The Faculty of Biology
University of Bucharest

invites you to lectures by 20 world-leading scientists at

Open Science Conference
9th International Symposium New Frontiers in Cardiovascular Research
August 25th - 28th, 2025

A premier global forum advancing excellence, collaboration, and innovation in cardiovascular science.

OPEN to all. Free of charge!
Hybrid format — access link provided upon free registration.

The International Symposium of New Frontiers in Cardiovascular Research stands as a pinnacle gathering of the world’s most eminent cardiovascular scientists and researchers. This distinguished meeting serves as a vital forum for unveiling groundbreaking scientific insights, fostering unprecedented collaborations, and charting the future course of cardiovascular innovation. Spanning renowned global venues, including Hawaii, USA (2013), Huatulco-Oaxaca, Mexico (2014), Singapore (2016), Havana, Cuba (2017), Sapporo, Japan (2018), Cape Town, South Africa (2019), Mauritius (2023), Istanbul, Turkey (2024) and now in Bucharest (Romania), this premier event continues to attract a diverse assembly of international delegates, solidifying its status as an indispensable platform for confronting the most pressing challenges and pioneering advancements in the field.

Beyond its rigorous scientific agenda, the symposium offers an extraordinary opportunity for high-level networking within inspiring and culturally rich environments. Attendees are invited to immerse themselves in the unique histories and vibrant traditions of each host region, enriching their professional journey with profound cultural experiences. As a confluence of science, innovation, and global cultural exchange, this symposium not only advances cardiovascular research but also elevates the international community’s collective pursuit of health and scientific excellence.

Notably, the international guests are undertaking a groundbreaking effort by independently covering their own expenses to make this unprecedented conference possible. Their bold step aims to ensure that knowledge and opportunities are accessible to everyone, effectively bypassing the high fees that often serve as barriers to these vital scientific gatherings. 

This global impact is further reflected in peer-reviewed publications derived from the symposium, highlighting its scientific relevance and the collaborative work it inspires across continents.

Basic Res Cardiol. 111(1):7; 2014.
Basic Res Cardiol. 111(6):69; 2016.

The Frontiers meetings have united inspiring people, fostering connections, friendships, and innovative collaborations that drive progress and positive change.

Dedicated to Scientific Excellence, Innovation, and the Pursuit of Knowledge for a Better World

07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Opening Dinner
Location: Hanul lui Manuc

A warm welcome for our international guests, hosted within the picturesque and traditional Romanian atmosphere of Bucharest's historic Manuc's Inn.

08:30 AM - 09:15 AM
Opening and Registration
Location: Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Welcome Addresses:
Prof. Liliana Burlibasa (Dean, Faculty of Biology, University Bucharest, Romania)
Prof. Dr. Derek J. Hausenloy (National Heart Center, Singapore)
Prof. Dr. Klaus T. Preissner (Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany)
Prof. Dr. Elisa A. Liehn (National Heart Center, Singapore)

09:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Session 1: Heart Protection - Regeneration
Location: Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Chairs: Carl Wilhelm Vogel (Hawaii, USA) & Elisa Liehn (Singapore)

1.1 Derek J. Hausenloy (Singapore)
Discovering novel treatment targets for heart failure using patient stem cells

1.2 Klaus T. Preissner (Giessen, Germany)
The extracellular RNA/RNase1 interplay in cardiovascular protection

1.3 Peter Ferdinandy (Budapest, Hungary)
Development of miRNA therapeutics for cardioprotection. A progress report

1.4 Sven Reischauer (Giessen, Germany)
Fibrosis limits tissue regeneration or vice versa? Insights from the cardiac stroma during heart regeneration in zebrafish

10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
Coffee Break and Poster viewing and moderation session (I)
Location: Lobby - Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Our distinguished guests will be available for engaging and meaningful discussions, so please do not hesitate to approach them and take the opportunity to network.

A review committee will carefully evaluate our students' research projects and provide constructive feedback and recommendations. We encourage you to enjoy this valuable experience.

