Once again, the Scientific-Technical Service Platforms (PSCT) of the Sant Pau Research Institute and Sant Pau Hospital have successfully passed the ISO 9001 Quality Management System audit, demonstrating excellence in the provision of their services. The platforms currently included within the scope of certification are:

• Animal Experimentation Service
• Cellular Cultures Service
• Radioactive Installation
• Genomics and Transcriptomics Platform
• Cytometry Platform
• Confocal Microscopy Platform
• Biobank and Immunohistochemistry Platform

One of the objectives for 2024 is to expand the scope of certification to include the Proteomics Platform. Once achieved, IR-HSCSP will have all PSCT certified. In the case of the cleanroom, it holds the certification for Good Manufacturing Practices for Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (NCF-MTA).

The PSCTs are structures that offer high-value-added services to researchers, both within the IR itself and from other institutions. The main goal of the PSCTs is to facilitate access to high-level techniques and technologies that may not be accessible to individual groups, as well as to provide services at a reduced cost for resource optimization (human resources and equipment). Additionally, the PSCTs provide support to researchers with optimized workflows and methods, advising them on technical and methodological aspects.

The PSCTs have a multidisciplinary team with many years of experience in their fields and possess technology knowledge to ensure the quality of services. They are characterized by their customer orientation and commitment to delivering results in short timelines.

They also facilitate direct contact between the client and the expert to address any doubts or issues that may arise during the experimentation process. The PSCTs can manage the entire process, from the initial sample to the acquisition of final results.

Today, we celebrated the Sant Pau Research Day with genomics and rare diseases taking center stage. The day began with an introduction by Dr. Xavier Prats Monné, president of the board of the Sant Pau Research Institute (IR Sant Pau), who highlighted the talent and excellent work carried out by professionals in this field at Sant Pau.

The overarching theme of this day revolved around the Transversal Program of Genomics and Rare Diseases, emphasizing significant technological and bioinformatic advancements in genomics. These advances have not only positively impacted the diagnosis of rare genetic diseases but have also contributed to identifying risk factors, prognosis, and treatment of more common pathologies.

Dr. Jordi Surrallés, director of IR Sant Pau, took the floor to explain the ongoing actions within the framework of the 2019-2024 strategic plan. In this context, he dedicated heartfelt words to Dr. Josep Torrent Farnell, recently departed, highlighting his contribution as an attending physician at Sant Pau Hospital and as an international reference in the field of rare diseases.

Various experts participated with presentations on relevant topics. Dr. Roser Torra, from the Nephrology research group at IR Sant Pau – Puigvert Foundation, highlighted the use of artificial intelligence for diagnosing hereditary kidney diseases. Also, Dr. Elena Muiño, a “Joan Rodes” researcher in the Pharmacogenomics and Neurovascular Genetics group, spoke about CADASIL, a rare cerebral vascular disease.

Dr. Montse Campmany, head of the Knowledge Management Unit at IR Sant Pau, explained that one of the main objectives of this unit is to enhance excellence in the management of institutional scientific information, complying with established regulations, to contribute to the development of biomedical research and the improvement of health and society’s well-being.

Dr. Leif Hove-Madsen, head of the Rhythm Regulation and Cardiac Contraction group at IR, discussed single nucleotide polymorphisms for personalized treatment of atrial fibrillation. Pharmacogenetics was the focus of Dr. Pau Riera’s intervention, a “Joan Rodes” researcher in the Genetic Diseases group.

On the other hand, Dr. Eduard Gallardo, a researcher in the neuromuscular diseases group and head of the CIBERER group, explained translational research applied to neuromuscular disease, myasthenia gravis.

Dr. Sandra Camino, head of the Genomics and Transcriptomics Platform at IR Sant Pau, spoke about the support they offer to the scientific community, both with specific equipment and genomic techniques.

