Cardiovascular Research Laboratory
"We investigate the mechanisms underlying major cardiovascular diseases and search for biomarkers that will bring personalized medicine closer to clinical practice."
DR. ARANTXA GONZÁLEZ MIQUEO DIRECTOR. CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH LABORATORY
The Cardiovascular Research Laboratory focuses its research on the study of structural changes in the myocardium that underlie its functional deterioration. The objective is twofold: to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of these alterations and to identify new molecular targets for their treatment.
Another priority line of research is the search for noninvasive circulating biomarkers that make it possible to refine each patient’s diagnosis and, consequently, design more effective personalized therapeutic strategies.
All the laboratory’s projects share a translational approach, made possible thanks to direct collaboration with physicians from Clínica Universidad de Navarra and other national and international reference centers. The research team is linked to IdiSNA and CIBERCV, participates in several collaborative projects, and forms part of multinational initiatives within European Union research programs, with stable alliances with high-level groups.
Laboratory Objectives
To gain deeper insight into the pathophysiological mechanisms that mediate the histocellular alterations involved in myocardial remodeling that occurs in cardiac diseases and their comorbidities, with a special focus on the study of the extracellular matrix and fibrosis.
To establish noninvasive biomarker profiles (molecular and imaging-based) that reflect histocellular alterations in cardiac tissue and/or the relevant pathophysiological mechanisms in each patient, for better stratification and individualized monitoring of patients.
To validate new molecular targets in order to develop innovative pharmacological interventions that prevent or reverse myocardial damage in cardiac disease.
FROM THE LABORATORY TO THE CLINIC
Circulating biomarkers of myocardial fibrosis
Our group has identified circulating biomarkers that reflect not only the amount of myocardial fibrosis but also its physicochemical properties (stiffness and resistance to degradation), which have shown prognostic value in patients with chronic heart failure, being associated with a higher risk of new hospitalizations, the development of complications such as atrial fibrillation, and even a higher risk of cardiovascular death.
In clinical trials, these biomarkers have proven useful for monitoring the antifibrotic efficacy of certain drugs and for identifying those patients who are more likely to respond better to specific treatments.
Our research team
