Prof. Dr. Yong Shen | Research Methods in Medical Lab Science | Best Medical Scientist Award

Dr. Yong Shen is a leading neuroscientist internationally recognized for his extensive contributions to the molecular, cellular, and translational research of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. His work spans over three decades, covering the discovery of serotonin receptor subtypes, fundamental elucidation of neuroimmune and inflammatory mechanisms in neuronal injury, and pioneering studies on amyloid precursor protein processing, β-secretase (BACE1) biology, and tau-related pathology. He has played a central role in advancing biomarker science by developing and validating cerebrospinal fluid, plasma, and imaging biomarkers for early detection and progression monitoring of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and vascular cognitive impairment. Dr. Shen has led major research programs on brain aging, neural circuit degeneration, endothelial dysfunction, and glial senescence, contributing critical insights into small vessel disease, blood–brain barrier breakdown, and neurovascular injury. His laboratory has been at the forefront of therapeutic discovery, evaluating small molecules, antibody-based interventions, natural compounds, and neuromodulatory targets, while also directing large multicenter initiatives such as the China Aging and Neurodegenerative Initiative (CANDI), which integrates machine learning, blood-based biomarkers, and multimodal diagnostics. His prolific publication record includes high-impact findings in Nature Medicine, Neuron, PNAS, Circulation Research, and other leading journals, shaping contemporary understanding of Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms. Dr. Shen’s long-standing leadership includes founding major research centers, establishing brain and biospecimen banks, mentoring numerous doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, and serving on major scientific review panels across NIH, NSF, European, Japanese, and Chinese funding agencies. His contributions continue to influence global strategies in biomarker discovery, disease modeling, and precision intervention in neurodegeneration.