Dr. Surrallés, this time as head of the DNA Repair Syndromes and Predisposition to Cancer group, explained the importance of genes in the therapies for Fanconi Anemia, a cancer predisposition syndrome.

Dr. Maria Sabater, a “Miguel Servet” researcher in the Complex Diseases Genomics group, highlighted the role of genomic medicine in vascular diseases. Dr. Anna Aulinas, a “Joan Rodés” researcher in the Pituitary Diseases research group, talked about the contribution to improving the diagnosis and treatment of patients with pituitary diseases.

Dr. Israel Fernández-Cadenas, head of the Pharmacogenomics group, explained how genetic studies can help find treatments for complex diseases.

The closing talk was given by Dr. Ángel Carracedo, director of the Galician Public Foundation of Genomic Medicine and President of the External Scientific Committee of IR Sant Pau, who emphasized the importance of personalized medicine and genomics. He also explained the need for biomarkers to stratify and thus achieve effectiveness in rare diseases.

The director of IR, Dr. Surrallés, and the director of Sant Pau Hospital, Dr. Adrià Comella, concluded the event by emphasizing the importance of joint work and coordination between the Research Institute and the Hospital to ensure quality healthcare for all.

During the Day, the exhibition “Research on Rare Diseases, in Photos” was also presented. It consists of a selection of photographs with which CIBERER researchers participated in the rare diseases photography contests in 2021 and 2022.

A study led by Dr. José Martínez-González, a researcher at Sant Pau Research Institute and the Biomedical Research Institute of Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC), and Dr. Cristina Rodríguez, head of the Cardiovascular Remodeling Regulatory Mechanisms group at IR Sant Pau, has identified lysyl oxidase (LOX) as a key component in cardiovascular calcification.

The study resulted from the collaboration of both researchers in the cardiovascular diseases field of the CIBER (CIBERCV) with researchers from CIBERCV at the Vall d’Hebron Hospital Research Institute (VHIR). Published in the Biomed Pharmacother journal, the research has demonstrated that the enzyme lysyl oxidase, which plays a fundamental role in determining the biomechanical properties of the extracellular matrix, has a significant role in the formation of mineral deposits in diseases such as aortic valve calcification and atherosclerosis.

“We have characterized how the alteration of the matrix induced by lysyl oxidase affects the development of valvular calcification, as well as the involvement of this enzyme in the development of atherosclerosis and calcification,” said Dr. Martínez-González.

The studies were conducted in two cohorts of patients with calcified aortic valve disease from Sant Pau Hospital and the University Hospital of Navarra. Analyses were performed on valve cells in culture and in an animal model that overexpresses human lysyl oxidase specifically in the vascular wall, inducing atherosclerosis and calcification. The research involved Dr. Antonio Rodríguez-Sinovas, a CIBERCV researcher at VHIR, and Dr. Natalia López-Andrés from NavarraBiomed.

“The results highlight the active contribution of lysyl oxidase in cardiovascular calcification and the importance of matrix remodeling, which acts as an anchor that promotes and guides the growth of calcium crystals in this disease,” explains Dr. Rodríguez.

“Cardiovascular calcification is a significant global health problem and an independent predictor of adverse cardiovascular events and mortality. Currently, there are no drugs available that can limit the development of this disease. This study suggests that treatment strategies targeting lysyl oxidase and matrix modification could be useful for its treatment,” concludes Dr. Carme Ballester, the first author of this work.

Reference article

Carme Ballester-Servera, Judith Alonso, Laia Cañes, Paula Vázquez-Sufuentes, Lídia Puertas-Umbert, Amaya Fernández-Celis, Manel Taurón, Antonio Rodríguez-Sinovas, Natalia López-Andrés, Cristina Rodríguez, José Martínez-González, Lysyl oxidase-dependent extracellular matrix crosslinking modulates calcification in atherosclerosis and aortic valve disease, Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 167, 2023, 115469, ISSN 0753-3322, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115469.

