The primary aim of research undertaken within the Unit is to treat infants, children, adolescents and adults with cardiac disease. Research is designed to cover all aspects, expanding beyond the clinical manifestations to encompass the basic science underlying the various malformations, particularly the mechanisms of cardiac development, and the long-term follow-up of children as they grow into adolescents and adults. Aim is to provide optimal medical and surgical treatment for children with congenital and acquired heart disease. This is supported by research directed at the refinement of current treatment strategies, the development of new options, including transplantation and artificial cardiac support, and understanding of the basis of congenital cardiac anomalies and of vascular damage which leads to atherosclerotic disease in later life. Particular emphasis is being placed on translational and 'patient benefit' related research in cardiovascular outcomes, imaging, tracheal surgery and vascular medicine. Respiratory structure - function relationships in a wide range of childhood respiratory and neuromuscular diseases are also being investigated. We plan to develop the 'cradle-to-grave' Institutional strategy by bringing together paediatric and adult clinical and research activities. We have an ambitious programme to implement advances in telemedicine and non-invasive monitoring of cardiorespiratory patterns so that more children can be studied for sleep and breathing disorders within their own homes. Further cross-cutting themes such as cardiovascular impact of obesity in the young are also being developed. The Academic Cardiovascular Unit is currently part of an exciting new collaboration between Yale and UCL Partners. This will include clinical research and educational activities. The research themes within the Academic Unit are as follows: Anatomy/Biology Heart/Muscle Disease and Heart Transplantation Imaging Outcomes Paediatric Intensive Care Structural Heart Disease Pulmonary Hypertension Tracheal/Surgery Vascular Disease