Announcements

We are pleased to announce that the 2024 Tu Youyou Award has been conferred upon Richard DiMarchi and Rolf Müller, in recognition of their significant contributions to natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

Richard DiMarchi Indiana University, USA	Prof. Richard DiMarchi is a Distinguished Professor of Chemistry and Gill Chair in Biomolecular Sciences at Indiana University, USA. He is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and the National Inventors Hall of Fame. Dr. DiMarchi is a former Group Vice President at Eli Lilly and later at Novo Nordisk. He is recognized for his contributions to the discovery and development of rDNA-derived Humulin®, Humalog®, rGlucagon®, and Forteo®. His academic research has broadened the understanding of glucagon and incretin physiology and pioneered the discovery of single-molecule multi-mechanism agonists for the treatment of diabetes and obesity. The central element to success has been the chemical vision and technology to install within single molecules simultaneous agonism at related G-protein coupled receptors, coupled to the counter-intuitive discovery that glucagon and GIP agonism could synergize the therapeutic efficacy of GLP-1. These peptides and their conceptual approach have transformed the management of excessive body weight to a condition comparable to how hypertension, adult-onset diabetes, and excess cholesterol are medicinally managed.
“Professor DiMarchi was recognized by the 2024 Tu Youyou Award Committee members as being an exceptional leader in the medicinal chemistry of peptides and proteins of natural origin, and as a pioneer in the field of chemical biotechnology. His very important discoveries have led to breakthroughs in new drugs related to the therapy of diabetes and obesity. He has been named as an inventor on a very large number of patents, and he has had initially a highly successful scientific and administrative career in industry, which was followed by over two decades in academia as a distinguished professor.” —Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn, Chair of the Award Committee
Rolf Müller Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Germany; Helmholtz Centre for Infections Research (HZI), Germany; Saarland University, Germany	Prof. Rolf Müller is the Founding and Managing Director of the Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS) and Professor of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at Saarland University, Germany. Having received his training from the University of Bonn, he held research positions at the University of Washington, USA, and Braunschweig University of Technology, Germany, prior to his appointment as professor to Saarland University. His laboratory has dedicated itself to the exploration of bacterial natural-product biosynthetic pathways for more than 20 years and has extensive experience in working with myxobacteria and other microbial producer strains. Starting from the isolation and characterization of new microorganisms, the scope of work includes microbiology-, biotechnology-, bioinformatics-, and chemistry-based approaches to exploit these isolates as sources of new drugs with a special focus on novel anti-infectives. Müller and his team apply a variety of state-of-the-art analytical methods and biological assays to perform biological and chemical characterizations of the identified compounds. Prof. Müller has received several awards, including the prestigious Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize, the PHOENIX Pharmacy Research Award, the DECHEMA Prize, and the Inhoffen Medal, as well as being an elected member of acatech, Leopoldina, and the German Academy of Sciences and Literature.
“The 2024 Tu Youyou Award Committee members were highly impressed by the truly outstanding past and ongoing contributions of Professor Müller in both microbial natural products isolation chemistry and in biosynthesis, as well as in the development of lead compounds for their potential in treating human diseases, through his global connections with various major funding agencies. He is also a dedicated teacher who has trained numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, and he has lectured on his research in countries all over the world.” —Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn, Chair of the Award Committee

The achievements of Richard DiMarchi and Rolf Müller highlight the transformative impact of natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry. We congratulate them and invite the global academic community and public to join us in celebrating their significant contributions.

2024 Award Committee
Committee Chair:

• Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn, Ohio State University, USA.
  

Committee Members (listed in alphabetical order):

• Prof. Angelo Fontana, University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy;
• Prof. Binghe Wang, Georgia State University, USA;
• Dr. Diana Pinto, University of Aveiro, Portugal;
• Prof. Hideaki Kakeya, Kyoto University, Japan;
• Dr. RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel, University of Strathclyde, UK;
• Prof. Thomas Prisinzano, University of Kentucky, USA
• Prof. Wei Li, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, USA.

