Giga - Annual report 2015

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Cardiovascular disease produces immense health and economic burdens worldwide. It is the leading cause of death in OECD countries. The prevalence and control of cardiovascular health factors
and risks remain a major issue. The GIGA-Cardiovascular Sciences unit is made up of a multi-disciplinary team. Specialists in cardiology, experts in imaging, cardiovascular surgeons, biologists,
chemists and engineers collaborate in the framework of a “bedside to bench“ and “bench to bedside” approach with the ultimate goal of translating the developed knowledge into patient benefits. To
achieve their goals, basic and clinical researchers participate in the establishment of research networks with several departments of ULg and with internationally recognized centers. The unit aims at
reaching leadership and singular excellence in research and training, notably through participation of its members in European research programs. Research projects span over a broad theme of cardio-
vascular diseases. Correlations between clinical, imaging and biological parameters are studied in patients. Relevant and novel animal models are being developed in order to identify new pathophysio-
logical mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. The main ongoing studies focus on valvular heart diseases, atherosclerosis, arterial thrombosis, heart failure, vascular wall disorders, aneurysm,
ventriculo-arterial coupling, heart-lung interaction. Research areas include integrative physiology, cellular and molecular biology, hemodynamic evaluation, cardiac imaging techniques, mathematical
modelling, as well as polymer chemistry.
Head
Patrizio Lancellotti
+32 4 366 34 88
GIGA-Cardiovascular Sciences