 Understanding the Cardiovascular Legacy of Preeclampsia For many researchers, the questions that define a career begin in the laboratory. For Lauren Biwer, PhD, of Yale University, one of those questions became personal. Biwer had already spent years studying blood pressure regulation when her sister experienced preeclampsia during pregnancy. Despite her background in cardiovascular physiology, Biwer realized there was much she did not know about the condition. That realization sent her searching through the scientific literature.  What she found would ultimately help shape the direction of her research: not only are many of the mechanisms underlying preeclampsia still incompletely understood, but women who experience it also face an increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. Today, Biwer's laboratory studies female cardiovascular disease and female-specific cardiovascular risk factors, with particular attention to how uncomplicated and complicated pregnancies can influence cardiovascular health long after pregnancy has ended. At the center of that work is a deceptively simple question: What does preeclampsia leave behind? Looking Beyond Pregnancy Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure accompanied by organ damage during pregnancy. But for Biwer, understanding what happens during pregnancy is only part of the story. Her laboratory is interested in what happens afterward. Research has linked a history of preeclampsia with increased cardiovascular risk, including evidence of vascular aging, atherosclerosis and microvascular dysfunction. The challenge is determining exactly what connects the pregnancy complication to disease years later. One possibility is that preeclampsia reveals cardiovascular risk that was already present. Another is that the condition itself causes changes that persist after pregnancy. Biwer's laboratory is working to separate those possibilities. Using animal models without pre-existing cardiovascular risk factors allows the researchers to create controlled comparisons in which one group experiences preeclampsia and another does not. Isolated vessel studies can then help determine whether changes are intrinsic to the vasculature and begin narrowing those effects down to endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells or particular signaling mechanisms. For a condition in which many of the risk factors for preeclampsia overlap with those for cardiovascular disease, that ability to isolate variables can help researchers move beyond identifying an association and begin investigating the mechanisms behind it. When the Expected Dysfunction Isn't There One of the lessons vascular research continues to reinforce for Biwer is that biology does not always behave the way a hypothesis predicts. Researchers may expect an artery exposed to a particular disease condition to demonstrate dysfunction. Sometimes, however, it functions normally.  Rather than making the experiment less interesting, Biwer sees those results as an illustration of the redundancy of the vascular system. Blood vessels have multiple mechanisms available to regulate constriction and dilation, meaning an artery may preserve its overall function even when the pathway it normally relies upon has changed. As Biwer explained, vessels can still function normally while potentially using “a different pathway to get there.” Those responses can also vary across the arterial tree. Microvessels and large conduit arteries may respond differently depending on disease context, pregnancy, sex and the vascular bed being investigated. Understanding those differences is one reason functional vascular measurements remain central to Biwer's research. Ten Arteries, One Bigger Picture Inside the Biwer Lab, researchers use both wire and pressure myography to investigate vascular function. The laboratory has two wire myograph setups with eight chambers in total, along with two pressure myograph chambers, giving the team the ability to potentially study as many as ten isolated arteries at once. The two techniques provide complementary perspectives. Wire myography allows the team to evaluate multiple arteries and experimental conditions simultaneously, helping identify where deeper investigation may be warranted. Pressure myography is particularly useful in the lab's studies of myogenic tone. The team has also used both approaches to investigate vessels such as uterine arteries, comparing how the same vascular bed behaves under wire and pressure myography and considering which technique is best suited to a particular research question. For Biwer, however, there is also something fundamentally fascinating about the experiment itself. She first learned pressure myography during her PhD and has carried vascular physiology throughout her scientific career. Even now, as an assistant professor, seeing a living artery respond outside the body has not lost its appeal. On a pressure myograph, a vessel that is barely visible to the naked eye becomes a dynamic physiological system on the screen, visibly constricting and dilating as conditions change. Beyond providing an important functional readout, being able to directly observe those responses remains one of the things Biwer finds most exciting about vascular physiology. Connecting Mechanisms to Future Cardiovascular Risk Ultimately, the laboratory's work is aimed at understanding what connects preeclampsia with cardiovascular disease later in life. Biwer's research suggests that preeclampsia may produce residual cardiovascular effects or alter how the vascular system responds to future stressors. Determining the mechanisms responsible could eventually reveal molecules or pathways that help explain this increased risk. Understanding which established pathways are altered could also help researchers determine whether existing cardiovascular medications may have a role in reducing risk following preeclampsia. At present, Biwer noted, there is no therapy specifically intended to prevent preeclampsia-associated cardiovascular disease after pregnancy. There is also a more immediate objective: awareness. For women who have experienced preeclampsia, understanding that their pregnancy history may have implications for future cardiovascular health can