Research
Extensive research focuses on the role of and mechanisms underlying thrombosis and inflammation in ischemic heart disease. Platelets are pivotal in thrombosis, and antiplatelet agents are pivotal in the treatment of ischemic heart disease. Paradoxically, however, our ability to assess platelet function and to quantify effects of antiplatelet agents is limited. Our group has developed a sensitive and specific method to assess platelet function. With the assay developed, we have demonstrated that assessment of the potential for platelets to activate (i.e. platelet reactivity) can be used to identify patients at high and low risk of subsequent cardiac events. We have used this approach to define more effective modes of treatment for patients with acute coronary syndromes.
Our group is actively involved in defining optimal anti-thrombotic therapy with both anticoagulants, and antiplatelet agents. Research efforts range from mechanistic studies in vitro to translational studies designed to apply novel laboratory methods to improve treatment and clinical trials testing the efficacy of novel therapeutic agents and combinations.
To learn more about specific research programs of individual faculty please visit their biosketches.