11:15 AM - 12:45 PM
Session 2: Cardiovascular Disease
Location: Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Chairs: Hector A. Cabrera-Fuentes (Mexico) & Zsuzsanna Helyes (Pécs, Hungary)

2.1 William A. Boisvert (Hawaii, USA)
Endothelial lipid metabolism in atherosclerosis

2.2 Alexandrina Burlacu (Bucharest, Romania)
From cancer to heart fibrosis- Glioma-Pathogenesis Related Protein 1 highlights a subset of myofibroblasts responsive to mesenchymal stem cell therapy after myocardial infarction

2.3 Elisabeth Deindl (Munich, Germany)
Gamma-delta T-cells in arteriogenesis

2.4 Rainer Schulz (Giessen, Germany)
Cardiac side effects of RNA-based vaccines

12:45 PM - 02:00 PM
Lunch Break and Poster viewing and moderation session (II)
Location: Lobby - Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Our distinguished guests will be available for engaging and meaningful discussions, so please do not hesitate to approach them and take the opportunity to network.

A review committee will carefully evaluate our students' research projects and provide constructive feedback and recommendations. We encourage you to enjoy this valuable experience.

02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Session 3: Mechanisms of Cardiovascular Disease I
Location: Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Chairs: William A. Boisvert (Hawaii, USA) & Coert Zuurbier (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

3.1 Elisa Liehn (Singapore)
The Phosphatidylserine role in cardioprotection

3.2 Manvendra Singh (Singapore)
Hippo Signaling mediators Yap/Taz in pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis

3.3 Belman Turan (Ankara, Turkey)
An important off-target action of a dual GLP-1/GIP reeptor agonist on elderly heart function

3.4 Hector Cabreras-Fuentes (Mexico)
Extracellular RNA as a therapeutic target during cardiac reperfusion

03:15 PM - 03:45 PM
Coffee Break
Location: Lobby - Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Our distinguished guests will be available for engaging and meaningful discussions, so please do not hesitate to approach them and take the opportunity to network.

03:45 PM - 05:15 PM
Session 4: Mechanisms of Cardiovascular Disease II
Location: Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Chairs: Klaus T. Preissner (Giessen, Germany) & Manvendra Singh (Singapore)

4.1 Ece Yurtseven (Istanbul, Turkey)
PCSK9 in atherosclerosis

4.2 Zsuzsanna Helyes (Pécs, Hungary)
Sub-antimicrobial dose doxycycline inhibits chronic smoke-induced cardiopulmonary comorbidities in a mouse model: role of matrix metalloproteinases?

4.3 Jiong-Wei Wang (Singapore)
Targeted modulation of ceramide synthesis in cardiovascular disease

4.4 Ioana Streata (Craiova, Romania)
From research to diagnostic to in cardiogenetics : single center experience

07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Networking Event
Location: Carul cu Bere

Our guests will experience a vibrant and enjoyable Social Evening celebrating Romanian culture at "Carul cu Bere", Bucharest.

09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Session 5: Cardiovascular – Organ Interplay
Location: Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Chairs: Peter Ferdinandy (Budapest, Hungary) & Shiang Y. Lim (Melbourne, Australia)

5.1 Bucur Octavian (Bucharest, Romania)
Genomics Research and Development Institute: strategic research and translational impact

5.2 Paul Yen (Singapore)
Hepatokines in Metabolic Dysfunction-associated Steatohepatits (MASH) and their roles in HFpEF (heart failure with preserved ejection fraction)

5.3 Saime Batirel (Istanbul, Turkey)
Exploring the gut–heart axis: Linking incretins and lipid metabolism to coronary artery disease severity

5.4 Roshni R. Singaraja (Singapore)
Semaphorin in the vascular wall

10:30 AM - 10:45 AM
Coffee Break
Location: Lobby - Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Our distinguished guests will be available for engaging and meaningful discussions, so please do not hesitate to approach them and take the opportunity to network.

