Filip Štrbac – Antibiotics – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Infectious

Filip Štrbac - Antibiotics - Best Researcher Award

University of Belgrade - Institute for Multidisciplinary Research - Serbia

AUTHOR PROFILE 

ORCID
GOOGLE SCHOLAR

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🌱

Dr. Filip Štrbac’s academic journey in the field of veterinary medicine began with distinction and purpose. Born in Novi Sad, Serbia, his natural aptitude for science was evident during his time at “Jovan Jovanović Zmaj” High School, where he pursued natural sciences and mathematics. This foundation led him to the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Novi Sad, where he enrolled in the integrated Veterinary Medicine program. Graduating with an impressive GPA of 9.58, his undergraduate thesis explored blood plasma proteins in poultry, showcasing an early interest in biochemistry and physiological processes, both of which intersect with the study of Antibiotics. His passion for veterinary pharmacology and parasitology only deepened as he advanced to doctoral studies. From 2017 to 2023, Dr. Štrbac conducted rigorous research on the anthelmintic efficacy of essential oils, a project intricately linked with the search for plant-based alternatives to conventional Antibiotics. His PhD thesis was not only a scientific contribution to parasitology but also a forward-looking effort to reduce reliance on synthetic Antibiotics in animal health. This pivotal work set the stage for his future investigations into Antibiotics resistance, phytotherapy, and sustainable veterinary interventions—issues central to both public and animal health in the 21st century.

RESEARCH PASSIONS IN VETERINARY SCIENCE 🔬

Dr. Filip Štrbac’s research career is anchored in a multidisciplinary exploration of parasitology, veterinary pharmacology, and phytotherapy—fields deeply connected with the current global discourse on Antibiotics. At the University of Novi Sad and later at the Institute for Multidisciplinary Research in Belgrade, his projects consistently addressed the challenge of Antibiotics resistance by exploring alternatives from nature, particularly essential oils with anthelmintic properties. His groundbreaking in vitro and in vivo studies on gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep examined the pharmacodynamics of plant-based compounds, providing comparative data with traditional Antibiotics. These investigations not only validated the efficacy of natural compounds but also contributed to understanding the mechanisms by which certain pathogens develop resistance to conventional Antibiotics. His collaborative work across European institutions, including research stays in Italy and Spain, enabled a cross-cultural scientific exchange on sustainable veterinary practices. Moreover, his leadership roles in international COST Actions, such as COMBAR and MedPlants4Vet, allowed him to advance studies on minimizing the ecological impact of synthetic Antibiotics. As a result, Dr. Štrbac’s work straddles the boundaries of pharmacology and ecology, advancing veterinary science while actively promoting a global reduction in the use of Antibiotics, thereby contributing to the worldwide effort to curb antimicrobial resistance.

CONTRIBUTIONS TO ANIMAL HEALTH AND THERAPEUTICS 🐑

One of Dr. Filip Štrbac’s most significant contributions lies in his innovative approaches to animal health care, specifically through the development of phytopharmacological strategies that reduce dependence on synthetic Antibiotics. His detailed work on essential oils such as peppermint, oregano, and winter savory demonstrated measurable anthelmintic effects against sheep gastrointestinal nematodes, offering a functional and ecologically safer alternative to traditional Antibiotics. With over ten influential publications in peer-reviewed journals, including Frontiers in Veterinary Science and BMC Veterinary Research, Dr. Štrbac has shaped the veterinary landscape toward sustainable therapeutics. These studies provided compelling evidence of how plant-derived compounds can serve as frontline agents against parasitic infections, particularly in livestock—a sector often overburdened with Antibiotics usage. His interdisciplinary methodology, combining in vitro assays, field trials, and pharmacological modeling, reflects a commitment to scientific rigor and real-world application. Furthermore, his active role in environmental projects such as ENVIRANT underscores his dedication to understanding how Antibiotics affect both treated animals and surrounding ecosystems. Dr. Štrbac’s holistic view of veterinary pharmacology—bridging animal welfare, environmental health, and microbial resistance—positions him as a leader in redefining therapeutic practices beyond conventional Antibiotics-based protocols in veterinary medicine.

