University of Miami · Microbiology & ImmunologyCorneal Transplant Immunology Unit
Robert Benjamin Levy · Coral Gables, Florida
Research Focus
Dr. Robert Benjamin Levy's lab at the University of Miami School of Medicine focuses on improving outcomes for corneal transplants by manipulating the immune system. The research aims to induce long-lasting immune tolerance to prevent transplant rejection, particularly in high-risk patients. By studying regulatory T cells and using innovative therapies, the lab seeks to develop new strategies to maintain corneal clarity and enhance the success of corneal transplantation.
corneal transplantationimmune toleranceT regulatory cellsgraft rejectiontransplant immunologychimeric proteinsdual therapycytokine regulationepigenetic control
Research Aims
4AIM 01Develop combinatorial treatment strategies to induce long-term tolerance in corneal transplants.
AIM 02Investigate the optimal protocols to prolong transplant survival using post-transplant therapies.
AIM 03Examine mechanistic pathways regulating T cell responses in transplanted models.
AIM 04Test epigenetic strategies to complement immune regulation efforts.
Skills the Lab Values
animal modelsflow cytometrymouse modelscell cultureWestern blotclinical trial designmolecular biology techniquesimmunofluorescencespatial biology analysesCytotoxic T cell tracking