Our Researchers

Dr. Sartain’s current research investigates the interaction between inflammation and the immune system in blood vessel damage and blood clot formation. She is specifically interested in a group of devastating clotting disorders known as thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), which have high morbidity and mortality rates in children. In a laboratory at nearby Rice University where she is an Adjunct Assistant Professor, she studies the role of part of the immune system known as the alternative complement pathway in causing these disorders.

The balance between bleeding and clotting must be carefully maintained to ensure proper blood function. The blood clotting protein, von Willebrand factor (VWF), critically contributes to this balance. Functional deficits in VWF can lead to extensive blood loss while overactivity can lead to undesired blood clots that block major blood vessels. The molecular determinants of VWF activity are highly variable. 

Dr. Clay Cohen performs basic laboratory research, evaluating the role of endothelial cells and the vascular wall in coagulation. He is a member of the Hemostasis and Thrombosis (HAT) research program.