Division History

The History of Hematology at the University of Utah

The University of Utah has played a significant role in advancing the field of hematology, with pioneering research, groundbreaking clinical practices, and a legacy of innovation in blood-related disorders. Over the decades, the institution has contributed significantly to the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of hematologic conditions.

Founders in Hematology at the University of Utah

The field of hematology at the University of Utah has a rich and distinguished history, marked by pioneering contributions from several eminent physicians. The program was established and flourished under the leadership of Dr. Maxwell Wintrobe, Dr. Jack Athens, and Dr. George Cartwright, whose groundbreaking work laid the foundation for hematologic research and clinical excellence at the institution.

Dr. Maxwell M. Wintrobe: A Visionary in Hematology. Dr. Maxwell M.  Wintrobe, one of the most influential hematologists of the 20th century, joined the University of Utah in 1943 as the first chairman of the Department of Medicine. He played a crucial role in establishing hematology as a distinct field of study at the university. Wintrobe was renowned for his contributions to red cell indices and the development of hematocrit, which remain essential diagnostic tools in modern medicine. His seminal textbook, Clinical Hematology, became a cornerstone in medical education and significantly shaped the study of blood disorders worldwide.

Dr. George Cartwright: Expanding Research and Clinical Practice. Dr. George Cartwright was instrumental in advancing hematologic research and clinical training at the University of Utah. He worked closely with Wintrobe and made significant contributions to the understanding and treatment of hematologic diseases. His research and mentorship helped develop a strong tradition of excellence in hematology, fostering generations of specialists who continued to make advancements in the field.

Dr. Jack Athens: A Leader in Education and Innovation.Dr. Jack Athens played a key role in enhancing hematology education and clinical practice at the University of Utah. His contributions to the study of leukocyte function and blood cell dynamics were vital to the growth of the program. Athens was also deeply committed to training medical students and residents, ensuring that the next generation of physicians carried forward the legacy of excellence in hematology established by Wintrobe and Cartwright.

Legacy and Continuing Impact Under the leadership of Wintrobe, Cartwright, and Athens, the University of Utah became a national leader in hematology research, education, and patient care. Their pioneering work laid the foundation for continued innovation in the field, influencing advancements in blood disease treatments and diagnostic techniques. Today, the Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies at the University of Utah remains at the forefront of medical research, carrying forward the vision of its founding physicians.

Breakthroughs in Coagulation Research

One of the most notable contributions from the University of Utah was in the study of blood clotting disorders. Researchers at the University of Utah made significant advancements in understanding hemophilia and other clotting abnormalities. In the 1960s and 1970s, studies on the genetics and biochemical pathways of clotting factors led to crucial discoveries that shaped modern hematologic treatments. Our division established The Utah Center for Bleeding & Clotting Disorders at University of Utah Health to care for adults with hemophilia and other bleeding and clotting disorders. This program is a partner of the Utah Center for Bleeding & Clotting Disorders at Primary Children’s Hospital, formerly known as Intermountain Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center. This partnership allows patients to transition their care from pediatric providers to adult providers.

The Development of ARUP Blood Services

Recognizing the need for a dedicated blood research and transfusion facility, the University of Utah established the ARUP Blood Services. This initiative ensured the availability of safe blood products for both research and clinical use.  ARUP Laboratories is a national nonprofit and academic reference laboratory at the forefront of diagnostic medicine with 40 years of experience.

Genetic Contributions and Personalized Medicine

The University of Utah has been at the forefront of genetic research in hematology. With the establishment of the Huntsman Cancer Institute and collaborations with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, researchers have worked extensively on the genetic basis of blood disorders. Studies on inherited blood diseases, such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, as well as myeloproliferative neoplasm have contributed to new therapeutic approaches, including gene therapy and targeted treatments.

Innovations in Hematologic Malignancies

The University of Utah has made significant strides in the treatment of hematologic cancers, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Our researchers and clinicians have been involved in cutting-edge clinical trials, leading to the approval of novel therapies such as immunotherapies and targeted drug treatments.

Establishing the Cellular Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Program

The University of Utah's Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Program (CTRM), also known as CellReGen™, serves as a leading facility dedicated to the development and application of advanced cellular and regenerative therapies. As part of the Division of Hematology and the Department of Internal Medicine, the program combines research, clinical application, and industry partnerships to accelerate progress in regenerative medicine. CTRM addresses the complexities involved in cellular therapy, from navigating regulatory and financial frameworks to advancing sophisticated manufacturing processes required for therapeutic products. By adhering to stringent Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, the program ensures the production of high-quality, safe, and effective cellular and tissue-based therapies, which serve a variety of medical applications, including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, immune cell therapies, and clinical trial support.

NIH-funded Center for Iron and Heme Disorders (U54). 

This grant supports several institutional-wide core facilities that are critical for hematology research across all the USA. There are only five centers in the country. The grant enabled the University of Utah to establish a center for iron and hematology disorders.

Ongoing Research and Future Directions

Today, the University of Utah continues to lead in hematology through advanced research in blood disorders, stem cell therapies, and novel treatment modalities. The integration of precision medicine, artificial intelligence, and biomedical engineering has the potential to revolutionize patient care and further cement the university’s position as a leader in hematologic research.

With its long history of contributions to the field, the University of Utah remains a center of excellence in hematology, dedicated to improving patient outcomes and shaping the future of blood disease treatment and research.