Recipient of the National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars, Director of the Institute of Aging and Regenerative Medicine at Jinan University, and Doctoral Supervisor, Professor Zhenyu Ju specializes in unraveling the biological mechanisms of aging and developing bioactive molecules derived from stem cells.
His research focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying stem cell aging and their impact on tissue/organ function and lifespan. His seminal contributions have been published in leading journals including Cell, Nature Genetics, Nature Medicine, Cell Stem Cell, Cell Research, and Blood. Recognized for scientific excellence, he was awarded the Second Prize of the National Natural Science Award (2021) and the Second Prize of the Huaxia Medical Science and Technology Award (2023). Additionally, he has secured multiple national-level key or major research grants to advance transformative discoveries in aging biology.
His research findings have delivered innovative solutions for functional foods, medical-specific dietary formulations, and healthy aging interventions.
Aging is the gradual decline of an organism's functions over time, involving mechanisms such as the accumulation of cellular damage, telomere shortening, and metabolic dysregulation. In contrast, regeneration refers to an organism's ability to repair or replace damaged tissues, such as through stem cell activation or tissue regeneration. In recent years, scientific research has made breakthroughs in anti-aging and regeneration, including advancements in gene editing, senolytics (drugs that clear senescent cells), and stem cell therapies, offering hope for extending healthy lifespan. Exploring this topic not only enhances our understanding of the essence of life but also provides scientific insights for combating aging and improving quality of life.