Research Mission
The Next First in Cardiovascular Discovery
Cardiology and Research in the Time of COVID-19
THI has taken a major leadership role against COVID-19, making available cutting-edge treatments that otherwise would not be accessible. Using our knowledge and hard work, we are here to fulfill the mission set forth by Dr. Denton A. Cooley. Alongside our COVID research and treatment engagement, we continue to move innovative research projects and "The Next First" in cardiovascular medicine forward.
From Molecules to Medicine
In keeping with Dr. Willerson’s storied history of translational research, the team has used small molecule drugs, gene therapy, and stem cell technologies to target an assortment of cardiovascular diseases. A milestone was achieved this year when a small molecule drug discovered and developed in the MCRL here at THI entered human clinical testing in October.
Cardiovascular Pathology Lab – A Core Lab at THI Offering Many Research Services
The Cardiovascular Pathology Lab of THI has been leading the way in supporting pathology research at many public and private medical institutions and corporations across the nation.
A Tale of Two Teams: Assisting Regenerative Medicine Research
Camila Hochman Mendez, PhD, Director of the Regenerative Medicine Research (RMR), has been spearheading the reorganization of the Department and merging the work of two different groups for the greater good of THI research.
New Pathways Lead the Way to Heart Treatments
Dr. Jim Martin, director of the Cardiomyocyte Renewal Lab (CMRL), is hard at work unraveling the genetic pathways that are involved in tissue regeneration, particularly, the regeneration of heart muscle cells (cardiomyocytes). His lab is using their research findings to develop new treatments for heart disease as heart failure is the number one cause of death in this country.
Forging New Paths in Research
With over 45 years of innovation under its belt, the Center for Preclinical Surgical & Interventional Research is committed to harnessing the expertise of its talented team. Through its in-house work and collaborations with other institutions, it has become one of the most treasured resources in the Texas Medical Center.
The Story of the Heart Valve
Over the last several years, a rising incidence of valvular heart disease has spurred an increased interest in discovering new, more effective ways to treat this type of cardiovascular disease. As the world’s population ages, the prevalence and costs of treating those impacted by valve disease will rise significantly, making the work of Texas Heart Institute more and more critical.
Cutting Edge Clinical Research Leads to World-Class Treatments
The crux of what separates Texas Heart Institute (THI) from other institutions around the world is innovation. Dr. Emerson Perin, MD, PhD, FACC, Medical Director of the Center for Clinical Research (CCR), has been leading the charge of advancing cardiovascular medicine through clinical research for several decades, with the help of Jennifer Chambers, Director of the Office of Research Administration and Aryn Knight, Administrative Director of the Center for Clinical Research (CCR).
Translating Research into Cutting-Edge Technology
A primary goal at the Texas Heart Institute is increasing physician knowledge and using state-of-the-art devices and strategies to create technologies and therapies that advance patient care. The Electrophysiology Clinical Research and Innovation (EPCRI) Lab leads the charge in this area. With Director Mehdi Razavi, MD, at the helm, the Lab’s mission is to develop, conceptualize, and validate new technologies in cardiac electrophysiology and cardiology in general.
Making Women’s Cardiovascular Disease a Priority
For the past 10 years, Stephanie Coulter, MD, Director of the Center for Women’s Heart and Vascular Health at THI, has been prioritizing women’s health issues as a leader in her field and as co-founder of the Center with James T. Willerson, MD. The mission of the Women’s Heart Center is to reduce the devastating effect of cardiovascular disease on society and women in particular.
