Vidyasrilekha Sanapalli | Medicinal Chemistry | Excellence in Innovation Award

Published on by Chemical Scientist

Dr. Vidyasrilekha Sanapalli | Medicinal Chemistry | Excellence in Innovation Award

Assistant Professor| SVKM’S NMIMS University| India

Dr. Vidyasrilekha Sanapalli is a medicinal and process chemist whose expertise bridges synthetic organic chemistry, computational chemistry, and pharmaceutical sciences, with a research focus on antibacterial agents, anticancer compounds, and diabetic wound therapeutics. She earned her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry as an AICTE National Doctoral Fellow from JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru (JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty) in 2021, where her work combined synthesis, structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies, and advanced computational approaches such as molecular docking, molecular dynamics, and 3D-QSAR modeling. Prior to this, she obtained her M.Tech (Pharma) in Process Chemistry from NIPER Hyderabad (2016–2018) with a perfect CGPA of 10/10, securing the gold medal for academic excellence, and completed her B. Pharm from Osmania University in 2016, also as a gold medalist. Dr. Sanapalli’s career reflects a strong integration of academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful teaching. She has served as an Assistant Professor at Marwadi University, NIMS University, and currently at NMIMS University, where she teaches medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical analysis, and related courses while mentoring students in cutting-edge research. Her research portfolio is extensive, with contributions in the design, synthesis, and computational evaluation of novel antibacterial scaffolds, the development of repurposed immune-stimulating and antidiabetic wound-healing agents, and the investigation of heterocyclic derivatives for therapeutic applications. She has published over 28 research papers in high-impact SCI-indexed journals, filed three Indian patents (two granted), and secured competitive fellowships and grants, including the prestigious AICTE National Doctoral Fellowship, NIPER Fellowship, and a Marwadi University Seed Grant. Dr. Sanapalli has also delivered invited lectures, such as her talk on structure-based drug design at RBVRR Women’s College of Pharmacy, Hyderabad, highlighting her contributions to knowledge dissemination. Her outstanding research achievements have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Best Women Researcher Award (2021), Young Researcher Award (2020), and multiple gold medals for academic excellence during her M.Tech and B. Pharm studies.With strong expertise in organic synthesis, process optimization, green chemistry, purification techniques, and structural elucidation, coupled with advanced skills in computational drug design using Schrödinger, Maestro, and molecular modeling tools, Dr. Sanapalli brings a rare multidisciplinary perspective to pharmaceutical research. Her scientific vision is centered on developing novel chemical entities and innovative therapeutic strategies to tackle multidrug resistance, cancer, and chronic conditions such as diabetic wounds. As a life member of InSc and APTI and a registered pharmacist under the Telangana Pharmacy Council, she remains deeply engaged with both the scientific community and professional practice. Through her diverse body of work, Dr. Vidyasrilekha Sanapalli exemplifies the synergy of academic brilliance, research innovation, and translational impact in medicinal chemistry.

Profile: Google Scholar | ORCID 

Featured Publications

  1. Sanapalli BKR, Yele V, Singh MK, Krishnamurthy PT, Karri VVSR. Preclinical models of diabetic wound healing: A critical review. Biomed Pharmacother. 2021;142:111946. Cited by 55

  2. Sanapalli BKR, Ashames A, Sigalapalli DK, Shaik AB, Bhandare RR, et al. Synthetic imidazopyridine-based derivatives as potential inhibitors against multi-drug resistant bacterial infections: A review. Antibiotics. 2022;11(12):1680. Cited by 31

  3. Yele V, Azam MA, Wadhwani AD. Synthesis, molecular docking and biological evaluation of 2‐Aryloxy‐N‐Phenylacetamide and N′‐(2‐Aryloxyoxyacetyl) benzohydrazide derivatives as potential … Chem Biodivers. 2021;18(4):e2000907. Cited by 29

  4. Singh MK, Pindiprolu SKSS, Sanapalli BKR, Yele V, Ganesh GNK. HER2 targeted biological macromolecule modified liposomes for improved efficacy of capecitabine in breast cancer. Int J Biol Macromol. 2020;150:631-636. Cited by 25

  5. Sanapalli BKR, Yele V, Singh MK, Thumbooru SN, Parvathaneni M, et al. Human beta defensin-2 loaded PLGA nanoparticles impregnated in collagen-chitosan composite scaffold for the management of diabetic wounds. Biomed Pharmacother. 2023;161:114540. Cited by 22

  6. Sanapalli BKR, Yele V, Jupudi S, Karri VVSR. Ligand-based pharmacophore modeling and molecular dynamic simulation approaches to identify putative MMP-9 inhibitors. RSC Adv. 2021;11(43):26820-26831. Cited by 22