Dr. Silvia Vidal, head of the Inflammatory Diseases group at the Sant Pau Research Institute, participated in the “Immunotherapy & Hemopathies 2023” course, where she spoke about the immunological mechanisms at play when treating patients with multiple myeloma using anti-CD38 antibodies.

The researcher explained that anti-CD38 antibodies, such as daratumumab and isatuximab, can bind to the CD38 protein on cancer cells. This interaction triggers a cascade of responses, including the destruction of cancer cells, modulation of the immune system activity, induction of programmed cell death in myeloma cells, and inhibition of CD38 enzymatic functions that reduce the production of the immunosuppressive molecule adenosine. The synergy of these mechanisms, often used in combination with other therapies, represents a significant advancement in the treatment of multiple myeloma, providing a targeted and effective approach.

Dr. David Ramos Vicente has been awarded the Extraordinary Doctorate Prize granted by the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), based on the proposal of the Academic Committee of the Doctoral Program in Neuroscience, for his thesis entitled “Glutamate as a neurotransmitter: revealing the complexity of its evolution and diversity in the nervous system.”

This research, supervised by Dr. Àlex Bayés, head of the Molecular Physiology of Synapses group at the Sant Pau Research Institute, focuses on glutamate, the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system of living beings, and its crucial role in the functioning of the nervous system and cognitive function. The research, conducted during his work at Sant Pau, explores in detail the proteins involved in glutamatergic neurotransmission, especially glutamate receptors and their auxiliary subunits, which play an essential role in regulating brain function.

One of the most noteworthy findings of Dr. Ramos’s thesis is the redefinition of the classification of glutamate receptors, currently divided into six classes. The work proposes a more precise classification into 4 subfamilies encompassing 10 classes, providing a new perspective on the complexity of these receptors in the evolution of metazoans. This redefinition has significant implications for understanding how the nervous system has evolved and shaped cognitive function.

This week, the Sant Pau Research Institute celebrated the Innovation Day, an event that marked the successful closure of the INNOPAU program. This program, designed to drive innovation at the Sant Pau Campus, has provided support and guidance to professionals in transforming innovative ideas into tangible projects with potential impact on society.

INNOPAU is an intensive six-month program that covers four fundamental modules. In the first module, the definition of the clinical need takes place, with the validation of key opinions from professionals (KOL) and the analysis of epidemiological data. Additionally, user profiling and the associated value proposition are developed. In the second module, resource identification is carried out through a planned route to scientifically validate the proposal, aligned with regulatory and budgetary requirements, as well as the identification of relevant stakeholders.

In the third module, the definition of intellectual property rights (IPR) and the development of a market strategy are carried out, updating the roadmap with strategies to secure IPR and business models. Finally, in the fourth module, the focus is on obtaining competitive funding, with the presentation of scientific results through Pitch Presentations and the use of grant application forms specific to INNOPAU.

This comprehensive program offers a unique opportunity for professionals at the Sant Pau Campus to transform their innovative ideas into projects with significant impact. Each module includes initial sessions, individual tutoring, training, and seminars with experts, culminating in deliverables. All participants had the opportunity to apply for the INNOPAU scholarship, awarded upon completion of the program, thanks to a €50,000 grant from the Private Foundation of the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau.

INNOVATION AND NETWORKING

The Innovation Day brought together more than 130 people, with equal participation from private sector companies and professionals from the Sant Pau Campus. Prominent companies in the R&D&I ecosystem, such as CINFA and AMBIT-BST, sponsored the event.

The day’s program included presentations on the INNOPAU program, a roundtable on translational research and entering the healthcare system, as well as presentations and the awarding of grants to incubated projects.

In the roundtable, participants shared meaningful reflections on the importance of innovation in the health field. Gemma Vilahur, researcher in the Molecular Pathology and Therapeutics Research Group of Atherothrombotic and Ischemic Diseases at the Sant Pau Research Institute, emphasized the moral responsibility of creating a spin-off to improve human health and highlighted the benefits of establishing patents, emphasizing the creation of a multidisciplinary environment that provides support in areas such as marketing, legal advice, and business. She expressed gratitude for the support from the hospital’s Technology Transfer department to ensure that innovations reach patients.