About the Tu Youyou Award:
The 2024 Tu Youyou Award includes a total monetary prize of 100,000 Swiss Francs and a medal for each recipient. Established in 2016 to honor the pioneering spirit of Nobel laureate Tu Youyou, the Tu Youyou Award is an international award honoring exceptional scholars dedicated to the fields of natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

For further information about the award and the winners, please visit the Tu Youyou Award website.

1. “Fragment-Based Approaches Identified Tecovirimat-Competitive Novel Drug Candidate for Targeting the F13 Protein of the Monkeypox Virus”
by Yasir Ali, Hina Imtiaz, Muhammad Mutaal Tahir, Fouzia Gul, Umair Ali Khan Saddozai, Ashfaq ur Rehman, Zhi-Guang Ren, Saadullah Khattak and Xin-Ying Ji
Viruses 2023, 15(2), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15020570
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/2/570

2. “Structure and Function of Hoc—A Novel Environment Sensing Device Encoded by T4 and Other Bacteriophages”
by Andrei Fokine, Mohammad Zahidul Islam, Qianglin Fang, Zhenguo Chen, Lei Sun and Venigalla B. Rao
Viruses 2023, 15(7), 1517; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15071517
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/7/1517

3. “Anti-Dengue: A Machine Learning-Assisted Prediction of Small Molecule Antivirals against Dengue Virus and Implications in Drug Repurposing”
by Sakshi Gautam, Anamika Thakur, Akanksha Rajput and Manoj Kumar
Viruses 2024, 16(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16010045
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/16/1/45

4. “Idiotope-Driven T-Cell/B-Cell Collaboration-Based T-Cell Epitope Prediction Using B-Cell Receptor Repertoire Sequences in Infectious Diseases”
by Yukio Nakamura, Meng Ling Moi, Takashi Shiina, Tadasu Shin-I and Ryuji Suzuki
Viruses 2023, 15(5), 1186; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15051186
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/5/1186

5. “Bioinformatic Surveillance Leads to Discovery of Two Novel Putative Bunyaviruses Associated with Black Soldier Fly”
by Hunter K. Walt, Emilia Kooienga, Jonathan A. Cammack, Jeffery K. Tomberlin, Heather R. Jordan, Florencia Meyer and Federico G. Hoffmann
Viruses 2023, 15(8), 1654; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15081654
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/8/1654

6. “Navigating the Landscape: A Comprehensive Review of Current Virus Databases”
by Muriel Ritsch, Noriko A. Cassman, Shahram Saghaei and Manja Marz
Viruses 2023, 15(9), 1834; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15091834
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/9/1834

7. “Covalent Inhibitors from Saudi Medicinal Plants Target RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase (RdRp) of SARS-CoV-2”
by Ahmed H. Bakheit, Quaiser Saquib, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Sabiha M. Ansari, Abdullah M. Al-Salem and Abdulaziz A. Al-Khedhairy
Viruses 2023, 15(11), 2175; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15112175
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/11/2175

8. “SARSMutOnto: An Ontology for SARS-CoV-2 Lineages and Mutations”
by Jamal Bakkas, Mohamed Hanine, Abderrahman Chekry, Said Gounane, Isabel de la Torre Díez, Vivian Lipari, Nohora Milena Martínez López and Imran Ashraf
Viruses 2023, 15(2), 505; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15020505
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/2/505

9. “Rational Design of Profile HMMs for Sensitive and Specific Sequence Detection with Case Studies Applied to Viruses, Bacteriophages, and Casposons”
by Liliane S. Oliveira, Alejandro Reyes, Bas E. Dutilh and Arthur Gruber
Viruses 2023, 15(2), 519; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15020519
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/2/519

10. “CoVigator—A Knowledge Base for Navigating SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Variants”
by Thomas Bukur, Pablo Riesgo-Ferreiro, Patrick Sorn, Ranganath Gudimella, Johannes Hausmann, Thomas Rösler, Martin Löwer, Barbara Schrörs and Ugur Sahin
Viruses 2023, 15(6), 1391; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15061391
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/6/1391

Microbiology is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field dedicated to understanding the biology of microorganisms and their critical roles in health, industry, and the environment. This discipline explores the vast diversity of microscopic life—including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and algae—by investigating their structure, function, genetics, physiology, and ecology. Microbiology also delves into the complex interactions between microorganisms and their hosts, providing insights into processes such as disease, immunity, and nutrient cycling. By integrating knowledge from many disciplines, microbiology drives innovation across medicine, agriculture, industry, and environmental science. Its contributions to infectious disease control, antibiotic development, fermentation technology, biotechnology, and environmental remediation continue to address global challenges and deepen our understanding of the essential microbial world.

