Xinghong Gao | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xinghong Gao | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Zunyi Medical University, China

Prof. Xinghong Gao is a distinguished Chinese virologist and Associate Professor at the School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University. With over 15 years of research experience in molecular virology, Prof. Gao has dedicated her career to advancing our understanding of herpesviruses (KSHV, VZV, EBV, DEV, PRV) and enteroviruses (EV71, CVB3), especially focusing on epigenetic regulation of viral pathogenesis and the development of next-generation mRNA vaccines. She has led and completed over 10 national and provincial research projects and has published extensively in high-impact international journals such as Cell Death & Disease, International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, and Journal of Medical Virology. Her current research emphasizes the design of lyophilized, self-assembling nanoparticle mRNA vaccines with multivalent, high-efficiency, and low-toxicity properties, aimed at protecting both humans and animals from viral threats. Beyond research, Prof. Gao plays a critical role in teaching, mentoring, academic evaluation, and patent innovation. Her integration of virology, immunology, epigenetics, and bioengineering marks her as a leader in translational and preventive medicine. She is also actively involved in academic communities and serves as a reviewer and evaluator for journals, government agencies, and scientific committees.

Professional Profile

Education

Prof. Xinghong Gao earned her academic degrees in veterinary and biomedical sciences through a rigorous and continuous path of study in China. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Medicine from the College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, from 2005 to 2009. Driven by a strong interest in virology and immunology, she pursued an integrated master’s and doctoral program (硕博连读) at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, from 2009 to 2015, under the supervision of Prof. Renyong Jia. Her Ph.D. focused on preventive veterinary medicine, during which she conducted in-depth research on duck enteritis virus (DEV) and developed specialized knowledge in viral gene function and immune response mechanisms. In 2019–2020, she expanded her international exposure as a visiting scholar at the Department of Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh, USA, working under Prof. Shoujiang Gao. There, she gained advanced expertise in human herpesvirus (KSHV) pathogenesis and epigenetic regulation, further refining her molecular biology skills and laying the foundation for her ongoing work in human-animal viral infections and mRNA vaccine development.

Professional Experience

Prof. Xinghong Gao has served as Associate Professor at the School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zunyi Medical University, since January 2016. In this role, she has undertaken significant responsibilities in research, teaching, and graduate supervision. Between September 2019 and September 2020, she completed a year-long academic exchange at the University of Pittsburgh, USA, where she joined the microbiology research group of Prof. Shoujiang Gao, a renowned expert in Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). Her international experience solidified her expertise in herpesvirus biology and single-cell epigenetic analysis. At Zunyi Medical University, she leads several key research projects funded by national, provincial, and enterprise grants, many of which focus on the design of self-assembling mRNA vaccines targeting porcine and human viruses. Additionally, she teaches undergraduate and graduate courses such as pharmacology, microbiology, biosafety, and molecular biology techniques. She has also contributed to educational innovation through bilingual teaching and e-learning integration. Prof. Gao actively participates in administrative and scholarly roles, including grant and thesis evaluation, peer review, and national examination panels. Her practical approach to interdisciplinary science and teaching has earned her recognition as a versatile scholar, bridging fundamental research and public health applications.

Research Interests

Prof. Xinghong Gao’s research primarily focuses on virology, with specific expertise in the molecular mechanisms of herpesvirus and enterovirus infections. She is particularly interested in the role of epigenetic modifications—especially m6A methylation—in regulating viral replication, latency, and host-pathogen interactions. Her work with human and animal viruses (KSHV, VZV, EBV, PRV, DEV, EV71, and CVB3) aims to identify novel therapeutic and preventive strategies. A significant portion of her current research is dedicated to the development of mRNA-based vaccines using self-assembling ferritin nanoparticle delivery systems. These vaccines are designed to be multivalent, thermally stable, and low in toxicity, targeting diseases such as hand-foot-mouth disease, pseudorabies, and porcine diarrhea. Prof. Gao also explores the antiviral potential of natural compounds, including Chinese herbal formulations, further bridging traditional medicine with modern biomedical research. She integrates multi-omics methods, including transcriptomics, proteomics, methylomics, and immunomics, to gain comprehensive insights into virus-host interactions. This integrative approach allows her to develop innovative solutions to complex virological problems, with translational applications in public health, veterinary medicine, and biotechnology.

