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. The involvement of the Service’s clinical unit (SCHUM) and the Cardiac Catheterization Unit are central to the research undertaken in these projects, as is collaboration with the IBIMER institute (Granada).

In order to carry out the projects, our laboratory has developed techniques for isolating endothelial progenitor cells, meaning it is possible to characterise the cells using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry techniques. Likewise, it has facilitated research into cellular function by studying cell proliferation and migration using fluorimetry techniques, and tissue sample biobanks have been created with potential for studying cellular homing.

Another branch of research is the 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 circulating ribonucleic acid particle whose release and action mechanism is completely unknown. The Clinical Research Unit maintains this focus in direct cooperation with the Service’s Clinical Unit and the IBIMER Institute.

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

Other studies focus on finding the biological mechanisms involved in cardiac tissue hibernation and aortic stenosis count on participation of the Cardiac Surgery Service, which is essential. Equally important are collaborations with the CIMA Institute (Pamplona).

The Heart Centre’s Mission

The mission of the Heart Centre at Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Victoria is to improve people’s quality of life, addressing our patients’ vascular health challenges in innovative, sustainable ways, within a personalized environment that is welcoming, high-quality and safe.