The Pierone Research Institute:
A Whole Family Health Center Initiative

The Pierone Research Institute (TPRI) serves as the dedicated research arm of Whole Family Health Center, continuing a legacy of innovation in infectious disease care. Founded in 1997 by Dr. Gerald Pierone, Jr. in Fort Pierce, Florida, TPRI began as the AIDS Research and Treatment Center of the Treasure Coast (ARTCTC)—a center committed to providing high-quality HIV care, prevention, education, and testing.

Today, TPRI gives patients access to cutting-edge clinical trials focused on improving HIV treatment, managing related complications, and supporting the global search for a cure. Many of these trials are sponsored by leading pharmaceutical companies or inspired by Dr. Pierone’s own FDA-submitted protocols.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, TPRI partnered with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to conduct critical research on monoclonal antibody therapies. This work contributed to several treatments receiving Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from the FDA, helping to expand care options during a global health crisis.

TPRI remains committed to advancing research that improves outcomes for our patients and strengthens the future of community health.

What Is a Clinical Trial? 
A clinical trial is a research study designed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a medical, surgical, or behavioral intervention. These trials are essential for developing new treatments and improving existing ones.

Participants in clinical trials receive specific interventions based on a detailed research plan or protocol. These protocols are created by pharmaceutical sponsors or by Dr. Gerald Pierone, who serves as the research director or site investigator for many studies conducted at The Pierone Research Institute.

Clinical trials help answer key questions, such as:

• Is the treatment safe?
• Does it work better than current options?
• Are there fewer or more manageable side effects?

For example, a trial may test a new medication to see if it more effectively lowers blood pressure compared to current treatments.

What to Expect

• Trials may last from a single visit to several months or even years of follow-up.
• Most studies involve lab tests, questionnaires, and health assessments.
• There is no cost to participate.
• Some sponsors offer financial compensation for time and travel.

By joining a clinical trial, you contribute to medical advancements and may gain early access to promising new therapies.

If you wish to find out more about our current research programs, please speak to your provider or call the research department at (772) 978-9556.

We also have summer research opportunities for pre-medical and medical students to gain experience with medical research in a meaningful way.

For more information about Clinical Trials: https://clinicaltrials.gov and https://nia.nih.gov