GLOBAL COLLABORATIONS AND SCIENTIFIC NETWORKS 🌍

Dr. Filip Štrbac has strategically positioned himself within the global scientific community through active collaboration and leadership in numerous European research networks, focusing on sustainable solutions to challenges posed by overuse of Antibiotics. His work in the COST Actions—such as COMBAR, MedPlants4Vet, ENVIRANT, and BeSafeBeeHoney—has addressed the pressing issue of Antibiotics resistance in livestock systems. By engaging in these consortia, Dr. Štrbac contributed to developing regulatory frameworks and scientific roadmaps for integrating phytotherapeutic alternatives to conventional Antibiotics. His research stays in Spain and Italy, particularly at the University of Naples Federico II and the CREMOPAR Center, were instrumental in aligning Serbian veterinary research with broader EU standards. These exchanges enabled him to co-develop diagnostic protocols and efficacy tests for plant-based treatments in parasitic infections, targeting pathogens commonly treated with Antibiotics. Through these partnerships, he has been a vocal advocate for integrating traditional herbal knowledge with modern veterinary science, a philosophy increasingly seen as vital for reducing overreliance on Antibiotics globally. As an expert evaluator for COST project proposals and a reviewer for high-impact journals in pharmacology and veterinary medicine, he continues to influence how the international community approaches responsible Antibiotics usage, reinforcing a shift toward sustainable, evidence-based parasitic disease control.

SCHOLARSHIP, PUBLICATIONS, AND RECOGNITION 🏅

Dr. Filip Štrbac’s scholarly output reflects both depth and innovation, especially in the context of exploring non-conventional therapies as viable complements or substitutes for Antibiotics. With more than ten peer-reviewed publications focused on essential oils and their pharmacological efficacy, he has emerged as a recognized figure in phytotherapy and veterinary parasitology. His articles often appear in high-impact journals such as Frontiers in Veterinary Science, Veterinary Sciences, and Pakistan Veterinary Journal, where he compares plant-based anthelmintics to standard Antibiotics. The scope of his work includes ovicidal, larvicidal, and adulticidal activities of bioactive compounds, bringing new insights into sustainable parasite control. His excellence has been acknowledged through numerous academic honors, including the Best Student of Generation award and national PhD scholarships funded by the Serbian Ministry of Education. These accolades underscore his scholarly commitment and reflect his aim to address Antibiotics resistance in both national and international contexts. Moreover, his role as a reviewer for leading scientific journals and as an expert evaluator for COST proposals further solidifies his status as a thought leader on alternatives to Antibiotics. Each recognition he has received is a testament to his mission: to challenge traditional paradigms and advance veterinary therapeutics beyond the limits of Antibiotics.

IMPACT ON FUTURE VETERINARY PRACTICE 🚀

Dr. Filip Štrbac’s innovative work has set the foundation for a future in veterinary medicine where sustainability and precision replace dependency on conventional Antibiotics. His research not only expands the therapeutic arsenal with botanically derived anthelmintics but also introduces new frameworks for understanding the ecological implications of prolonged Antibiotics usage. His in vivo trials using essential oils such as oregano and peppermint highlight how natural compounds can achieve comparable or even superior efficacy to traditional Antibiotics without promoting microbial resistance. This groundbreaking evidence supports a paradigm shift in how veterinarians, farmers, and pharmaceutical developers approach parasite management. Through his involvement in multi-national EU projects like eco2adapt and INTACT, Dr. Štrbac promotes the integration of ecosystem-based adaptation into veterinary care, with a special emphasis on minimizing Antibiotics spillover into the environment. His work directly contributes to the One Health movement, bridging human, animal, and environmental health through the reduction of Antibiotics overuse. Future veterinary practitioners, researchers, and policy-makers stand to benefit immensely from the models, data, and strategies he is pioneering. In redefining therapeutic protocols through science-backed phytotherapy, Dr. Štrbac is reshaping the trajectory of global veterinary medicine away from over-reliance on Antibiotics and toward a resilient, sustainable future.

