Research in the Paul Rothman Lab has focused on cytokines. We’ve investigated the role these mo...lecules play in the normal development of blood cells as well as the abnormal blood-cell development that leads to leukemia. We’ve also studied the function of cytokines in immune system responses to asthma and allergies. view more

Effective immune responses are critical for control of a variety of infectious disease includin...g bacterial, viral and protozoan infections as well as in protection from development of tumors. Central to the development of an effective immune response is the T lymphocyte which, as part of the adaptive immune system, is central in achieving sterilization and long lasting immunity. While the normal immune responses is tightly regulated there are also notable defects leading to pathologic diseases. Inactivity of tumor antigen-specific T cells, either by suppression or passive ignorance allows tumors to grow and eventually actively suppress the immune response. Conversely, hyperactivation of antigen-specific T cells to self antigens is the underlying basis for many autoimmune diseases including: multiple sclerosis; arthritis; and diabetes. Secondary to their central role in a wide variety of physiologic and pathophysiologic responses my lab takes a broad-based approach to studying T cell responses. view more

The Sean Leng Lab studies the biology of healthy aging. Specific projects focus on chronic infl...ammation in late-life decline; immunosenescence and its relationship to the basic biological and physiological changes related to aging and frailty in the human immune system; and T-cell repertoire analysis. view more

The Hillel Laboratory at Johns Hopkins investigates inflammatory, genetic, and molecular factor...s involved with laryngotracheal stenosis, or scar formation in the airway. Specifically, we are examining the interrelationship between genetics, the immune system, bacteria, and scar formation in the airway. The lab has developed unique models to study laryngotracheal stenosis and test drugs that may halt the progression of scar or reverse scar formation. We are also developing a drug-eluting stent to treat patients with laryngotracheal stenosis. view more