Research Skills

Prof. Gao possesses extensive technical expertise across molecular virology, vaccine development, and bioinformatics. She is skilled in a wide array of laboratory techniques, including mRNA in vitro transcription, lentiviral vector construction, single-cell and bulk transcriptomics, protein purification, and antibody generation. She is also proficient in advanced experimental methods such as co-immunoprecipitation, CRISPR-based detection, yeast two-hybrid screening, RNA interference, and RACE cloning. Her deep experience in multi-omics technologies spans DNA/RNA methylation profiling (m6A epitranscriptomics), proteomics, and full-transcriptome sequencing, which she applies to decipher the regulatory landscapes of viral pathogenesis. In vaccine research, she excels in the design and characterization of mRNA-LNP (lipid nanoparticle) platforms, particularly for lyophilized nanoparticle-based vaccines targeting herpesviruses and enteroviruses. Moreover, she has practical knowledge of cellular immunology, viral infection models, and biosafety evaluations. Prof. Gao’s technical foundation is strengthened by her fluency in scientific computing and statistical analysis. Her methodological breadth, paired with theoretical depth, enables her to lead interdisciplinary research projects and translate molecular insights into clinical and veterinary applications.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Xinghong Gao’s research excellence and academic contributions have earned her numerous awards and distinctions. She has been selected as an expert reviewer for national and provincial science foundations, including the Ministry of Science and Technology of China, the Guizhou Provincial Health Commission, and the Guangxi Provincial Department of Science and Technology. Her recognition as a trusted evaluator reflects her authority in the fields of virology, immunology, and molecular biology. She is a member of prominent professional societies such as the Chinese Society for Microbiology, Chinese Society of Immunology, Chinese Pharmacological Society, and Virology Branch of the Chinese Medical Association. Prof. Gao serves as a peer reviewer for top-tier SCI journals, including Journal of Medical Virology and Molecular Biology Reports. She is also listed as an expert in undergraduate thesis evaluation and is part of Guizhou’s high school examination panel. Additionally, she holds two authorized Chinese utility patents and is preparing an invention patent for a CRISPR-based rapid detection system. These accolades affirm her standing as a dynamic and impactful contributor to biomedical research and education in China.

Conclusion

Prof. Xinghong Gao is an accomplished biomedical researcher with a focused trajectory in molecular virology and vaccine innovation. Her dedication to exploring viral pathogenesis, epigenetic regulation, and advanced vaccine technology has produced significant scientific outputs and translational applications. With more than 15 years of hands-on research experience and a strong foundation in both veterinary and medical sciences, she has contributed over 20 high-quality publications, secured multi-level funding, and led groundbreaking work in mRNA vaccine development. Her teaching, mentoring, and technical skills further enhance her profile as a well-rounded scholar. Prof. Gao’s research aligns with critical global health priorities, including emerging viral infections and zoonotic disease control. Her contributions extend beyond laboratory success into educational reform, patent innovation, and community impact. As a result, she is not only a valuable asset to Zunyi Medical University but also a leading candidate for national and international recognition. Her profile exemplifies the integration of academic excellence, applied research, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With continued support and visibility, Prof. Gao is poised to play a transformative role in advancing preventive virology and translational biomedicine.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: mRNA vaccines: Emerging opportunities for herpesvirus prevention and therapeutic intervention
    Authors: Wenjie Cai, Mingsheng Cai, Mingsong Wu⁎, Xinghong Gao*
    Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2025

  2. Title: BSRF1 modulates IFN-β-mediated antiviral responses… in Epstein-Barr virus infection
    Authors: Shengwen Chen#, Yangxi Deng#, Chen Huang#, Xiaolei Xie#, Zhiwei Long, … Xinghong Gao, … Xi Lv(), Mingsheng Cai(), Meili Li(*)
    Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2025, 306: 141600

  3. Title: The advances of in vitro RNA preparation by single-subunit RNAP: A review
    Authors: Yuan Shen#, Dong-Qi Yang#, Yuan Liu, … Xinghong Gao*, Heng Xia*
    Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2025, 141002

  4. Title: Pregnancy induced hypertension and umbilical cord blood DNA methylation in newborns: An epigenome-wide study
    Authors: Xiaojun Zhu, Peiyue Jiang, Xia Ying, … Xinghong Gao*, Xiaofu Yang*
    Journal: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth, 2024, 24(1): 433

