Ayla Kwant
Resume
PhD candidate, University of Groningen, The Netherlands, 2022 –
MSc, Biomedical Sciences, University of Groningen, The Netherlands, 2022
BSc, Life Science and Technology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands, 2019
Research
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation and damaged lung tissue. The combination of the damaged alveoli and the narrowed airways prevents the lung from emptying normally, which means the air gets trapped in the lungs. This air trapping leads to hyperinflation of the lung, making it very hard for the patient to breathe. To treat these patients, a procedure called bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) can be performed. With this treatment, the diseased parts of the lung are blocked off, which allows healthier regions to expand and function more efficiently.
In my research, my goal is to develop a polymer adhesive which can be used in BLVR procedures to close the damaged parts of the lung. That is why in addition to the EXPIRE lab, I also work in the Institute of Advanced Materials, which is part of the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
Keywords: COPD, BLVR, sealant, adhesive