Congratulations to the 3 trainees from Nigeria and South Africa who have received the IUBMB MilliporeSigma ENABLE-Africa Fellowships to attend the FEBS-IUBMB-ENABLE 2026 Conference on The Code of Life: Beyond the Genome to Multilayer Biology in Kraków, Poland. We wish them much success!
Adedotun Fikayo Adesina is a lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry at Redeemer’s University in Ede, Nigeria. He holds a PhD in Molecular Toxicology and currently researches how small therapeutic molecules protect against the deleterious effects of environmental toxicants on organs.
Adata Akie Jumbo is a Lecturer I in the Department of Science Laboratory Technology at the Federal Polytechnic of Oil and Gas, Bonny Island, Rivers State, Nigeria. She recently completed her PhD in Environmental Biochemistry, where her research focused on understanding how environmental exposures influence human health through interconnected biochemical and molecular processes. Her research interests lie in environmental toxicology, public health, biomonitoring, environmental health risk assessment, and molecular epidemiology. She is particularly interested in investigating the exposome and identifying biomarkers that illuminate the molecular and biochemical pathways through which environmental and occupational pollutants contribute to organ dysfunction and disease. Her work integrates exposure assessment with biomarker-based approaches to understand how environmental stressors shape biological responses and health outcomes.
Halimat Yusuf Lukman is a PhD candidate in the Computational and Systems Biology Research Group, led by Prof. Saheed Sabiu, in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Science, at Durban University of Technology, South Africa. She is an early-career researcher whose work integrates computational drug discovery, phytomedicine, and experimental validation approaches to identify plant-derived therapeutics for metabolic diseases. Her research aims to advance evidence-based phytomedicine through system-level and multi-target strategies.
Congratulations to the latest recipients of the IUBMB Travel Fellowships. This round of awards recognizes outstanding early-career researchers from Argentina, France, Mexico, and Nigeria who have been selected to receive travel support to attend and present their research at international scientific meetings within the IUBMB region.
Ivana Friedman is an Argentinian biologist and currently a postdoctoral fellow at CONICET. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences in 2018 and completed her Ph.D. in 2024. Since 2019, she has been conducting research at the Laboratory of Aquatic Organism Physiology and Biotechnology, directed by Dr. Analía Fernández Giménez, at the National University of Mar del Plata, and is part of the Institute of Marine and Coastal Research (IIMyC). She will attend the 6th Conference of the Australian and New Zealand Marine Biotechnology Society (ANZMBS) 2026 at the University of Waikato to present collaborative research conducted with researchers from the University of Almería, Spain, under the supervision of Dr. Francisco Javier Alarcón López. The oral presentation she will give is titled “Encapsulation of enzymes recovered from South Atlantic fishery waste: a molecular biotechnology approach for the blue economy”.
Andrea Cecilia Garcia Sandoval is a Peruvian early-career researcher. She completed her undergraduate studies in Peru, before pursuing the rest of my scientific training in France. Her PhD focuses on characterising the function of an understudied intrinsically disordered nucleolar protein and understanding the mechanism underlying its changes in subcellular localisation in multiple cancers. Andrea is now a first-year postdoctoral fellow in Nicolas Reynoird’s team at the Institute for Advanced Biosciences in Grenoble, France. Her current research investigates the role and molecular network of a lysine methyltransferase in the context of rhabdomyosarcoma.
Frank Abimbola Ogundolie is a Postdoctoral Researcher and Lecturer at Baze University, Abuja, Nigeria. He holds a PhD in Applied Biochemistry and conducts interdisciplinary research in enzyme technology, molecular biology, microbial biotechnology, bioinformatics, antimicrobial resistance, One Health, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on applying biochemical, molecular, and computational approaches to address challenges in renewable bioenergy, environmental health, and sustainable development.
Marcos Ostolga Chavarría is an advanced doctoral student in the Biochemical Sciences Graduate Program, hosted by the Institute of Cellular Physiology at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) in Mexico City. He is currently conducting his doctoral research in the laboratory of Dr. Diego González Halphen, where he studies the mechanism regulating the hydrolytic activity of ATP synthase in the colorless alga Polytomella parva, an organism that appears to lack the mitochondrial inhibitor protein IF1.
We are pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 PROBio-Africa Fellowships Programme, an initiative supporting mobility, training and scientific exchange for researchers in the molecular life sciences across Africa and Europe.
This year’s fellowships have been awarded to researchers from Ethiopia, Nigeria, South Africa and Tunisia, who will undertake research visits in laboratories across FEBS countries as part of the programme.
Amanuel Getahun Addis is a Lecturer in the Department of Physics at Bahir Dar University, Ethiopia. He is a B.Sc. Gold Medalist (2017) and earned his M.Sc. in Physics (2019) from the same institution. His current research focuses on computer-aided drug discovery (CADD) and the dynamics of therapeutically relevant proteins. In collaboration with the Gorfe Research Group at UTHealth, he identified allosteric noncovalent Pan-KRAS inhibitors using structure-based virtual screening. He has presented his findings on allosteric Pan-KRAS inhibitor discovery at the Biophysics in Africa 2026 conference. He also conducts proteome-wide phylogenetic, structural, and functional analyses of intrinsically disordered lipid-modified membrane-binding regions. His earlier work includes digital signal processing and radar modeling under Prof. Baylie Damtie Yeshita. He is a recipient of the 2025 Young Researchers Fund for his work on machine learning models of air quality in Ethiopia.
