Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
September 21, 2026
Heart and Brain Protection Pioneer Dr. Jennifer Lawton to Receive 2026 AHA Basic Research Prize
TLDR
- Dr. Lawton's AHA Basic Research Prize highlights a career advantage in pioneering cardiac protection research and securing sustained NIH funding.
- Dr. Lawton's research defined KATP channel mechanisms and diazoxide cardioprotection, leading the first FDA-regulated Phase I trial for cardiac surgery.
- Dr. Lawton's heart and brain protection research improves patient outcomes and mentors future surgeon-scientists, making tomorrow's cardiac care better.
- Dr. Jennifer Lawton will receive the 2026 AHA Basic Research Prize in Chicago for her pioneering work in myocardial and neuroprotection during cardiac surgery.
Impact - Why it Matters
This recognition underscores the critical importance of translational research in improving outcomes for patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Dr. Lawton's work on myocardial protection and neuroprotection has already led to a first-in-human clinical trial and has the potential to reduce complications such as heart injury and neurological damage during complex operations. As cardiac surgery continues to evolve, her findings could become standard practice, benefiting countless patients worldwide. Moreover, her dedication to mentoring the next generation of surgeon-scientists ensures that this vital research will continue to advance, ultimately saving lives and improving quality of life for those with cardiovascular disease.
Summary
DALLAS - September 21, 2026 (NEWMEDIAWIRE) - Dr. Jennifer S. Lawton, a pioneering cardiac surgeon and researcher, will receive the 2026 Basic Research Prize from the American Heart Association at its Scientific Sessions 2026, scheduled for Nov. 6-9 in Chicago. Currently faculty at the University of Maryland and formerly the Richard B. Darnall Professor of Surgery and chief of cardiac surgery at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Dr. Lawton is internationally recognized for her translational research in myocardial protection and neuroprotection during cardiac surgery. Her laboratory has elucidated the role of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels and the cardioprotective effects of diazoxide, leading to the first FDA-regulated, first-in-human Phase I Safety and Feasibility Trial of Cardioplegia with Diazoxide (CPG-DZX). Her work has also advanced strategies to reduce neurologic injury during circulatory arrest, with recent expansion into brain protection during hypothermic circulatory arrest.
Manesh R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, the American Heart Association's 2026-2027 volunteer president, praised Dr. Lawton as an innovative scientist, accomplished surgeon, and exceptional leader whose contributions have advanced cardiovascular research and inspired the next generation of physician-scientists. Dr. Lawton expressed gratitude for the honor, noting the Association's support throughout her career. Beyond research, she has mentored dozens of trainees, authored over 250 scientific manuscripts, and held leadership roles in national surgical organizations. She chaired the AHA/ACC/SCAI Guideline Writing Committee for Coronary Artery Revascularization from 2019 to 2021 and served on the Council on Cardiovascular Surgery and Anesthesia. The award will be presented during the Presidential Session on Sunday, Nov. 8.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content distributed by NewMediaWire. Read the original source here, Heart and Brain Protection Pioneer Dr. Jennifer Lawton to Receive 2026 AHA Basic Research Prize
