Cardiovascular diseases are still a major health problem worldwide. During the last fifty years, researchers at the University of Eastern Finland and Kuopio University Hospital have built a worldwide well-known top level research profile in cardiovascular diseases, starting from the famous North Karelia project and basic epidemiology which have in the last decade been transformed into state-of-the art modern vascular biology, angiogenesis computational epidemiology and pioneering gene therapy approaches in cardiovascular diseases. Also, top level modern imaging and world-recognized ATMP product manufacturing have been developed in our National Virus Vector Laboratory Infrastructure which greatly supports current research focus in cardiovascular diseases. Long-term epidemiological follow-up cohorts, Young Finns study and Kuopio Ischemic Heart study, started already in the 1980s and give excellent opportunities to monitor changing patterns of cardiovascular epidemiology and to conduct modern genetic and computational epidemiological studies.
Our greatest strength is from bench to bedside approach to research. We have the knowledge and facilities for developing new, innovative therapeutic solutions that can be first tested in small and large animal models before moving to clinical trials. Having the National Virus Vector Laboratory, in vitro and in vivo research facilities and Kuopio University Hospital within the same campus area, gives us an excellent platform for translational research.
Seppo Ylä-Herttuala
Professor