  7. Singh MK, Pindiprolu SKSS, Sanapalli BKR, Yele V, Ganesh GNK. Tumor homing peptide modified liposomes of capecitabine for improved apoptotic activity and HER2 targeted therapy in breast cancer: In vitro studies. RSC Adv. 2019;9(43):24987-24994. Cited by 21

  8. Yele V, Sigalapalli DK, Jupudi S, Mohammed AA. DFT calculation, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation study on substituted phenylacetamide and benzohydrazide derivatives. J Mol Model. 2021;27(12):359. Cited by 18

  9. Yele V, Pindiprolu SKSS, Sana S, Ramamurty D, Madasi JRK, et al. Synthesis and preclinical evaluation of indole triazole conjugates as microtubule targeting agents that are effective against MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines. Anti-Cancer Agents Med Chem. 2021;18: [page numbers not provided]. Cited by 18

  10. Sanapalli BKR, Yele V, Kalidhindi RSR, Singh SK, Gulati M, Karri VVSR. Human beta defensins may be a multifactorial modulator in the management of diabetic wound. Wound Repair Regen. 2020;28(3):416-421. Cited by 16

  11. Yele V, Sanapalli BKR, Mohammed AA. Imidazoles and benzimidazoles as putative inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 (Alpha) and P.1 (Gamma) variant spike glycoproteins: A computational approach. Chem Pap. 2022;76(2):1107-1117. Cited by 12

  12. Yele V, Mohammed AA, Wadhwani AD. Synthesis and evaluation of aryl/heteroaryl benzohydrazide and phenylacetamide derivatives as broad‐spectrum antibacterial agents. ChemSelect. 2020;5(34):10581-10587. Cited by 10

Waldo Ullah | Biochemical Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Chemical Scientist

Prof. Dr. Waldo Ullah | Biochemical Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor at Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso, Chile.

🔬 Short Biography 🌿💊📚

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo 🧑‍🔬 is an Associate Professor at the Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso 🇨🇱. With a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Engineering Sciences from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile 🎓, Dr. Acevedo has established himself as a pioneer in food chemistry and structural bioinformatics 🧪. His research focuses on the molecular characterization of organoleptic food additives 🍬 and rational drug design 💊. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and contributed to multiple interdisciplinary projects in biochemistry and pharmacology. Passionate about teaching and mentoring 👨‍🏫, he guides undergraduate and graduate students in bioinformatics and biochemical research. Dr. Acevedo also plays an active role in academic peer review, editorial boards, and science outreach 🌍. His career blends deep scientific inquiry with educational innovation and societal engagement, making him a dynamic force in the global chemistry community 🌐.

PROFILE 

SCOPUS 

ORCID 

🔍 Summary of Suitability:

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher, with a strong foundation in computational bioinformatics, food chemistry, and biochemical pharmacology. As an Associate Professor at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, he has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, interdisciplinary innovation, and impactful research. His academic background, scientific publications, mentorship, and leadership roles underscore a career devoted to advancing molecular science and contributing to global health and nutrition challenges.

📘 Education & Experience

  • 🎓 Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (2017)

  • 🎓 M.Sc. in Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (2016)

  • 📚 Diploma in University Teaching, PUCV (2019)

  • 📚 Diploma in Virtual University Training, PUCV (2020)

  • 💻 Graduate in Bioinformatics, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 👨‍🏫 Associate Professor, Institute of Chemistry, PUCV

  • 🧬 Bioinformatics Engineer, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 📖 Scientific Reviewer, multiple journals including Food Chemistry and Scientific Reports

  • 🔬 Editorial Board Member, Pharmaceutics and Drug Innovation, Journal of Drug Design and Research

Professional Development 🚀📖

Dr. Waldo Acevedo continuously enhances his professional skills through diverse academic and research activities 📈. He has completed numerous training programs in virtual education, AI in teaching, curriculum development, and project formulation at PUCV 🎓. His involvement in interdisciplinary projects spans vertical farming 🌿, enzymatic hydrolysis, and drug formulation for dermatological conditions 🧴. As a mentor, he has supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate theses 🧑‍🎓. Dr. Acevedo actively contributes to international research communities as a reviewer and editorial board member 📰. He is also a dedicated science communicator, promoting STEM outreach through the Explora Academies of Research and School Innovation 🧠. His collaborative spirit has led to roles in national research grants and innovation-driven projects 💡. His work bridges cutting-edge science, education, and public engagement, positioning him as a multifaceted professional in molecular chemistry, bioinformatics, and pharmacological sciences 🌍.

