Research conducted by the Division of Cardiac surgery includes basic science, translational work that potentially brings discoveries from the laboratory to clinical research and patient application. Among current efforts in clinical research are new techniques to repair heart valves, improve cardiac revascularization and performance, and provide mechanical circulatory assistance and support to patients awaiting heart transplantation.
In the research laboratory, we are studying the molecular genetics behind angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels that occurs with transmyocardial revascularization. Our faculty also is researching the biologic dynamics of cardiac infarction and congestive heart failure. We are studying ischemic and reperfusion injury, the cellular damage that occurs when blood flows back into tissues that were temporarily deprived of circulation during surgery. We have investigated the molecular mechanisms involved in xenotransplantation (cross-species) of the heart using genetically altered porcine hearts transplanted into primates.
Our researchers also have produced work on heterograft valve replacement and the immunogenetics of valve transplant. Total dollars for sponsored research has steadily increased over the past five years and exceeded $1 million in 2001.
Current Research
Sary Aranki, M.D.
Director of Clinical Research
Frederick Y. Chen, M.D., Ph.D.
Director of Cardiac Surgery Research Laboratory
Michael Davidson, M.D.
Robert Gallegos, M.D., Ph.D.
Prem Shekar, M.D.
Research Fellowship Program
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