SPRING 2021 Faculty Winner
SPRING 2021 Resident Winner
Leticia Chaves de Souza Dr. de Souza earned her dental degree from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2004. She has a Master’s degree in Endodontics and a PhD degree in Materials Science, and joined the UTHealth School of Dentistry as Assistant Professor in 2017. Her research focuses on the physical, chemical, mechanical and biological properties of endodontic materials and instruments, as well as understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying apical periodontitis (AP). The aim of this study is to verify the expression of neutrophils extracellular traps (NET) in different stages of AP development using an in vivo experimental model of AP. NET are networks of extracellular fibers that bind to pathogens allowing neutrophils to mobilize and kill microorganisms, and the role of neutrophils and NETs in AP development is not fully understood. “Apical periodontitis is the primary condition that we treat as endodontists. Therefore, it is important that we fully understand the molecular mechanisms underlying apical periodontitis development and healing,” says de Souza. Dr. de Souza believes her research will have the potential to contribute to the development of future diagnostic and targeted precision health-based treatment strategies for apical periodontitis.
Han Na Cho
During her general practice residency in New York City, Dr. Cho experienced the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic first-hand. This exposure had a significant impact on her decision to focus her research on COVID-19’s effects on dental pulp at the University of Texas in Houston. Since the dental pulp is a highly vascularized tissue connected with the oral environment, Dr. Cho has hypothesized that COVID-19 would induce alteration in the cellularity and vascularization of the dental pulp. “As endodontists, we encounter many patients who come to us with pain, so it is important for us to have a basic foundation and appreciation of the science behind the signs and symptoms our patients experience,” she says. “Having that awareness will translate into providing optimal care for our patients. Given the limitations of endodontic literature in viral diseases, especially COVID-19, I’m really excited to be able to share my findings with the community when the outcome is finalized.” Dr. Cho believes her research will provide insight into the biological effects of COVID-19
and have important implications for the clinical practice of endodontics regarding the predictability of disease progression.
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