A brief overview of our research
The overarching goal of our group is the development of a comprehensive research focus encompassing specific projects related to cardiac and lung transplantation as well as stem cell transplantation.
These projects range from molecular level (gene therapy) and cell biology investigations in murine models through to clinical projects. Bi-directional translational research is a crucial component in this regard, bridging the basic laboratory with the clinic. Thus, a strong translational program has the potential to generate key basic findings and apply these directly to clinical issues, leading to changes in clinical practice; likewise, important clinical issues can be taken to the basic laboratory for investigation. This provides a "bedside to bench to bedside" cycle of research activities that has the potential to change the practice of heart/lung and stem cell transplantation.
A number of the laboratory-based research efforts of our group are related to investigating immune responses to organ and cell transplantation.
We are using in vivo models of heart and lung transplantation in mice and rats (heterotopic heart transplants, orthotopic aorta transplantations, orthotopic and heterotopic trachea transplantations, lung transplant models) as well as stem cell transplantation after myocardial infarction (LAD ligation). A variety of immunological in vitro assays are used to investigate cellular and molecular mechanisms of graft rejection (e.g. Elispots, donor-specific antibodies, Immunoknow Assay). Each cell line (e.g. lymphocytes, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, cardiomyocytes, stem cells, airway cells) is being investigated in vitro for immuno-response and characterization.
