Biomedical Research, Innovation & Translation in Extracorporeal Life Support
Engineering Better Life Support for Children
When a child's heart or lungs fail, every second counts. The Biomedical Research, Innovation and Translation in Extracorporeal Life Support (BRITE) Lab at Nemours Children’s in Delaware Valley is pioneering next-generation technologies to give these children hope.
We focus on improving life support systems (called extracorporeal life support, or ECLS) — a critical technology that temporarily takes over heart and lung function allowing time to heal.
While ECLS saves lives, it can come with serious complications like bleeding, blood clots, and infections. That's why we're developing new solutions, like advanced membrane technologies and specialized surface coatings to make these devices work better with the body's natural systems. We're using cutting-edge tools like computational fluid dynamics and microfabrication to create smarter, more effective devices.
Our team combines expertise in bioengineering, clinical medicine, and chemistry to improve how we approach life support systems. Together, we’re turning promising ideas into real solutions that can help kids heal and thrive.
Principal Investigator
David Blauvelt, MD
Principal Scientist
Critical Care Specialist
LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR RESEARCH
- Research Interests
- Notable Projects
- Impact & Collaboration
Our Areas of Focus
Engineering Safer, Smarter Life Support Devices
We are reimagining life support technologies using advanced engineering and design. Our innovations include developing semiconductor silicon-based membranes (ultra-thin, precisely engineered materials) for better gas exchange and incorporating specialized coatings that reduce complications like blood clotting.
Using computer modeling and microfabrication (precision manufacturing at microscopic levels), we design and build better devices. This allows us to perfect everything from blood flow to oxygen delivery, making treatments safer and more effective for children.
Enhancing Recovery & Repair
Beyond supporting children during critical illness, we are also working to improve their recovery. Our research explores the best ways to help lungs heal during life support and develops new materials to repair blood vessels afterward. We’re investigating everything from different breathing machine settings to innovative biological materials that can help heal blood vessels. This will help kids recover better and faster.
Moving Discoveries From Lab to Bedside
Our lab bridges the gap between scientific discovery and clinical care through a comprehensive development pathway. We begin with benchtop innovation, progress through preclinical trials using small and large animal models, and work to translate our research into human clinical trials. This rigorous approach ensures that our innovations can safely reach the patients who need them most.
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 Nemours.