create an opportunity for more informed conversations with physicians and greater attention to cardiovascular risk. Building a Lab and the Next Generation of Scientists Biwer's laboratory has been open for less than three years, making the work about more than establishing a research program. It is also about building a team. Moving from postdoctoral researcher to principal investigator brought an entirely different set of challenges. Decisions about experimental direction now sit alongside decisions about funding, hiring, training and mentoring. Her approach is straightforward: continue showing up, remain resilient and keep making progress. As her laboratory grows, training other scientists has also become one of the parts of academia she values most. Members of her lab have earned their own grants and learned techniques such as wire myography, allowing Biwer to watch them develop as independent researchers. For her, helping scientists learn to think critically, approach scientific problems independently and master new experimental techniques represents another form of impact. Her advice to young researchers reflects that same philosophy: Know the literature. Understand what has already been discovered.  Then keep asking:
What are we still missing? Asking What Remains After Preeclampsia There is still a considerable distance between identifying a vascular mechanism in the laboratory and changing clinical care. But answering fundamental questions is where that translation begins. By combining controlled disease models with functional measurements of isolated blood vessels, the Biwer Lab is working to understand whether preeclampsia itself leaves lasting changes within the cardiovascular system. Those answers could ultimately help researchers better understand why a complication experienced during pregnancy may remain relevant to cardiovascular health years later. For Biwer, it brings the research back to the question at the center of her work: What does preeclampsia leave behind?  Another DMT system is up and running. 🔬
Our service team recently visited Casey G. Turner, PhD Lab at Auburn University to install a DMT Wire Myograph System and Buffer Filler System. An installation is about more than getting new equipment onto the bench. It’s about making sure researchers are comfortable with the system, understand the workflow and are ready to start collecting reliable data. That hands-on support is an important part of every DMT installation. A big thank you to Casey Turner’s Lab for choosing DMT. We’re excited to see where the research takes you! What is your lab currently investigating with wire myography? hashtag#WireMyography hashtag#VascularResearch hashtag#CardiovascularResearch hashtag#AuburnUniversity hashtag#ResearchLab hashtag#DMT  Reliable cardiac data begins with stable perfusion.
In isolated heart research, small changes in perfusion conditions can have a meaningful impact on experimental outcomes. Maintaining stable flow, pressure, temperature and oxygenation helps create the controlled environment needed for consistent cardiac function measurements and reproducible results. That's why controlled perfusion is one of the foundations of effective Langendorff experiments. This is just one of the capabilities we're highlighting as we continue our preview of the new DMT Langendorff System. More to come. #CardiacResearch #CardiovascularResearch #Langendorff #HeartResearch #CardiacPhysiology #ExVivoResearch #Perfusion #LifeScience #MedicalDevices #DMT  Why does isolated heart research remain one of the most valuable tools in cardiovascular science?
Because it gives researchers something that's difficult to achieve elsewhere: precise control over the experimental environment while preserving the function of the intact heart. From perfusion studies to electrophysiology and cardiac function, the Langendorff model continues to play a vital role in advancing our understanding of cardiovascular disease and therapeutic development. That's exactly why we're investing in the next generation of isolated heart research. Over the coming weeks, we'll continue revealing more about the new DMT Langendorff System and the capabilities designed to support reproducible, high-quality cardiac research. Stay tuned. #CardiacResearch #CardiovascularResearch #Langendorff #HeartResearch #CardiacPhysiology #ExVivoResearch #LifeScience #MedicalDevices #DMT  Something new is coming to cardiac research. 🔬
For decades, researchers have relied on Langendorff systems to advance our understanding of cardiac physiology. As research continues to evolve, so do the expectations for the tools that support it. Today, we're giving you a first look at the newest addition to the DMT portfolio. Over the coming weeks, we'll be revealing more about the new DMT Langendorff System and the capabilities designed to support today's isolated heart research. Stay tuned...  One thing we've learned from working with research labs around the world is this:
The most successful labs don't simply invest in advanced research equipment—they invest in the people, processes and training that help them get the most from it. As research teams grow, protocols evolve and new students join the lab, it's natural for workflows to change over time. Features go unused, techniques are passed down informally and small inefficiencies can gradually become part of the daily routine. Individually, these changes may seem minor. Together, they can influence consistency, efficiency and ultimately the reproducibility of experimental results. That's why the highest-performing laboratories treat training as an ongoing process rather than a one-time event. Regularly reviewing workflows, reinforcing best practices and ensuring every researcher follows the same standards helps create a stronger foundation for reliable science. Ask yourself:
These questions aren't just about improving productivity. They're about building a culture of continuous improvement that supports better research. In this article, we'll explore practical ways laboratories can strengthen training, improve consistency and help every researcher get the most from their DMT systems. Learn More: DMT Academy  Many vascular research teams don't have a data problem. They have a workflow problem.
