"Science thrives on teamwork"

For Wong Sok Kuan, scientific research was not her original destination. Now an Associate Professor at the Department of Pharmacology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, she said the turning point came from her experiences while studying biochemistry.

At first it was just curiosity, but gradually, her passion for exploring the molecular mechanisms of the human body grew.

Revolutionizing the treatment of diabetic osteoporosis

Each experiment opens up new possibilities in the study of metabolic disorders and bone health, further strengthening Wong's determination to apply scientific solutions to address healthcare challenges.

Now, as the winner of the 2024 L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Malaysia Award, her work promises to change the way we understand and treat diabetic osteoporosis.

Wong's research goal is to redefine the treatment of diabetes-related bone loss.

"Currently, diabetes and osteoporosis are treated separately, with each disease having its own specific drug. But by targeting Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3 Beta (GSK3), we are looking for a 'switch' that can regulate inflammation, connecting blood sugar control to bone metabolism," she explains.

“Science thrives on teamwork. Connecting with colleagues and participating in support programs can accelerate both research and personal growth.”

Dr. Wong Sok Kuan

This approach has the potential to open up earlier diagnosis and more effective treatments that not only help prevent osteoporosis but also address the root problems related to insulin resistance and inflammation.

If successful, it could help reduce fracture rates, reduce healthcare costs and improve quality of life, especially for Malaysia's growing elderly population.

For Wong, one of the big challenges is combining three complex areas: bone health, the immune system, and metabolism. Research is rarely straightforward, and setbacks are inevitable.

In addition, the "battle" for funding and building international scientific cooperation is also a big obstacle. She said: "Long-term projects need financial support from many sources. I proactively applied for funding from both the Government and the private sector, emphasizing the potential for practical application and cooperation with industry partners."

Overcoming difficulties in scientific research

Despite winning numerous prestigious grants and titles, including being ranked by Elsevier in the top 2% of scientists in the world for three consecutive years (2020 - 2022), Wong is still not immune to self-doubt.

Feelings of inadequacy, also known as “imposter syndrome,” are a familiar obstacle for many women in STEM fields.

“Positive thinking was key to overcoming my lack of confidence. I set small research goals, had a clear strategy, built peer support, and adopted a growth mindset. Failure and challenges are inevitable, but I see them as stepping stones to further progress, not as obstacles,” Wong said.

Beyond just making scientific breakthroughs, she also wants to nurture the next generation of researchers. Women in STEM have long faced challenges, from securing funding to establishing themselves in the academic community.

Wong believes that initiatives like the L'Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science programme are game-changers, providing not only financial support but also increasing the visibility of female scientists.

Source: https://phunuvietnam.vn/khoa-hoc-phat-trien-nho-kha-nang-lam-viec-nhom-20250318151153793.htm