Transplant Diagnostic & Research Lab
Improving the Lives of Children With Organ Transplants
The Transplant Diagnostic & Research Lab at 91大神 Children鈥檚 in Delaware Valley helps children who have had organ transplants stay healthy and thrive. We use advanced testing methods to monitor transplant patients and detect potential complications early, giving children the best chance for success.
Our CLIA-accredited laboratory develops and validates new viral load assays. These clinical tests allow us to detect the presence of various viruses, helping us diagnose and treat viral diseases in children after transplantation.听
We have facilities for cell culture, molecular biology, and immunology using qPCR, ELISA assays, and Luminex multiplex technologies. These advanced technologies support both translational research and clinical diagnostics, allowing for the most comprehensive care.
Working closely with transplant doctors, oncologists, and other specialists at 91大神, our team provides crucial information that helps guide treatment decisions. Through close partnership with the Center for Clinical Diagnostics听the Clinical Immunology Research Lab and other research departments, we advance pediatric transplant medicine for future generations.听
Our Leadership
Paul T. Fawcett, PhD
Director, Center for Clinical Diagnostics
Principal Research Scientist
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR RESEARCH
- Research & Discovery
- Lab Capabilities
- Impact & Recognition
Core Focus
Our specialized diagnostics and research advance pediatric transplant care through these key areas:
- Clinical monitoring and diagnostics
- Test development and validation
- Translational research
- Collaborative care
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Current Investigations听
We pursue research initiatives that drive innovation in pediatric transplant medicine:
- Viral impact in pediatric transplants
- Novel diagnostic assays
- Graft vs. host disease
- Post-transplant disorders
- Cytokine profiling
- Biomarker discovery
Accreditations & Certifications
We maintain the highest standards of quality and accuracy to support research:
- CLIA-accredited for high-complexity testing
- Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) compliant
- FDA Good Clinical Practice trained staff
- CAP proficiency testing certified
- Rigorous quality control and data security protocols
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Key Equipment
Our lab is equipped with industry-standard instrumentation for molecular diagnostics, immunology testing, and biospecimen preservation:
- Luminex multiplex analyzer
- Real-time PCR systems
- Fluorescence microscopy suite
- 听-80掳C biospecimen storage
- ELISA plate readers (2.5 OD capacity)
- Automated liquid handling systems
Notable Impacts
Our innovations have directly impacted patient care through:
- First Delaware hospital to implement COVID-19 qRT-PCR testing
- Development of four new viral load assays
- Ongoing validation of three new diagnostic tests
Recognition & Awards
Fueled by the desire to make a difference in children鈥檚 health, team accolades include:
Paul T. Fawcett, PhD
- 2020 Researcher of the Year, 91大神 Children鈥檚 Health
- Distinguished Alumnus Award, Department of Bio-Science, University Massachusetts Lowell
- Member, Committee of Experts, General Toxicology & Biocompatibility, United States
- Pharmacopeia (Two 5-Year Appointments)
- Member, Data Safety Monitoring Board Lyme Vaccine Trial (Pasture Connaught)
- Chair, State of Delaware Task Force on Lyme Disease
Research in Context
Our labs contribute to research that informs pediatric care, working in alignment with research centers and focused areas of scientific study at 91大神.
Blood Disorders Research
RESEARCH AREA
We explore blood disorders in children to advance care and outcomes through innovation in diagnostics, treatment, and long-term disease management.
Cancer Research
RESEARCH AREA
Investigators study childhood cancers to improve diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship through discovery science, clinical trials, and systemwide collaboration.
Cardiac Research
RESEARCH AREA
Our researchers study congenital and acquired heart conditions to advance pediatric cardiology through innovation in diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.
Center for Clinical Diagnostics
DELAWARE VALLEY
We provide diagnostic testing services that support clinicians and researchers in diagnosing and monitoring pediatric diseases more effectively.
Immunology Research
RESEARCH AREA
We investigate immune system function in children to advance understanding of autoimmune disease, allergy, immunodeficiency, and immunotherapy.
Pulmonology Research
RESEARCH AREA
Our teams explore lung development and respiratory disease to improve care for children through imaging, monitoring tools, and treatment innovation.
Solid Organ Transplant Program
CLINICAL CARE
The 91大神 pediatric solid organ transplant team in Delaware Valley coordinates and performs life-saving transplants in children.