LEGACY AND VISION FOR ANTIBIOTICS ALTERNATIVES 🌿

Dr. Filip Štrbac’s legacy is already being etched into the evolving narrative of modern veterinary pharmacology, especially through his contributions to Antibiotics alternatives. By identifying and validating the therapeutic potential of essential oils and plant extracts, he champions a future where natural remedies complement or replace synthetic Antibiotics in combating parasitic diseases. His vision is deeply aligned with global initiatives targeting antimicrobial resistance, environmental sustainability, and holistic health. As the principal investigator in several international and national projects, Dr. Štrbac continuously advocates for bridging ethnopharmacological traditions with cutting-edge scientific validation. His comprehensive approach—spanning phytochemical analysis, in vivo trials, and regulatory integration—makes his work a blueprint for future Antibiotics research. Beyond his publications and laboratory contributions, his mentorship of young scientists and his engagement in science diplomacy position him as a transformative figure in veterinary medicine. His future goals include expanding phytotherapy databases, developing standardized protocols for plant-based treatments, and influencing policy for regulated, sustainable Antibiotics use. In essence, Dr. Štrbac’s enduring impact will be measured not only by the reduced reliance on Antibiotics but also by the healthier animals, ecosystems, and communities that benefit from his science-driven, nature-inspired approach to veterinary health.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Anthelmintic resistance in gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep: Current situation and novel strategies
    Authors: Filip Štrbac, Dragica Stojanović
    Journal: Conference Paper – 2024, FeMeSPRumNS

 

  • Title: Physiological role, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of niacin in cows
    Authors: Kosta Petrović, Dragica Stojanović, Filip Štrbac, Talija Hristovska
    Journal: Conference Paper – 2024, FeMeSPRumNS

 

  • Title: Botanical Control of Parasites in Veterinary Medicine
    Authors: Filip Štrbac, Slobodan Krnjajić, Dragica Stojanović, Nikolina Novakov, Antonio Bosco, Nataša Simin, Radomir Ratajac, Slađan Stanković, Giuseppe Cringoli, Laura Rinaldi
    Journal: Book Chapter – One Health Triad, Vol. III, 2023

 

  • Title: In Vitro and In Vivo Anthelmintic Efficacy of Peppermint (Mentha x piperita L.) Essential Oil against Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Sheep
    Authors: Filip Štrbac, Slobodan Krnjajić, Dragica Stojanović, Radomir Ratajac, Nataša Simin, Dejan Orčić, Laura Rinaldi, Elena Ciccone, Maria Paola Maurelli, Giuseppe Cringoli et al.
    Journal: Frontiers in Veterinary Science – 2023-08-10

 

  • Title: A Potential Anthelmintic Phytopharmacological Source of Origanum vulgare (L.) Essential Oil against Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Sheep
    Authors: Filip Štrbac, Slobodan Krnjajić, Maria Paola Maurelli, Dragica Stojanović, Nataša Simin, Dejan Orčić, Radomir Ratajac, Kosta Petrović, Goran Knežević, Giuseppe Cringoli et al.
    Journal: Animals – 2022-12-22

Xiaoxiao Zhong – Mechanism of Resistance – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Infectious

Xiaoxiao Zhong - Mechanism of Resistance - Best Researcher Award

the THIRD Xiangya hospital, csu - China

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

🧬 ACADEMIC FOUNDATION AND EARLY INQUIRY

Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong began her journey in molecular biology with a keen curiosity about the Mechanism of Resistance within metabolic and glandular disorders, particularly in cancer biology. Her academic training laid the foundation for decoding the intricate cellular and molecular landscapes of diseases, especially breast cancer. The Mechanism of Resistance became a recurring theme as she explored glycosylation processes and immune microenvironments during her early research. Her initial studies bridged theory and application, combining computational and experimental approaches to understand how cancers evade immune detection. These formative years equipped her with a robust understanding of translational oncology and introduced her to the emerging significance of the tumor microenvironment. Zhong's early academic success fueled her drive to pursue multidisciplinary integration—especially in bioinformatics, transcriptomics, and high-throughput data analysis. Her pursuit to reveal the Mechanism of Resistance in disease pathways began with small but significant steps, contributing to larger discoveries that would later shape her career. Her work at Central South University provided not only a supportive academic environment but also exposure to state-of-the-art research tools and collaborative frameworks. These experiences instilled in her a lifelong mission to uncover the biological processes that define cancer behavior and their connection to the Mechanism of Resistance.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ADVANCEMENT IN TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH

