Mohammad Sadegh Taghizadeh | Drug Discovery | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Taghizadeh | Drug Discovery | Best Researcher Award

Shiraz University| Iran

Mohammad Sadegh Taghizadeh is based at the Agricultural Faculty of Shiraz University (Institute of Biotechnology, Shiraz-Isfahan Highway, Shiraz, Iran) where he pursues advanced research in bioactive small molecules and peptides—whether synthesised by ribosomes or derived from proteins. His work spans in vitro isolation, purification and structural-physicochemical characterisation of these compounds, their pharmacological and sensory properties, and complementary in silico design and target-interaction studies. He also explores recombinant production of bioactive peptides using plant and bacterial expression systems. Prior to his current role, he earned a bachelor’s in agricultural engineering (plant protection) at Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, a master’s in plant biotechnology at University of Guilan (thesis: factors affecting virulence genes of Agrobacterium tumefaciens in Arabidopsis thaliana mutants), and a PhD in biotechnology at Shiraz University (dissertation: functional properties of bio-active peptides derived from plant resources). He gained research experience at the Medical University of Vienna (on discovery of a novel cyclotide targeting the CCK2 receptor) and later led a project on plant-derived bioinsecticides funded by the National Elite Foundation of Iran, while also teaching as a TA in plant genetic engineering, molecular markers and plant tissue culture at Shiraz University. His research has steadily contributed to the field of peptide biotechnology, with growing recognition: his h-index currently stands at (unknown) and his publication and citation counts are steadily rising as he continues to establish himself in the realm of bioactive small molecules and recombinant peptide production.

Profile: Orcid  |  Scopus 

Featured Publications 

Abbasi, A., Taghizadeh, M. S., Moghadam, A., Niazi, A., Lotfi, M., & Taghavi, S.-M. (2025). A comprehensive insight into ultrasound-assisted protein extraction from Camelina sativa and de-bittering of resulting hydrolysates with emphasis on their structural, physicochemical, sensory, and biological properties. Food Chemistry, 445, 145435.

Taghizadeh, M. S., Niazi, A., Mirzapour-Kouhdasht, A., Pereira, E. C., & Garcia-Vaquero, M. (2025). Enhancing cyclotide bioproduction: Harnessing biological synthesis methods and various expression systems for large-scale manufacturing. Critical Reviews in Biotechnology, 45(1), 1–20.

Hoseini, S., Moghadam, A., Palizban, A., Hoseini, F., Taghizadeh, M. S., Choopani, A., & Hoseini, F. (2025). Immune boosting by pharmaceutical C-phycocyanin, in vitro and in silico effects on peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Health Biotechnology and Biopharma, 8(1), 1–10.

Lotfi, M., Keshvari, T., Taghizadeh, M. S., Afsharifar, A., Moghadam, A., Aram, F., & Niazi, A. (2025). Optimizing Camelina sativa oil extraction and its cytotoxicity using RSM by emphasis on antioxidant properties, physical characteristics, and molecular docking insights. Industrial Crops and Products, 215, 120334.

Taghizadeh, M. S., Mirzapour-Kouhdasht, A., & Huang, J.-Y. (2025, December). Unraveling the structure-activity relationship and molecular mechanisms for targeted therapeutic applications of food-derived angiotensin-I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides. Food Bioscience, 65, 107820.

Dr. Sho Horikoshi – Clinical Psychopharmacology – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sho Horikoshi - Clinical Psychopharmacology - Best Researcher Award

Department of Neuropsychiatry, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima -  Japan

Author Profile 

GOOGLE SCHOLAR 

🎓 Early academic pursuits

Sho Horikoshi’s journey into the field of neuropsychiatry began with his education at kitasato university, school of medicine, where he graduated in march 2011. his passion for psychiatry led him to complete his initial residency at nerima general hospital in april 2011. driven by a deep interest in understanding the complexities of mental health, he joined the department of neuropsychiatry at fukushima medical university in april 2013. these formative years provided him with a strong foundation in clinical practice and research, shaping his future contributions to psychiatric medicine.

