Assoc Prof Dr. Simonetta D’Ercole | Composite Materials Science | Women Researcher Award

Professor Doctorate at University “G. d’Annunzio” Chieti-Pescara, Italy

Profiles:

• ORCID Profile
• scopus Profile

🎓Early Academic Pursuits

Simonetta D’Ercole’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in the medical and dental sciences. She completed her Master’s degree in Dentistry and Dental Prosthetics from the University “G. d’Annunzio” of Chieti-Pescara, Italy, in 1994. Her quest for deeper knowledge and specialization led her to pursue a PhD in Biomedical Sciences at the same university, graduating in 2003. Her doctoral research focused on innovative experimental protocols for the laboratory diagnosis of periodontal disease, particularly through the detection of bacterial and viral DNA, setting the stage for her future contributions in microbiology and diagnostics.

🏢Professional Endeavors

Her professional career began with a post-doctoral fellowship at the Department of Biomedical Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio.” From 2004 to 2007, she worked on developing new experimental protocols for diagnosing oral infections, which significantly advanced the field of microbiological diagnostics. Her dedication and expertise led to her appointment as a Senior Researcher (RTD.B) at the Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences from 2020 to 2023, where she continued her research on microbiology, biofilm, and antibiotic resistance. Since 2023, she has been serving as an Associate Professor at the same department, focusing on cutting-edge research in infectious diseases, salivary fingerprinting, and eco-sustainable strategies.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus

Simonetta D’Ercole’s research contributions are pivotal in the fields of microbiology and biofilm studies. Her work on antimicrobial photodynamic therapy and its impact on oral candidiasis highlights her innovative approach to combating oral infections. In a recent study published in Gels in 2024, D’Ercole and her colleagues explored the effectiveness of this therapy in vitro, demonstrating its potential to enhance oral health outcomes. Her research also delves into the use of complex magnetic fields as an eco-sustainable technology to address Candida albicans resistance without harming human gingival fibroblasts, as detailed in her 2023 publication in Scientific Reports.

Additionally, D’Ercole has investigated the antibacterial and antifungal properties of commercially available mouthwashes, contributing valuable insights into their efficacy against oral microorganisms. This study, published in Antibiotics in 2023, underscores her commitment to improving oral health through evidence-based research.

🏆Accolades and Recognition

Simonetta D’Ercole’s academic and research achievements have garnered significant recognition. Her h-index of 24 and a total of 1,627 citations reflect the impact and reach of her work in the scientific community. Her publications in high-impact journals such as Gels, Scientific Reports, and Antibiotics are a testament to her research excellence. D’Ercole’s contributions to the field have established her as a leading expert in microbiology, biofilm research, and antimicrobial resistance.

🌍Impact and Influence

D’Ercole’s research has profoundly impacted the fields of oral microbiology and biofilm studies. Her innovative approaches to diagnosing and treating oral infections have influenced clinical practices and opened new avenues for research in antimicrobial therapies. Her work on eco-sustainable technologies and non-antibiotic antimicrobial compounds addresses critical issues in managing antibiotic resistance and improving public health.

By advancing our understanding of oral pathogens and developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, D’Ercole has significantly influenced both academic research and practical applications in healthcare. Her interdisciplinary approach and commitment to eco-friendly solutions highlight her dedication to advancing science and addressing pressing global health challenges.

🌟Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Simonetta D’Ercole is poised to continue her impactful research and contribute to the advancement of medical and dental sciences. Her ongoing work in antimicrobial strategies and eco-sustainable technologies promises to further enhance our understanding of microbial resistance and improve therapeutic approaches. As she continues to lead in her field, D’Ercole’s legacy will be defined by her contributions to microbiology, her dedication to innovation, and her commitment to improving global health outcomes.

📖Publications:

Paper Title: What Is the Impact of Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy on Oral Candidiasis? An In Vitro Study

• Authors: D’Amico, E., Di Lodovico, S., Pierfelice, T.V., Petrini, M., D’Ercole, S.
• Journal: Gels
• Year: 2024

Paper Title: Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Lubbock Chronic Wound Biofilm (LCWB): a suitable dual-species model for in vitro studies

• Authors: Di Lodovico, S., Petrini, M., Di Fermo, P., Nocera, F.P., Di Giulio, M.
• Journal: Microbes and Infection
• Year: 2024

Paper Title: Complex magnetic fields represent an eco-sustainable technology to counteract the resistant Candida albicans growth without affecting the human gingival fibroblasts

• Authors: Di Lodovico, S., Petrini, M., D’Amico, E., Di Giulio, M., D’Ercole, S.
• Journal: Scientific Reports
• Year: 2023

Paper Title: Correlation between use of different type protective facemasks and the oral ecosystem

• Authors: D’Ercole, S., Parisi, P., D’Arcangelo, S., Scarano, A., Tripodi, D.
• Journal: BMC Public Health
• Year: 2023

Paper Title: In Vitro Evaluation of Candida albicans Adhesion on Heat-Cured Resin-Based Dental Composites

• Authors: De Angelis, F., D’Ercole, S., Di Giulio, M., Di Lodovico, S., D’Arcangelo, C.
• Journal: Materials
• Year: 2023