Patricia Pesudo, Director of the Strategy and Transformation Area at Sant Pau, underscored the importance of sharing challenges and solutions, encouraging public-private collaboration and alliance to co-create positive solutions.

Antonio Herce, associated with Inveready, highlighted the need for calls that drive innovation, advocating for increased public funding for concept tests that help researchers advance to the next level.

During her intervention, Claudia Ben Dov, Head of Business Strategy for Medical Devices at AMBIT-BST, emphasized that it is not only necessary to generate funds but also crucial to streamline bureaucratic processes from the administration to accelerate the arrival of innovation to patients. Her statements highlight the importance of removing obstacles to facilitate the path of innovation for the benefit of the patient.

The event concluded with the intervention of Laia Arnal, General Director of Transfer and Knowledge Society of the Government of Catalonia, who presented the INNOPAU grant to the winning project team. Arnal highlighted the need for programs like INNOPAU to foster an innovative culture and generate competitive projects that address unmet medical needs. She emphasized the importance of working with a research center and a tertiary hospital like the Sant Pau Campus, ensuring robust clinical validation and scientific excellence.

With the success of the Innovation Day, the Sant Pau Research Institute continues to establish itself as a benchmark in promoting innovation in the field of health.

La Marató de TV3 Foundation will fund 8 cardiovascular health projects coordinated from the Sant Pau Research Institute, thanks to the funds raised in the last edition, which was specifically dedicated to these diseases. In total, Sant Pau will receive €2,296,961.25, which will be allocated to leading projects on diseases such as myocardial infarction, stroke, atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, or arrhythmias, some of them in collaboration with other research centers. Additionally, researchers from Sant Pau are also involved in two selected projects coordinated from other centers.

Sant Pau is the leading center in the number of projects funded in the 2022 edition of La Marató de 3Cat. In total, 11.2 million euros were raised, which will be allocated to 71 research teams to carry out 37 projects in cardiovascular health to advance in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases that are the leading cause of death in developed countries. Of the total selected projects, 15 are individual and 22 are coordinated between two or more research institutions.

Cardiology at Sant Pau

Sant Pau is a hospital that has made history in Medicine, particularly in Cardiology, which has always been at the center of its interest. In fact, research on cardiovascular diseases is one of the 5 strategic areas of the Research Institute and is one of the clearest examples of translational medicine, as it aims to address questions and needs that arise directly from the patient’s bedside. The goal is for findings, from preclinical genetic studies in cellular and animal models to advanced clinical research, to return in the form of answers to the patient’s bedside.

Sant Pau has witnessed the development of cardiology: it was the first hospital in Spain to perform a heart transplant and continues to be an advanced reference in research in this medical specialty, constantly developing new therapeutic procedures, advancing in the understanding of basic cardiology, and continually improving the care of cardiac patients.

“We are very pleased and grateful to La Marató,” says Dr. Jordi Surrallés, director of the Sant Pau Research Institute, highlighting the positive results of this year’s call and expressing his commitment to continue promoting research in this field. “In the coming years, we will work hard to invest these resources obtained thanks to La Marató to promote the pursuit of excellence and quality that characterizes us.”

One key to success is Sant Pau’s strategic commitment to promoting translational research: the incorporation of clinicians and basic researchers in strategic areas, such as cardiovascular, working together to provide the best solutions to patients as soon as possible.

• Impact of the molecular and functional composition of lipoproteins and inflammation on the clinical presentation of cardiovascular events in familial hypercholesterolemia (LipoComp).
  • Teresa Padró, head of the Biomarkers Research Group for the Evolution of Cardiovascular Disease at the Sant Pau Research Institute.