Dr. Christian Chijioke Amah is a Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences (Biochemistry Unit), State University of Medical and Applied Sciences Igbo-Eno, Enugu State, Nigeria. Graduated with a BSc Honours (Applied Biochemistry) from Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State Nigeria and an MSc (Pharmacological Biochemistry) from the University of Nigeria Nsukka. He obtained a PhD in Pharmacological and Toxicological Biochemistry, specializing in anti-diabetic properties of medicinal plants from the University of Nigeria Nsukka. He has extensive experience as an administrator, academic, and researcher, including in local and international universities, research institutes, and centers. His research areas include phytochemicals, molecular biology, diabetes, malaria, and inflammation. His current research focuses on revalidating and finding scientific credence for the folkloric use of medicinal plants used in Africa. He teaches courses in the areas of Biochemistry, Medical Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Nutrition. He is widely published in his core areas of research.
Dr. Amah is a recipient of the 2025 Probio-Africa Fellowship under the supervision of Profs Carolina Carrillo-Carrión and Irene Diaz Moreno at the Institute of Chemical Research Isla de la Cartuja Centre, Spain.
Bernadette Belter is a PhD Biochemistry candidate in the Structure-based Drug Discovery research group, Department of Microbiology and Biochemistry, University of the Free State, South Africa. The project specialises in structure-based drug discovery targeting parasitic C24-sterol methyltransferases from Leishmania species to develop novel antiparasitic therapy. Her research includes protein expression, purification, biochemical characterisation, protein crystallography, and X-ray crystallographic fragment screening. She obtained her MSc in Microbiology from the same institution, where she recombinantly produced SARS-CoV-2 proteins in Yarrowia lipolytica for vaccine development. During her BSc Honours studies, she researched disinfectant resistance mechanisms in Serratia marcescens. Bernadette has published in an international peer-reviewed journal, contributed to a book chapter, and presented her work at local and international conferences. She has acted as a practical coordinator and teaching assistant for undergraduate modules for the past five years and regularly engages in science communication with high school learners.
Walelign Demelash is a PhD candidate in Genetics at Addis Ababa University, where where his research focuses on the genomics, proteomics, and molecular breeding of Ethiopian crops. He holds an MSc in Biology from Haramaya University and a BSc in Biology from Bahir Dar University. He has hands-on experience in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and plant genetics, including experimental design, data analysis, and gene and protein characterization.
He currently serves as an Associate Researcher and Genebank Director at the Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute. In this role, he leads the molecular characterization and evaluation of major field crops, designs and implements field and growth-chamber experiments, and collects phenotypic, molecular, and proteomic data.
He has contributed to the scientific literature through several peer-reviewed publications, including research on the genetic variability, parameter estimates, and associations among selected morpho-agronomic traits of Ethiopian tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) accessions, as well as earlier work on visceral leishmaniasis risk factors and community knowledge in northwest Ethiopia.
Salim Kraiem is a PhD candidate at the Faculty of Medicine of Sfax and the Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax (CBS). His research focuses on Structural Biology, Biochemistry, and Computational Modeling, with applications in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s disease. His current projects involve molecular docking, molecular dynamics, enzymology, and heterologous expression of recombinant proteins. By designing and characterizing novel molecules, Kraiem aims to contribute to innovative biomedical strategies and therapeutic approaches for complex neurological disorders. His multidisciplinary expertise reflects strong analytical skills and a commitment to advancing translational research in health sciences.
David Chukwu Obasi is a Senior Lecturer and the immediate past Head of Department of Medical Biochemistry at David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences (DUFUHS), Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. He obtained his Ph.D. degree in Medical Biochemistry from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. He started his academic career as a Graduate Assistant at Evangel University, Akaeze, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, where he rose to the rank of Senior Lecturer, and served twice as an Acting Head of Department before his appointment at DUFUHS.
Dr. Obasi has over 40 scholarly journal publications with research interests in Medical Biochemistry/Toxicology and Molecular Biology. He has reviewed manuscripts for various journals, including Scientific African (Elsevier) and NJBMB. He is a member of the Nigerian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (NSBMB) and Society of Toxicology (SOT). He is a passionate teacher and counselor who received an Award of “Academic Excellence” in 2013.
Ikechukwu Jacob Okoro is a Lecturer in Medical Biochemistry at David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and previously served as an Assistant Lecturer at Salem University, Lokoja. His research focuses on the role of antioxidants in diseases such as glaucoma, malaria, diabetes, and other emerging conditions in Africa and globally. He has published widely in reputable journals.
Dr. Okoro is a recipient of the 2025 Probio-Africa Fellowship under the supervision of Prof. Nuno C. Santos and Prof. Filomena Carvalho at the Gulbenkian Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal. He also received a Federal Government Scholarship in 2021 and was a top 10 finalist in UNN’s 2019 Three Minute Thesis competition.
He is passionate about teaching, mentorship, and student development, and is an active member of the Nigerian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (NSBMB).
Obumneme Maduka Onyia is a lecturer in the Department of Applied Biochemistry at Enugu State University of Science and Technology. He holds a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. His research centers on reactive oxygen species, inflammation, diabetes, drug resistance, and other emerging health challenges affecting Africa and the global community. He has authored numerous publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals, contributing meaningfully to biomedical research.
Dr. Onyia is a recipient of the 2026 Probio-Africa Fellowship under the supervision of Prof. Meenakshisundaram Kandhavelu in the Molecular Signaling Group at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, University of Tampere, Finland.
He is deeply committed to teaching, mentorship, and student development, and is an active member of the Nigerian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (NSBMB).
