Pittsburgh – Research on bioengineered heart valves developed by Antonio D'Amore (Ri.MED Foundation, University of Pittsburgh, and University of Palermo) has achieved major new international recognition with the award of an R01 grant from the U.S. National Institutes of Health. The winning concept behind the project, titled "Structural Biomimicry to Improve Engineered Heart Valve Leaflet Function and Remodeling," lies in applying structural biomimicry principles to develop a new generation of heart valves. The goal is to overcome the intrinsic limitations of current prostheses by creating valve replacements capable of integrating seamlessly into the body, accommodating mechanical stresses, and promoting proper cellular remodeling after implantation. The funding program - known for its highly competitive selection process - will be supported primarily by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and will provide total financial support of $3,045,679 between July 2026 and March 2030. Research activities will be based at the University of Pittsburgh as the recipient institution, under the direction of D'Amore as Principal Investigator. Project Co-Investigators include Prof. Giovanni Ferrari (Columbia University NYC), Prof. William Wagner (University of Pittsburgh), and Dr. Garret Coyan (Vanderbilt University). Although the grant is formally awarded to the University of Pittsburgh, the project stems from a research path built through an international collaborative network that, in addition to the U.S. university, involves UPMC, ISMETT, the Ri.MED Foundation, and the University of Palermo. (9colonne)