Basic Research

Major leaps in pediatric healthcare begin with tiny steps in the laboratory, and often these occur on the microscopic level. Today, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC has an exceptional team of dedicated researchers equipped with the most advanced tools, allowing them to conduct basic research and investigate the origins of disease down to the molecular level.

The focus for all basic research activity is the John G. Rangos Sr. Research Center, where nearly 200 active protocols are being pursued by more than 60 principal investigators in 35 separate laboratories. At their disposal are tools such as: the Applied Bio Systems Proteomics Analyzer for identifying and characterizing proteins; the Luminex LiquiChip for high-throughput pathogen analysis; LSR2 Flow Cytometer for sorting and identifying microscopic particles within fluid samples; and, for imaging purposes the luminescence spectrometer and confocal microscope.

Among our newer research programs is a stem cell biology unit investigating the origins of stem cells in the body that may promote healing of damaged or diseased tissues. Gene therapies are being investigated to help fight antibiotic-resistant infections and to treat joints aching from debilitating childhood arthritis. Our scientists are examining the role certain enzymes play in digestion with a goal of advancing therapies for feeding sick newborns and for controlling appetite. Modeling techniques in the lab are giving insights into the embryonic development of heart’s chambers, helping researchers develop novel interventions that prevent congenital heart defects. 3D imaging techniques are being studied with a goal of developing imaging software that will help optimize fetal procedures. Those examples only skim the surface of the many varied investigations currently underway.

And while hundreds of individuals at Children’s are engaged in research, in some cases, our studies include multidisciplinary teams that extend even beyond the walls of our facility - for example to the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh, the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University and local biotechnology start-ups. Although laboratory research has been fundamental to Children’s for decades, in many ways we see ourselves in the early stages of our mission, thanks to new technologies and tools, a growing knowledge base and a cadre of experts building a foundation for the breakthroughs to come.