A dedicated team of researchers, led by bioengineering alumnus Lee Sierad, is working on a groundbreaking heart valve designed for newborns, which can expand as the child grows. This initiative aims to transform the lives of children born with congenital heart defects, providing hope to families who face daunting medical challenges.
During a recent visit to a bioengineering lab at Clemson University, parents Susan and Jason Smith observed a wire-frame stent that could potentially save lives. The Smiths experienced the tragic loss of their daughter, Emerson Rose, who lived for 76 days in 2011 due to hypoplastic left heart syndrome. “You are making a difference in the lives of people who are not even born yet,” Susan told the students, emphasizing the emotional connection that drives their work.
The Emerson Rose Heart Foundation, established by the Smiths, provided initial funding that sparked a series of research projects aimed at developing this innovative stent. Sierad, who has a Master of Science and Ph.D. in bioengineering from Clemson and now works in the private sector in San Diego, has been a pivotal figure in this research, collaborating closely with his former advisor, Dan Simionescu, who serves as the Harriet and Jerry Dempsey Professor of Bioengineering.
Sierad”s passion for heart valves began during his undergraduate studies and has continued through his work involving bioreactors and tissue engineering. He expressed his desire to alleviate the pain experienced by families dealing with heart defects, stating, “I want to serve them and provide something so they can enjoy life and ultimately have opportunities to meet Jesus.”
Simionescu highlighted the significant challenge pediatric medicine faces: “Current options often require families to make difficult choices, including multiple surgeries.” The team”s device, called the ExpandValve, offers a solution. It involves stitching thin sheets of specially processed bovine tissue into the stent, allowing it to grow alongside the child. This biocompatible tissue can double in size without losing functionality.
The ExpandValve would be implanted shortly after birth and could be expanded through a minimally invasive procedure, potentially eliminating the need for multiple surgeries. This innovative approach allows for a single operation that could serve the child throughout their life, expanding from a 12-millimeter infant valve to a 24-millimeter adult valve.
The journey to bring this device closer to reality has been extensive. Sierad founded Aptus Bioreactors in 2013 to commercialize his research. With funding from the Emerson Rose Heart Foundation, he began exploring what it would take to create a heart valve for children. His inquiries led to a $252,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2021, further advancing the research.
Dr. Minoo N. Kavarana, who treated Emerson Rose, has been instrumental in the development of the ExpandValve. This year, the NIH approved an additional $322,000 for advanced testing. Kavarana expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with Sierad and Simionescu, noting the project”s significance in transforming the heartbreak of the Smiths into hope for many.
Delphine Dean, chair of Clemson”s Department of Bioengineering, remarked on the collaborative spirit driving the project, stating that the ExpandValve exemplifies innovation with purpose and a commitment to improving lives. This initiative reflects the deep connections within the Clemson community, with Susan Smith being a proud alumna.
The Smiths” mission extends beyond research; they aim to raise awareness and provide support to families affected by congenital heart defects. The Emerson Rose Heart Foundation has raised millions to fund research and promote legislative changes, including the Emerson Rose Act, which mandates screening for congenital heart defects at birth. Last year, approximately 60,000 newborns were screened under this law.
Reflecting on the potential impact of the heart valve research, Susan Smith expressed profound gratitude for the collaboration between Clemson University and the Medical University of South Carolina, stating, “This is just incredible. It touches my heart.”