Research Focus 🔍🤖

Dr. Waldo Acevedo’s research centers around Food Chemistry, Biochemical Pharmacology, and Structural Bioinformatics 🔍. He investigates the molecular interactions of food additives, especially sweeteners, with human taste receptors 🍭. His research applies computational tools like molecular docking and dynamics to understand taste perception and improve food quality. Additionally, Dr. Acevedo explores the rational design of anticancer and antimicrobial agents 🧬, targeting enzymes and proteins like SIRT2, EGFR, COX-2, and bitter taste receptors. He has participated in drug discovery efforts and virtual screening campaigns that integrate in silico and in vitro approaches 💊. His interdisciplinary projects have included work on skin microbiome modulation, environmental toxicology, and salmon immunology 🐟. With a strong computational background, he brings innovation to molecular modeling, offering insights into bioactive compound mechanisms and receptor-ligand interactions 🔬. His research contributes significantly to both health and food sciences 🌿.

Awards and Honors 🏆🎖️

  • 🧑‍⚖️ Peer Evaluator, CNA-Chile Postgraduate Area (2024–Present)

  • 🧠 Advisory Committee Member, Explora Academies of Research and School Innovation (2024–Present)

  • 🧬 Review Editor, Frontiers in Genome Editing (2024–Present)

  • 📝 Editorial Board Member, Pharmaceutics and Drug Innovation & Journal of Drug Design and Research (2023–Present)

  • 🌐 Chief of Outreach, Institute of Chemistry, PUCV (2023–Present)

  • 🧪 Member, Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Chile (SBBMCh) (2022–Present)

  • 📚 Board Collaborator, Doctorate Program in Chemistry, PUCV (2018–Present)

  • 🏆 Best Graduate Award, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 🌟 Stimulus to Effort Award, Gabriel & Mary Mustakis Foundation (1999)

  • 🗣️ CONICYT Doctoral Scholarship, Chile (2013–2016)

  • 🇬🇧 CORFO English Scholarship, for Global Services Industry (2010)

Publications & Citations 📚

  • Golcienė, B., Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2025).
    Identification of 3-[(4-Acetylphenyl)(4-Phenylthiazol-2-Yl)Amino]Propanoic Acid Derivatives as Promising Anticancer Candidates Targeting SIRT2 and EGFR.
    Pharmaceuticals, 18(5). https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18050733

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2025).
    3,3′-((3-Hydroxyphenyl)azanediyl)dipropionic Acid Derivatives Against Drug-Resistant Pathogens and Cancer.
    Pathogens, 14(5), 484. https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14050484

  • Maldonado, J., Oliva, A., Guzmán, L., Molinari, A., Acevedo, W. (2024).
    Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of Hydroquinone-Chalcone-Pyrazoline Hybrids.
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25, 7281. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25137281

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2024).
    Bis(thiazol-5-yl)phenylmethane Derivatives Against MDR Staphylococcus aureus.
    PLOS ONE, 19(3), e0300380. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300380

  • Maldonado, J., Oliva, A., Molinari, A., Acevedo, W. (2023).
    Naphthohydroquinone-Derived Chalcones as Anticancer Agents.
    Molecules, 28, 7172. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28207172

  • Acevedo, W., Morán-Figueroa, R., Vargas-Chacoff, L., Morera, F. J., Pontigo, J. P. (2023).
    NLRP3 Inflammasome in Salmo salar: Structural and Transcriptomic Insights.
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24, 14556. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241914556

  • Maldonado, J., Acevedo, W., et al. (2022).
    Naphthoisoxazolequinone Carboxamides as Antitumor Agents.
    Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, 42(4), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1080/10406638.2022.2095410

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2022).
    Naphthoquinone Derivatives Targeting COX-2.
    Pharmaceuticals, 15, 541. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15050541

  • Balada, C., Castro, M., Fassio, C., Zamora, A., Marchant, M. J., Acevedo, W., Guzmán, L. (2021).
    Genetic Diversity of Curcuma longa from Rapa Nui.
    Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 28, 707–716. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.10.062

  • Acevedo, W., Cañón, P., Gómez, F., Huerta, J., Aguayo, D., Agosin, E. (2020).
    L-Malate Protonation and Malolactic Enzyme Activity in Oenococcus oeni.
    Molecules, 25(15), 3431–3447. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25153431

🔍 Conclusion:

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo stands out as a multidisciplinary researcher whose work bridges computational biology, food sciences, and pharmacology. His contributions have real-world relevance—from drug development to food safety—and his dedication to mentoring and collaborative science magnifies his impact. These attributes align perfectly with the ethos of the Best Researcher Award, making him a strong and deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.