Dr. Karolina Stępień | Extracellular Matrix | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Karolina Stępień is a molecular biologist and medical scientist whose research focuses on the extracellular matrix (ECM) and its pivotal role in connective tissue and vascular diseases, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Her studies investigate the molecular architecture and remodeling processes within the ECM, emphasizing the qualitative assessment of type I and III collagens, elastin fibers, and the regulatory influence of metalloproteinases, their inhibitors, and thrombospondins in pathological tissue degradation. Through her work, she has elucidated molecular gradients and expression patterns that help define the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying vascular wall weakening and aneurysm progression, contributing to the identification of biomarkers for disease prognosis and therapeutic intervention. In addition to vascular pathology, Dr. Stępień has participated in collaborative research exploring genetic and molecular determinants of connective tissue disorders such as osteogenesis imperfecta, where she has evaluated the potential of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in gene therapy and tissue regeneration. Her work on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in pediatric craniopharyngioma has revealed novel insights into the molecular predictors of tumor recurrence, further highlighting her multidisciplinary expertise in molecular pathology. She has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in esteemed journals including International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Biomolecules, and Journal of Applied Genetics, where her research has contributed to the growing understanding of ECM-driven disease processes and translational molecular medicine. As an educator in molecular biology and genetics, she imparts knowledge on molecular diagnostic techniques and experimental approaches, bridging fundamental science with clinical application. She also leads the “BIOMOLEK” Scientific Club at the Medical University of Silesia, mentoring young scientists in research design and molecular analysis related to ECM biology and genetic disorders. Her ongoing scientific vision integrates molecular, cellular, and clinical perspectives to uncover mechanisms of tissue remodeling, inflammation, and genetic regulation in vascular and connective tissue diseases. Through her active engagement in interdisciplinary collaborations, academic mentorship, and translational research, Dr. Karolina Stępień continues to advance molecular medicine by linking fundamental discoveries with potential therapeutic innovation.