Assoc. Prof. Dr. Azza El-Demerdash | Molecular Docking | Best Researcher Award

Head of Biotechnolgy Unit, Animal Health Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Egypt

Dr. Azza SalahEldin Abdelsalam El-Demerdash is an Associate Professor and Head of the Biotechnology Unit at the Animal Health Research Institute (AHRI) in Zagazig, Egypt. With a career spanning over several years, she has made significant contributions to microbiology, particularly in the area of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and animal health. Dr. El-Demerdash has authored more than 30 scientific papers, focusing on novel antimicrobial strategies and their application in animal pathogens. She is also a committed mentor, guiding graduate and postgraduate students and researchers. Additionally, she plays an active role in global scientific communities, serving as a reviewer and editor for high-ranking journals. Dr. El-Demerdash’s dedication to research has led her to collaborate with prominent institutions in Saudi Arabia, Spain, and across Africa, working toward solutions for pressing health challenges like multidrug-resistant infections.

Profile

• Scopus
• Google Scholar
• Orcid

Strengths for the Best Researcher Award

1. Extensive Research Experience: Azza SalahEldin Abdelsalam El-Demerdash has a substantial research background, particularly in the crucial area of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). She has completed more than 40 research projects, with over 30 publications in the last five years, making significant contributions to combating multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens, especially Salmonella.
2. Innovative Research: Her work on using essential oils (like cumin and cinnamon) to inhibit efflux pumps in MDR pathogens, combined with computational tools like in silico docking and molecular dynamics simulations, exemplifies innovative approaches to solving global health challenges.
3. Strong Collaboration Network: She has established significant collaborations with reputable international institutions such as Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, King Saud University, and the Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology, enhancing the global impact of her work.
4. Leadership in Science: As the Head of the Biotechnology Unit at the Animal Health Research Institute, she provides leadership in a dynamic research environment, cultivating innovation and scientific excellence. This includes mentoring young scientists and overseeing critical projects.
5. Recognized Expertise and Peer Recognition: Her contributions are acknowledged in the academic community, with an h-index of 11 on Google Scholar and 10 on Scopus, indicating consistent citation and impact in her field. Additionally, she serves as a reviewer for high-ranked journals, further contributing to scientific advancement.
6. Sustainable and Translational Research: The focus on sustainable antimicrobial strategies and the integration of green chemistry and sustainable drug development shows a forward-thinking approach to addressing global health issues. Her work blends theoretical and experimental methods to develop practical solutions.

Areas for Improvement

1. Broader Recognition in Other Disciplines: While she has made substantial contributions to microbiology and animal health, further expansion into related fields, such as human health or public policy related to AMR, could elevate her recognition even further.
2. Dissemination of Results: While the publications and patents are impressive, actively disseminating findings beyond the academic sphere, through media or policy-driven initiatives, may increase the broader societal impact of her work.
3. Grant and Funding Acquisition: While she has led funded projects, an increased focus on securing larger, more diverse grants could enable her to scale up research efforts and tackle broader global health challenges.

Education 

Dr. Azza El-Demerdash holds a PhD in Microbiology from Zagazig University, Egypt, specializing in antimicrobial resistance and pathogen biology. Her academic journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine, also from Zagazig University, which laid the foundation for her research in animal health. Her advanced studies focused on the molecular mechanisms of bacterial resistance to antibiotics and alternative therapeutic strategies, such as natural products. In addition to her formal education, Dr. El-Demerdash has received extensive training in molecular biology techniques, bioinformatics, and computational modeling. Her dedication to continuous learning and scientific advancement is evident in her participation in international conferences and workshops. Over the years, she has collaborated with leading scientists globally, constantly enhancing her knowledge and expertise. Dr. El-Demerdash also actively contributes to the education of future scientists through her teaching and mentoring roles at the Animal Health Research Institute.

Experience

Dr. Azza El-Demerdash has extensive experience in both research and academia. As the Head of the Biotechnology Unit at the Animal Health Research Institute (Zagazig Branch), she has led groundbreaking studies in antimicrobial resistance, contributing to over 30 publications and securing research grants. Her leadership extends to mentoring students and junior researchers, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment. Dr. El-Demerdash is an expert in microbiological research, molecular diagnostics, and biotechnology applications. She has worked on various national and international projects, focusing on the control of multidrug-resistant pathogens in animal health. Her work has earned recognition across multiple scientific disciplines, with a particular emphasis on discovering natural product-based antimicrobials. She also serves as a reviewer and editorial board member for renowned journals, contributing to the scientific community’s growth. Her dedication to improving animal health through innovative solutions is demonstrated through her leadership and practical contributions to the field.

