2003 Wylie Scholar

Dr. DiMuzio’s research focus involved using adult stem cells and advanced tissue engineering technology to create new blood vessels for bypass grafts. Although veins are usually used for bypass grafts, not all patients have enough of their own tissue to use in this way. Dr. DiMuzio has successfully created grafts in larger animals and is working to make this innovative treatment option available to people.

This treatment offers hope for patients with limited options, including those with coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease and kidney disease that requires hemodialysis access. Dr. DiMuzio is currently working with industry partners to bring this work to clinical usage.

Since receiving the Wylie Scholar award, Dr. DiMuzio has received funding from the NIH, American Heart Association, American Vascular Association and industry. With multiple teaching and research awards, Dr. DiMuzio was listed in “Top Doctors” in Philadelphia Magazine in 2008, 2011, 2012 and 2013.

Dr. DiMuzio says persistence is a key attribute for anyone but particularly for vascular surgeons who often address situations that require them to work through complex problems faced by their patients.

“If I’m presented with a problem, I keep working at it until it’s solved. Funding from the Wylie award legitimized the work I have performed using adult stem cells to create an artificial blood vessel … this important springboard allowed me to obtain over $1.3 million in funding from national organizations such as the NIH and the American Diabetes Association.”