We wish Yuliana Hovorova all the best as she relocates to the lab of Prof. Bozena Kaminska at the Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology Polish Academy of Sciences, Poland, to continue her research. Wishing her success and many exciting discoveries as she continues her research journey.
We are excited to highlight new research from the IUBMB Journals: IUBMB Life, BioFactors, Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education.
Please also consider submitting your own research to the IUBMB Journals. You can expect to work with distinguished Editorial Board members and benefit from worldwide circulation and readership through our publishing partnership with Wiley. For more information about the journal and submissions, feel free to peruse the IUBMB journals website.
For now, please enjoy highlights of our recent content. Happy reading!
Call to Action for Peer Reviewers
Wiley and the IUBMB are looking for referees to review manuscripts for the journals. If you are interested in acting as a peer reviewer for any of the IUBMB titles, please get in touch with the relevant Editor directly to advise them of your interest, and they would be happy to consider you for future articles:
To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for IUBMB Life, please click here.
To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for BioFactors, please click here.
To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, please click here.
To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education, please click here.
To learn more about being a peer reviewer for a journal, Wiley publishes a number of resources online which you can find here.
R. Qin, C. Li, H. Xu, X. Lai, and L. Chen, “Integration of Single-Cell and Spatial Transcriptomics With Experimental Validation Uncovers Macrophage Diversity and Spatial Landscape in Carotid Atherosclerosis,” IUBMB Life 78, no. 5 (2026): e70105.
The core pathogenesis of carotid atherosclerosis (CAS) lies in the rupture of vulnerable plaques, with macrophages (MC) playing a critical role in plaque progression and destabilization. However, the functional characteristics of MC subpopulations in CAS remain poorly understood. This study systematically investigates the cellular composition of CAS and the regulatory mechanisms of MC by integrating single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), in vitro models, and spatial transcriptomics. Spatial transcriptomics revealed the spatial connection patterns of the SPP1 signaling pathway network across different cell types. This study provides novel molecular insights into the pathogenesis of CAS and lays the groundwork for developing diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
A. O. Mohamed, Y. He, and X. Wang, “Single-Cell Dissection of Malignant Cell Heterogeneity Reveals Functional Programs and Clinically Relevant Subtypes in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma,” IUBMB Life 78, no. 5 (2026): e70104.
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy with poor prognosis and limited predictive biomarkers for therapy response. Characterizing malignant cell heterogeneity may improve prognostic and therapeutic stratification. We integrated single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from 58 HNSCC patients (181,003 cells) to define malignant cell subpopulations, their differentiation states, developmental trajectories, cell–cell interactions, and spatial localization. This study provides a comprehensive map of malignant cell heterogeneity in HNSCC, identifies key functional expression programs, and defines molecular subtypes with clinical and therapeutic relevance. Malignant cell-specific signatures, such as MCScore, offer promising tools for patient stratification and precision immunotherapy.
IUBMB Life solicits proposals for special issues relevant to the mission of our journal in the field of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Structural Biology and Molecular Medicine and pertinent areas. This is an open call for Special Issue Proposals, and all submissions will be reviewed in a timely manner. We will provide streamlined editorial support and assistance to the special issue guest editors.
Application Process
Prospective guest editor(s) need to complete the Special Issue Proposal Form available online and submit it to mchoudhary@wiley.com, together with the CV(s) of the proposed guest editor(s). Please state “IUBMB – SI proposal submission” in the subject line of your submission email.
A special issue proposal should include the following content:
A short title that can clearly describe the scope of special issue;
A short introduction about the significance of the special issue;
Basic information and CV of Lead Guest Editor and Co-Guest Editors;
List of potential authors and their tentative article titles;
The estimated number of submissions;
Proposed timeline.
Please visit the journal homepage for more information.
N. M. Silva, A. S. Martins, N. E. Karguth, et al., “Dengue Virus Capsid Protein Interaction With Nucleic Acids,” BioFactors 52, no. 3 (2026): e70105.
Dengue virus (DENV) transmission has greatly increased in the last decade, partly due to the geographical expansion of Aedes spp. mosquitoes. These arthropods are now found even in temperate climates, including Europe, where outbreaks have occurred. A better understanding of the life cycle is essential, as it may enable the development of specific treatments or therapies, which are currently lacking. It is now clear that the C protein binds both to host lipid droplets and to the viral genome—interactions crucial for viral encapsidation and replication. Here, we investigate how DENV C associates with the viral genome. The results of this study are consistent with molecular condensation, supporting a possible liquid–liquid phase separation contributing to DENV C–nucleic acid complex formation.
Y. He, Z. Wang, Y. Weng, et al., “VGLL3 Regulates DAPK2-Mediated Autophagy During Osteoblast Differentiation,” BioFactors 52, no. 3 (2026): e70104.
Vestigial-like family member 3 (VGLL3), a transcriptional cofactor of the TEA domain family, has been previously identified as a regulator of osteoblast differentiation. Building upon our previous findings, we investigated VGLL3 function in MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts using an integrated approach combining transcriptomic analysis and functional assays to identify its downstream effectors and explore associated autophagy mechanisms. Collectively, our findings in this study suggest that VGLL3 may influence osteogenic differentiation in osteoblasts, potentially involving DAPK2-associated autophagy.
BioFactors solicits proposals for special issues relevant to the mission of our journal in the field of biological factors and pertinent areas. This is an open call for Special Issue Proposals, and all submissions will be reviewed in a timely manner. We will provide streamlined editorial support and assistance to the special issue guest editors.
