News

Professor Li Min, Associate Dean (Teaching and Learning) of Chinese Medicine, has been appointed as the Ma Pak Leung Endowed Professor in Innovative Neuromedicine commencing February 2024. This Endowed Professorship is bestowed upon prominent academics in recognition of their accomplishments in the research and development of innovative neuromedicine

Since joining the School in 2001, Professor Li has been at the forefront of neuromedicine research, particularly in the realm of using traditional Chinese medicine in neurodegenerative diseases. She is ranked as the world’s top 2% most-cited scientists by Stanford University in 2023. Her innovative approach to integrating traditional Chinese medicine with modern therapeutic strategies has not only enriched our understanding but also opened new pathways for treating central nervous system degenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Her work, characterised by a deep understanding of both Chinese and Western medical practices, has led to 16 patents and an impressive list of more than 400 publications. One of her research group's studies focuses on screening and identifying activators of the transcription factor EB (TFEB), which is closely associated with neuronal autophagy, from traditional Chinese medicine. They successfully discovered a novel TFEB activator, C1, from a series of curcumin derivatives. C1 effectively promotes ALP-mediated neuronal autophagy in cellular and animal models of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, aiding in the degradation and clearance of harmful brain proteins such as amyloid-beta and phosphorylated tau aggregates. This brings hope for improving the symptoms and enhancing the quality of life for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.

Professor Li’s leadership of the Mr. & Mrs. Ko Chi Ming Centre for Parkinson’s Disease Research at SCM has been pivotal in securing approximately HK$36 million in funding for 16 research projects. These projects are not only a beacon of hope for patients but also a source of inspiration for the next generation of students and researchers that Professor Li has tirelessly mentored.

The School expresses gratitude to Ma Pak Leung Co Ltd for its generous support and extends heartfelt congratulations to Professor Li on this remarkable achievement, which is a testament to her long-time contributions to neuromedicine.

Please click here for more information about the Ma Pak Leung Endowed Professorship in Innovative Neuromedicine.