Data is being collected every day, but teams are often still dealing with: • Multiple disconnected systems • Manual reporting processes • Limited visibility across sites • Delays in getting actionable insights • Growing compliance demands The result? More time spent managing data and less time using it to support research decisions. As studies become more complex, research organizations need workflows that connect people, processes, and data—not add more administrative burden. That's why we created DMT Academy—a growing library of training videos, system tutorials, and practical resources designed to help research teams work more efficiently and get more value from their data. 👇 Link to DMT Academy https://www.dmt.dk/dmt_tv.html What's the biggest workflow challenge your team is facing today? hashtag#VascularResearch hashtag#ClinicalResearch hashtag#ResearchOperations hashtag#ResearchData hashtag#HealthcareInnovation hashtag#MedTech  A great couple of days at the 36th Annual Vascular Biology & Hypertension Symposium. 🔬
We had the chance to connect with Jennifer Pollock and Rhian Touyz, MBBCh, PhD, FRCP, FRSE, FCAHS, FMedSci and enjoy some thoughtful conversations about the future of vascular and cardiovascular research. We're proud to have sponsored this year's symposium and Trainee Awards, supporting the researchers and clinicians who are helping move the field forward. Thanks to everyone who made the event such a success! UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine #VascularBiology #Hypertension #CardiovascularResearch #LifeScience #UAB #Research #CardiovascularHealth #DMTUSA  We're proud to be sponsoring the Trainee Awards at the 36th Annual Vascular Biology & Hypertension Symposium.
Supporting emerging researchers and clinicians is an investment in the future of cardiovascular science, and we're honored to recognize the next generation of innovators in the field. DMT-USA will also be attending the symposium and looks forward to connecting with the vascular biology and hypertension research community in Birmingham, Alabama (June 16–17, 2026). Will you be there? We'd love to connect. 🔬 UAB Medicine UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine #VascularBiology #Hypertension #CardiovascularResearch #LifeScience #NAVBO #Research  Great research starts with great science, but it also depends on having the right tools and the confidence to use them effectively.
We recently had the opportunity to complete a 114P Pressure Myograph System installation and hands-on training for Dr. Eric Calvo's lab at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). A special thank you to the outstanding members of the Calvo Lab who participated in the training: • Fabiola Castelló-Casta • Paola Valenzuela Leon • Brian Bonilla We look forward to seeing the important discoveries this team will make as they continue advancing our understanding of vector biology and infectious disease. For more on this pressure system, check out: https://www.dmt.dk/pressure-myograph-114p.html #Research #Science #PressureMyography #VascularResearch #LifeScience #BiomedicalResearch #NIAID #LaboratoryResearch #DMT  Another successful installation is in the books.
We recently completed the installation of a DMT Organ Bath System at Population Council at The Rockefeller University, supporting their team with advanced tools for vascular and smooth muscle research. The Organ Bath System is designed for precise measurement of isolated tissue responses, making it a valuable platform for studying contractility, pharmacological effects, and physiological mechanisms in controlled laboratory conditions. It is always inspiring to work with research teams who are pushing scientific discovery forward. Seeing DMT systems become part of important experimental workflows in world-class laboratories is exactly what drives us. A big thank you to the Population Council team for the opportunity, collaboration, and warm welcome throughout the installation process. Special thanks to Patrick Singer and Larisa Kizima for their support during the visit. We look forward to seeing the research that comes from this setup. Learn more: Organ Bath Systems  Choosing the right vascular research setup starts with asking the right question. 🔬
When should you use a wire myograph instead of an organ bath? In this video, we compare both systems side-by-side and break down the key differences in: • Tissue compatibility • Vessel size applications • Experimental precision • Mounting approach • Typical research use cases Whether you're working with small resistance arteries or larger tissue preparations, understanding the strengths of each system can help improve workflow and confidence in your data. Watch the full comparison here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNeEkIhpwjw #VascularResearch #WireMyograph #OrganBath #Physiology #Pharmacology #LifeSciences #ResearchTools #DMT  One platform. Expanded possibilities.
The DMT wire myograph system can complement the organ bath system by enabling studies on smaller vessels using pin-mounted preparations in a low-volume chamber. In many labs, these systems work together to provide a complete workflow for vascular and smooth muscle research. We recently compared these two systems in a video showing when and why researchers use each. Watch Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNeEkIhpwjw Organ bath or wire myograph, the right system depends on your tissue. Learn More: 620M  Organ Bath or Wire Myograph? 🤔
Both systems play important roles in vascular research. Organ baths are ideal for larger vessels and tissue preparations, while wire myographs specialize in smaller resistance arteries and high-precision vessel studies. Understanding the differences helps researchers choose the right system for their experimental model. Which system is right for your lab setup? 🔬 Learn More: - Organ Bath - Wire Myograph  🔬Do more with less.
The compact chamber design minimizes reagent usage while maintaining optimal experimental conditions. Lower reagent consumption means lower costs and more efficient workflows for pharmacology and physiology labs running repeated experiments. More experiments. Less waste. Learn More: Organ Bath Chamber
Stable conditions. Reliable data.
