1. Can you please briefly summarize the paper? 

This study was a multi-year collaboration and investigation into thymosin β4 (Tβ4) and its peptide metabolites. It focuses on their transformation from biological byproducts to bioactive agents with therapeutic relevance. Specifically, we identified and characterized Ac-Tβ_1-17, a naturally derived Tβ4 metabolite, and revealed its dual functionality, which includes antiviral activity via inhibition of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (M^pro) and proangiogenic efficacy in endothelial cells. Using a comprehensive approach, including LC-MS/MS profiling, in vitro and ex vivo models, isothermal calorimetry, and scaffold integration, we demonstrated that Ac-Tβ_1-17 not only outperforms its parent molecule in terms of bioactivity but can also be stably incorporated into biocompatible peptide-based scaffolds. These scaffolds promoted angiogenesis, cell proliferation, and migration, with translational potential for wound healing and tissue regeneration. Our findings challenge the traditional notion that peptide metabolites are inert degradation products; instead, they are emerging as therapeutic molecules and biomaterial enhancers, offering a new direction in regenerative medicine.

2. Can you please tell us the main difficulties you had in the laboratory work and how you overcame them?

One of the key challenges was the identification and synthesis of biologically relevant Ac-Tβ4 peptide metabolites, given the vast number of hypothetical fragments and their unknown bioactivity profiles. We overcame this by applying a rigorous metabolite screening strategy using peptide identification by LC-MS/MS, followed by a FRET-based M^pro inhibition assay and computational docking to narrow down potent candidates. Additionally, maintaining peptide bioactivity during scaffold fabrication at elevated temperatures required careful optimization of the process to preserve the functional properties of Ac-Tβ_1-17 peptide. Fortunately, peptide fragments are much more stable compared to their parent proteins.

3. Please introduce your laboratory, university, or organization to bio-researchers in Korea.

I am a postdoctoral fellow at the Translational Research Laboratory in the Center for Biomaterials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), under the direction of Dr. Hyung-Seop Han. Our lab focuses on the translational process through bridging the gap between basic research and clinical application. We aim to bring innovative technologies developed in the lab directly to the clinic to benefit patients. Our research integrates state-of-the-art in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models to evaluate and validate biomaterials with therapeutic potential. In parallel, I collaborate with Elecell Corporation, which is pioneering the world’s first wound treatment devices based on biomimetic electrical currents. Their platform encompasses portable wound healing systems, natural product-assisted regenerative support, and electrical stimulation-based muscle therapy. The synergy between KIST’s deep biological evaluation pipeline and Elecell’s translational focus accelerates the development of clinically relevant, biomaterial-based therapeutics with life-saving potential.

4. Please tell us about your experiences and thoughts about research activities abroad.

Studying and conducting research in Korea has been both enriching and transformative. The research ecosystem at KIST fosters innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence. I particularly value the culture of diligence and attention to detail that permeates scientific work here. My interactions with international colleagues have broadened my perspective and encouraged cross-disciplinary thinking, essential for advancing biomaterials research. The experience has profoundly shaped my approach to scientific problem-solving.

5. Can you provide some advice for younger scientists who have plans to study abroad?

I would advise younger scientists to remain open-minded, culturally adaptable, and proactive in building professional networks. Studying abroad is not only about scientific training but also about understanding different ways of thinking and working. Learning the local language, even at a conversational level, can significantly enhance your experience and collaboration. Most importantly, be resilient. Research abroad will inevitably bring challenges, but each hurdle is an opportunity to grow personally and professionally.

6. Future plan?

I intend to expand on this research by exploring the therapeutic potential of peptide metabolites and electrical stimulation in tissue regeneration. In particular, I am interested in searching for peptide fragments generated from peptide drugs that can modulate cellular behavior after being fragmented. Eventually, I will establish an independent research group focused on bioactive materials and their clinical translation in Bangladesh, my homeland.

7. Do you have anything else that you would like to tell Korean scientists and students?

Korean science has made tremendous progress in biomaterials and biotechnology. I encourage Korean scientists and students to keep fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and to remain at the forefront of innovation. Additionally, I would like to see Korean scientists concentrating on a single topic rather than changing the subject frequently. This will undoubtedly increase the depth of the research, and science will come to learn newer things. Also, I would like to thank KIST for the warm support and opportunity to conduct high-impact research.