Research Areas
Explore the diverse spectrum of research fields dedicated to elevating children's healthcare through innovative approaches and rigorous scientific endeavors.
- Phase I - Phase IV: Dosing and Assessment
- Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics
- Real-world data/real-world evidence
- Medical Devices
- Natural History
Autism & Developmental Disabilities
Luminary Clinical Research is dedicated to exploring the causes, characteristics,and therapeutic relationships for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental conditions in individuals of all ages. Our diverse team of experts collaborates closely to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at enhancing language abilities in children with ASD. By partnering with communities, we share customized interventions designed to meet the needs of children with autism and other specific health needs. Additionally, our team of researchers delves into the neurobiology of autism, rare neurodevelopmental disorders, and intellectual disabilities to deepen our understanding and support individuals and families impacted by these conditions.
Cancer Research & Therapies
Our dedicated scientists and clinicians collaborate to propel cancer research and treatment forward. We delve into the underlying mechanisms of various cancer types , considering genetic factors, environmental influences, and lifestyle choices. Our research spans from studies to clinical trials, aiming to develop innovative therapies tailored to individual patient needs. We closely partner with oncologists, surgeons, and healthcare experts to translate our discoveries into treatment options and personalized care plans for cancer patients. Our primary goal is to enhance the well-being and quality of life for individuals impacted by cancer.
Developmental Biology
Our Developmental Biology team pioneersthe exploration of processes governing growth and tissue repair. Our diverse experts delve into molecular pathways of development and regeneration across species, employing methods like stem cell research, live imaging, and genomics. Our studies illuminate developmental principles, guiding regenerative medicine and treatment of developmental conditions. By bridging research with healthcare applications, we aim to maximize developmental biology's potential in enhancing human well-being.
Lung Health & Diseases
Our expert Lung Health & Disease team is dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing issues related to prevention and treatment. Our multidisciplinary researchers study lung development and function abnormalities in conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. We investigate the impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on lung health, along with methods for diagnosis and treatment. Collaborating with specialists, public health professionals, and advocacy organizations, we aim to improve global health and alleviate the burden of lung diseases. Our research encompasses science, clinical trials, and population-based studies to tackle a range of challenges in lung health..
Health Services & Prevention
The Luminary Center for Healthcare Services and Prevention is dedicated to advancing health and wellness through research, education, and community engagement. Our multidisciplinary teams explore healthcare delivery systems, health inequalities, and preventive measures to improve population health outcomes. We collaborate with healthcare professionals and community groups to identify interventions and policies addressing health issues. Our goal is to empower individuals and communities to make lifestyle choices that promote well-being. Through a comprehensive approach covering care, disease prevention, health promotion, and health policy research, we strive to enhance healthcare services and preventive measures.
Infectious Disease & Immunology
We are dedicated to combating diseases and unraveling their complexities. Our research spans immunology and applied studies on infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria, and parasites. We investigate host-pathogen interactions, immune responses, and the development of vaccines and treatments to prevent and manage infectious diseases. Through partnerships with public health organizations, healthcare professionals, and industry collaborators, we innovate strategies for disease control and management. Our work also addresses emerging diseases, resistance issues, and explores immunotherapy methods for cancer and autoimmune conditions. By advancing disease and immunology understanding through technology and knowledge enhancement, our goal is to safeguard health and improve lives.
Neuromedicine
At Luminary Clinical Research Center for Neuroscience, we are dedicated to advancing the understanding and management of neurological conditionsthrough cutting-edge research and practices. Our team of neuroscientists, healthcare providers, and engineers collaborates to unravel the complexities of the brain and nervous system. We investigate the underlying mechanisms of disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy to develop personalized treatments. Through our research efforts, we aim to bridge scientific findings with practical clinical solutions, offering new possibilities for patients with neurological issues. Additionally, our initiatives include studying brain plasticity, utilizing advanced imaging techniques in neuroscience, and implementing neurorehabilitation strategies to improve brain function and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with neurological disorders.
Nutrition & Metabolism
We prioritize advancing knowledge in nutrition scienceand metabolic health to enhance overall human well-being. Our experts investigate the impact of diet, nutrients, and metabolism on health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and metabolic issues. Through trials, population-based studies, and scientific inquiries, we uncover the mechanisms underlying nutrition-related ailments and develop strategies for prevention and treatment. Collaborating closely with healthcare professionals and industry partners, we translate our discoveries into evidence-based recommendations and actions that promote healthy eating habits and metabolic balance. Additionally, our research addresses disparities in access to nourishing food and explores solutions for public health challenges related to nutrition and metabolism.
Renal & Cardiovascular Research
Our expert staff of Renal and Cardiovascular Research is dedicated to pushing understanding and management of kidney and heart conditions through pioneering research endeavours and patient care. Our teams comprising scientists from various disciplines team up with clinicians to explore the root causes of kidney and heart ailments such as high blood pressure, chronic kidney problems, cardiac insufficiency and vascular issues. We engage in research aimed at crafting diagnostic methods, treatments and interventions to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. Through initiatives with healthcare providers, industry associates and advocacy groups for patients' rights we aim to translate breakthroughs into clinical applications as well as policies that promote public health by lessening the impact of renal & cardiovascular diseases. Our study also focuses on addressing differences in healthcare access and innovative methods to enhance heart and kidney health among communities.
Adolescent Health
At Luminary, our experts in health engage in research on various topics concerning the well-being and growth of teenagers.
- Strategies to prevent and address obesity.
- Promoting sexual health and preventing STDs including advocating for HPV vaccination.
- Addressing HIV/AIDS prevention and management.
