Issa Sali | Biophysics | Distinguished Scientist Award

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Dr. Issa Sali | Biophysics | Distinguished Scientist Award

Senior Lecturer at University of Maroua, Cameroon

Dr. Issa Sali 🇨🇲, born on July 26, 1983, in Garoua, Cameroon, is a distinguished senior lecturer at the University of Maroua’s National Advanced School of Mines and Petroleum Industries 🏫. A biophysicist by training, Dr. Sali holds a Ph.D. in Biophysics from the University of Yaounde I, where he explored energy transport in alpha-helix proteins 🧬. With a background blending physics, biophysics, and education, his academic path reflects a strong foundation in both scientific theory and teaching methodology 📘. He has taught extensively in both secondary schools and higher education institutions, engaging students in subjects ranging from biomechanics to thermodynamics. Passionate about nonlinear systems, biofuels, and the mathematical modeling of biological processes, his research traverses frontiers in applied physics and biophysical simulations 🔬. He also actively participates in international workshops and conferences, representing a promising voice in African scientific development 🌍. Dr. Sali is an enthusiastic researcher and mentor who bridges science and education seamlessly.

Publications Top Notes 

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🎓 Education 

Dr. Issa Sali’s academic trajectory reflects a strong passion for physics and biophysics 📚. He earned his Ph.D. in Biophysics in 2019 from the University of Yaounde I 🏛️, where he focused on the dynamics of excitons and energy transport in alpha-helix proteins 🧬. Prior to that, he acquired a Master’s degree in Biophysics in 2012 from the same university, researching nonlinear effects in biological macromolecules 🌿. Complementing his scientific credentials, he also obtained a Secondary School Teacher’s Diploma in 2013 from the Higher Teachers Training College, reflecting his dual commitment to science and pedagogy 👨‍🏫. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics in 2006 from the University of Ngaoundéré, Cameroon 🔭. This well-rounded academic background not only laid a solid foundation for his research but also shaped his distinctive blend of education, modeling expertise, and scientific inquiry, setting him apart in the fields of complex systems and biophysics 🧠.

👨‍🏫 Professional Experience 

Dr. Issa Sali currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Refining and Petrochemistry, National Advanced School of Mines and Petroleum Industries, University of Maroua 🛢️. Since 2019, he has contributed significantly to higher education, teaching units such as biomechanics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and numerical methods 📈. His academic versatility covers first to fourth-year undergraduate levels, showing his broad command of technical and applied sciences. Prior to this, from 2013 to 2019, Dr. Sali worked as a high school teacher in physical sciences and technologies at Lycée Moderne d’Ongot, Mbankomo 🏫. His transition from secondary to tertiary education reflects an upward trajectory marked by dedication and the drive to influence future scientists 👨‍🔬. His lectures blend theoretical foundations with computational tools like MATLAB and numerical schemes, ensuring his students are well-equipped for modern scientific challenges ⚙️. His teaching reflects both scholarly rigor and a passion for applied problem-solving.

🔬 Research Interests 

Dr. Issa Sali’s research is a fascinating mix of physics, biology, and mathematics, deeply rooted in the study of nonlinear and complex systems 🔄. His work on solitons, excitons, and protein dynamics bridges theoretical physics with real-world biological behavior 🧪. He explores topics like DNA and protein modeling, virus dynamics (Hepatitis B and C), and microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR) ⛽ using mathematical equations. His interest also spans emerging disease modeling (SIR and prey-predator systems), showing relevance to epidemiology and public health 📉🧬. Dr. Sali delves into biomechanics and nonlinear modeling of biological structures, focusing on how complex patterns emerge and evolve in living systems. His dual expertise in computational methods and applied physics enables high-impact simulation and analysis 💻. Additionally, his involvement in biofuel generation research underlines a sustainable, interdisciplinary vision 🌱. Altogether, his research reflects intellectual curiosity, societal impact, and a strong commitment to scientific problem-solving 🔍.

🏆 Awards and Honors  

While no specific awards have been listed in his profile, Dr. Issa Sali’s achievements are evident through his active participation in international scientific forums and institutions 🌍. Notably, he was a speaker at the “Conference on Generation of Biofuels” during the International Fair for Young African Researchers in December 2020, showcasing his contributions to sustainable energy discourse 🔋. Earlier, in 2011, he attended the prestigious “International School on Nonlinear Dynamics in Complex Systems” hosted by The Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics 🏅. These engagements highlight his recognition as a thought leader in emerging and interdisciplinary fields. His consistent involvement in academic conferences reflects a career of scholarly excellence and growing impact. Such honors demonstrate that his work is appreciated not only in Cameroon but across the global scientific community 🌐. His dedication to both science and education positions him as a rising star in the field of biophysical modeling and sustainable development.

