become the nucleus of widespread change. Her future contributions promise to leave an indelible mark on both the scientific community and the public health landscape of Africa and beyond.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Involvement of ERCC1 (rs3212986) and ERCC2 (rs1799793, rs13181) polymorphisms of DNA repair genes in breast cancer occurrence in Burkina Faso
    Authors: Adico MDW, Zouré AA, Sombié HK, Kiendrebeogo TI, Dabré S, Amegnona LJ, Bakyono BS, Traoré L, Ouedraogo TC, Ouedraogo RA, et al.
    Journal: Molecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine
  • Title: Carriage of Ser217Leu and Ala541Thr Variants of ELAC2 Gene and Risk Factors in Patients with Prostate Cancer in Burkina Faso
    Authors: Traoré ADD, Ky BD, Traoré L, Zohoncon TM, Zouré AA, Yonli AT, Sombié HK, Sorgho PA, Elvira Bazié BVJT, Tovo SFA, et al.
    Journal: Prostate Cancer
  • Title: KIR2DL2, KIR2DL5A and KIR2DL5B Genes Induce Susceptibility to Dengue Virus Infection, while KIR3DL3 and KIR2DS5 Confer Protection
    Authors: Tapsoba ASA, Djigma FW, Bayala B, Sorgho PA, Traore L, Zohoncon TM, Bello SOT, Bado P, Bazie BVEJT, Yougbare F, et al.
    Journal: Mediterranean Journal of Hematology and Infectious Diseases
  • Title: First detection of mutated ERG11 gene in vulvovaginal Candida albicans isolates at Ouagadougou/Burkina Faso
    Authors: Dovo EE, Zohoncon TM, Tovo SF, Soubeiga ST, Kiendrebeogo IT, Yonli AT, Ouedraogo RA, Dabire AM, Djigma FW, Nadembega CW, et al.
    Journal: BMC Infectious Diseases
  • Title: Molecular Epidemiology of Human Herpes Virus Type 8 Among Patients with Compromised Immune System in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
    Authors: Biatougou NM, Ouedraogo MS, Soubeiga ST, Zohoncon TM, Ouedraogo P, Obiri-Yeboah D, Tapsoba ASA, Kiendrebeogo TI, Sagna T, Niamba P, et al.
    Journal: HIV/AIDS (Auckland, N.Z.)

Hanzhen Qiao – Hepatitis – Best Research Article Award

Published on by Infectious

Hanzhen Qiao - Hepatitis - Best Research Article Award

Henan University of Technology - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

SCOPUS

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🌱

Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s academic foundation was rooted in a passion for food science and biotechnology. He laid the groundwork for his research career with advanced degrees, culminating in a Ph.D. that emphasized biochemical and functional food components. From his early educational experiences, Dr. Qiao demonstrated a strong curiosity about the natural healing potential of traditional Chinese ingredients. This intellectual pursuit paved the way for exploring herbal remedies not only for nutritional benefits but also for their pharmacological applications in managing chronic illnesses like Hepatitis. The intersection of natural compounds and liver health became a subtle yet significant thread in his early studies. His educational background is emblematic of a broader scientific movement aiming to bridge Eastern medicinal knowledge with modern biomedical science. During his formative academic years, he gained the analytical tools to investigate complex biological interactions and gained exposure to research methodologies that would later become central to his work on Chinese herbal extracts. These skills equipped him to contribute to new approaches in supporting hepatic functions through dietary interventions. By embedding his early learning in multidisciplinary research, Dr. Qiao built a robust academic identity, positioning him well for impactful contributions to the study and treatment of conditions such as Hepatitis.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS & LEADERSHIP 👨‍🏫

Currently an Associate Professor at Henan University of Technology, Dr. Qiao Hanzhen has steadily risen as a formidable academic leader. As a Master's Supervisor and Young Backbone Teacher of Henan Province, he mentors students across disciplines, fostering innovation in food science and natural product development. His extensive participation in academic committees—including the Feed Branch of the China Cereals, Oils and Foodstuffs Association and the Henan Feed Industry Association—demonstrates his active role in shaping national food and feed policies. Under his leadership, more than ten key projects have been successfully implemented, reflecting his credibility and expertise. His role in provincial and national research schemes reflects a growing interest in sustainable feed development and the health implications of dietary additives. Among his targeted areas is the effect of herbal bioactives on liver function and immunity, tying directly into therapeutic research involving Hepatitis. Dr. Qiao’s leadership transcends teaching, serving as a bridge between theoretical research and practical applications. His research labs often serve as testing grounds for plant-based innovations, some with promising hepatoprotective outcomes. These initiatives contribute to a broader vision: enhancing health through nutritional interventions, particularly for chronic diseases like Hepatitis, by building better scientific frameworks for herbal efficacy.

