Kamyab Valinezhad

Biotechnologist with a strong foundation in molecular and cellular biology, transitioning into optometry with a commitment to advancing eye health. Admitted to a Doctor of Optometry (O.D.) program, with training expected to begin in August 2026. Experienced in advanced laboratory techniques, research, and data analysis, complemented by recent clinical shadowing involving comprehensive eye examinations and use of optometric instruments. Dedicated to integrating scientific expertise with developing clinical competencies to deliver high-quality patient care and promote vision health.

Diabetic-Protective Role of Anti-HMW4 IgM in Aged Mice

University of Illinois at Chicago | Master's Independent Study Project | Jan 2023-April 2023

• Measured plasma anti-HMW4 IgM and insulin concentrations using high-sensitivity ELISA.
• Utilized colorimetric assays to assess glucose levels and evaluate the effects of dietary factors.
• Performed flow cytometry to analyze TLR4 receptor activity and elucidate inflammatory signaling pathways.
• Integrated metabolic and immunological data to explore biomarker correlations relevant to diabetic pathology.

Assessing the Reconstitution Level of Immune Cells After Adoptive Transfer of Lymphocytes

UIC Research Lab | Jan 2022 – Apr 2022

• Isolated peritoneal lymphocytes from ApoE Foxp3 mice and adoptively transferred into Rag⁻/⁻ and ApoE⁻/⁻ Rag⁻/⁻ mice.
• Performed flow cytometry and tail snip blood draws to monitor reconstitution of B-1, B-2, and T cells weekly.

• 1. Hussein, M. A., Valinezhad, K., Adel, E., & Munirathinam, G. (2024). MALAT-1 Is a Key Regulator of Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Cancer: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Metastasis. Cancers (MDPI), 16(1), 234. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16010234 (Equal contribution as Co-First Author)
• 2. Hussein, M. A., Kamalakannan, A., Valinezhad, K., Kannan, J., Paleati, N., Saad, R., Kajdacsy-Balla, A., & Munirathinam, G. (2024). The dynamic face of cadmium-induced carcinogenesis: Mechanisms, emerging trends, and future directions. Current Research in Toxicology, 6, 100166. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crtox.2024.100166

• Awarded a full tuition waiver scholarship for Bachelor’s degree studies, granted based on outstanding performance in Iran’s National University Entrance Examination (Konkoor), a highly competitive nationwide exam.