Innovative Research Award

Qian Li is an Associate Professor in the Department of Orthodontics at Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. Her academic work integrates molecular biology, epigenetics, stem cell regulation, and skeletal biology, with emphasis on understanding the epigenetic regulation of mesenchymal stem cell function in bone metabolism-associated diseases. Her research activities combine translational biomedical science with orthodontic and regenerative medicine applications, contributing to the understanding of cellular mechanisms involved in skeletal homeostasis and tissue remodeling.[1]

Abstract

Qian Li’s scholarly work focuses on epigenetic mechanisms governing stem cell differentiation, skeletal maintenance, bone metabolism, and orthodontic biology. Her research portfolio spans molecular signaling pathways, chromatin remodeling, cellular senescence, and stem cell responses to mechanical stimulation. Through interdisciplinary biomedical investigation, her work contributes to advancing understanding of disease-associated bone metabolism alterations and regenerative therapeutic strategies.[2]

Keywords

Orthodontics; Epigenetics; Mesenchymal Stem Cells; Bone Metabolism; Skeletal Homeostasis; Molecular Biology; Chromatin Remodeling; Osteogenic Differentiation; Dental Stem Cells; Regenerative Medicine

Introduction

Advances in molecular biology and stem cell science have significantly transformed understanding of skeletal biology and oral health sciences. Epigenetic regulation represents an important frontier in identifying mechanisms underlying tissue regeneration and disease progression. Qian Li has developed an academic profile positioned at the intersection of orthodontics, molecular epigenetics, and regenerative medicine, contributing research focused on mechanobiology and cellular regulation in bone-associated diseases.[3]

Research Profile

• Associate Professor, Department of Orthodontics, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology
• Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Peking University Health Science Center (2008–2012)
• Bachelor of Medicine, Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center (2003–2008)
• Postdoctoral training at Peking University Health Science Center (2012–2014)
• Research specialization in epigenetic regulation of mesenchymal stem cells and skeletal biology

Research Contributions

Qian Li has contributed to research investigating epigenetic regulation mechanisms controlling skeletal homeostasis, osteogenic differentiation, chromatin dynamics, and mechanobiological responses. Published studies include investigations into SUV39H1-dependent methylation pathways, SOX9 stability regulation in dental pulp stem cells, FOXQ1-SIRT4-GDH signaling networks, and EZH2-associated mechanotransduction pathways in periodontal ligament stem cells.[4]

Her work further explores molecular pathways relevant to ferroptosis regulation, cellular senescence, and orthodontic mechanical response biology, supporting translational advances within oral and skeletal biomedical sciences.

Publications

1. SUV39H1-dependent methyl-degron is a critical regulator of skeletal homeostasis. Cell Reports. 2025.
2. Lysine 68 Methylation-Dependent SOX9 Stability Control Modulates Chondrogenic Differentiation in Dental Pulp Stem Cells. Advanced Science. 2023.
3. Epigenetic activation of secretory phenotypes in senescence by the FOXQ1-SIRT4-GDH signaling pathway. Cell Death & Disease. 2023.
4. CRL4(DCAF8)-dependent regulation over chromatin remodeler LSH orchestrates epigenetic dynamics in ferroptosis. Cell Death & Differentiation. 2021.
5. EZH2 reduction maintains super-enhancer polarization against compressive stress in periodontal ligament stem cells. Cell Death & Disease. 2020.

Research Impact

Research outputs authored and co-authored by Qian Li span internationally recognized biomedical journals and address mechanistic biological questions with implications for bone metabolism, orthodontics, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. Her funded research programs include competitive grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Beijing Natural Science Foundation, reflecting sustained scholarly activity and scientific leadership.

Award Suitability

The academic profile demonstrates alignment with recognition frameworks emphasizing sustained scholarly productivity, externally funded research, translational biomedical contributions, interdisciplinary scientific advancement, and peer-reviewed publication achievements. Research leadership in stem cell biology and epigenetic regulation supports consideration within academic excellence recognition initiatives.

Conclusion

Qian Li’s research trajectory reflects sustained contributions to molecular biology and orthodontic science through investigations addressing epigenetic mechanisms, stem cell function, and skeletal biology. Her academic activities integrate foundational biological discovery with clinical and translational relevance, supporting continuing advancement within dental and biomedical sciences.

External Links

• Scopus Profile

References

1. Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology. Faculty academic information and institutional profile.
2. Li Q. Research profile and epigenetic regulation investigations in skeletal biology and stem cell science.
3. Li Q et al. Cellular and molecular mechanisms in orthodontic biology and epigenetic regulation.
4. Li Q et al. Cell Reports. 2025. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2025.115910