Centers

Advancing research at the intersection of metabolism and immune function, our center focuses on musculoskeletal, kidney and gastrointestinal disorders, including microbiome-related conditions and diseases driven by metabolic and immune dysregulation. Through collaborative science and innovative approaches, we aim to uncover mechanisms that shape health and disease, translating discoveries into strategies that improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Uncovering the molecular roots of immune disorders to improve care, the WashU Medicine Center for Pediatric Immunology is dedicated to advancing outcomes for children with inborn errors of immunity. By providing robust scientific infrastructure and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, the center drives discovery of genetic mechanisms that inform diagnosis and therapy. Through collaboration among clinicians, scientists and trainees, we aim to transform understanding and treatment of pediatric immune diseases.

Investigating the mechanisms behind childhood respiratory illnesses to improve health and well-being, our center is dedicated to reducing the global burden of pulmonary diseases such as pneumonia and asthma. By advancing research through innovative protocols and translating discoveries into clinical care, we aim to enhance diagnostics, develop effective treatments and ultimately save lives. Through collaboration and cutting-edge science, we strive to create a healthier future for children everywhere.

Bringing together researchers and patient communities to accelerate breakthroughs, our center fosters collaboration in rare and genetic disease research. By uniting WashU Medicine experts with individuals affected by rare conditions, we create a dynamic network that drives innovation and speeds the path to new therapies. Through shared knowledge and resources, we aim to transform understanding and treatment, ultimately improving lives.

Focusing on the environmental and genetic origins of congenital heart and vascular disorders, our center is committed to advancing understanding of birth defects and related heart conditions. By integrating cutting-edge research with collaborative partnerships, we aim to uncover mechanisms that drive these diseases and translate discoveries into improved diagnostics and therapies for patients of all ages.

Expanding regional collaboration to strengthen sickle cell care, this network supports coordinated service delivery, bundled prevention and treatment services, professional training and improved continuity of care across eight states. Led by WashU Medicine as the region’s technical assistance center, the program brings together clinicians, families and community partners to advance comprehensive, evidence-based care and improve quality of life for people with sickle cell disease.

Advancing research and care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the WashU Medicine IDDRC, in collaboration with St. Louis Children’s Hospital, is part of a national network of 15 centers funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Established through an act of Congress in 1963, these centers unite leading universities and children’s hospitals to drive discovery, prevention and treatment strategies that improve lives and foster inclusion.

Advancing research to transform outcomes for children with cancer, our center unites scientists and clinicians to tackle the leading cause of disease-related death among U.S. children. Despite progress in treatment, cancer still claims young lives and leaves survivors facing lifelong challenges such as hearing loss, learning difficulties, heart damage, infertility and secondary cancers. Through innovative basic and applied research, we strive to develop safer cures while reducing long-term complications.

Providing a spatially resolved multiomic blueprint of gene regulation and expression across the pediatric lifespan, our center is dedicated to advancing research in healthy and disease conditions. Through innovative resources, educational opportunities and bioinformatics tools, we aim to transform pediatric kidney research, foster cross-species molecular mapping and attract new strategies to keep children’s kidneys healthy. By connecting investigators with cutting-edge technologies and collaborative networks, we accelerate discovery and improve outcomes for the next generation.