Application Process
Prospective guest editor(s) need to complete the Special Issue Proposal Form (downloadable from the BioFactors’ homepage) and submit it to mchoudhary@wiley.com, together with the CV(s) of the proposed guest editor(s). Please state “BIOF – SI proposal submission” in the subject line of your submission email.
A special issue proposal should include the following content:
A short title that can clearly describe the scope of special issue.
A short introduction about the significance of the special issue.
Basic information and CV of Lead Guest Editor and Co-Guest Editors.
List of potential authors and their tentative article titles.
The estimated number of submissions.
Proposed timeline.
Please visit the journal homepage for more information.
M. Giani, E. Valdés, J. M. Miralles-Robledillo, G. Martínez, C. Pire, and R. M. Martínez-Espinosa, “A New Era for Using Natural Pigments: The Case of the C50 Carotenoid Called Bacterioruberin.” Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry 73, no. 2 (2026): 913–926.
Haloarchaea are extremophilic microorganisms belonging to the Archaea domain that require high salt concentrations to live, thus inhabiting ecosystems like salty ponds, salty marshes, or extremely salty lagoons. They are more abundant and widely distributed worldwide than initially expected. Most of them are grouped into two families: Halobacteriaceae and Haloferacaceae. The extreme conditions under which haloarchaea survive contribute to their metabolic and molecular adaptations that make them good candidates for the design of bioremediation strategies or the use of the cells as cellular factories to produce highly marketable molecules: enzymes, bioplastics, antibiotics, and natural pigments. In this work, new advances in the production of these natural carotenoids are described, placing special emphasis on the challenges of their production on a large scale, as well as on their promising applications in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and food.
K. Iqbal, A. Mishra, and S. M. Sreedharan, “Adaptive and Biochemical Responses of Dictyosphaerium sp. AM-2024a to Environmental Conditions and Microplastic Interactions: Synergy of Biofuel Production With Pollution Mitigation.” Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry 73, no. 2 (2026): 768– 781.
This study investigates the physiological and biochemical responses of a newly isolated microalgal strain, Dictyosphaerium sp. AM-2024a, identified through 18S rDNA sequencing, under varying environmental conditions and microplastic (MP) interactions. The study highlights Dictyosphaerium sp. AM-2024a as a novel and robust candidate for biofuel applications and pollutant mitigation, providing a foundation for future research into its ecological and industrial applications.
S. Bahsoun, M. Morris, and E. Akam, “Cartooning in Biological Learning,” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education54, no. 2 (2026): 140–155.
The teaching of biochemistry in higher education presents several challenges, including the complexity of molecular visualization, the use of technical terminology, and the vast amount of content covered in courses. This systematic review explores current research on biochemistry teaching at the higher education level published between 2012 and 2024, focusing on the teaching resources and methods used. This review gives teachers a comprehensive overview of recently published knowledge concerning biochemistry teaching, providing a foundation for the implementation of innovative and effective educational practices.
F. Pereira-Dias and M. B. de Espíndola, “Integrating Digital Technologies Into Biochemistry Education: A Decade of Efforts, Pandemic Impacts, and Emerging Insights,” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education54, no. 2 (2026): 195–216.
This review critically examines the integration of Digital Information and Communication Technologies (TDICs) in biochemistry education over the past decade, highlighting both the benefits and challenges from a critical theoretical perspective. We observed that digital technologies can enhance certain aspects of student engagement and learning outcomes; however, they can also hinder equitable access and hands-on laboratory skills. This review also highlights the key elements of critical reflection on the socio-political and ethical implications of digital technologies in biochemistry education, with a particular focus on pandemic-era concerns, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the commercialization of teaching practices. Future research should focus on these dimensions to ensure that technological advancements do not perpetuate or amplify educational inequities.
Did you know?Wiley and Jisc have signed an agreement that allows UK authors to publish Open Access in the IUBMB Journals at no cost to them.
Thanks to a partnership our publisher Wiley has signed with Jisc, certain UK institutions now have full access to journals published by Wiley, including the IUBMB Journals. Further, the partnership enables authors at participating UK institutions to publish open access at no cost to them in the IUBMB Journals. Payment of the associated Article Publication Charges (APC) would be covered via the partnership, and authors will not need to cover the APCs from their own pockets.
Recent advances in genome editing, especially CRISPR/Cas-based technologies, have revolutionized the field by enabling precise and customizable DNA and RNA modifications. The importance of this technology is highlighted by the fact that its pioneers, Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna, were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2020.
The review by Galdikaite-Braziene and colleagues provides a comprehensive overview of CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing as a therapeutic strategy for Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive photoreceptor degeneration, ultimately leading to vision loss and blindness. The genetic complexity of IRDs, with more than 320 associated genes, makes the development of effective treatments particularly challenging.
This article effectively demonstrates how CRISPR-based technologies represent a major breakthrough in the treatment of inherited retinal diseases. The wide range of editing strategies described—ranging from gene disruption to base, prime, and RNA editing—highlights the versatility of CRISPR as a therapeutic platform.
The authors explored multiple CRISPR approaches, including gene knockout via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), exon skipping with dual sgRNAs, homology-directed repair (HDR), base editing, and prime editing. Emerging technologies such as RNA editing using Cas13 and epigenetic modulation through CRISPRa and CRISPRi are alos discussed by the authors.
Particular attention has been given to the description of different therapeutic strategies, including allele-specific targeting for dominant mutations and gene-agnostic approaches aimed at common disease pathways. These include cell reprogramming and metabolic interventions to preserve photoreceptor function.