  5. Title: METTL16 controls KSHV replication by regulating S-adenosylmethionine cycle
    Authors: Zhang Xinquan, Meng Wen, Feng Jian, Gao Xinghong, … Gao Shoujiang*
    Journal: Cell Death & Disease, 2023, 14(9): 591

  6. Title: Advances in mRNA vaccines for viral diseases
    Authors: Yukai Huang#, Xuerui Zhu#, Xiao Guo#, … Xinghong Gao*(通讯)
    Journal: Journal of Medical Virology, 2023, 95(7): e28924

  7. Title: Revolutionizing viral disease vaccination: Non-replicating mRNA vaccines
    Authors: Xiao Guo#, Dongying Liu#, Yukai Huang#, … Xinghong Gao*(通讯)
    Journal: Virology Journal, 2023, 20(1): 1–17

  8. Title: The crosstalk between classic signaling, ncRNAs, and ferroptosis in drug resistance
    Authors: Yang Liangyu, Chen Lei, Chen Tingting, Xinghong Gao*(通讯), Yongai Xiong*
    Journal: Cellular Signalling, 2023, 102: 110538

  9. Title: Identification of targets of JS-K against HBV-positive HepG2.2.15 cells using iTRAQ proteomics
    Authors: Liu Zhengyun, Xu Yan, Zhang Wanling, Gao Xinghong, …
    Journal: Scientific Reports, 2021, 11(1): 10381

  10. Title: Duck enteritis virus (DEV) UL54 protein interacts with DEV UL24 protein
    Authors: Xinghong Gao (First author), Renyong Jia*, Mingshu Wang, … Anchun Cheng*
    Journal: Virology Journal, 2017, 14(1): 166

Honghui Tang | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Honghui Tang | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Deputy Chief Technician from Center of Clinical Laboratory and Translational Medicine, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Dushu Lake Hospital, China

Honghui Tang is an experienced clinical laboratory professional currently serving as the Associate Chief Technician and Supervisor of Clinical Biochemistry at the Clinical Testing Center of the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. With over 21 years of specialized experience, she has developed in-depth expertise in clinical biochemistry and immunological testing. Her career is distinguished by her focus on quality management, laboratory standardization, and diagnostic excellence. She plays a key role in implementing the ISO 15189 accreditation system, designing and enforcing SOP frameworks, and ensuring efficient, accurate, and compliant laboratory operations. Tang is proficient in handling a variety of automated biochemical and immunoassay analyzers and leads the end-to-end diagnostic process. She is also deeply involved in interdepartmental collaboration to resolve complex diagnostic challenges and improve patient care outcomes. As a recognized professional, she serves as a member of the Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology Committee under the Laboratory Medicine Branch of the Suzhou Medical Association. Her leadership, technical competence, and commitment to healthcare advancement position her as a notable contributor in the field of laboratory medicine. While her focus has been more practice-oriented, she remains committed to expanding her engagement with research and evidence-based diagnostics.

Professional Profile

Education

Although the exact educational qualifications are not listed, it is evident that Honghui Tang has undergone advanced academic and professional training to attain the level of Associate Chief Technician in a prestigious clinical setting. Achieving such a role requires a strong educational foundation in clinical laboratory sciences, likely including a bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology, Clinical Biochemistry, or a related field, followed by further specialization or advanced diplomas in laboratory diagnostics and quality management systems. Additionally, her ability to lead ISO 15189 implementation efforts and develop comprehensive SOP frameworks suggests extensive continuing education and training in laboratory accreditation protocols, biochemistry techniques, and health sciences management. Such a background is typically supplemented by practical hospital-based internships and certifications in biochemical and immunoassay technologies. As she operates in a university hospital setting and holds a supervisory position, it is also likely that she has participated in professional development programs offered by medical associations and institutional training initiatives. Her academic and technical education has enabled her to navigate complex diagnostic environments while ensuring quality, efficiency, and clinical accuracy.

Professional Experience

Honghui Tang brings over two decades of distinguished professional experience in clinical laboratory medicine, with her current role as Supervisor of Clinical Biochemistry at the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. She has been instrumental in shaping the operational standards of the Clinical Testing Center by implementing quality systems that align with international benchmarks, including ISO 15189. Her core responsibilities span the entire testing process—pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical phases—ensuring seamless workflow, error minimization, and clinical reliability. Tang is responsible for managing a wide array of automated instruments, including biochemical and immunoassay analyzers from leading manufacturers. She supervises equipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting, guaranteeing uninterrupted laboratory operations. Her role demands daily interaction with clinicians, which she fulfills by advising on complex test results and refining diagnostic workflows. As a senior member of the laboratory, she also mentors junior staff, conducts training sessions, and enforces strict compliance with established standard operating procedures. Beyond the laboratory setting, she contributes to the broader medical community through her role on the Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology Committee of the Suzhou Medical Association. This combination of technical mastery and leadership underscores her status as a key pillar in her institution’s diagnostic excellence.