MDPI’s microbiology cluster has a mission to publish cutting-edge research, furthering our understanding of the microbial world. The cluster aims to accelerate development in the field to drive advancements in microbiology and its role in human health and medicine, the environment, industrial processes and technology. This cluster offers authors diverse publishing options, ensuring their research finds the most relevant and impactful audience within the diverse landscape of microbiology.

The six participating journals include the following:

• Applied Microbiology (ISSN: 2673-8007) provides an advanced forum for studies related to the application of microorganisms, with a strong emphasis on biotechnology, environment, medicine, and food. Applied Microbiology is led by its Editor-in-Chief Prof. Dr. Ian Connerton (Division of Microbiology, Brewing and Biotechnology, University of Nottingham, UK);
• Bacteria (ISSN: 2674-1334) covers all aspects of bacteriology and mainly publishes reviews, research papers, and communications, but other article types will also be considered. Bacteria is led by its Editor-in-Chief Prof. Dr. Bart C. Weimer (Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, USA);
• Journal of Fungi (JoF, ISSN: 2309-608X) provides an advanced forum for studies related to pathogenic fungi, fungal biology, and all other aspects of fungal research. Journal of Fungi is led by its Editor-in-Chief Prof. Dr. David S. Perlin (Hackensack Meridian Health Center for Discovery and Innovation, USA);
• Microorganisms (ISSN: 2076-2607) focuses on cutting-edge research across the entire field of microbiology, involving all branches of microbiology. Microorganisms is led by Editor-in-Chief Dr. Nico Jehmlich (Department of Molecular Toxicology, UFZ-Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Germany);
• Microbiology Research (ISSN: 2036-7481) publishes theoretical and experimental research across all fundamental and applied microbiology fields, advancing One Health and Circular Health perspectives. Microbiology Research is led by Editor-in-Chief Prof. Dr. Beniamino T. Cenci-Goga (Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Italy);
• Viruses (ISSN: 1999-4915) provides an advanced forum for studies of viruses. Our aim is to publish papers that are of significant impact to the virology community, and to help researchers present their cutting-edge findings and opinions in detail by receiving quick dissemination among their peers. Viruses is led by its Editor-in-Chief Dr. Eric O. Freed (HIV Dynamics and Replication Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, USA).

MDPI Mission and Values:
As a pioneer of academic open access publishing, MDPI has been serving the scientific community since 1996. Our aim is to foster scientific exchange in all forms across all disciplines. MDPI’s guidelines for disseminating open science are based on the following values and guiding principles:

• Open Access: All of our content is published in open access and distributed under a Creative Commons License, providing free access to science and the latest research, allowing articles to be freely shared and content to be re-used with proper attribution;
• Timeliness and Efficiency: Publishing the latest research through thorough editorial work, ensuring a first decision is provided to authors in under 32 days and papers are published within 7-10 days upon acceptance;
• Simplicity: Offering user-friendly tools and services in one place to enhance the efficiency of our editorial process;
• High-Quality Service: Supporting scholars and their work by providing a range of options such as journal publication at mdpi.com, early publication at preprints.org, and conferences on sciforum.net to make a positive impact on research;
• Flexibility: Adapting and developing new tools and services to meet the changing needs of the research community, driven by feedback from authors, editors, and readers;
• Rooted in Sustainability: Ensuring the long-term preservation of published papers and supporting the future of science through partnerships, sponsorships, and awards.

By adhering to these values and principles, MDPI remains committed to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting open science practices.