• Innovative Therapies based on HDL Nanoconstructions: the Power of Bioengineering to Protect the Infarcted Heart.
  

• Gemma Vilahur,  researcher in the Molecular Pathology and Therapeutics of Atherothrombotic and Ischemic Diseases Research Group at the Sant Pau Research Institute.

Acute myocardial infarction is a common cardiac pathology that often leads to heart failure and represents a significant burden on healthcare systems and associated costs. This project focuses on the use of high-density lipoproteins (HDL) modified through bioengineering to reduce cardiac damage and promote healing in cases of myocardial infarction. Through the identification of key constituents of HDL and the creation of HDL nanoconstructions, this innovative therapy aims to enhance cardiovascular protection.

• Early Repair of Endothelial Cell Damage to Promote Cardiovascular Health: Interaction between Endothelial Cells and Monocytes as a Key Strategy in Ischemic Diseases.
  • Gemma Arderiu, researcher in the Molecular Pathology and Therapeutics of Atherothrombotic and Ischemic Diseases Research Group at the Sant Pau Research Institute.

The project focuses on the body’s ability to detect and repair tissue damage, especially in endothelial cells of the cardiovascular system, which play a crucial role in detecting and correcting anomalies. The study concentrates on “patrolling” monocytes that, similar to immunotherapy in oncological research, could promote repair instead of eliminating damaged endothelial cells. This could improve endothelial health and prevent cardiovascular diseases such as peripheral arterial disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke.

• Electroporation in Cardiac Tissue: From Safe and Efficient Ablation of Cardiac Arrhythmias to New Therapeutic Indications. 
  • Jose Mª Guerra,  head of the Clinical and Translational Cardiology Research Group at the Sant Pau Research Institute and member of the Arrhythmia Unit in the Cardiology Department at Sant Pau Hospital.

The project focuses on the study of an innovative technique for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias called pulsed field ablation (PFA), which uses high-intensity electrical pulses. This technique induces a local biological phenomenon in the tissue called electroporation, leading to the elimination of the arrhythmic substrate. The challenge lies in distinguishing between areas of irreversible electroporation and reversible electroporation around the treated area, as the latter may lead to an overestimation of properly treated areas. The project aims to understand these differences and develop precise detection methods. Additionally, the transient narrowing of coronary arteries during PFA application is addressed by exploring strategies to prevent it. Finally, the use of reversible electroporation in cardiac tissue is considered as a possible way to administer active compounds and personalized treatments. The research is based on a multidisciplinary approach and seeks to improve the effectiveness and safety of PFA in the treatment of arrhythmias.

• Stopped-Stroke. Reversible Epigenetic Therapies to HALT Biological Aging and Reduce the Risk of Stroke.
  • Israel Fernández Cadenas, cap del grup de Recerca en Farmacogenòmica i Genètica Neurovascular de l’Institut de Recerca Sant Pau.

In an effort to combat stroke, one of the leading causes of death and disability in adults, this innovative project focuses on epigenetics as a key element. With the aim of improving stroke prevention and treatment, the research team investigates how epigenetic changes can influence risk factors and the progression of the pathology. This opens the door to potential medications, including “Epidrugs” or epigenetic drugs, for the prevention and treatment of strokes. This approach could have a direct impact on patients and individuals with stroke risk factors.

• Gen-X: Genetic and Epigenetic Study of Ischemic Stroke and Its Sex Differences.
  • Jara Carcel, researcher in the Pharmacogenomics and Neurovascular Genetics Research Group at the Sant Pau Research Institute.

This project aims to investigate the genetic complexity of ischemic stroke in the Spanish population to identify differential genetic risk factors between men and women based on the etiology of the stroke they have experienced. Through various methods, such as genome-wide association studies and epigenomic association studies, the project aims to identify new drugs and pharmacological targets that could be useful for stroke prevention and risk stratification in patients.