Publications Top Notes 

1. Pattern formations in nonlinear dynamics of hepatitis B virus

  • Authors: B.T. Mbopda, S. Issa, S. Abdoulkary, R. Guiem, H.P. Fouda

  • Year: 2021

  • Source: The European Physical Journal Plus, 136(5), Article 586

  • Summary: This study investigates the spatiotemporal dynamics of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection through pattern formation. The model incorporates reaction-diffusion equations representing prey–predation, competition, and commensalism interactions among species. The analysis reveals the conditions under which spatial patterns emerge, providing insights into HBV infection dynamics.

2. Fluctuations of polarization induce multisolitons in α-helix protein

  • Authors: S. Issa, C.B. Tabi, H.P. Ekobena Fouda, T.C. Kofané

  • Year: 2018

  • Source: Nonlinear Dynamics, 91(1), 679–686

  • Summary: The paper explores how polarization fluctuations can lead to the formation of multisoliton structures in α-helix proteins. By modeling the dynamics of amide-I vibrations coupled with lattice deformations, the study demonstrates the conditions under which stable multisoliton solutions can exist, contributing to the understanding of energy transport in protein structures.

3. Long-range modulated wave patterns in certain nonlinear saturation alpha-helical proteins

  • Authors: S. Issa, I. Maïna, C.B. Tabi, A. Mohamadou, H.P.E. Fouda, T.C. Kofané

  • Year: 2021

  • Source: The European Physical Journal Plus, 136(9), Article 900

  • Summary: This research examines the dynamics of modulated solitary wave patterns in alpha-helical proteins, considering long-range dipole–dipole interactions. The study extends beyond nearest-neighbor interactions, revealing how these long-range effects influence the formation and stability of solitary waves, which are crucial for understanding energy transport in biological systems.

4. Three excitons states in nonlinear saturation α-helix protein

  • Authors: S. Issa, C.B. Tabi, H.P. Ekobena Fouda, T.C. Kofané

  • Year: 2018

  • Source: The European Physical Journal Plus, 133(6), Article 233

  • Summary: The study focuses on the existence of three distinct exciton states in nonlinear saturation α-helix proteins. By analyzing the nonlinear dynamics and saturation effects, the authors identify conditions that support the formation of these exciton states, which are essential for understanding energy localization and transfer in protein molecules.

5. Modulational instability in a biexciton molecular chain with saturable nonlinearity effects

  • Authors: I. Sali, C.B. Tabi, H.P. Ekobena, T.C. Kofané

  • Year: 2016

  • Source: International Journal of Modern Physics B, 30(1), 1550244

  • Summary: This paper investigates the modulational instability (MI) in a biexciton molecular chain, accounting for saturable nonlinearity effects. The analysis reveals how saturation influences the stability of wave solutions, providing insights into the conditions that lead to the formation of localized structures in molecular chains.

6. Complex Ginzburg–Landau equation in the modified Peyrard–Bishop–Dauxois model

  • Authors: H. Ngoubi, I. Sali, G.H. Ben-Bolie, T.C. Kofané

  • Year: 2023

  • Source: The European Physical Journal Plus, 138(9), Article 842

  • Summary: The authors derive a complex Ginzburg–Landau equation from the modified Peyrard–Bishop–Dauxois model using a semidiscrete approximation. This equation describes the dynamics of motion in DNA molecules, offering a framework to study nonlinear excitations and their stability in biophysical systems.

7. Travelling waves of a nonlinear reaction-diffusion model of the hepatitis B virus

  • Authors: B.T. Mbopda, S. Issa, R. Guiem, S.C.O. Noutchie, H.P. Ekobena

  • Year: 2023

  • Source: The European Physical Journal Plus, 138(11), Article 971

  • Summary: This study presents a mathematical model of HBV infection incorporating healthy cells, infected cells, and free viruses, along with spatial mobility and drug treatment effects. By analyzing traveling wave solutions, the paper provides insights into the spread and control of HBV infections.

8. Diffusion effects in nonlinear dynamics of hepatitis B virus

  • Authors: S. Issa, B.M. Tamko, B. Dabolé, C.B. Tabi, H.P.F. Ekobena

  • Year: 2021

  • Source: Physica Scripta, 96(10), 105217

  • Summary: The paper investigates a dynamic system modeling HBV infection, considering diffusion effects among healthy cells, infected cells, and free viruses. The model, governed by equations representing prey-predation, competition, and commensalism, reveals exact traveling wave solutions, enhancing the understanding of HBV dynamics.