One of the strengths of the review is its focus on both mutation-specific and mutation-independent approaches. In particular, gene-agnostic strategies, such as cell reprogramming and metabolic modulation, are especially promising because they could be applied across multiple IRDs despite their genetic heterogeneity.
However, the article also makes clear that significant obstacles remain before these therapies can be widely implemented in clinical practice. Delivery efficiency, immune responses, and the risk of off-target effects are still major concerns. Additionally, current experimental models do not fully replicate human retinal biology, limiting the accurate prediction of therapeutic outcomes.
In conclusion, while CRISPR technologies offer unprecedented opportunities for treating previously untreatable genetic disorders, further research is required to improve safety, efficiency, and clinical applicability. Nevertheless, the progress described in this review strongly suggests that CRISPR-based therapies could play a central role in the future of precision medicine for IRDs.
Lanreotide (LAN), a synthetic somatostatin analog, helps protect lung endothelial cells by reducing oxidative stress, regulating protein expression, and improving barrier function. This study found that these protective effects rely on the ATF6 pathway of the unfolded protein response. When ATF6 was inhibited using Ceapin-A7, LAN’s beneficial effects were reversed. In conclusion, blocking ATF6 (with Ceapin-A7) cancels out the protective actions of Lanreotide in endothelial cells.
We are delighted to co-fund this new initiative with FEBS as part of the FEBS Advanced Courses program 2027.
The course can be held in any country that has an International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Adhering Body or Associate Adhering Body (including those with a FEBS Constituent Society).
Congratulations to Professor Sergio Colombo from Nottingham Trent University, UK, who was awarded an IUBMB Education Fellowship to travel to the National University of Rosario, Argentina, to deliver specialized lectures on biochemistry and molecular biology education.
Congratulations to Professor Ifeoma Ijeh from The Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria, was awarded an IUBMB Education Fellowship to travel to Middlesex University London, UK, to learn and develop advanced pedagogical practices and methodologies and bring this knowledge back to their home country to strengthen education and improve learning outcomes.
We are excited to highlight new research from the IUBMB Journals: IUBMB Life, BioFactors, Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, and Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education.
Please also consider submitting your own research to the IUBMB Journals. You can expect to work with distinguished Editorial Board members and benefit from worldwide circulation and readership through our publishing partnership with Wiley. For more information about the journal and submissions, feel free to peruse the IUBMB journals website.
For now, please enjoy highlights of our recent content. Happy reading!
Call to Action for Peer Reviewers
Wiley and the IUBMB are looking for referees to review manuscripts for the journals. If you are interested in acting as a peer reviewer for any of the IUBMB titles, please get in touch with the relevant Editor directly to advise them of your interest, and they would be happy to consider you for future articles:
To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for IUBMB Life, please click here.
To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for BioFactors, please click here.
To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, please click here.
To contact the Editorial Board and register your interest to act as a peer reviewer for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education, please click here.
To learn more about being a peer reviewer for a journal, Wiley publishes a number of resources online which you can find here.
F. Davì, S. Mangione, A. Iaconis, T. Genovese, N. Tranchida, and S. Cuzzocrea, “Future Prospects of Imatinib in Advanced Pulmonary Hypertension Management,” IUBMB Life 78, no. 3 (2026): e70098.
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe, progressive disease characterized by elevated pulmonary arterial pressure and increased vascular resistance. This hemodynamic strain forces the right ventricle to pump against a high-pressure system, ultimately leading to right-sided heart failure and death. This review examines the pharmacological rationale for imatinib, its impact on vascular structure, and the safety signals observed in long-term studies. Furthermore, it discusses emerging strategies, such as inhaled formulations and pharmacogenetic approaches (e.g., the PIPAH study), aimed at enhancing the efficacy-to-safety ratio of kinase inhibitors to improve long-term outcomes for patients with PAH.
X. Wang, Z. Huang, and W. Zhang, “ALG8-Driven Metabolic Reprogramming in Polycystic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Synthesis of Evidence Linking Glycosylation Defects to Metabolic Signaling,” IUBMB Life 78, no. 3 (2026): e70091.
Endoplasmic reticulum glycosyltransferase ALG8 controls metabolic fate in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). In this paper, we summarize human genetics, cell-based, and organ-based evidence to investigate whether ALG8 variants affect cyst initiation and metabolic states of ADPKD. These results recast ADPKD as a metabolic disorder where glycosylation defects link ciliary dysfunction to oncogenic transformation. We focus on three areas: (i) convergence with multiple lines of evidence, (ii) disagreement, and (iii) testable predictions for future studies and trials. The overlap between cystogenic and tumorigenic metabolic programs suggests cancer metabolic inhibitors may be reused for ADPKD in near-term translation. By defining ALG8 as a metabolic checkpoint in polycystic disease, we uncover targets at the glycosylation–metabolism interface.
IUBMB Life solicits proposals for special issues relevant to the mission of our journal in the field of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Structural Biology and Molecular Medicine and pertinent areas. This is an open call for Special Issue Proposals, and all submissions will be reviewed in a timely manner. We will provide streamlined editorial support and assistance to the special issue guest editors.
Application Process
Prospective guest editor(s) need to complete the Special Issue Proposal Form available online and submit it to mchoudhary@wiley.com, together with the CV(s) of the proposed guest editor(s). Please state “IUBMB – SI proposal submission” in the subject line of your submission email.