Research Interests

While Honghui Tang’s primary expertise lies in clinical laboratory practice, her work intersects significantly with applied research in diagnostic standardization and quality assurance. Her key research interests include the development and validation of diagnostic protocols in clinical biochemistry, the optimization of laboratory workflows for enhanced accuracy, and the implementation of ISO 15189 standards in clinical settings. She is also deeply invested in exploring strategies for minimizing analytical variability, increasing inter-laboratory result harmonization, and improving diagnostic turnaround time. Another area of interest is the clinical interpretation of immunological assay results in complex or ambiguous patient cases, especially in collaborative efforts with physicians for evidence-based medical decision-making. Her contributions have practical implications for diagnostic reliability and healthcare delivery, and her engagement with hospital-wide interdisciplinary case reviews presents unique opportunities for applied clinical research. With the right collaborations, she is well-positioned to contribute to scholarly work on laboratory accreditation, test performance evaluation, and diagnostic technology integration in modern hospital settings. As she continues her career, these research interests could be further developed through collaborative publications, quality improvement studies, and clinical trials focused on diagnostic biomarkers.

Research Skills

Honghui Tang possesses a wide range of advanced research skills rooted in clinical laboratory practice. She is highly proficient in operating and maintaining a variety of automated biochemical and immunoassay analyzers, which is essential for both diagnostic accuracy and research application. Her strengths include data quality management, implementation of international quality standards like ISO 15189, and development of laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs)—key competencies that support research reproducibility and methodological rigor. Tang also brings expertise in analytical troubleshooting and validation of test results, including root-cause analysis for irregular findings. She is adept in documenting diagnostic workflows, preparing laboratory reports, and contributing to interdepartmental discussions to resolve complex cases. These practical experiences have equipped her with strong skills in data interpretation, assay performance monitoring, and evidence-based evaluation. Additionally, her work supervising other technicians and managing laboratory systems underscores her project management, documentation, and training abilities. Although she has yet to publish widely, her operational expertise provides a strong foundation for translational research and diagnostic innovation. Her technical fluency, especially in relation to test automation and quality assurance, makes her well-prepared to contribute to applied clinical research and collaborative investigations.

Awards and Honors

While no specific awards or honors are mentioned in the available information, Honghui Tang’s appointment as Associate Chief Technician and her leadership role in one of Soochow University’s affiliated hospitals are significant recognitions of her professional contributions. The trust placed in her to lead the Clinical Biochemistry section, oversee quality assurance, and implement accreditation standards such as ISO 15189 attests to her high level of competence and dedication. Furthermore, her selection as a committee member of the Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology Division of the Suzhou Medical Association reflects professional acknowledgment by her peers and industry leaders. These roles typically require demonstrated excellence in laboratory management, technical proficiency, and consistent contribution to healthcare services. Although formal honors such as national or international research awards are not listed, her career achievements indicate that she has earned institutional and professional respect. As she continues to engage more actively in research, particularly through collaborations and publications, she stands to receive additional recognition at the academic and scientific levels in the near future.

Conclusion

Honghui Tang exemplifies excellence in clinical laboratory science through her extensive experience, leadership, and technical acumen. Her 21-year career is marked by a commitment to diagnostic precision, quality management, and the continuous advancement of clinical laboratory operations. As Associate Chief Technician, she plays a pivotal role in standardizing procedures, implementing internationally recognized accreditation systems, and training new professionals. Her ability to operate across technical, managerial, and clinical dimensions makes her a vital contributor to patient care and hospital diagnostics. While her work is largely practice-oriented, she possesses a strong foundation for research, particularly in diagnostic standardization and quality assurance. Moving forward, increased participation in academic research and publication will enhance her professional profile and contribute to the scientific community. With her established expertise, leadership roles, and interest in applied research, Honghui Tang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in the field of clinical laboratory science. Her work not only improves operational outcomes but also ensures the accuracy and integrity of patient diagnostics, reflecting the critical role of laboratory science in modern healthcare.