Research Focus

Dr. Azza El-Demerdash’s research focuses on understanding and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly in bacterial pathogens affecting animals. She has specialized in investigating the molecular mechanisms behind antibiotic resistance, with a particular emphasis on efflux pumps in multidrug-resistant bacteria. Her research also explores the potential of natural products, such as essential oils, in overcoming resistance by targeting these efflux systems. Through computational techniques like in silico docking and molecular dynamics, she identifies novel drug candidates that could be used to inhibit these bacterial mechanisms. Dr. El-Demerdash’s work aims to develop sustainable solutions for managing infectious diseases in animals, using both experimental and computational approaches. Another key area of her research involves sustainable drug development, ensuring accessibility and affordability in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. By combining traditional microbiology with modern computational techniques, her work represents a forward-thinking approach to one of the most urgent global health issues.

Publication Top Notes

1. Biocontrol of Multidrug Resistant Pathogens Isolated from Fish Farms Using Silver Nanoparticles Combined with Hydrogen Peroxide 🐟🧪
   Saad, M.F., Elsayed, M.M., Khder, M., Abdelaziz, A.S., El-Demerdash, A.S. | Scientific Reports, 2024, 14(1), 7971
2. Biomolecule-Producing Probiotic Bacterium Lactococcus lactis in Free or Nanoencapsulated Form for Endometritis Treatment and Fertility Improvement in Buffaloes 🐄💊
   Hashem, N.M., Essawi, W.M., El-Demerdash, A.S., El-Raghi, A.A. | Journal of Functional Biomaterials, 2024, 15(6), 138
3. Modulatory Effect of Competitive Exclusion on the Transmission of ESBL E. coli in Chickens 🐔🔬
   Ebrahem, A.F., El-Demerdash, A.S., Orady, R.M., Nabil, N.M. | Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins, 2024, 16(3), 1087–1098
4. Essential Oils as Capsule Disruptors: Enhancing Antibiotic Efficacy Against Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae 🌱💊
   El-Demerdash, A.S., Alfaraj, R., Farid, F.A., Saleh, A.M., Dawwam, G.E. | Frontiers in Microbiology, 2024, 15, 1467460
5. The Ameliorative Role of Aloe Vera-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles on Staphylococcus aureus Induced Acute Lung Injury: Targeting TLR/NF-κB Signaling Pathways 🌿🦠
   Abd El-Emam, M.M., El-Demerdash, A.S., Abdo, S.A., Eldin, Z.E., Shehata, A.A. | Open Veterinary Journal, 2024, 14(1), 416–427
6. Bacteriological Evaluation and Advanced SYBR-Green Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay for Detection of Minced Meat Adulteration 🍖🔬
   El-Sheikh, S.H., Abdel Whab, R.M., Eldaly, R.A., Fahmy, H.A., El-Demerdash, A.S. | Open Veterinary Journal, 2024, 14(1), 389–397
7. An Alternative Approach Using Nano-Garlic Emulsion and Its Synergy with Antibiotics for Controlling Biofilm-Producing Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella in Chicken 🧄🐔
   El-Demerdash, A.S., Orady, R.M., Matter, A.A., Ebrahem, A.F. | Indian Journal of Microbiology, 2023, 63(4), 632–644
8. Pathognomonic Features of Pasteurella multocida Isolates Among Various Avian Species in Sharkia Governorate, Egypt 🐦🦠
   El-Demerdash, A.S., Mowafy, R.E., Fahmy, H.A., Matter, A.A., Samir, M. | World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2023, 39(12), 335
9. Bovine Mastitis in Egypt: Bacterial Etiology and Evaluation of Diagnostic Biomarkers 🐄🦠
   El-Demerdash, A.S., Bakry, N.R., Aggour, M.G., Hagag, N., Samir, M. | International Journal of Veterinary Science, 2023, 12(1), 60–69
10. Microbiological and Spectrophotometric Methods for the Determination of Tioconazole: A Comparative Thermodynamic Study 🔬📊
    Elmasry, M.S., Salah El-Demerdash, A., Sharaf, Y.A. | Spectrochimica Acta – Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy, 2023, 298, 122770

Conclusion

Azza SalahEldin Abdelsalam El-Demerdash is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her pioneering work in antimicrobial resistance, innovative approach using natural products for combating MDR pathogens, leadership in scientific research, and significant global collaborations demonstrate the breadth and depth of her impact on both the academic and global health landscapes. With her track record of excellence in both research and mentorship, she is poised to continue making substantial contributions to the field of microbiology and animal health.