A special issue proposal should include the following content:
A short title that can clearly describe the scope of special issue;
A short introduction about the significance of the special issue;
Basic information and CV of Lead Guest Editor and Co-Guest Editors;
List of potential authors and their tentative article titles;
The estimated number of submissions;
Proposed timeline.
Please visit the journal homepage for more information.
R. Pellitteri, C. Tomasella, M. A. Chiacchio, et al., “Modulatory Effect of Natural Antioxidants on Tissue Transglutaminase Levels in Olfactory Ensheathing Cells Exposed to Amyloid-β: Integrated Biochemical and Computational Analysis,” BioFactors52, no. 2 (2026): e70088.
Herein, we adopted a dual approach combining molecular modeling and biological studies, in order to assess the interaction between four selected natural antioxidants (NAs; berberine, curcumin, astaxanthin, indicaxanthin) and tissue transglutaminase (TG2) levels both in the absence and in the presence of full native peptide of amyloid-β (Aβ). Our findings demonstrate that integrating computational and biological approaches, enhances the identification of potent therapeutic agents and also highlights berberine and curcumin as promising candidates for the development of novel neuroprotective drugs against neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.
W. Xie, X. Gao, S. Song, N. Li, and L. Zhao, “Coenzyme Q10 Mitigates Myocardial Infarction by Modulating HDAC4 O-GlcNAcylation,” BioFactors52, no. 2 (2026): e70085.
Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of mortality. This study explores the cardioprotective effects of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and its molecular mechanisms in MI. The results showed that in vitro, CoQ10 enhanced oxygen–glucose deprivation and reperfusion (OGD/R) cardiomyocyte survival, reduced apoptosis (TUNEL, flow cytometry), and suppressed HDAC4 expression. In fibroblasts, CoQ10 inhibited TGF-β1-induced proliferation/migration (CCK-8, EdU, Transwell assays) and reduced collagen I, collagen III, and α-SMA expression, indicating anti-fibrotic effects. Furthermore, HDAC4 knockdown in vivo improved cardiac function, and in vitro reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and fibroblast proliferation/migration, reinforcing HDAC4’s role in MI pathology. CoQ10 exerts cardioprotective effects by modulating O-GlcNAc modification and HDAC4 expression.
BioFactors solicits proposals for special issues relevant to the mission of our journal in the field of biological factors and pertinent areas. This is an open call for Special Issue Proposals, and all submissions will be reviewed in a timely manner. We will provide streamlined editorial support and assistance to the special issue guest editors.
Application Process
Prospective guest editor(s) need to complete the Special Issue Proposal Form (downloadable from the BioFactors’ homepage) and submit it to mchoudhary@wiley.com, together with the CV(s) of the proposed guest editor(s). Please state “BIOF – SI proposal submission” in the subject line of your submission email.
A special issue proposal should include the following content:
A short title that can clearly describe the scope of special issue.
A short introduction about the significance of the special issue.
Basic information and CV of Lead Guest Editor and Co-Guest Editors.
List of potential authors and their tentative article titles.
The estimated number of submissions.
Proposed timeline.
Please visit the journal homepage for more information.
H. Gezegen, O. Özbek, M. Topal, H. Şahin, and Ü. M. Koçyiğit, “Synthesis, Characterization, Biological Properties, and Sensor Applications of Novel Thiosemicarbazone Derivatives.” Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry73, no. 1 (2026): 14–27.
In this study, novel thiosemicarbazone derivative molecules (5a–j) were synthesized. The characterization of the synthesized molecules was carried out using 1H–, 13C–NMR, FT–IR, and Q–TOF spectroscopic techniques. Then, the inhibitory effect of these compounds was examined for human carbonic anhydrase I and II (hCA I, and II) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). The hCA I II, and AChE were efficiently inhibited by synthesized thiosemicarbazone derivatives, with Ki values in the range of 0.293–1.666 µM for hCA I, 0.298–1.332 µM for hCA II, and 52.51–138.63 µM for AChE, respectively. Finally, the sensor properties of the synthesized thiosemicarbazone derivatives were investigated. The newly synthesized thiosemicarbazone derivative molecules exhibited high selectivity towards Pb2+ ions. The sensor prepared with 5a from these molecules had a Nernstian behavior of 28.8 ± 1.5 mV/decade and a low detection limit of 2.86 × 10−6 M in a wide concentration range of 1.0 × 10−1–1.0 × 10−5 M. The newly proposed sensor also had a wide pH working range (5.0–10.0), a very fast response time (5 s), and good reproducibility. The newly fabricated sensors were used as indicator electrodes for the potentiometric titration of Pb2+ ions with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and were successfully applied for the determination of Pb2+ ion content in different water samples.
A. E. Göner and H. E. Duran, “The Relationship Between Aldose Reductase and Isoxazole Derivatives: An In Vitro and In Silico Approach to Its Correlation With Diabetic Conditions.” Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry73, no. 1 (2026): 43–55.
Diabetes mellitus (DM), which can result in a number of problems such as cataracts, neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy, and several cardiovascular illnesses, continues to be a growing issue despite major advancements in treatment approaches. Numerous scientists have targeted the polyol pathway as a target for intervention since it includes aldose reductase (ALR2, AR (E.C.1.1.1.21)), a crucial enzyme. Oxidative damage, NADPH depletion, and intracellular sorbitol buildup result from the overactivation of ALR2 brought on by hyperglycemia. Interest in creating novel ALR2 inhibitors (ALR2Is) with enhanced therapeutic characteristics has increased as a result of this circumstance. The amazing biological capabilities of isoxazole molecules led us to look into the biological properties of isoxazole and related compounds. Important interactions between these isoxazoles and ALR2 are highlighted by the combined in vitro and in silico studies, indicating their potential as therapeutic agents against a range of pathological diseases. Furthermore, these substances that have ALR2 inhibitory properties could be useful as stand-in treatments or preventative measures for diabetes problems.
