Research Laboratory

The Research Unit’s primary focus is a research line based on the regeneration of damaged cardiac tissue in patients who have suffered acute myocardial infarction or chronic diseases such as heart failure. It is based on the regenerative capacity of circulating progenitor cells and the search for potential molecules involved in the homing or “return” of progenitor cells to infarcted areas. In these projects, the involvement of the Service’s Clinical Unit (SCHUM) and the Hemodynamics Unit are central to the research, as is the collaboration with the IBIMER institute (Granada).

To execute these projects, our laboratory has developed techniques for isolating endothelial progenitor cells, being able to characterize them using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry techniques. Likewise, it has been able to investigate cellular function by studying cell proliferation and migration through fluorimetry techniques. And it has created tissue sample biobanks with potential for studying cellular homing.

Another branch of research is based on pioneering work that seeks to identify potential triggers of heart disease, disease progression, and possible mechanisms of heart survival or apoptosis through the isolation of an extracellular and circulating ribonucleic acid particle whose release and action mechanism is completely unknown. The Clinical Research Unit maintains this focus by cooperating directly with the Service’s Clinical Unit and the IBIMER Institute.

The third branch of research aims to address needs arising in daily practice. Thus, projects are led in collaboration with the Arrhythmia Unit to study potential biological triggers involved in diseases that directly affect the patient population of this specialty.

Other studies focus on finding the biological mechanisms involved in cardiac tissue hibernation and aortic stenosis, where the participation of the Cardiac Surgery Service is fundamental for their development. Equally important are the collaborations established with the CIMA Institute (Pamplona).

Mission of the Heart Area

The mission of the Heart Area at Virgen de la Victoria University Clinical Hospital is to improve the quality of life and address the vascular health challenges of individuals, in an innovative and sustainable way, within a friendly, quality, safe, and personalized environment.