Selected Topics and Topical Collection:
“News and Updates on Probiotics”
Topic Editors: Dr. Alessandra Pino and Dr. Mutamed Ayyash
Manuscript submission deadline: 31 December 2025

“Feature Papers in Bacteria”
Collection Editor: Prof. Dr. Bart C. Weimer

“Pathophysiology and Clinical Management of Fungal Infections”
Topic Editors: Dr. Allan J. Guimarães and Dr. Marcos de Abreu Almeida
Manuscript submission deadline: 30 November 2025

“Antimicrobial Agents and Nanomaterials—2nd Edition”
Topic Editors: Prof. Dr. Vasco D. B. Bonifácio and Dr. Sandra Pinto
Manuscript submission deadline: 31 December 2026

“Microbiota Diversity and Its Broader Biological Implications Across Human and Animal Health”
Topic Editors: Dr. Giovanna Liguori, Dr. Luc van Nassauw and Dr. Anna Costagliola

“Efficacy and Safety of Antiviral Therapy”
Collection Editors: Prof. Dr. Giordano Madeddu, Dr. Andrea De Vito and Dr. Agnese Colpani

Selected Articles:
“Salmonella: Role in Internal and External Environments and Potential as a Therapeutic Tool”
by Patrick J. Naughton, Violetta R. Naughton and James S. G. Dooley
Appl. Microbiol. 2024, 4(4), 1515-1533; https://doi.org/10.3390/applmicrobiol4040104

“Antimicrobial Resistance and Novel Alternative Approaches to Conventional Antibiotics”
by Irene Berger and Zvi G. Loewy
Bacteria 2024, 3(3), 171-182; https://doi.org/10.3390/bacteria3030012

“Molecular Diagnostics for Invasive Fungal Diseases: Current and Future Approaches”
by David Pham, Varsha Sivalingam, Helen M. Tang, James M. Montgomery, Sharon C.-A. Chen and Catriona L. Halliday
J. Fungi 2024, 10(7), 447; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof10070447

“The Potential Impact of Probiotics on Human Health: An Update on Their Health-Promoting Properties”
by Nicoleta-Maricica Maftei, Cosmin Raducu Raileanu, Alexia Anastasia Balta, Lenuta Ambrose, Monica Boev, Denisa Batîr Marin and Elena Lacramioara Lisa
Microorganisms 2024, 12(2), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12020234

“Adenovirus-Mediated Expression of Dengue Virus 2 Envelope Ferritin Nanoparticles Induced Virus-Specific Immune Responses in BALB/c Mice”
by M.S.B.W.T.M. Nipuna Sudaraka Tennakoon, Ji-Hoon Ryu, Yong-Sam Jung, Yingjuan Qian, and Hyun-Jin Shin
Microbiol. Res. 2024, 15(3), 1913-1923; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres15030128

“The Medicinal Phage—Regulatory Roadmap for Phage Therapy under EU Pharmaceutical Legislation”
by Timo Faltus
Viruses 2024, 16(3), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16030443

MDPI is excited to collaborate with Toronto Metropolitan University to host an engaging Scientific Publishing Workshop aimed at empowering scholars with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in academic publishing. This workshop will delve into the key aspects of MDPI’s open access publishing framework, offering an in-depth exploration of journal selection, the editorial workflow, and the essentials of publication ethics. Participants will also gain practical advice on improving their scientific writing and effectively addressing reviewer comments, with guidance from an experienced professional. This session promises to equip attendees with valuable skills to elevate their publishing journey.

Workshop Highlights:

• Learn How to Better Write and Structure a Research Article;
• How to Choose Where to Publish Academic Work;
• How to Respond to Reviewer Comments;
• Reasons for Rejection During Pre-Check;
• How to Navigate Through Ethics and AI Use.

Date: 15 May 2025
Time: 12:00–1:30 p.m.
Venue: Toronto Metropolitan University

Program:

On the International Day of Plant Health, we recognize the vital role that healthy plants play in securing food, sustaining livelihoods, and protecting biodiversity. Plant health is fundamental to global food security, environmental sustainability, and economic development. As the world faces the increasing threat of plant pests and diseases, exacerbated by climate change, global trade, and unsustainable practices, this day serves as a call to action for stronger phytosanitary systems and international collaboration.

