Despite recent advances, heart disease kills more people than all other major diseases combined. The most recent studies completed by the American Heart Association estimate that over one-third of Americans currently suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease.
University of Illinois researchers are leading efforts in translating new knowledge into innovative tools and therapeutics through a multidisciplinary approach. As technology evolves, the potential exists to regenerate cardiac tissue and ultimately offer personalized treatment to cardiac patients.
The Carle Foundation Hospital - Institute for Genomic Biology (IGB) Fellow Program provides an opportunity for scientists and engineers to conduct research in the area of cardiovascular regenerative medicine. Research efforts are focused on developing biological materials to rescue, replace, and help repair damaged heart tissue, including tools to regenerate lost heart cells and tissue, and creating new animal models of cardiovascular disease.