Who We Are
Who We Are
We build, test, and deliver new therapies to cure congenital heart defects, allowing families to live full, enriching lives.
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Our Work
Our Work
HeartWorks builds, tests, and delivers new therapies to cure congenital heart defects giving these families the opportunity to live full, enriching lives.
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For Families
For Families
Families are the heart of HeartWorks. We work for the 1 in 100 impacted by congenital heart defects.
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Get Involved
Get Involved
HeartWorks relies on our community to help fund the research and clinical trials that hope to find cures for congenital heart defects (CHD). Discover ways that you can help.
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Clinical Trials
Clinical Trials
HeartWorks is leading the world’s largest effort to develop new treatment options for CHD patients.
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Understanding the Science Behind HeartWorks

At HeartWorks, we are working to change what’s possible for people living with congenital heart disease (CHD).

That work is grounded in science, but we believe it should also be understood.

This page brings together simple explanations of the key concepts behind what we do, from stem cells to regenerative medicine, and how they connect to the future of heart care.

This is an evolving body of work, and we will continue to expand these resources as the science, and our work, progresses.

1 | Start Here

What is Regenerative Medicine

A simple introduction to how scientists are working to repair and strengthen the body using advanced technologies.

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How HeartWorks Helps Kids

Learn how HeartWorks is working to improve outcomes for children and adults living with CHD.

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2 | understanding stem cells

What Are Autologous Stem Cells

Cells created from a patient’s own body that allow researchers to study disease in a more personalized way.

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What Are iPSCs

Learn how scientists reprogram adult cells into stem cells that can become heart cells and other tissues.

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3 | from skin cells to heart muscle

At HeartWorks, a small skin sample can become beating heart cells in the lab. Through regenerative medicine, scientists reprogram skin cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which can then be guided to become cardiac cells.

This process takes approximately nine months and involves careful monitoring, testing, and quality control every step of the way. Watching these cells begin to beat in synchrony under the microscope is a powerful reminder of what may be possible for the future of congenital heart disease care.

Want to see the process for yourself? Join a Virtual Lab Tour to explore the science behind HeartWorks, meet the team, and follow the journey from skin to heart.

4 | why this matters

Why CHD Has Been Historically Underfunded

Learn why congenital heart disease has received less attention and why that is beginning to change.

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Heart Families: The Engine of Progress

See how families are helping drive awareness, research, and momentum forward.

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5 | be part of what's next

Join The Co-Op

Create your profile and help shape the future of CHD research while staying connected to opportunities and updates.

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Support The Work

Fuel the research and innovation working to strengthen hearts and expand what’s possible for people living with CHD.

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Dive In: HW 101

Overview of CHD, why it remains one of medicine’s toughest challenges, and how HeartWorks is rebuilding the heart.

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