Aligned with this year’s theme of “The Importance of Plant Health in One Health”, we invite you to explore selected articles, Special Issues, and journals that span fields such as biology, biosciences, agriculture, and plant science. Healthy plants are the foundation of food security, ecosystems, and global biodiversity. By sharing research that addresses plant pests and diseases, we aim to inspire action and foster collaboration to strengthen plant protection, ultimately supporting a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

Keynote speakers:

Prof. Dr. Horacio Heinzen University of the Republic, Uruguay	Dr. Azucena González Coloma Institute of Agricultural Sciences, CSIC, Spain
Prof. Dr. Assunta Bertaccini Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Italy	Prof. Dr. Hikmet Budak Arizona Western College, United States

Feel free to register for the webinar here!

“Phytochemical Profile, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity of Two Species of Oak: Quercus sartorii and Quercus rysophylla”
by Elizabeth Coyotl-Martinez, Juan Alex Hernández-Rivera, José L. Arturo Parra-Suarez, Sandra Raquel Reyes-Carmona and Alan Carrasco-Carballo
Appl. Biosci. 2025, 4(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/applbiosci4010013

“Flavonoids as Insecticides in Crop Protection—A Review of Current Research and Future Prospects”
by Verónica Pereira, Onofre Figueira and Paula C. Castilho
Plants 2024, 13(6), 776; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13060776

“The Function of Root Exudates in the Root Colonization by Beneficial Soil Rhizobacteria”
by Lin Chen and Yunpeng Liu
Biology 2024, 13(2), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology13020095

“A New Gonolobus Species (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) from Sinaloa, Mexico”
by Leonardo O. Alvarado-Cárdenas, Juan F. Pío-León, Gilberto Morillo and Carla Sofía Islas-Hernández
Taxonomy 2024, 4(1), 1-9; https://doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy4010001

“Zamia magnifica (Zamiaceae, Cycadales): A New Rupicolous Cycad Species from Sierra Norte, Oaxaca, Mexico”
by Miguel Angel Pérez-Farrera, José Said Gutiérrez-Ortega, Mauricio Gerónimo Martínez-Martínez and Michael Calonje
Taxonomy 2023, 3(2), 232-249; https://doi.org/10.3390/taxonomy3020017

“Manipulation of the Cellular Membrane-Cytoskeleton Network for RNA Virus Replication and Movement in Plants”
by Rongrong He, Yinzi Li, Mark A. Bernards and Aiming Wang
Viruses 2023, 15(3), 744; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15030744

“Tissue Culture—A Sustainable Approach to Explore Plant Stresses”
by Akila Wijerathna-Yapa and Jayeni Hiti-Bandaralage
Life 2023, 13(3), 780; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13030780

“Geometric Morphometric Versus Genomic Patterns in a Large Polyploid Plant Species Complex”
by Ladislav Hodač, Kevin Karbstein, Salvatore Tomasello, Jana Wäldchen, John Paul Bradican and Elvira Hörandl
Biology 2023, 12(3), 418; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology12030418

“Identification and Characterization of Neofusicoccum stellenboschiana in Branch and Twig Dieback-Affected Olive Trees in Italy and Comparative Pathogenicity with N. mediterraneum”
by Giuliano Manetti, Angela Brunetti, Valentina Lumia, Lorenzo Sciarroni, Paolo Marangi, Nicola Cristella, Francesco Faggioli, Massimo Reverberi, Marco Scortichini and Massimo Pilotti
J. Fungi 2023, 9(3), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof9030292

“Plants as Biofactories for Therapeutic Proteins and Antiviral Compounds to Combat COVID-19”
by Corbin England, Jonathan TrejoMartinez, Paula PerezSanchez, Uddhab Karki and Jianfeng Xu
Life 2023, 13(3), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13030617

“Epichloë Endophytes Shape the Foliar Endophytic Fungal Microbiome and Alter the Auxin and Salicylic Acid Phytohormone Levels in Two Meadow Fescue Cultivars”
by Suni Anie Matthew, Marjo Helander, Kari Saikkonen, Radomira Vankova, Petre I. Dobrev, Serdar Dirihan and Benjamin Fuchs
J. Fungi 2023, 9(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof9010090

