The Pilat Lab is the scientific research unit of the Heart Transplantation Program at the Medical University of Vienna, specializing in translational and transplant immunology. The close affiliation with the Heart Transplant Program at the Department of Cardiac Surgery provides a direct link between scientific discovery and clinical application. At the same time, access to advanced small‑ and large‑animal models within the research infrastructure of the Cardiovascular Institute at the Center for Biomedical Research enables complex translational studies. This unique combination of clinical proximity and experimental excellence positions the Pilat Lab as a leading hub for innovative transplantation research in Vienna and beyond. Our work spans both fundamental and application‑oriented research questions, using modern experimental and analytical approaches. We place particular emphasis on scientific quality, interdisciplinarity, and supporting young researchers.
Mission and Vision
Innovations in surgical techniques and immunosuppressive therapy have significantly improved short‑term graft survival after solid organ transplantation. However, long‑term outcomes remain limited: chronic rejection and the side effects of lifelong immunosuppression continue to cause late graft loss and increased morbidity and mortality.
For this reason, the induction of immunological tolerance - the acceptance of a transplanted organ without chronic immunosuppression - is one of our major research goals. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are key to maintaining immune tolerance toward self‑antigens. We investigate strategies to expand and stabilize the Treg pool, either through in vivo stimulation or adoptive transfer, aiming to achieve genuine tolerance induction.
A second main focus of our lab is innovative organ preservation and regeneration. Using advanced perfusion technologies, we explore how donor hearts can be stabilized, repaired, and even rejuvenated during ex vivo perfusion. Our goal is to move from passive organ storage to active therapy.
Both research lines converge on a shared vision: to connect immune regulation and organ preservation in order to extend the lifespan and quality of transplanted organs - in line with our guiding principle “One Organ for Life”.