Development of nanotechnological platform to detect systemic diseases using a drop of saliva

Prof. Robinson Sabino-Silva is a researcher whose academic and professional journey reflects an exemplary dedication to science and innovation. He holds a degree in Dentistry from the University of Passo Fundo and a master's and PhD in Sciences, with an emphasis on Human Physiology, from the University of São Paulo (USP). He furthered his expertise with a postdoctoral fellowship at USP in Medical Clinics and completed scientific and technical training at renowned institutions in Japan, the USA, Scotland, Canada, and Sweden, establishing an internationally recognized career.

His academic work at the Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU) stands out for his commitment to teaching and mentoring researchers, as well as his leadership in prestigious graduate programs, such as the Graduate Program in Dentistry (CAPES 6), the Graduate Program in Health Sciences (CAPES 6), and the Graduate Program in Applied Immunology and Parasitology (CAPES 7). In 2023, he founded and became the first president of the Brazilian Group of Researchers in Salivary Gland and Saliva, marking his pioneering role in salivary diagnostics. Additionally, as the coordinator of a CNPq thematic project on the use of Niobium in the Health Industries, he has significantly contributed to the development of national guidelines at ANVISA and INMETRO.

His capacity for innovation is further demonstrated by his leadership of SalivaNano – the Innovation Group in Salivary Diagnostics and Nanobiotechnology – and his role as deputy coordinator of the National Nanotechnology Laboratories System (SisNANO UFU). Sabino-Silva is also a member of the steering committee and played a key role in the establishment of the National Institute for Oral Health and Dentistry (INCT Odonto) and the National Institute for Theranostics and Nanobiotechnology (INCT TeraNano), promoting the development of new materials and innovative technologies for oral and systemic health applications. He also serves on the management board of REBIR and the Minas Gerais Research Networks. His research in Nanobiotechnology and the application of Artificial Intelligence in diagnostics, particularly for infectious oral and systemic diseases, has had a significant impact, as evidenced by his numerous awards, including the IADR Hatton Competition (the most prestigious award in Brazilian dentistry), the Scientific Panel Award of the Brazilian Society for Dental Research (the second most important award in Brazilian dentistry), and two international Latin American Research Awards (LARA) from Google.

With a robust body of work in both scientific and technological fields, Sabino-Silva has published over 70 international papers (with an h-index of 23) and holds 17 patents registered with the INPI, 14 of which have been transferred to private companies. He is a recognized authority in innovation and the development of technological solutions aimed at public health. Furthermore, his collaborations with industry and regulatory agencies underscore his commitment to translating scientific research into practical products and solutions that benefit society.

His influence extends beyond academic borders, fostering innovation at all levels, from undergraduate to postgraduate education, preparing future generations of scientists to tackle the challenges of scientific and technological research. He also played a decisive role alongside his colleagues at UFU in the early detection of the Gamma, Delta, and Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2 in Uberlândia, which was crucial in preparing local health units by increasing oxygen supply and ensuring vital support for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.