“Molecular Basis of Seed Germination and Dormancy” Guest Editors: Dr. Yifeng Wang, Prof. Dr. Jiezheng Ying, Dr. Xiaohong Tong and Dr. Yu Cheng Submission deadline: 31 August 2025	“Diversity and Taxonomy of Scarabaeoidea” Guest Editor: Dr. Frank-Thorsten Krell Submission deadline: 31 October 2025
“The Silent Players of Forest Ecosystems: Viruses, Viroids, and Beyond” Guest Editor: Dr. Leticia Botella Sánchez Submission deadline: 31 December 2025	“Plant–Insect Interactions—3rd Edition” Guest Editor: Dr. Francisco Rubén Badenes-Pérez Submission deadline: 31 December 2025

1. “Targeting Latent HIV Reservoirs: Effectiveness of Combination Therapy with HDAC and PARP Inhibitors”
by Hasset Tibebe, Dacia Marquez, Aidan McGraw, Sophia Gagliardi, Cailyn Sullivan, Grace Hillmer, Kedhar Narayan, Coco Izumi, Adleigh Keating and Taisuke Izumi
Viruses 2025, 17(3), 400; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17030400
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/3/400

2. “The In Situ Structure of T-Series T1 Reveals a Conserved Lambda-Like Tail Tip”
by Yuan Chen, Hao Xiao, Junquan Zhou, Zeng Peng, Yuning Peng, Jingdong Song, Jing Zheng and Hongrong Liu
Viruses 2025, 17(3), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17030351
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/3/351

3. “Impacts of Antiretroviral Therapy on the Oral Microbiome and Periodontal Health of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus-Positive Cats”
by Laura Bashor, Jennifer E. Rawlinson, Christopher P. Kozakiewicz, Elisa Behzadi, Craig Miller, Jeffrey Kim, Megan Cierzan, Mary Nehring, Scott Carver, Zaid Abdo et al.
Viruses 2025, 17(2), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17020257
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/2/257

4. “Repurposing Drugs for Synergistic Combination Therapies to Counteract Monkeypox Virus Tecovirimat Resistance”
by Haydar Witwit, Beatrice Cubitt, Roaa Khafaji, Esteban M. Castro, Miguel Goicoechea, Maria M. Lorenzo, Rafael Blasco, Luis Martinez-Sobrido and Juan C. de la Torre
Viruses 2025, 17(1), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17010092
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/17/1/92

5. “The Transcriptional Program of Staphylococcus aureus Phage K Is Affected by a Host rpoC Mutation That Confers Phage K Resistance”
by Rohit Kongari, Melissa D. Ray, Susan M. Lehman, Roger D. Plaut, Deborah M. Hinton and Scott Stibitz
Viruses 2024, 16(11), 1773; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16111773
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/16/11/1773

6. “Multiplex Microscopy Assay for Assessment of Therapeutic and Serum Antibodies against Emerging Pathogens”
by Nuno Sartingen, Vanessa Stürmer, Matthias Kaltenböck, Thorsten G. Müller, Paul Schnitzler, Anna Kreshuk, Hans-Georg Kräusslich, Uta Merle, Frauke Mücksch, Barbara Müller et al.
Viruses 2024, 16(9), 1473; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16091473
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/16/9/1473

7. “Translation of Overlapping Open Reading Frames Promoted by Type 2 IRESs in Avian Calicivirus Genomes”
by Yani Arhab, Tatyana V. Pestova and Christopher U. T. Hellen
Viruses 2024, 16(9), 1413; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16091413
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/16/9/1413

8. “Resistance of the CRISPR-Cas13a Gene-Editing System to Potato Spindle Tuber Viroid Infection in Tomato and Nicotiana benthamiana”
by Ying Wei Khoo, Qingsong Wang, Shangwu Liu, Binhui Zhan, Tengfei Xu, Wenxia Lv, Guangjing Liu, Shifang Li and Zhixiang Zhang
Viruses 2024, 16(9), 1401; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16091401
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/16/9/1401

9. “Parainfluenza Virus 5 V Protein Blocks Interferon Gamma-Mediated Upregulation of NK Cell Inhibitory Ligands and Improves NK Cell Killing of Neuroblastoma Cells”
by Elisabeth M. Shiffer, Jeremiah L. Oyer, Alicja J. Copik and Griffith D. Parks
Viruses 2024, 16(8), 1270; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16081270
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/16/8/1270

