New programs for gene- and cell-based therapies at NHLBI.

The development of new and novel clinical therapies depends on our ability to translate basic research findings into meaningful clinical applications. These "translational studies" are expensive and complex but necessary if we are to develop new treatments that prevent or treat heart, lung, and blood diseases. This study describes newly created programs at NHLBI (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute), which support academic research efforts to translate gene- and cell-based therapies into viable clinical applications.