On 20 August, the Regenerative Biosciences Laboratory, Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology, VNUHCM–University of Science, hosted the international seminar “Updates on Small-Molecule Targeted Therapy for Liver Fibrosis”.

The seminar was conducted within the framework of project NĐT/IT/22/19 and funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology of Viet Nam in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Experts from the University of Trieste (Italy), including Prof. Gabriele Grassi, Dr. Domenico Tierno, and Dr. Alice Biasin, attended the event.

Representatives from VNUHCM–University of Science included Dr. Nguyễn Hoàng Chương – Deputy Head of the Office of Science and Technology; Assoc. Prof. Trương Hải Nhung – Vice Dean of the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology and Head of the Regenerative Biosciences Laboratory; and Dr. Lê Văn Trình – laboratory member. The seminar also welcomed numerous lecturers, regional university experts, and students from the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology.

Presentations highlighted the latest research findings, aiming to elucidate the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis and propose therapeutic strategies. Prof. Gabriele Grassi discussed the application of rheology and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance to characterise liver fibrosis in obese patients, revealing structural and mechanical tissue changes that conventional methods may fail to detect. Dr. Lê Văn Trình presented research on the activation of hepatic stellate cells under mechanical pressure, a key factor in fibrogenesis, suggesting potential early-stage interventions. Dr. Domenico Tierno introduced an in vitro alginate gel model replicating liver stiffness, offering a promising tool for controlled experimental studies. Focusing on therapeutic approaches, Assoc. Prof. Trương Hải Nhung reported on siRNA-mediated inhibition of proliferation-related genes to limit stellate cell activation, the primary driver of fibrosis. Dr. Alice Biasin examined the effects of DUB inhibitors, demonstrating potential to modulate pathological signalling through protein degradation pathways. Collectively, these presentations contributed to understanding liver fibrosis mechanisms and introduced innovative approaches from diagnosis and modelling to treatment, offering practical value for preventive and clinical medicine.

Speakers presenting the latest research on the pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches for liver fibrosis, with participation from scientists of VNUHCM–University of Science and the University of Trieste (Italy).

Within the programme framework, students from the Regenerative Biosciences Laboratory took part in the Flashtalk Poster session, presenting their research concisely, creatively, and scientifically. Nguyễn Thị Thúy An’s study on “Mechanical Stress in the Progression of Liver Fibrosis” received high praise from the panel and was honoured as the Best Poster.

Students from the Regenerative Biosciences Laboratory presenting their research at the Flashtalk Poster session.

During the event, the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology, VNUHCM–University of Science, and the Department of Medicine – Surgery – Health Sciences, University of Trieste (Italy), signed a Cooperation Agreement.

The agreement outlines joint activities, including exchange of undergraduate and postgraduate students, exchange of lecturers and researchers, implementation of research projects and scientific publications, co-organisation of conferences, workshops and seminars, and sharing of materials, data, and research outcomes. The agreement is valid for five years and lays the foundation for sustainable collaboration, particularly in applied biosciences and biotechnology.

Signing ceremony of the Cooperation Agreement between the Faculty of Biology – Biotechnology, VNUHCM-University of Science, and the Department of Medicine – Surgery – Health Sciences, University of Trieste (Italy).

The seminar and signing ceremony underscored VNUHCM–University of Science’s commitment to research, innovation, and international integration. The event offered an opportunity to review cutting-edge scientific developments in liver disease and therapy, while strengthening an international network and supporting the training of young scientists with research competence and global perspective.

As part of the programme, VNUHCM–University of Science presenting tokens of appreciation to the speakers and taking commemorative photographs with delegates, lecturers, students, and international experts from the University of Trieste (Italy).

PMN