10:45 AM - 12:00 PM
Session 6: Young Investigators` Presentations
Location: Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Chairs: Hector A. Cabrera-Fuentes (Mexico), Klaus T. Preissner (Giessen, Germany)

The top five abstracts have been selected for an exclusive presentation in the prestigious Young Investigators Session!

1. Roberta Moisă

Human brain endothelial cells exhibit elevated radiosensitivity compared to murine model under X-Ray exposure
Moisa R, Pătrașcu S, Radu M, Radu BM
Department of Life and Environmental Physics, ‘Horia Hulubei’ National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, Măgurele, Romania; Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania; Department of Radioisotopes and Radiation Metrology, ‘Horia Hulubei’ National Institute for Physics and Nuclear Engineering, Măgurele, Romania

2. Cătălina Marinescu-Colan

From cancer to infarcted hearts: GLIPR1 as a detrimental regulator in activated cells
Marinescu-Colan CI, Nastase-Rusu EG, Neculachi CA, Preda MB, Burlacu A
Department of Stem Cell Biology, Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology “Nicolae Simionescu”, Bucharest, Romania:

3. Andreea Trifan

From Bone to Beyond: Exploring CaP-Hydrogel Scaffolds and 3D Bioprinting for Regenerative Medicine
Trifan A
3D Printing Laboratory, Center of Innovation and e-Health, „Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Bucharest, Romania; Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies, National University of Science and Technology Politehnica of Bucharest, Romania

4. Victor Gabriel Ungureanu

Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of Pulmonary Microvasculature in Group I Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Victor Gabriel Ungureanu, Elisa Liehn, Miron Alexandru Bogdan, Octavian Bucur
Genomics Research and Development Institute, Bucharest, Romania; Elias University Emergency Hospital, Bucharest, Romania; National Heart Center Singapore; Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology, Bucharest, Romania; Viron Molecular Medicine Institute, Boston, USA

5. Elisa Octavia Velicu

Lipid Defense: The Power of Phosphatidylserine Against Atherosclerosis Through LDL Interaction
Velicu EO, Pistritu D, Ringaraja R, Mayan DC, Liehn EA
University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila Bucharest, Romania, National University of Singapore, National Heart Center Singapore

12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Lunch Break
Location: Lobby - Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Our distinguished guests will be available for engaging and meaningful discussions, so please do not hesitate to approach them and take the opportunity to network.

01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Visite to the Parliament Palace for International Guests
Location: Parliament Palace

Our international guests will enjoy a distinguished and memorable experience through a guided tour of the Parliament Palace.

02:30 PM - 04:00 PM
Session 7: Technologies & Theranostics
Location: Conference Room - Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Chair: Derek J. Hausenloy (Singapore) & Ece Yurtseven (Istanbul, Turkey)

7.1 Alexandru Scafa (Bucharest, Romania)
The role of coronary collaterals in preserving myocardial viability in patients with coronary syndromes

7.2 Coert Zuurbier (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
Developing multi-target reperfusion therapy in rat cardiac I/R model with clinical relevant anesthesia

7.3 Shiang Y. Lim (Melbourne, Australia)
Sustained secretome therapy via device-encapsulated stem cells for long-term cardioprotection

7.4 Bogdan Amuzescu (Bucharest, Romania)
In vitro and in silico cardiac safety drug testing: advancing the CiPA paradigm

04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
Session 8: Poster Awards and Concluding remarks
Location: Auditorium Faculty of Biology

Our distinguished guests will recognise outstanding students by presenting awards to promote their professional development.

Three Best Poster Awards will be conferred, and one Young Investigator Award.

Announcement: 10th Meeting “New Frontiers in Cardiovascular Research” in Lima/Peru.

Concluding remarks
Derek J. Hausenloy (Singapore)
Klaus T. Preissner (Germany)
Hector Cabrera-Fuentes (Mexico)
Elisa Liehn (Singapore)
Beatrice M. Radu (Bucharest)

We hope that the connections made here will inspire future innovations and continued cooperation.