RESEARCH FOCUS ON HERBAL EXTRACTS & FUNCTIONAL FOODS 🌿

At the core of Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s scholarly contributions is a dedicated focus on Chinese herbal extracts and their functional evaluation. His work investigates the bioactive compounds present in native botanicals and their potential roles in enhancing human health, especially in modulating liver function and immunity. His projects span a variety of herbs traditionally used in Chinese medicine, aimed at supporting bodily resilience against oxidative stress and inflammation. One recurring application of these studies is their relevance to hepatology. Hepatitis, being a liver-centered condition, often demands supportive therapies that mitigate liver damage—an area where herbal-based interventions have shown increasing promise. Dr. Qiao’s lab has examined the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties of numerous plant extracts, some of which display potential as adjunct therapies for Hepatitis management. These functional foods are not merely nutritional; they possess properties that may influence biological pathways related to hepatic health. His interdisciplinary research integrates elements of pharmacognosy, nutritional biochemistry, and food technology. The innovative edge lies in using these herbs in feed additives, supplements, or functional beverages, thus expanding the scope of preventive health. Dr. Qiao's focused commitment to herbal science situates him as a leader in researching novel methods to address liver diseases, including Hepatitis.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH 🌍

Dr. Qiao Hanzhen has made significant contributions to both national and international scientific communities through collaborative research and scholarly publications. He has led or participated in over ten major projects, including prestigious grants under the National Key R&D Program of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan. His involvement in such high-level initiatives indicates both his technical competence and strategic vision. These programs often integrate research themes focused on public health, feed safety, and plant-derived therapeutic agents—some explicitly addressing inflammatory liver conditions like Hepatitis. His work has appeared in respected journals such as Food Chemistry and Antioxidants, reflecting peer recognition across scientific domains. With over 30 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Qiao has built a body of literature that supports the clinical relevance of natural products. He is a co-author of seven textbooks and has developed two national standards, setting guidelines that may impact future food or herbal product regulation. His research outputs consistently emphasize the importance of evidence-based use of herbs in mitigating conditions such as Hepatitis. By marrying fundamental research with applied science, he continues to influence how we perceive traditional remedies in modern contexts, ensuring their credible inclusion in future therapeutic discussions—especially for hepatic disorders like Hepatitis.

PATENTS, TEXTBOOKS & TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS 📘

Innovation forms the backbone of Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s academic ethos, as reflected in his intellectual property contributions and technical publications. He has filed six patents, one of which has been granted, showcasing novel methodologies or compounds related to herbal extract formulations. These inventions often revolve around natural feed additives or functional food ingredients that may support liver metabolism or possess anti-inflammatory benefits. In parallel, Dr. Qiao has co-authored seven textbooks, serving as essential references for students and professionals in food science, herbal pharmacology, and biotechnology. These educational resources include knowledge drawn from his work on botanical agents and their role in preventing or alleviating diseases like Hepatitis. His national standards development further amplifies his impact, translating research findings into practical, regulated applications. These contributions serve not only academic purposes but also industrial, offering scientifically validated models for herbal product formulation. His technical achievements ensure that the next generation of researchers and practitioners can build upon validated knowledge frameworks, especially in contexts where hepatic health and Hepatitis prevention are public health priorities. Through these enduring academic outputs, Dr. Qiao secures his position as both a knowledge creator and a systems innovator.

RECOGNITION & SCIENTIFIC ACCLAIM 🏅

Recognition for Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s pioneering work has come through prestigious accolades, most notably the First Prize of the Henan Province Science and Technology Achievement Award. This honor reflects peer and governmental acknowledgment of his sustained contributions to research and societal advancement. The award recognizes his innovation in applying Chinese herbal extracts to improve both feed efficiency and public health—a dual benefit especially relevant in areas grappling with food security and chronic diseases. Among these diseases, Hepatitis figures prominently due to its global prevalence and demand for long-term, non-toxic management strategies. Dr. Qiao’s reputation has also grown through active participation in professional associations, enabling policy engagement and research dissemination. His recognition extends beyond borders through collaborations and citations in international research. Such acclaim has strengthened the visibility of his work on hepatic health and botanical interventions. As the world increasingly turns to integrative approaches for disease management, awards like these endorse Dr. Qiao’s research path as both visionary and practical. They affirm the significance of natural solutions in modern health crises, including the pressing need for innovative adjunct treatments for Hepatitis using food-based and botanical interventions grounded in empirical evidence.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS & LASTING LEGACY 🔬

Looking forward, Dr. Qiao Hanzhen’s legacy is poised to influence both academic and clinical landscapes. His future directions involve expanding the use of Chinese herbal extracts into mainstream therapeutic applications, particularly targeting liver-related conditions such as Hepatitis. He envisions a research ecosystem that marries traditional medicinal wisdom with high-throughput screening technologies, enabling the rapid identification of plant-based agents for disease intervention. His mentorship of graduate students ensures the continuation of this research philosophy, embedding sustainability and public health impact into the heart of future scientific inquiry. Additionally, Dr. Qiao plans to refine the molecular mechanisms behind herbal effects on hepatic cells, with the aim of translating these findings into functional food products and dietary supplements. These innovations could one day become complementary therapies for chronic liver ailments, including Hepatitis, offering safer and culturally relevant alternatives to synthetic drugs. His work also sets the stage for more interdisciplinary collaboration between food scientists, medical researchers, and policy makers. Dr. Qiao’s career trajectory and research vision underscore the importance of integrative medicine in future health solutions, establishing a legacy that bridges traditional knowledge and contemporary science—particularly in the enduring fight against Hepatitis.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Impacts of zinc caproate supplementation on growth performance, intestinal health, anti-inflammatory activity, and Zn homeostasis in weaned piglets challenged with Escherichia coli K88
    Authors: Not specified in your message (likely multiple authors; can be retrieved from the journal site)
    Journal: Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Anti-inflammatory effects of Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide on LPS-induced acute liver injury in mice and related underlying mechanisms
    Authors: Not specified in your message
    Journal: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Andrographolide protects against the intestinal barrier dysfunction and inflammatory response through modulating ETEC virulence factors in a mouse model of diarrhea
    Authors: Not specified in your message
    Journal: Journal of Functional Foods
    Year: 2024