As a Medicine Doctor at The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong steadily advanced her professional career by centering her investigations around the Mechanism of Resistance in cancer therapy. Her professional endeavors are marked by an integrative approach to both clinical and laboratory settings, where she collaborates across disciplines to identify new prognostic markers and therapeutic targets. Zhong's work delves into how dysregulated metabolic pathways contribute to the Mechanism of Resistance in breast cancer. Her projects—sixteen in number—underscore her commitment to applied research with translational outcomes. She navigates between in vitro experimentation and multi-omics bioinformatics with precision, making her work both pioneering and clinically relevant. The Mechanism of Resistance is not only a research theme but a clinical puzzle she strives to solve, influencing treatment personalization and long-term patient outcomes. As a reviewer for scientific journals and a member of national research associations, she maintains active roles in advancing oncology research. Her contribution to the General Program of the National Natural Science Foundation of China reflects her recognition as a key scientific mind. Through it all, the Mechanism of Resistance remains central to her objectives, shaping the way future therapies may overcome cancer’s most persistent barriers.

🔬 RESEARCH INNOVATION AND DISCOVERY FOCUS

Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong’s innovative research revolves around decoding the tumor microenvironment (TME) and understanding the Mechanism of Resistance that allows cancer cells to evade immune surveillance and therapeutic interventions. Her groundbreaking development of the 22-gene TME-risk signature (TMERS) has proven instrumental in advancing prognostic predictions in breast cancer. She consistently focuses on the Mechanism of Resistance embedded in glycosylation processes and immune evasion tactics, providing a dual-layered analysis that merges structural biology with immune profiling. Zhong’s research innovations also explore the role of key glycosyltransferase genes like KLRB1, whose regulatory influence she established through rigorous functional assays. Her integration of WGCNA, LASSO Cox regression, and DEG analysis demonstrates her mastery of both computational tools and biological insight. By repeatedly returning to the Mechanism of Resistance across different datasets and models, Zhong reinforces the centrality of this concept in cancer biology. Her studies do not merely describe pathways—they clarify function and mechanism. Moreover, these findings create pathways to new therapeutic interventions, especially in tumors that exhibit high resistance profiles. Zhong’s innovative strategy of combining multi-omics and experimental models ensures that her contributions remain at the frontier of cancer research, with the Mechanism of Resistance as her guiding lens.

🧠 IMPACT ON ONCOLOGY AND BIOMARKER DEVELOPMENT

The clinical and research community has benefitted immensely from Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong’s deep analysis of the Mechanism of Resistance, especially in breast cancer. Her identification of novel prognostic biomarkers such as KLRB1 helps stratify patients more accurately, allowing clinicians to anticipate resistance-related outcomes before therapy begins. The Mechanism of Resistance in TME modeling has been at the heart of her biomarker discovery process, supporting patient-specific therapy protocols. Through gene-expression profiling, Zhong has uncovered patterns within resistant tumor populations, revealing how microenvironmental elements such as stromal and immune cells interact to foster resistance. These insights enable the classification of molecular subtypes and open avenues for personalized medicine. Her impact also extends to public repositories like the GEO database, where her models have been independently validated. Importantly, her work shines in translational relevance—where research moves from bench to bedside. She continuously examines the Mechanism of Resistance from various biological angles, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of cancer progression. This dedication not only enhances biomarker precision but reshapes diagnostic frameworks across oncology. With each study, Zhong solidifies her reputation as a forward-thinking researcher who blends innovation with applicability, driven by the persistent question: how do we decode and defeat the Mechanism of Resistance in cancer?