07:30 PM - 10:00 PM
Romanian Private Celebration
Location: Privat address

We're excited to create an unforgettable experience exclusively for our international guests, featuring lively Romanian music, energetic dancing, delicious Romanian food, and rich cultural traditions. It's a special celebration to remember!

08:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Networking and Social Event - Meet Romania
Location: Bucharest - Sinaia - Bran - Brasov

Our international guests will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the richness and warmth of Romanian culture through an unforgettable journey to significant heritage sites, including Bran, Sinaia, and Brașov.

We are honored to welcome the world's finest international guest to our congress, whose presence greatly enriches this gathering with their unparalleled expertise and inspiring leadership.

Derek J. Hausenloy

Director, National Heart Research Institute Singapore.

Read More  

Klaus T. Preissner

Prof. em. of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany.

Read More  

Zsuzsanna Helyes

Professor of pharmacology at the University of Pécs Medical School, Hungary.

Read More  

Coert Zuurbier

Associate Professor at the Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Read More  

Peter Ferdinandy

Vice-rector for science and innovations of the Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.

Read More  

Roshni R. Singaraja

Ass. Professor at the Yong Loo Lin Sch of Medicine, Singapore.

Read More  

William A. Boisvert

Director, Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology & Pharmacology, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, USA.

Read More  

Rainer Schulz

Director of the Institute of Physiology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany.

Read More  

Bogdan Amuzescu

Assoc. Professor at the Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics at the Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Romania.

Read More  

Elisabeth Deindl

Professor at Institute of Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology, LMU Munich, Germany.

Read More  

Carl Wilhelm Vogel

Prof. em at the University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, USA.

Read More  

Belma Turan

Head of the Biophysics Department at Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey.

Read More  

An exceptional environment designed to foster scientific innovation, collaboration, and the advancement of knowledge across disciplines.

University of Bucharest

University of Bucharest

The University of Bucharest is a prestigious institution renowned for its rich academic tradition and commitment to excellence. Located in the heart of Romania's capital, it offers a diverse range of programs across humanities, sciences, social sciences, and more. The university boasts highly qualified faculty members, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant student community that fosters innovation, critical thinking, and cultural exchange. Its strong research initiatives and collaborations with international institutions contribute to its reputation as a center of academic and intellectual growth.

Learn More
Faculty of Biology

Faculty of Biology

As part of the University of Bucharest, the Faculty of Biology has gradually grown into a complex platform for schooling and advancement of human resources and for fundamental and applied research in the fields of biology and environmental science. The new research platform is an exciting development that significantly enhances the university’s research capabilities. This innovative facility provides state-of-the-art equipment and resources, fostering advanced scientific exploration and discovery. It offers students and researchers a supportive environment to pursue cutting-edge projects in biology, ecology, genetics, and related fields. By promoting collaboration and interdisciplinary work, the platform helps to accelerate scientific breakthroughs and contributes to Romania’s standing in the global research community.

Learn More
Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology

The Research Platform in Systems Biology and Ecology is a research infrastructure at the University of Bucharest. It focuses on both basic and applied research in systems ecology and sustainability, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. The platform supports research across various levels of biological organization, from molecular to ecosystem levels, and facilitates partnerships between academic, public, private, and voluntary sectors.

Learn More
Hanul lui Manuc

Hanul lui Manuc

Located in Bucharest’s Old Town, Hanul lui Manuc, founded in 1808, is a historic inn known for its Ottoman-inspired architecture and cobblestone courtyard. It has been a hub of commerce and social life for over two centuries. Today, it’s a popular restaurant and cultural landmark, celebrated for its traditional Romanian and Balkan dishes, lively ambiance, and rich history—offering a unique glimpse into Bucharest’s vibrant past.