9. Multi-exciton transfer in a biomolecular system

  • Authors: H. Ngoubi, I. Sali, A. Mvogo, G.H. Ben-Bolie, T.C. Kofané

  • Year: 2024

  • Source: Nonlinear Dynamics, 112(5), 3887–3901

  • Summary: This research explores the mechanisms of multi-exciton transfer in biomolecular systems. By modeling the interactions and transfer processes, the study sheds light on the conditions facilitating efficient energy transport, which is vital for understanding various biological functions.

10. Diffusive pattern formations in three-species nonlinear dynamics of cancer

  • Authors: S. Issa, B.T. Mbopda, G.R. Kol, C.B. Tabi, H.P. Fouda

  • Year: 2023

  • Source: The European Physical Journal Plus, 138(6), Article 496

  • Summary: The study examines pattern formations in a tumor growth model involving healthy cells, cancer cells, and acid concentrations. Using three-species reaction–diffusion equations, the authors determine equilibrium points and apply the Routh–Hurwitz criteria to assess system stability and the existence of Turing patterns.

✅ Conclusion 

In conclusion, Dr. Issa Sali stands as a committed scholar, educator, and researcher, contributing richly to the academic and scientific landscapes of Cameroon and beyond 🌍. His background in biophysics, mathematical modeling, and complex systems equips him with the tools to explore pressing questions in science and society 🔬📊. Whether it’s through teaching the next generation of engineers or investigating the dynamics of proteins and microbial oil recovery, Dr. Sali continues to bridge theory and application with finesse. His participation in international platforms speaks to his global vision, while his educational achievements affirm his deep-rooted commitment to lifelong learning and academic excellence 🎓💡. Dr. Sali’s interdisciplinary expertise, combining physics, biology, and computational science, positions him uniquely to address the challenges of energy, health, and education in the 21st century 🌿⚡. He is a shining example of innovation and dedication in Africa’s scientific renaissance and a role model for future generations of scholars.

Antonios Kolocouris | Computational Biophysics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Antonios Kolocouris | Computational Biophysics | Best Researcher Award

Professor Antonios Kolocouris is a faculty member in the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. He is an expert in medicinal chemistry, focusing on the design and synthesis of antiviral agents, particularly targeting influenza and coronaviruses. His research includes structure-based drug design and molecular modeling, aiming to discover new therapeutics for viral infections. Prof. Kolocouris has authored numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals and has been involved in international collaborations to advance pharmaceutical science and antiviral drug development.

PROFILE

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Educational Details

Professor Antonios Kolocouris earned his degree in Chemistry (MSc equivalent) from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) in 1989, graduating with distinction (8.6/10). He pursued his PhD in Medicinal Chemistry at the Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, NKUA, from 1990 to 1995. Following his doctoral work, he conducted post-doctoral research at the same institution in 1997, focusing on synthetic medicinal chemistry. From 1997 to 2000, Prof. Kolocouris served as a post-doctoral researcher at the Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation. His research there involved studying the conformation of Angiotensin II and its agonists and antagonists using NMR spectroscopy and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, as well as the interactions of drug-lipid conjugates like AZT with model membranes. He also contributed to the structure elucidation of natural products using various biophysical methods.

Academic Positions:

Professor Antonios Kolocouris has had a distinguished academic career at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), where he has been a faculty member in the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry. He began his tenure as a Lecturer in October 2000, advancing to Assistant Professor in April 2006. In March 2010, he secured tenure as an Assistant Professor in the Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry. By May 2011, he was promoted to Associate Professor, and in May 2020, he attained the rank of full Professor. Throughout his career, Prof. Kolocouris has made significant contributions to the field of medicinal chemistry, particularly in drug design and development.

Research Visits: 

Professor Antonios Kolocouris has engaged in numerous international research collaborations throughout his career, contributing to advancements in medicinal chemistry and drug design. In September 1999, he conducted dynamic NMR studies on hindered ring inversion and nitrogen inversion at University College London’s Department of Chemistry. In 2002 and 2004, at the University of Cambridge’s Department of Biochemistry, he utilized NMR and 19F NMR techniques to study the interactions of aminoadamantanes with influenza A M2 protein in liposomes and micelles. His work on docking calculations and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations continued at the University of Pisa in 2008 and 2009, focusing on aminoadamantane interactions with the influenza A M2 protein using AMBER software. In 2010, at the University of Zurich’s Department of Biochemistry, he applied MM-PBSA and LIE calculations with the CHARMM force field. His research expanded to include MM-PBSA calculations with AMBER at the University of Düsseldorf in 2012, deepening his exploration of influenza A M2 protein interactions with aminoadamantanes.