- Exploring male health issues among adolescents and young adults as well as barriers to receiving care.
- Recognizing the crucial role families play in enhancing adolescent health.
- Studying adolescent relationships, including aspects of relationship violence.
- Examining the impact of technology on enhancing healthcare delivery and outcomes
- Focusing on reproductive health among adolescents, such as transgender care discussing sexual history and providing care for LGBTQ individuals.
- Discussing emergency contraception and the use of long-lasting reversible contraception by teenagers.
- Utilizing motivational interviewing techniques to support positive changes, in adolescent health behaviors.
- Addressing mental health challenges faced by teenagers.
- Understanding issues related to underage drinking.
Cancer and Blood Disorder
Our research on cancer and blood disorders covers a range of areas, including translational and clinical studies. Our main objective is to gain an understanding and develop efficient treatments for Pediatric hematologic disorders and malignancies. Our team of researchers collaborates across departments to focus on key areas;
- Exploring better treatment strategies for Pediatric brain cancers
- Investigating the genetic and epigenetic factors involved in different types of cancers.
- Studying immunotherapeutic methods for leukemia and lymphoma.
- Utilizing novel cancer systems biology approaches to discover new treatments for solid tumors.
- Evaluating the safety and effectiveness of new anticancer agents through our Developmental Therapeutics Program.
- Enhancing the utilization and efficacy of bone marrow transplantation.
- Developing innovative approaches to manage sickle cell disease and its associated complications.
- Providing psychosocial support and promoting survivor wellness.
- Addressing the long-term effects of cancer treatment, with targeted interventions to enhance survivors cognitive, academic and emotional well-being.
Cardiology
Our Cardiology Division members have research interests. Collaborate with various partners, within the department medical center and beyond. They explore a range of topics such as;
- Congenital heart defects
- Inherited arrhythmias
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Dyslipidemia
- Elevated Lipoprotein (a)
- Familial Hypercholesterolemia
- Heart Failure
- Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Hypertriglyceridemia
- Hypertension
- Insulin Resistance
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Observational Studies
- Outcomes Studies
- Peripheral Artery Disease
- Peripheral Vascular Disease
- Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
- Statin Intolerance
- Stroke
- Venous Thromboembolism
- Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia
- Diagnostic, Medical Device, Wearable, and Mobile App Studies
Genetic and Genomic Medicine
Their research areas include;
- Investigating rare disorders
- Studying immunodeficiencies
- Exploring genetic factors linked to heart disease
- Conducting clinical and molecular studies on infants with spinal muscular atrophy
- Researching psychiatric, neurologic and behavioral genetics
- Discovering new genes associated with neurodevelopmental disabilities like autism
- Examining the genetic underpinnings of obesity and diabetes
- Investigating metabolic and endocrine genetic conditions
- Studying congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathies and inherited arrhythmias
- Researching cancer syndromes
- Exploring errors, in embryonic development
- Investigating vascular anomalies
Injury and Repair
Our experts are involved in studying how cells and organs get damaged and healed aiming to reduce or reverse the impacts of illnesses and injuries, in children. Some of the areas we focus on include;
- Healing lung damage in newborns
- Exploring autophagy mechanisms to find ways to prevent and treat kidney diseases and injuries
- Investigating the functions of cardiac stem cells
- Investigating the functions of cardiac stem cells
- Using stem cells to study the aspects of diabetes and develop cell therapies for individuals
- Repairing lungs after sudden injuries
- Understanding how neural stem cells play a part, in traumatic brain injuries
Liver and Gut
In the field of Pediatrics, researchers collaborate on projects with colleagues from different departments to explore and tackle issues concerning the liver and gastrointestinal system. Their research focuses on aspects such as;
- Gut movement
- Bowel syndrome
- Disease
- The connection between autism and the enteric nervous system
- The microbiome and immune response
- Non-invasive methods for diagnosing fatty liver disease
- Liver transplants
- Early life factors contributing to obesity and fatty liver disease
- Gastrointestinal problems in individuals, with cystic fibrosis
- Encouraging healthy weight gain
Pediatric Conditions
- Atopic dermatitis
- COVID-19 vaccine
- Epilepsy
- H5N1, H1N1 influenza vaccine
- HPV vaccine
- Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) vaccine
- Infant formula
- Influenza treatment
- Lyme disease
- Maternal vaccines
- Measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine
- Meningococcal vaccine
- Migraines
- Molluscum contagiosum
- Multiple sclerosis
- On- and off-season influenza vaccine
- Parainfluenza virus vaccine
- Pneumococcal vaccine
- RSV vaccine
- Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap) vaccine
- Tourette syndrome
Pediatric Vaccines
- Anthrax
- Avian Influenza
- Botulinum
- C. difficile(C-diff)
- Celiac Disease
- Chikungunya
- COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2)
- Cytomegalovirus
- Dengue Fever
- Diphtheria
- Ebola
- E.coli
- Encephalitis
- Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)
- Group B Streptococcus
- Hepatitis B
- Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
- HIV
- Human Metapneumovirus
- Human Papillomavirus
- Influenza (H1N1, H5N1, H7N1, H7N9)
- Lyme Disease
- Meningococcal Disease
- MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
- mRNA Vaccines
- Norovirus
- Parainfluenza
- Pediatric Influenza
- Pediatric Meningitis
- Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
- Plague
- Rabies
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus
- Smallpox
- Staphylococcus
- Tetanus
- Type 3 Parainfluenza Virus (PIV3)/RSV Combo
- Varicella
- West Nile Virus
- Yellow Fever
- Zika Virus