10. “Challenges in the Diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in the Nervous System”
by Samya Jezine Da Silva, Mauro Jorge Cabral-Castro, Cássia Cristina Alves Gonçalves, Diana Mariani, Orlando Ferreira, Amílcar Tanuri and Marzia Puccioni-Sohler
Viruses 2024, 16(8), 1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16081247
Available online: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/16/8/1247

We are honored to introduce the award committee for the 2024 Tu Youyou Award, composed of distinguished scientists from around the world whose research covers diverse areas of natural product chemistry, pharmacognosy, and drug discovery. Their broad expertise and pioneering contributions have significantly advanced medicinal and natural products research.

Through their collective insights, rigorous evaluation, the committee has carefully selected this year’s award recipients, recognizing exceptional achievements in the field.

We sincerely thank these distinguished scholars for their efforts and dedication to upholding the standards of the Tu Youyou Award.  Below is the list of committee members. For more information about the Tu Youyou Award, please visit https://tuyouyouprize.org/. 

Chair:

Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn Ohio State University, USA

Prof. Dr. A. Douglas Kinghorn is a leading expert in pharmacognosy and natural products research. He is recognized for his key contributions to discovering bioactive compounds from plants, especially in anticancer, cancer chemopreventive, and substances with a sweet taste and taste-modifying agents. His prolific contributions include over 590 peer-reviewed works and book chapters and edited or co-edited 40 scientific volumes.

Prof. Angelo Fontana University of Naples “Federico II”, Italy	Angelo Fontana is a Professor of Organic Chemistry at the University of Naples “Federico II” in Italy and serves as Director of the Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry at the National Research Council (CNR). His research focuses on bioactive small molecules derived from marine eukaryotes, with a particular interest on their pharmaceutical applications in immunology and oncology. He also explores their potential as molecular tools for probing and modulating complex biological systems. Prof. Fontana is a co-founder of BioSEArch SRL and has been recognized with numerous grants and honors, including the Apivita Award from the Phytochemical Society of Europe.
Prof. Binghe Wang Georgia State University, USA	Prof. Binghe Wang’s lab works on drug design, drug delivery, click chemistry, chemical biology, new diagnostics, and gaseous signaling molecules such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide. His interdisciplinary research supports advances in cancer, infectious diseases, organ protection, inflammation, and other areas.
Dr. Diana Pinto University of Aveiro, Portugal	Dr. Diana Pinto, an Associate Professor at the University of Aveiro, specializes in organic synthesis of bioactive heterocyclic compounds, sustainable catalysis (organo-, heterogeneous, and biocatalysis), and natural product research, including isolation, characterization, and total synthesis.
Prof. Hideaki Kakeya Kyoto University, Japan	Prof. Hideaki Kakeya conducts cutting-edge research in chemical biology, high-throughput screening, and biosynthesis of bioactive natural products for system chemotherapy and other therapeutic applications.
Dr. RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel University of Strathclyde, UK	Prof. RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel heads the Natural Products Metabolomics Group (NPMG), specializing in marine natural products discovery and metabolomics-driven drug development. A recognized expert in bioactive metabolites, she collaborates with industry and academia to address antimicrobial resistance and sustainable bioprospecting. She serves on the Editorial Board of Marine Drugs and holds two patents in the field.
Prof. Thomas Prisinzano University of Kentucky, USA	Prof. Thomas Prisinzano combines medicinal and natural product chemistry to explore neurotransmitter systems and develop treatments for drug abuse and pain. He has received several prestigious awards, including the Innovator Award from the College on Problems of Drug Dependence.
Prof. Wei Li University of Tennessee Health Science Center, USA	A distinguished professor and Director of the Drug Discovery Center, Prof. Wei Li is also the founder of SEAK Therapeutics, and the 2025 Chair-Elect of the Drug Discovery and Development Division of the American Society of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET). His work focuses on medicinal chemistry and small molecule drug discovery, with over 200 publications and 15 issued US patents.

