SUMMARY
Bin Zhang, M.D., Ph.D., advances cardiovascular science through preclinical research in cardiac regenerative medicine and mechanical organ support systems. As the leader of the Todd and Karen Wanek Family Program for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, Dr. Zhang leverages his expertise in cardiovascular surgery, interventional cardiology, and foundational research from Mayo Clinic.
Dr. Zhang designs innovative studies that bridge laboratory discoveries and clinical applications. His collaborative work contributes to groundbreaking research on heart valve calcification, paving the way for potential FDA-approved treatments. Through his leadership, Dr. Zhang drives innovative advancements to improve outcomes for patients with cardiovascular diseases.
Focus areas
- Pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Dr. Zhang's research on induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes focuses on refining delivery, engraftment, and survival in large-animal models. Pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes may potentially replace damaged heart tissue. By addressing challenges such as immune rejection and arrhythmias, Dr. Zhang's work aims to restore heart function in severe heart failure, paving the way for clinical trials and potentially transforming heart failure treatment.
- Normothermic perfusion system for donor hearts. Dr. Zhang makes significant contributions as a key member of the Mayo Clinic team in developing and optimizing the normothermic perfusion system for donor hearts. His work focuses on extending preservation time, enabling heart rehabilitation, and integrating regenerative treatments before transplantation. Dr. Zhang's expertise and efforts are instrumental in addressing critical challenges in organ transplantation with the potential to expand the donor heart pool and improve patient outcomes significantly.
- Heart failure in congenital heart disease. Dr. Zhang addresses heart failure in congenital heart disease patients by integrating regenerative therapies, device development, and surgical interventions. His work seeks to develop new solutions for this underserved population, transforming care for pediatric and adult patients with complex cardiovascular conditions.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Zhang's studies aim to improve cardiac cell treatment and regenerative medicine, offering new results for heart failure patients. These results also help patients with congenital heart defects. Improving preclinical models and technologies may speed up the treatment to clinical trials and improve patient outcomes.
Professional highlights
- Director, preclinical research, Todd and Karen Wanek Family Program for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, Mayo Clinic, 2024-present.