S. Bahsoun, M. Morris, and E. Akam, “Cartooning in Biological Learning,” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education54, no. 2 (2026): 140–155.
The teaching of biochemistry in higher education presents several challenges, including the complexity of molecular visualization, the use of technical terminology, and the vast amount of content covered in courses. This systematic review explores current research on biochemistry teaching at the higher education level published between 2012 and 2024, focusing on the teaching resources and methods used. This review gives teachers a comprehensive overview of recently published knowledge concerning biochemistry teaching, providing a foundation for the implementation of innovative and effective educational practices.
F. Pereira-Dias and M. B. de Espíndola, “Integrating Digital Technologies Into Biochemistry Education: A Decade of Efforts, Pandemic Impacts, and Emerging Insights,” Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Education54, no. 2 (2026): 195–216.
This review critically examines the integration of Digital Information and Communication Technologies (TDICs) in biochemistry education over the past decade, highlighting both the benefits and challenges from a critical theoretical perspective. We observed that digital technologies can enhance certain aspects of student engagement and learning outcomes; however, they can also hinder equitable access and hands-on laboratory skills. This review also highlights the key elements of critical reflection on the socio-political and ethical implications of digital technologies in biochemistry education, with a particular focus on pandemic-era concerns, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the commercialization of teaching practices. Future research should focus on these dimensions to ensure that technological advancements do not perpetuate or amplify educational inequities.
Did you know?Wiley and Jisc have signed an agreement that allows UK authors to publish Open Access in the IUBMB Journals at no cost to them.
Thanks to a partnership our publisher Wiley has signed with Jisc, certain UK institutions now have full access to journals published by Wiley, including the IUBMB Journals. Further, the partnership enables authors at participating UK institutions to publish open access at no cost to them in the IUBMB Journals. Payment of the associated Article Publication Charges (APC) would be covered via the partnership, and authors will not need to cover the APCs from their own pockets.
Recent advances in genome editing, especially CRISPR/Cas-based technologies, have revolutionized the field by enabling precise and customizable DNA and RNA modifications. The importance of this technology is highlighted by the fact that its pioneers, Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna, were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2020.
The review by Galdikaite-Braziene and colleagues provides a comprehensive overview of CRISPR/Cas-based genome editing as a therapeutic strategy for Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) a heterogeneous group of genetic disorders characterized by progressive photoreceptor degeneration, ultimately leading to vision loss and blindness. The genetic complexity of IRDs, with more than 320 associated genes, makes the development of effective treatments particularly challenging.
This article effectively demonstrates how CRISPR-based technologies represent a major breakthrough in the treatment of inherited retinal diseases. The wide range of editing strategies described—ranging from gene disruption to base, prime, and RNA editing—highlights the versatility of CRISPR as a therapeutic platform.
The authors explored multiple CRISPR approaches, including gene knockout via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), exon skipping with dual sgRNAs, homology-directed repair (HDR), base editing, and prime editing. Emerging technologies such as RNA editing using Cas13 and epigenetic modulation through CRISPRa and CRISPRi are alos discussed by the authors.
Particular attention has been given to the description of different therapeutic strategies, including allele-specific targeting for dominant mutations and gene-agnostic approaches aimed at common disease pathways. These include cell reprogramming and metabolic interventions to preserve photoreceptor function.
One of the strengths of the review is its focus on both mutation-specific and mutation-independent approaches. In particular, gene-agnostic strategies, such as cell reprogramming and metabolic modulation, are especially promising because they could be applied across multiple IRDs despite their genetic heterogeneity.
However, the article also makes clear that significant obstacles remain before these therapies can be widely implemented in clinical practice. Delivery efficiency, immune responses, and the risk of off-target effects are still major concerns. Additionally, current experimental models do not fully replicate human retinal biology, limiting the accurate prediction of therapeutic outcomes.
In conclusion, while CRISPR technologies offer unprecedented opportunities for treating previously untreatable genetic disorders, further research is required to improve safety, efficiency, and clinical applicability. Nevertheless, the progress described in this review strongly suggests that CRISPR-based therapies could play a central role in the future of precision medicine for IRDs.
Damilare P. Dosunmu , Rachael Oluwakamiye Abolade, Mujeebat Bashiru, Adedoyin John-Joy Owolade, Muyiwa Kolawole Samuel, Ebunoluwa Omorilewa Boluwatife, Ayomadewa Mercy Olatunya, Precious O. Aribisala, Samuel Aduramurewa Osunnaya, Micheal Abimbola Oladosu, Ebenezer Ayomide Oni, Damilola Samuel Bodun
Histone Deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) is an epigenetic enzyme that controls cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and gene expression. Overexpression of HDAC3 has been shown to be a potential contributing factor to the development and spread of breast cancer, and it has recently been identified as a promising target in breast cancer. As a result, repurposing currently approved drugs as novel HDAC3 inhibitors may reduce the labor-intensive and time-consuming process of developing new molecules.This computational screening obtained the top five compounds with docking scores of 10.96, 10.32, 9.83, 9.83, and 8.81 kcal/mol, respectively, in comparison with the reference ligand, BG45 (−4.18 kcal/mol), suggesting they may be more potent HDAC3 inhibitors. The MD simulation study of the top hit ligand-protein complex (HDAC3-ZINC000095618609 complex) revealed stable conformational changes. The results of pharmacokinetic and drug-likeness properties of the top-performing compounds reveal their potential to be considered viable HDAC3 inhibitors.