🏅 ACCOLADES, AFFILIATIONS, AND PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION

Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong’s academic and professional excellence has earned her increasing recognition both nationally and internationally. Her focus on the Mechanism of Resistance has gained the attention of peers and scientific bodies, resulting in collaborations with prestigious institutions like the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Though early in her career, she has already published seven high-impact SCI and Scopus-indexed journal articles that frequently reference the Mechanism of Resistance as a central analytical theme. Zhong’s expertise also led to an appointment as a reviewer for Case Reports in Obstetrics and Gynecology, confirming her command in evaluating complex biomedical literature. She is an active member of the Chinese Association of Pathophysiology, where she contributes insights on the Mechanism of Resistance in metabolic dysfunctions and immune escape. Her reputation is further validated by multiple citations and collaborations across various interdisciplinary projects, demonstrating the applicability of her work. While she has not yet published books or patents, the rigor and innovation in her findings promise future expansion into these domains. Through her growing network and academic contributions, Zhong continues to shape the research landscape—always with the Mechanism of Resistance as the analytical compass guiding her toward discovery and recognition.

🌍 GLOBAL RELEVANCE AND SCIENTIFIC INFLUENCE

Dr. Zhong’s research impact goes beyond national borders, as her emphasis on the Mechanism of Resistance contributes to the global scientific understanding of cancer biology. By leveraging high-throughput technologies and integrative analytics, she provides blueprints for other researchers seeking to decipher resistance pathways. Her 22-gene TMERS model has become a reference point for scientists studying tumor heterogeneity and immunological factors across populations. The international community increasingly cites her work, appreciating the way it refines the conceptualization of the Mechanism of Resistance across diverse genetic and environmental contexts. Zhong’s influence lies in her ability to connect the molecular dots between immune signaling, metabolic flux, and therapeutic failure. These connections not only elevate her research’s relevance but also inspire adaptations of her model into other cancer types. Her collaborations with global datasets and open-access platforms enhance reproducibility and transparency in science. Moreover, by showcasing how the Mechanism of Resistance is both a molecular and clinical phenomenon, she encourages a more holistic treatment strategy that transcends national health systems. Dr. Zhong’s scientific influence lies not only in her publications but also in her capacity to shape a universal language around resistance—making her a cornerstone of the new age of precision oncology.

🌱 FUTURE DIRECTIONS AND LEGACY IN BIOMEDICINE

Looking ahead, Dr. Xiaoxiao Zhong aims to deepen her exploration of the Mechanism of Resistance through next-generation sequencing, single-cell analysis, and AI-driven modeling. Her vision includes creating adaptive therapeutic strategies that consider dynamic changes within the tumor microenvironment. She aspires to develop resistance-interrupting drugs informed by biomarker-based predictions and functional genomics. Her legacy will likely be defined by her persistence in unraveling the Mechanism of Resistance and translating it into viable treatment solutions. With growing citation indices and expanding collaborations, Zhong’s influence is poised to transform clinical practices and research methodologies alike. Her efforts are gradually building a blueprint for integrating systems biology into oncology clinics. While continuing to train and mentor young researchers, she aims to establish a resistance research consortium to pool global resources in this domain. By doing so, she ensures that future scientists inherit a solid foundation of knowledge and practical frameworks for targeting the Mechanism of Resistance in multiple disease contexts. In summary, her career is not just a collection of publications—it’s an evolving legacy grounded in inquiry, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of overcoming the Mechanism of Resistance at every biological and clinical junction.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Glycosylated protein-related microenvironmental features in breast cancer are associated with patient prognosis
    Author: Xiaoxiao Zhong et al.
    Journal: Mammalian Genome
    Date: 2025-05-24

 

  • Title: PCMT1 confirmed as a pan-cancer immune biomarker and a contributor to breast cancer metastasis
    Author: Xiaoxiao Zhong (with contributor Yiqi Liu)
    Journal: American Journal of Cancer Research
    Date: 2024

 

  • Title: Interpretable machine learning model based on the systemic inflammation response index and ultrasound features can predict central lymph node metastasis in cN0T1–T2 papillary thyroid carcinoma
    Author: Xiaoxiao Zhong et al.
    Journal: Gland Surgery
    Date: 2023-11

 

  • Title: Targeting survivin with Tanshinone IIA inhibits tumor growth and overcomes chemoresistance in colorectal cancer
    Author: Xiaoxiao Zhong et al.
    Journal: Cell Death Discovery
    Date: 2023-09-25

 

  • Title: Breast cancer combined with contralateral neck lymph node metastasis: a case report
    Author: Xiaoxiao Zhong et al.
    Journal: Diagnostic Pathology
    Date: 2022-12