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.

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. Bunnel Kitete Tunda -Pharmacology- Best Researcher Award

Federal University of São João del-Rei - Brazil

Author Profile

SCOPUS

Early academic pursuits 🎓

Kitete Tunda Bunnel's academic journey began with a deep passion for medicine, pursuing a degree in human medicine from universite technologique bel campus (utbc) in the dr congo. graduating in 2012, his final thesis focused on the incidence of hypertensive retinopathy in patients, a topic that highlights his early interest in the intersections of chronic diseases and their impact on public health. this solid foundation laid the groundwork for his future contributions to healthcare, especially in geriatric pharmacology and drug utilization.

Professional endeavors 🏥

Kitete’s professional career spans across various continents, bringing his medical expertise from africa to brazil. after his graduation, he embarked on a journey that saw him transition to advanced studies in brazil, where he is currently pursuing a master's degree at universidade federal de são joão del-rei (ufsj). his master's research explores deprescribing oral antidiabetics in elderly patients, a critical topic given the global rise in aging populations and diabetes management. his diverse educational background, supplemented by short courses from renowned institutions like uppsala university in sweden, showcases his commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Contributions and research focus 🔬

Kitete's research has been dedicated to understanding and improving the health outcomes of vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly. his master's thesis focuses on how oral antidiabetic medications are addressed in informational leaflets globally, an essential study given the growing importance of patient education Pharmacology and safety in medication usage. in addition to his research in pharmacology, kitete has made contributions to understanding chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes, particularly in african and brazilian contexts.

Accolades and recognition 🏅

Kitete’s academic and research efforts have been recognized through multiple opportunities for advanced study and training. he was awarded a scholarship by coordenação de aperfeiçoamento de pessoal de nível superior (capes) in brazil, a prestigious recognition of his academic potential and commitment to research in Pharmacology healthcare. his work in drug utilization research has also been strengthened by his participation in international courses, including those at uppsala university in sweden, further enhancing his credentials in the global healthcare landscape.

Impact and influence 🌍

Kitete’s work is deeply impactful, as it addresses critical health challenges faced by elderly populations, particularly in the areas of diabetes and chronic disease management. his research on deprescribing oral antidiabetics highlights the importance of re-evaluating medication use in older adults, which could lead to Pharmacology significant advancements in patient safety and healthcare outcomes. his contributions span both local and international settings, ensuring that his research findings have broad implications for public health across different regions.

Legacy and future contributions 🔮

As kitete tunda bunnel continues his academic and professional journey, his contributions to geriatric pharmacology and chronic disease management promise to leave a lasting legacy. his work is paving the way for safer and more effective treatment protocols for elderly patients, and his international experiences allow him to bridge healthcare knowledge across continents. with a clear focus on patient-centered care, kitete’s future research will likely continue to influence healthcare policies and improve quality of life for aging populations around the world.

Notable Publications

Title: Deprescribing oral antidiabetics in elderly patients: Do electronic leaflets across the world address it?
Authors: Bunnel, K.T., Carvalho, S.J.E., Pereira, M.L., Couto, R.O., Baldoni, A.O.
Journal: Exploratory Research in Clinical and Social Pharmacy (2024), Vol. 16, Article 100537
Title: Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) improves biochemical outcomes in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies
Authors: Oliveira, V.M., Silveira, L.R., Bunnel, K.T., Baldoni, N.R., do Couto, R.O.
Journal: Advances in Traditional Medicine (2024)

Mohammad Sadegh Taghizadeh | Drug Discovery | Best Researcher Award

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

Shiraz University| Iran

Featured Publications