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. WenQing Yang - Translational preclinical modelling for cancer and autoimmune diseases - Industry Leadership Excellence Award

ClinBridge Biotechnology Corporation Limited - China

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

ORCID

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

WenQing Yang, Ph.D., embarked on a distinguished academic journey that laid the foundation for his influential career in biomedical research. His early education was marked by a profound interest in understanding complex biological systems, which guided him through rigorous academic training. Dr. Yang’s academic pursuits provided him with a robust understanding of animal disease modeling and cancer pharmacology, paving the way for his future contributions in these fields.

💼 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Yang has made significant strides in drug discovery and development. His professional career began with a focus on early-stage drug discovery, where he demonstrated exceptional skill in advancing drug candidates from discovery to clinical development. Dr. Yang's career spans roles in both large pharmaceutical companies and small biotech firms, showcasing his versatility and leadership. His tenure as Founder and Chief Scientific Officer at Clinbridge Biotech Co. Ltd has been pivotal in establishing the company’s research and discovery infrastructure, driving scientific programs, and fostering global collaborations.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Yang’s research has been instrumental in the areas of cancer pharmacology, immuno-oncology, and autoimmune diseases. His work encompasses a wide range of activities, from animal disease modeling and cancer immunotherapy discovery to novel therapeutic targets validation. Dr. Yang’s expertise in dissecting the tumor micro-environment and validating biomarkers has led to significant advancements in understanding and treating complex diseases. His contributions to translational research have been crucial in bridging the gap between Translational preclinical modelling for cancer and autoimmune diseases preclinical studies and clinical applications.

🏆 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Throughout his career, Dr. Yang has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to biomedical research and drug discovery. His leadership in advancing over 20 drug candidates to PCC nomination or IND filing, with 15 molecules progressing to clinical trials, highlights his impact on the field. His role in leading translational sciences at Simcere Pharma Group Ltd further solidified his reputation as a leader in drug development and Translational preclinical modelling for cancer and autoimmune diseases translational research.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Yang’s influence extends globally, with his research impacting both academic and clinical settings. His efforts in advancing drug discovery and development have led to innovative therapeutic approaches in oncology and immuno-oncology. By establishing and leading scientific programs Translational preclinical modelling for cancer and autoimmune diseases at Clinbridge Biotech and Simcere Pharma, Dr. Yang has played a crucial role in shaping the future of drug discovery and translational medicine, driving forward new treatments and therapeutic strategies.

🏛️ LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Yang’s legacy is characterized by his dedication to advancing biomedical research and drug discovery. His work has set new standards in cancer pharmacology, immuno-oncology, and autoimmune diseases. Looking ahead, Dr. Yang is poised to continue his impactful work, focusing on novel therapeutics and innovative research approaches. His commitment to scientific excellence and leadership will undoubtedly inspire future advancements in the field, ensuring that his contributions continue to benefit the biomedical community for years to come.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

A novel form of docetaxel polymeric micelles demonstrates anti-tumor and ascites-inhibitory 2022(2)

Targeting the Homologous Recombination Pathway in Cancer With a Novel Class of RAD51 Inhibitors 2022(4)

Antiangiogenic antibody BD0801 combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors achieves synergistic 2021(10)

Application of magnetic nanoparticles for tumor-targeting hyperthemia 2016(1)

CC-223, a potent and selective inhibitor of mTOR kinase: In vitro and in vivo characterization 2015(48)

Mohammad Sadegh Taghizadeh | Drug Discovery | Best Researcher Award

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

Shiraz University| Iran

Featured Publications