In our laboratory, led by Dr.Andrea Obi, we study a type of abnormal blood clotting, venous thrombosis. In fact, we're one of the very few laboratories in the world working in this promising discovery area. Our goal is to take our findings and translate them into new, safer, more effective approaches to treat venous thrombosis.
Our work has led us to look more closely at the role of the immune system, including the presence of infection in thrombus formation, as well as the pathways leading to clot resolution, venous fibrosis, including vein wall scarring and post-thrombotic syndrome. No previous animal model has been able to replicate the complex immune interactions that occur in venous thromboembolism in humans. Additionally, no model has been able to characterize the response to endovascular treatments followed by ultrasound.
We are making important contributions to understand how different types of immune cells interact with environment around a blood clot, and how those interactions can lead to changes in the expression of cell's genetics code, a process now as epigenetic regulation. We believe that Inferior Vena Cava Venoplasty Balloon Model will accelerate the development of novel balloon angioplasty prototypes for the treatment of venous thrombosis, and the possibility for prevention of post-thrombotic syndrome.
