NHLBI Working Group: Heart Transplantation Research in the Next Decade – A Goal to Achieving Evidence-Based Outcomes

Background The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) convened a Working Group (WG) on August 5-6, 2010 in Bethesda, MD to discuss future directions of research in heart transplantation (HT). The WG was composed of researchers with expertise in the basic science, clinical science, and epidemiological aspects of advanced heart failure and HT. These experts were asked to identify the highest priority research gaps in the field and make recommendations for future research strategies. The WG was also asked to include approaches that capitalize on current scientific opportunities and focus on areas which required unique NHLBI leadership. Finally, the WG was charged with developing recommendations that would have short and long-term impact on the field of HT.