This study highlights the potential of drug repurposing as a cost-effective and faster approach to cancer treatment. here we have identified drugs have the potential to be repurposed as HDAC3 inhibitors; however, additional in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to confirm their efficacy.
Congratulations to the latest recipients of the IUBMB Travel Fellowships. This round of awards recognizes outstanding early-career researchers from Greece, India, Turkey, and the United States who have been selected to receive travel support to attend and present their research at international scientific meetings within the IUBMB region.
Olympia Apokotou holds a BSc in Biology from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA). During her undergraduate studies, she completed her thesis in the Laboratory of Human and Animal Physiology, investigating mouse models of familial Alzheimer’s disease (fAD), and subsequently undertook a research internship at the Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, expanding her work on fAD models. She later earned an MSc in Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics from NKUA, completing her thesis at the Hellenic Pasteur Institute, where she studied proteostasis in the p.A53T mouse model of Parkinson’s disease. Following her master’s degree, she joined the Human Stem Cell and Reprogramming Unit at the Hellenic Pasteur Institute as a Research Assistant, gaining expertise in human induced pluripotent stem cell technologies. She is currently pursuing her PhD under the supervision of Dr. Florentia Papastefanaki, investigating neuron-astrocyte interactions in Parkinson’s disease using human iPSC-based models.
Nicolae Ciobu Zubenco is a Ph.D. candidate in Cancer Biology at the University of Miami and is currently completing his doctoral research at Columbia University. His research focuses on immunometabolism and cancer, investigating how lipid metabolism influences immune cell function and the tumor microenvironment, with the goal of uncovering mechanisms that can be leveraged to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Nico earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of the Balearic Islands (Spain) and subsequently completed a Master’s degree at the Autonomous of Madrid. He has been recognized through international awards, including the Fulbright Scholarship and the “la Caixa” Foundation Fellowship, which have supported his research and international training.
Aditi Konar is an early-career researcher with a strong interest in protein engineering, synthetic biology, and sustainable biotechnology. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Presidency University, Kolkata, her Master’s degree from St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, and recently completed her PhD at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Kolkata. Her doctoral research focused on engineering and characterizing cellulases with improved performance and integrating synthetic biology strategies to enable their application in the production of commercially valuable biomolecules from lignocellulosic biomass. Aditi is driven by a passion for interdisciplinary science and is always eager to explore new ideas, technologies, and collaborations that broaden her scientific perspective. She was awarded an IUBMB travel grant to attend the CBM16 (16th Carbohydrate Bioengineering Meeting) which took place at the Konventum Conference Center in Elsinore, Denmark, from May 3 to May 6. In the long term, she aims to develop innovative protein engineering solutions that address global challenges in sustainable manufacturing, environmental biotechnology, and human health.
Akash Maity is a PhD researcher at the ACTREC, TMC, India, where he studies why some patients with Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia, a highly treatable blood cancer, die before treatment even begins from two complementary angles. On one front, he uses single-cell sequencing to zoom into individual leukemic cells, uncovering previously unrecognized cellular states linked to dangerous bleeding complications that can prove fatal before treatment even begins. On the other hand, he developed RAPID-CRISPR, a rapid molecular diagnostic platform that detects APL-defining genetic fusions with high accuracy, addressing the same life-threatening delay from a different direction: faster diagnosis. Together, these two approaches reflect his broader interest in connecting mechanistic discovery with immediate patient impact. Having recently defended his doctoral thesis, Akash is now looking to extend this dual-axis approach, combining single-cell biology with translational diagnostics, into cancer immunology and immunotherapy research in his next scientific chapter.
Gamze Sonmez is an MD/PhD candidate in the Medical Scientist Training Program at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine in Türkiye. Her doctoral research focuses on cholinergic signaling and central nervous system involvement in ulcerative colitis. During her PhD training, she also conducted research in enteric neurobiology at Boston Children’s Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, working with leading investigators in the field. She has co-authored peer-reviewed publications in gastroenterology, immunology, and translational medicine. Her work has received recognition from the American Gastroenterological Association, the American Physiological Society, and IUBMB. She has also completed more than 20 peer reviews for journals including the World Journal of Gastroenterology and Frontiers in Immunology. Her long-term goal is to bridge the gap between laboratory research and clinical practice by translating biological discoveries into effective treatments for patients with gastrointestinal and inflammatory diseases. Beyond her academic work, she is passionate about traveling, discovering new places and cultures, and reading literature.
The report represents the most comprehensive global assessment to date of gender equality in scientific organizations. It reports the findings of a 2025 global study conducted jointly by the International Science Council (ISC), the InterAcademy Partnership (IAP), and the Standing Committee for Gender Equality in Science (SCGES).
The analysis draws on institutional data from 136 organizations, survey responses from nearly 600 scientists, and a dozen interviews with representatives of scientific organizations. Together, these sources support a multi-level assessment of women’s representation, participation, leadership, and recognition, combining structural analysis with lived experience.
Building on global online surveys carried out in 2015 and 2020, the study provides a ten-year perspective on progress and persistent gaps. It identifies structural barriers to gender equality and highlights areas where institutional policies and practices have contributed to measurable change.
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