Bridging Disciplines, Empowering Innovation: BIOI Forum Highlights

Held at the 14th Westlake International Conference of Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology May 8 – May 11, 2025, Hangzhou, China

As part of the 14th Westlake International Conference on Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (WICUMB), the editorial and youth committees of BIO Integration (BIOI) gathered in the picturesque city of Hangzhou for the journal’s dedicated thematic session.

This year’s WICUMB, themed “Openness, Innovation, Integration, and Talent Cultivation,” aligns seamlessly with BIOI’s core mission. As the convergence of medicine, engineering, materials science, and artificial intelligence continues to accelerate, BIOI is committed to breaking down disciplinary barriers and creating a platform that links fundamental research, clinical translation, and technological innovation.

Opening Remarks

The session commenced with keynote addresses delivered by esteemed leaders from the academic and editorial communities:

Professor Hairong Zheng – Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Vice President of Nanjing University.

Professor Pintong Huang – Co-Editor-in-Chief of BIOI, Zhejiang University.

Professor Chaozong Liu – Co-Editor-in-Chief of BIOI, University College London.

Professor Zhiyi Chen – Founding Editor-in-Chief of BIOI, University of South China.

Dr Zhiwen Luo – Executive Editor of BIOI and researcher at Fudan University’s Institute of Sports Medicine. Dr Luo provided an overview of the journal’s recent accomplishments and outlined strategic plans for its development over the next two years.

A Platform for Cross-Disciplinary Dialogue

The forum served as a vibrant platform for cross-disciplinary exchange, featuring 11 insightful presentations by leading experts from over a dozen top institutions across China. These talks covered a wide range of topics, from fundamental science to clinical applications, exemplifying the impact of interdisciplinary collaboration:

From Nanotech to Clinics

Professor Xianwen Wang presented innovative copper-based nanozymes for tissue repair, marking a significant advancement in integrating materials science with regenerative medicine. Professor Gang Liu showcased the development of cutting-edge molecular imaging probes, bridging the gap between microscopic innovations and practical clinical tools.

Professor Hongjing Wu’s research on microwave-absorbing materials exemplifies a bold spirit of exploration within emerging scientific fields.

From Intelligence to Accessibility

Professor Tao Tan presented advancements in general-purpose intelligent ultrasound technologies, while Professor Xiaoyan Kui demonstrated how AI-driven innovations in ophthalmology are expanding access to precision diagnostics.

From Laboratory to Industry

Professor Yong Xu outlined the translational journey of biomaterials from laboratory research to commercial products, highlighting the critical role of academic-industry collaboration. Meanwhile, Professor Sheng Wang explored the design of protein-regulated nanomedicines, further emphasizing the importance of bridging scientific innovation with practical application.

Spotlight on Emerging Talent

Alongside groundbreaking research, the forum also served as a platform to showcase emerging voices in biomedical science. Professor Zhijie Zhao presented pioneering multi-omics research, while Professor Yaying Sun discussed the use of extracellular vesicles for soft tissue repair. Both presentations highlighted how early-career researchers are addressing long-standing challenges through innovative, fresh perspectives.

Professor Yisheng Chen presented innovative research on wearable exoskeletons for stroke rehabilitation, while Professor Fengyan Liang discussed the integration of brain-computer interface technologies into rehabilitative care

Looking ahead, BIOI remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing the next generation of biomedical innovators—promoting a dynamic innovation ecosystem while cultivating young academic leaders.

A Positive Conclusion

To conclude the session, the organizing committee hosted a certificate awarding ceremony to recognize the contributions of key participants.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants, speakers, and guests who played a vital role in the success of the BIO Integration Forum. Although the event has come to an end, we look forward to future collaborations, ongoing dialogue, and sustained progress in advancing interdisciplinary biomedical research.