We are pleased to announce that Prof. Dr. Hang Fai (Henry) Kwok has been appointed Section Editor-in-Chief of the Section “Natural and Bio-inspired Molecules” in Biomolecules (ISSN: 2218-273X).

The Section “Natural and Bio-inspired Molecules” focuses on papers in the area of natural product research. Contributions may be related to the chemistry and/or biochemistry of naturally occurring compounds or the biology of living systems from which they are sourced, as well as the chemistry and biological properties of synthetic natural compounds derivatives and/or structurally related compounds. For example, they may be articles that describe specific secondary metabolites of microorganisms, including antibiotics and mycotoxins; physiologically active compounds from plants or animal sources; and biochemical studies, including biosynthesis and microbiological transformations and the isolation, structure elucidation, chemical synthesis, and pharmacology of compounds from natural sources.

Articles related to the design and synthesis of new structures, inspired by those of natural compounds, in order to study and modulate their biological activities are also welcome. When new compounds are reported, manuscripts describing their biological activity are much preferred. Studies on complex mixtures of natural products must focus on specific compounds in regard to the pharmacological properties of the mixture.

Prof. Dr. Hang Fai (Henry) Kwok is an associate head and professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Macau, China. His research interests are focused on the areas of proteins (antigens), natural-based peptides (venom-based), and antibodies (targeted therapy/immunotherapy) in the battle against infectious diseases and cancer for novel drug discovery, development, and treatment.

The following is a short Q&A with Prof. Dr. Hang Fai (Henry) Kwok, who shared his vision for the journal with us, as well as his views on the research area and open access publishing:

1. What appealed to you about the journal that made you want to become its Section Editor-in-Chief?
I was thrilled by the journal with a specific Section focusing on natural and bio-inspired molecules, as it provides an ideal platform for conducting research spanning various areas, ranging from fundamental biomedical science and pharmacology studies to clinical investigations.

2. What is your vision for this Section?
This Section aims to serve as an excellent platform for biologists, pharmacists, and clinicians to showcase their cutting-edge research on natural and bio-inspired molecules, thereby expanding the frontiers of the field.

3. What does the future of this field of research look like?
Research on natural and bio-inspired molecules/compounds is a highly dynamic field encompassing a wide range of investigations. It involves understanding the intricate mechanisms by which these remarkable structural molecules interact with our biological systems, as well as exploring how the body responds to them as potential prototype drugs. This field explores the sources, biological effects, chemical properties, and diagnostic/therapeutic applications of natural and bio-inspired molecules. Being actively involved in this field is truly captivating, and the journal's Section “Natural and Bio-inspired Molecules” serves as a vital platform for researchers worldwide, facilitating effective communication and collaboration among experts in the field.

4. Do you have any suggestions for young researchers in this field?
Research is a journey of continuous learning and growth. Be persistent, curious, and open to new ideas and approaches. Young researchers should always stay updated and collaborate with others to keep themselves updated with the latest advancements, trends, and publications in their research area. In addition, attend conferences and join professional networks to stay connected with the research community to seek fruitful collaborations with other researchers both within and outside your institution. In my experience, collaborations provide opportunities for exchanging knowledge, learning from others' expertise, and conducting interdisciplinary research.

5. What do you think of the development of open access in the publishing field?
It is an essential trend in the field of publication. We can continue working together through the open access platform to get our peer-reviewed research to serve the scientific community.

We warmly welcome Prof. Dr. Hang Fai (Henry) Kwok as the Section Editor-in-Chief for “Natural and Bio-inspired Molecules”, and we look forward to him leading Biomolecules to achieve many more milestones.