Carul cu bere

Carul cu bere

Carul cu Bere, established in 1879, is one of Bucharest’s most iconic pubs, renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau façade and vibrant ambiance. Famous for its traditional Romanian cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere, it has long been a favorite gathering spot for both locals and visitors. Rich in history and charm, Carul cu Bere offers an authentic experience that celebrates Bucharest’s cultural heritage and lively spirit.

Hotel Forum Continental

Hotel Forum Continental

Hotel Forum Continental Bucharest is a prominent hotel located in the heart of Romania’s capital city. Known for its comfortable accommodations and convenient location, it offers guests easy access to Bucharest’s main attractions, business districts, and cultural sites. The hotel combines modern amenities with a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for both leisure travelers and business visitors seeking a pleasant stay in the vibrant city.

Want to showcase your groundbreaking research to an international audience? We welcome all interdisciplinary submissions, promoting transdisciplinary collaboration and networking. Join us in shaping innovative, cross-field research! Deadline 20 august!

Once your abstract is accepted, get ready to showcase your work, simply prepare an A0 poster and bring it to the venue (no extra registration needed). You'll also have the chance to deliver a brief 2-minute oral presentation in front of a panel of renowned international experts. The top three posters will be recognized with awards, celebrating the most outstanding research, don’t miss this exciting opportunity to shine on our global stage!
*
*
*
*

The congress offers a dynamic hybrid experience! Registration is completely free. Online attendees will receive the connection link ahead of time, so you can join from anywhere.

*
*
*






A heartfelt thanks you to the organizing committee for their dedicated teamwork and unwavering commitment in crafting a truly valuable and inspiring experience for all participants.

Prof. Dr. Liliana Burlibasa

Dean of Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Romania

Learn More

Prof. Dr. Beatrice Mihaela Radu

Faculty of Biology, Bucharest, Romania

Learn More

Prof. Dr. Elisa Liehn

Principal Investigator at the National Heart Center Singapore

Learn More

Prof. Dr. Derek J. Hausenloy

Director, National Heart Research Institute Singapore

Learn More

Prof. Dr. Klaus T. Preissner

Prof. em. of Biochemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany

Learn More

Dr. Hector Cabrera-Fuentes

Research Professor at UNAM–UABJO Research Center and at Tecnológico Nacional de México (TecNM)

Learn More

Prof. Dr. Alexandru Scafa

Head of the Clinical Cardiology Department, Emergency Hospital Bucharest, Romania

Learn More

ALES

Asociația pentru Libertate și Egalitate Socială (Association for Freedom and Social Equality)

We sincerely thank our dedicated volunteers for their hard work, enthusiasm, and support throughout the congress. We truly appreciate their valuable contributions!

Elisa-Octavia Velicu

Student at University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila Bucharest, Romania

Antonia Pantelimon

Student at University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila Bucharest, Romania

Theodora Chindea

PhD Student, Faculty of Biology, Bucharest, Romania

Robert Andrei Barbu

Student, Faculty of Biology, Bucharest, Romania

Bogdan Ispas

PhD Student, Faculty of Biology, Bucharest, Romania

Ioan Zahiu

Student at University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila Bucharest, Romania

Cristina Stirbu

Student at Military Academy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila Bucharest, Romania

Anda Vasiliu

Student at University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila Bucharest, Romania

Anisia Vasiliniuc

Student at University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila Bucharest, Romania

Alina Teodora Nicu

PhD Student, Faculty of Biology

Nicoleta Soiman

Laboratory technician, Faculty of Biology

Rosu Cristian Matei

Student at University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila Bucharest, Romania

Sincere appreciation to our sponsors for their generous support and commitment. Their partnership has played a vital role in making this event meaningful and impactful for all attendees.

International guests

All international guests are undertaking a groundbreaking effort by independently covering their own expenses to make this unprecedented conference possible. Their bold step aims to ensure that knowledge and opportunities are accessible to everyone, effectively bypassing the high fees that often serve as barriers to these vital scientific gatherings.

Prof. Dr. Elisa Liehn

ALES

  • Splaiul Independenței 91-95, București 050095, Romania