Type-2 Cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 Counteract LPS-Induced Pro-Inflammatory and Pro-Fibrotic Signaling in Lung Fibroblasts
Why the Lübeck-Sharjah Dual Degree Program?
I joined the Sharjah–Lübeck dual program because it offered a unique opportunity to broaden my research experience by working in different academic environments. I was inspired by the chance to collaborate with senior researchers in my field, learn from their expertise, and gain insight into the research culture in Germany.
So far, this journey has been enriching and inspiring. Under the guidance of Prof. Qutayba Hamid, Dr. Yves Laumonnier, Dr. Khuloud Bajbouj, and Dr. Rifat Hamoudi, an expert in allergy-related diseases, I have been able to strengthen my project and learn new techniques that broaden my scientific perspective. Working in an international environment has also allowed me to exchange ideas, face challenges, and grow both academically and personally.
My project focuses on understanding how certain molecules in the immune system, called type 2 cytokines, contribute to allergic asthma. By studying these molecules, we hope to uncover new ways to control the disease and identify better treatment options. The ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life for people living with asthma.
The Project:
Allergic asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease characterized not only by immune-driven inflammation but also by structural remodeling that contributes to disease persistence and severity. Central to these processes are type 2 cytokines, particularly IL-4 and IL-13, which regulate pathways involved in airway remodeling, mucus hypersecretion, and epithelial barrier alterations. My research focuses on elucidating how IL-4 and IL-13 contribute to remodeling processes, with the aim of identifying novel therapeutic targets. To achieve this, we are combining patient-derived cell studies in Sharjah with an ex vivo BALB/c animal model in Lübeck to validate our findings. By integrating human and animal model data, this work seeks to provide mechanistic insights into type 2 cytokine–mediated remodeling and support the development of targeted therapies to improve disease control and patient outcomes in allergic asthma.
Lina Walid Moh'd Sahnoon
Second Year Phd Student
PIs Lübeck:
Prof. Yves Laumonnier
Prof. Jennifer Hundt
PIs Sharjah:
Prof. Qutayba Hamid
- Projects
- Lina Walid Moh'd Sahnoon
- Nawal Saeed Ali Alhafri Alketbi
- Ranyah Mohammed Saleh Al-hakm
- Salam Mohamad Dak Al Bab
