The Sangamon County Medical Society has released the seventh video in a series that highlights the innovation and research achievements within the local medical community. Each video profiles a 2013 Medical Innovators Award recipient.

The video features Andrew Wilber, Ph.D., assistant professor in medical microbiology, immunology and cell biology at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Dr. Wilber was named a Medical Innovator for his gene therapy research for severe hemoglobin disorders, including sickle cell disease. Additionally, he was recognized as a “Young Innovator.”

The 5-minute video outlines his basic science research to develop novel strategies to increase fetal hemoglobin production in children and adults by inserting a new gene into their blood cells.

The Medical Innovators program, first established in 2006, recognizes physicians, surgeons and researchers working in Sangamon County to improve the health care of the community. Projects recognized include basic science research findings, leading-edge clinical trials, new patient-care treatments and community service projects. The Sangamon County Medical Society, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce coordinated the program, sponsored by The Illinois State Medical Society.

The series includes eight videos produced by Springfield Clinic in collaboration with the Sangamon County Medical Society and SIU School of Medicine. A new video in the series will be released on the last Monday of each month between January and August, leading up to the call for nominations beginning in September 2015 for the 2016 Medical Innovators award program.

The videos will be available on the Sangamon County Medical Society’s YouTube channel. View the video on YouTube or visit www.scmsdocs.org to learn more.

Contact Carol Harms at the Sangamon County Medical Society, 217-726-5106, for more information.