About Us
Our Mission
To advance the care of congenital heart disease through interdisciplinary innovation at the intersection of bioengineering, stem cell science, and precision medicine.
What We Do
The Center develops next-generation technologies and therapies to address the complex needs of children and adults living with congenital heart disease. Our work focuses on:
- Bioengineered tissue and organ models
- Personalized regenerative therapies
- Patient-specific medical devices
- Advanced diagnostic and interventional technologies
By integrating engineering, biology, and clinical expertise, we aim to accelerate the translation of laboratory discoveries into real-world treatments.
Research Focus Areas
- Bioengineered Disease Models: We develop patient-specific 3D models of congenital heart disease using stem cells, biomaterials, and advanced biomanufacturing techniques. These platforms allow us to study disease mechanisms and test new therapies.
- Regenerative Therapies: Our team investigates stem cells and cell-derived products to repair damaged heart tissue, improve vascular function, and support long-term cardiac performance.
- Personalized Medical Devices: Using advanced imaging and 3D bioprinting, we design patient-specific implants such as cardiac patches, vascular grafts, and heart valves tailored to individual anatomy and disease.
- Pediatric Stem Cell Biobank: the Center is building a repository of patient-derived stem cells to enable personalized disease modeling, drug testing, and precision medicine approaches for pediatric conditions.
Our Approach
The Center brings together experts in:
- Pediatric cardiology
- Congenital heart surgery
- Bioengineering
- Stem cell biology
- Imaging sciences
- Translational medicine
Through cross-disciplinary collaboration and industry partnerships, we develop innovative therapies that move efficiently from bench to bedside.
Leadership
The Center is led by:
- Vahid Serpooshan, PhD – Scientific Director
- Holly Bauser, MD, PhD – Executive Director
- Damien LaPar, MD – Executive Director
Together, the leadership team guides the center’s research vision, funding strategy, and collaborative initiatives
Education and Community Impact
Beyond research, The Center is committed to:
- K–12 STEM education programs
- Public seminars and workshops
- Patient and family engagement
- Industry and community partnerships