Research Interest

Dr. Halwani is interested in studying the molecular mechanisms involved in lung tissue remodeling during Asthma and COPD. Airway tissue remodeling is the key physiological feature underlying asthma pathogenesis. It refers to the modification of the normal composition and structural organization of lung tissues which usually occurs in response to inflammatory responses associated with asthma and COPD. This involves a wide pattern of pathophysiological mechanisms. Dr. Halwani investigates the molecular mechanisms involved in these processes from several angles.

Current Research Projects include:

  • Understanding the role of T cell memory subtypes and their mediators in airway remodeling and asthma pathogenesis.
  • Studying the role of proliferative and inflammatory mediators such as epithelial derived chemokines, eosinophil derived leukotriens, TGF-β, and TNF-α and others in smooth muscle mass increase and persistence.
  • Identifying novel Immune correlates of protection during TB infection in a unique Saudi Arabian cohort.
  • Understanding the role of IL-17 cytokine in regulating interactions between structural and inflammatory cells involved in airway remodeling during asthma. Focus on eosinophils, smooth muscle cells and B cells.
  • Investigating the mechanism of B cell recruitment to the lung airways during asthma and the role of inflammatory mediators such as IL-17 and CXCL-13 in regulating this infiltration.
  • Understanding the role of various inflammatory cytokines in airway structural and inflammatory cells persistence.
  • Regulating lung tissue inflammation during Asthma using novel nano-particles approach. (3 projects).

 

Rabih Halwani

Associate Professor

 

  • : 014690146, 0551307134

  • DEPARTMENTCollege of Medicine
    King Saud University
  • COUNTRYSaudi Arabia