World Immunization Week, celebrated annually during the last week of April, is a global health awareness initiative highlighting the critical role of vaccines in protecting people of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases.

On this momentous occasion, we are thrilled to present a thoughtfully selected compilation of articles and Special Issues that focus on the pioneering research and cutting-edge strategies in immunology and vaccination. We encourage readers to delve into these scholarly contributions and stand with us in our commitment to preserving and enhancing global immunization health.

Join us as we explore the latest findings and innovative methods that are shaping the future of immunization. Together, we can strive towards a world where every individual has access to the life-saving benefits of vaccines.

We hope that the established journals in the fields of biology life sciences and medicine and pharmacology at MDPI will provide a communication platform for innovative ideas regarding prevention and treatment.

“Lifestyle and Biochemical Parameters That May Hamper Immune Responses in Pediatric Patients After Immunization with the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine”
by Anthie Damianaki, Antonios Marmarinos, Margaritis Avgeris, Dimitrios Gourgiotis, Elpis-Athina Vlachopapadopoulou, Marietta Charakida, Maria Tsolia and Lydia Kossiva
Diseases 2025, 13(3), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases13030078

“Evaluating the Potential of Herbal Extracts as Treatment in Immune Thrombocytopenia: A Review of Evidence and Limitations”
by Russell W. Wiggins, Jihoo Woo, John Nicholas Cauba and Shizue Mito
Appl. Biosci. 2025, 4(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/applbiosci4010001

“Immunotherapeutic Strategies for the Treatment of Glioblastoma: Current Challenges and Future Perspectives”
by Ilaria Salvato and Antonio Marchini
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1276; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071276

“Unveiling Extramedullary Hematopoiesis: A Case Report Highlighting the Causes, Symptoms, and Management Strategies”
by Konstantinos Manganas, Aikaterini Xydaki, Angeliki Kotsiafti, Olympia Papakonstantinou and Sophia Delicou
Thalass. Rep. 2024, 14(2), 26-32; https://doi.org/10.3390/thalassrep14020004

“Inhibitors of Immune Checkpoints: Small Molecule- and Peptide-Based Approaches”
by Natalie Fuchs, Longfei Zhang, Laura Calvo-Barreiro, Katarzyna Kuncewicz and Moustafa Gabr
J. Pers. Med. 2024, 14(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm14010068

“Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia: Clinicopathologic Features and New Perspectives on Anti-PF4 Antibody-Mediated Disorders”
by Yi Zhang, Anna-Lise Bissola, Jared Treverton, Michael Hack, Mark Lychacz, Sarah Kwok, Addi Arnold and Ishac Nazy
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(4), 1012; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13041012

“Immune Response to Respiratory Viral Infections”
by Antonella Gambadauro, Francesca Galletta, Alessandra Li Pomi, Sara Manti and Giovanni Piedimonte
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(11), 6178; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25116178

“Neutrophil Extracellular DNA Traps in Response to Infection or Inflammation, and the Roles of Platelet Interactions”
by William A. Chen and Danilo S. Boskovic
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(5), 3025; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25053025

“Host Immune Regulation in Implant-Associated Infection (IAI): What Does the Current Evidence Provide Us to Prevent or Treat IAI?”
by Zulipikaer Maimaiti, Zhuo Li, Chi Xu, Jun Fu, Li-Bo Hao, Ji-Ying Chen and Wei Chai
Bioengineering 2023, 10(3), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering10030356

“Airborne Pollen Calendar of Toluca City, Mexico”
by Maria Cid del Prado, Osvaldo Zarco-Cid del Prado, Hilda Adriana Guerrero-Parra and Karla Elisa Juárez Contreras
Aerobiology 2023, 1(1), 54-69; https://doi.org/10.3390/aerobiology1010005

“Innovative Therapies and Management of Complications in Hemoglobinopathies”	“Peptide-Based Vaccines: An Efficient Alternative to Combat Infectious Diseases and Drug Resistance”
“Immunotherapy in the Management of Hematologic Malignancy”	“Feature Review for Applied Biosciences”
“Advances in Transfusion Medicine and Immunological Research”	“Advancements in Artificial Intelligence for Bioaerosol Detection, Characterization, and Modeling”