Maintaining a controlled environment is essential for tissue viability. Each chamber in the DMT organ bath system provides controlled heating, oxygenation and drainage so tissues remain healthy throughout the experiment. This stability ensures more consistent contractility and drug-response data. Paired with MyoDAQ data acquisition software, you can seamlessly capture, visualize and analyze results in real time. Reliable experiments start with reliable conditions. Learn More ⬇️ MyoDAQ Organ Bath  🔬Precision matters.
Isometric force measurement is at the heart of organ bath experiments. The DMT organ bath offers selectable force ranges so researchers can optimize sensitivity for different tissue types, from delicate vessels to larger muscle preparations. This flexibility allows one system to support a wide range of pharmacological and physiological studies. One system. Multiple experimental possibilities. Learn More: 820MO  ✅ Big results. ✅ Small footprint.
❌ Traditional organ bath systems often require large, complex setups. The DMT organ bath condenses the entire workflow into a compact system designed to integrate easily into modern labs. Despite the reduced footprint, the system still delivers four independent chambers, precise heating control and high-resolution force measurement. More capability without taking over your lab bench. Learn More: 820MO hashtag#LabEfficiency hashtag#OrganBath hashtag#ResearchTools hashtag#LifeScienceEquipment  🚨We’re heading to the American Physiology Summit this week and we’d love to see you there.
Stop by booth #727 to connect with our team, explore our latest systems and see how we’re helping advance vascular and organ bath research. If you’re attending, make sure to come say hello! American Physiological Society #APS2026  Better chamber design. Better experiments.
The organ bath chamber is engineered to support a wide range of experimental preparations. Researchers can mount tissues using pins, hooks and or clamps, allowing both ring-mounted vessels and strip muscle preparations in the same system. The acid-resistant stainless steel chamber helps prevent compounds and lipids from sticking to surfaces while maintaining a controlled experimental environment. Flexible mounting when needed. Reliable tissue performance. Discover more: Organ Bath Chamber #OrganBath #TissueBath #VascularResearch #SmoothMuscle #LabEquipment  Rethinking the organ bath.
Traditional organ bath systems have remained largely unchanged for decades. The DMT Organ Bath System was designed to modernize that workflow with a compact, integrated system that delivers precise isometric force measurements for smooth, skeletal and cardiac muscle studies. With four independent chambers, built-in heating and intuitive experimental control, the system supports everything from pharmacology teaching labs to advanced tissue research. A modern organ bath built for today’s physiology and pharmacology labs. Click here and learn more: 820MO Organ Bath System #OrganBath #PharmacologyResearch #PhysiologyLab #SmoothMuscleResearch #LabInnovation  Last week we had the opportunity to complete a pressure system install and training with the team at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in collaboration with Harvard Medical School.
It was a great experience working alongside Dr. Zsuzsanna K. Zsengeller M.D. Ph.D. and her team, getting everything up and running to set them up for success from day one. Looking forward to seeing the impactful research that comes out of this work! Learn More: 114P  Great training organ baths share three things: simplicity, reliability and value.
Whether you’re teaching fundamentals or training the next generation of researchers, the DMT Organ Bath Systems are built to support learning at every stage. Together, they offer: ● Easy-to-use platforms ideal for onboarding and education ● Small lab footprints that maximize space efficiency ● Outstanding affordability without compromising data quality From first exposure to advanced training, both systems help instructors teach more effectively and help students learn faster. Planning a new teaching lab? These Organ Baths deserve a closer look: 751mT | 752eT  The first organ bath experience matters...
This DMT Organ Bath System is built for clarity, control and confidence especially for students and researchers new to organ bath experiments. Why it works so well in teaching and training settings: ● Straightforward setup that minimizes user error ● Small footprint that fits easily into crowded lab benches ● Reliable, repeatable measurements students can trust For instructors, this organ bath makes it easier to standardize protocols across multiple users. For students, it builds confidence fast because they can focus on learning tissue behavior, not fighting the system. If your goal is to introduce organ bath experiments efficiently and affordably, this is where confident researchers begins! To learn more, click here: 751mT  Training doesn’t stop at the basics, it evolves.
This DMT Organ Bath System is a low-cost, single-channel system built for isolated tissue experiments in physiology and pharmacology. Despite its expanded capabilities, this organ bath maintains: ● An intuitive user experience ● A compact footprint ● Exceptional affordability for the level of performance Designed for easy movement between teaching rooms and convenient storage. This makes it a natural step forward for institutions looking to grow their training programs without increasing technical barriers. Empower students to go further without making things harder. For more information, click the link here: 752eT #OrganBath #IsolatedTissue #PharmacologyResearch #PhysiologyLab #BiomedicalResearch #LifeScienceResearch |