🚀 Professional endeavors

Horikoshi’s professional career has been marked by a series of significant roles in both academic and clinical settings. after gaining extensive experience at hoshi general hospital and hoshigaoka hospital, he completed his doctoral program at fukushima medical university in march 2017. shortly after, he took on the role of assistant professor in the department of neuropsychiatry, further advancing his expertise in the field. his dedication to patient care led him to ichiyokai hospital in 2019, where he contributed to improving mental health services. later that year, he became the chairman and director of horikoshi mental & physical clinic under sukoyaka medical corporation, solidifying his leadership in psychiatric healthcare. in april 2023, he expanded his academic influence by becoming a clinical associate professor at fukushima medical university and a part-time lecturer at tohoku university’s graduate school of medicine.

🧐 Contributions and research focus

Horikoshi’s research focuses on the intersection of neuropsychiatry and clinical applications, with a strong emphasis on advancing mental health treatments and understanding psychiatric disorders. his work has significantly contributed to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies, addressing complex mental health challenges. he has actively integrated clinical Clinical Psychopharmacology research with patient-centered care, ensuring that advancements in neuropsychiatric treatments translate into real-world benefits. his expertise spans various aspects of mental health, from mood disorders and schizophrenia to the impact of neurological conditions on psychiatric well-being.

🏆 Accolades and recognition

Throughout his career, horikoshi has received widespread recognition for his contributions to neuropsychiatry. his role as a clinical associate professor and part-time lecturer reflects his Clinical Psychopharmacology esteemed reputation in academic circles. his dedication to mental health research and clinical excellence has made him a respected figure in psychiatric medicine. his leadership at horikoshi mental & physical clinic has also gained recognition for improving access to specialized mental healthcare and implementing innovative treatment approaches.

👨‍💻 Impact and influence

Horikoshi’s influence extends beyond academic research and clinical practice. his leadership in psychiatric institutions has transformed mental healthcare services, ensuring comprehensive Clinical Psychopharmacology and accessible treatment for patients. as a director and chairman, he has played a key role in shaping policies and treatment methodologies, advocating for holistic mental health approaches. his contributions to medical education have also been instrumental in training the next generation of psychiatrists, sharing his knowledge and clinical insights with aspiring mental health professionals.

🌍 Legacy and future contributions

As a leader in neuropsychiatry, horikoshi continues to shape the future of psychiatric medicine through research, education, and clinical practice. his ongoing commitment to advancing mental health treatments and his efforts in medical education ensure that his impact will be felt for years to come. by mentoring young psychiatrists and fostering collaborations between academic institutions and healthcare facilities, he is paving the way for a new era of neuropsychiatric advancements. his legacy is defined by his unwavering dedication to improving mental health care and his vision for a more comprehensive understanding of psychiatric disorders.

Notable Publications 

  • Title: DNA methylation of ANKK1 and response to aripiprazole in patients with acute schizophrenia: A preliminary study
    Author(s): I. Miura, Y. Kunii, M. Hino, H. Hoshino, J. Matsumoto, K. Kanno-Nozaki, ...
    Journal: Journal of Psychiatric Research

  • Title: COMT Val 108/158 Met polymorphism and treatment response to aripiprazole in patients with acute schizophrenia
    Author(s): H. Kaneko, I. Miura, K. Kanno-Nozaki, S. Horikoshi, M. Hino, H. Yabe
    Journal: Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment

  • Title: Influence of −141C Ins/Del polymorphism in DRD2 gene on clinical symptoms and plasma homovanillic acid levels in the treatment of schizophrenia with aripiprazole
    Author(s): I. Miura, K. Kanno-Nozaki, M. Hino, S. Horikoshi, T. Ota, H. Mashiko, S.I. Niwa, ...
    Journal: Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology

  • Title: Associations between five-factor model of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale and plasma levels of monoamine metabolite in patients with schizophrenia
    Author(s): K. Watanabe, I. Miura, K. Kanno-Nozaki, S. Horikoshi, H. Mashiko, S.I. Niwa, ...
    Journal: Psychiatry Research

  • Title: Lurasidone for the treatment of schizophrenia: design, development, and place in therapy
    Author(s): I. Miura, S. Horikoshi, M. Ichinose, Y. Suzuki, K. Watanabe
    Journal: Drug Design, Development and Therapy