Research Activity:

Professor Antonios Kolocouris specializes in medicinal chemistry with a focus on membrane protein-ligand interactions. His research employs molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and advanced free energy calculation methods, including MM-PBSA, FEP/MD, and TI/MD, as well as NMR spectroscopy, to study these interactions in detail. He is also experienced in virtual screening of chemical libraries, using both structure-based and ligand-based approaches to identify potential bioactive compounds. Additionally, his work emphasizes the development of structure-activity relationships (SAR) and 3D quantitative structure-activity relationships (3D QSAR) to optimize ligand efficacy. His expertise extends to the chemical synthesis of bioactive ligands, further contributing to the field of drug discovery and design.

Research Areas:

Professor Antonios Kolocouris has conducted extensive research on the interactions of aminoadamantanes with the influenza A M2 protein, employing a variety of methods including NMR spectroscopy, ITC, electrophysiology, ssNMR, DSC, and antiviral assays. His studies have focused on both wild-type and amantadine-resistant strains of influenza A, utilizing molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and binding free energy calculations (FEP/MD, TI/MD, MM-PB(GB)SA) since 2002. Additionally, he has applied computational drug design techniques and synthesized aminoadamantanes and polar head heterocycle conjugates to combat these strains. His work in structure-based drug design includes virtual screening of chemical libraries for bioactive molecules targeting Adenosine Receptors, leading to the development of new selective antagonists. He has also mapped the orthosteric binding area of A3AR through mutagenesis, kinetic studies, and computational approaches. More recently, Prof. Kolocouris has focused on designing and synthesizing SQ109 analogues to inhibit the Mmpl3 bacterial transporter for treating neglected diseases, alongside earlier work on peptide conformational analysis using MD simulations and NOE experiments.

Top Notable Publications

Huang, X., Chorianopoulou, A., Kalkounou, P., Lougiakis, N., Ladds, G. (2024). “Hit-to-Lead Optimization of Heterocyclic Carbonyloxycarboximidamides as Selective Antagonists at Human Adenosine A3 Receptor.” Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 67(15), 13117–13146.

Zorba, L.P., Stylianakis, I., Tsoureas, N., Kolocouris, A., Vougioukalakis, G.C. (2024). “Copper-Catalyzed One-Pot Synthesis of Thiazolidin-2-imines.” Journal of Organic Chemistry, 89(11), 7727–7740.

Stampelou, M., Ladds, G., Kolocouris, A. (2024). “Computational Workflow for Refining AlphaFold Models in Drug Design Using Kinetic and Thermodynamic Binding Calculations: A Case Study for the Unresolved Inactive Human Adenosine A3 Receptor.” Journal of Physical Chemistry B, 128(4), 914–936.

Georgiou, K., Konstantinidi, A., Hutterer, J., Gauglitz, G., Kolocouris, A. (2024). “Accurate Calculation of Affinity Changes to the Close State of Influenza A M2 Transmembrane Domain in Response to Subtle Structural Changes of Adamantyl Amines Using Free Energy Perturbation Methods in Different Lipid Bilayers.” Biochimica et Biophysica Acta – Biomembranes, 1866(2), 184258.

Watson, S.J., van der Watt, M.E., Theron, A., Oldfield, E., Birkholtz, L.-M. (2024). “The Tuberculosis Drug Candidate SQ109 and Its Analogs Have Multistage Activity against Plasmodium falciparum.” ACS Infectious Diseases.

Stylianakis, I., Zervos, N., Lii, J.-H., Pantazis, D.A., Kolocouris, A. (2023). “Conformational Energies of Reference Organic Molecules: Benchmarking of Common Efficient Computational Methods Against Coupled Cluster Theory.” Journal of Computer-Aided Molecular Design, 37(12), 607–656.

Stylianakis, I., Zervos, N., Lii, J.-H., Pantazis, D.A., Kolocouris, A. (2023). “Correction to: Conformational Energies of Reference Organic Molecules: Benchmarking of Common Efficient Computational Methods Against Coupled Cluster Theory.” Journal of Computer-Aided Molecular Design, 37(12), 657.

Tan, B., Liu, C., Li, K., Liu, W., Wang, J. (2023). “Structure-Based Lead Optimization of Enterovirus D68 2A Protease Inhibitors.” Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 66(21), 14544–14563.

Stampolaki, Μ., Hoffmann, A., Tekwani, K., Schmidtke, M., Kolocouris, A. (2023). “A Study of the Activity of Adamantyl Amines Against Mutant Influenza A M2 Channels Identified a Polycyclic Cage Amine Triple Blocker, Explored by Molecular Dynamics Simulations and Solid-State NMR.” ChemMedChem, 18(16), e202300182.