• IDEA: Improvement of Diagnostic Efficiency in Patients with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm.
  • Maria Sabater,  Miguel Servet researcher in the Genomics of Complex Diseases Research Group at the Sant Pau Research Institute.

Abdominal aortic aneurysm is a pathological dilation of the aorta, which is generally silent and can eventually rupture. The mortality rate in case of rupture is very high. This innovative project collects clinical, personal, genetic, and blood marker data from patients with this disease to develop a predictive tool capable of identifying patients at high risk of aneurysm rupture. Additionally, the project explores the effect of new drugs on aneurysm growth, impacting both prediction and disease prevention.

• Cerebral Lipid Homeostasis in Ischemic Stroke: Role of Lipoprotein Receptors and Pharmacological Interventions. 
  • Maria Borrell, researcher in the Molecular Pathology and Therapeutics of Atherothrombotic and Ischemic Diseases Research Group at the Sant Pau Research Institute.

A study published in Translational Research reveals that the nuclear receptor NOR-1 plays a key role in regulating the calcification of aortic valves and calcification associated with atherosclerosis. The work was led by José Martínez-González, a researcher at the Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC) and the Sant Pau Research Institute, and Cristina Rodríguez Sinovas, a researcher at the Sant Pau Research Institute, both affiliated with the cardiovascular diseases area of CIBER (CIBERCV). The CIBERCV team led by Francisco Marín from the Virgen de la Arrixaca University Clinical Hospital also collaborated.

“So far, we knew about NOR-1’s role in cardiac and blood vessel remodeling, but its connection to calcification in these tissues had not been established,” explains Dr. Martínez-González.

The study conducted analyses on human aortic valves and vascular cells, as well as on a genetically modified mouse model with elevated NOR-1 levels in the vascular wall. These mice showed a reduction in atherosclerosis development, lower vascular expression of osteogenic markers, and specifically, reduced vascular calcification.

“NOR-1 limits cardiovascular calcification, a complex, partially characterized process that poses a significant public health problem. Our analyses of human samples from aortic valves and calcified atherosclerotic lesions, studies on valve and vascular cells, and in vivo strategies demonstrate NOR-1’s involvement in regulating the complex network of genes contributing to cardiovascular calcification,” notes Dr. Rodríguez Sinovas.

The research team observed that cells responsible for calcium deposition in aortic valves and smooth muscle cells in arteries increase NOR-1 levels when calcification is induced. “When we increased or decreased NOR-1 levels in these cells, we saw significant changes in genes related to calcification.”

Until recently, vascular calcification was considered a passive and degenerative process associated with advanced age, atherosclerosis, various metabolic disorders like diabetes mellitus, or rare genetic diseases. However, in recent years, vascular calcification is viewed as an active and regulated process similar to bone mineralization and metabolism.

“Our data indicate that NOR-1 has a negative effect on the expression of genes related to calcification in both heart valve cells and arterial cells, and it prevents calcification in the cardiovascular system. This could have significant implications for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases,” adds Carme Ballester, the study’s lead author.

“The results enhance our understanding of the processes leading to ectopic mineralization and pave the way for future studies that will create new therapeutic opportunities in the fight against cardiovascular calcification,” concludes the team.

Reference Article

Carme Ballester-Servera, Laia Cañes, Judith Alonso, Lidia Puertas-Umbert, Paula Vázquez-Sufuentes, Manel Taurón, Elena Roselló-Díez, Francisco Marín, Cristina Rodríguez, José Martínez-González. Upregulation of NOR-1 in calcified human vascular tissues: impact on osteogenic differentiation and calcification. Translational Research (2023) – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1931524423001445?via%3Dihub

A study published in the journal Nature Communications, led by the National Center for Cardiovascular Research (CNIC) and involving researchers from the Cardiovascular Biochemistry Group at the Sant Pau Research Institute and the Biochemistry Service of the same hospital, has revealed essential information about atrial fibrillation and its impact on heart function.

The research, conducted in porcine models, showed that during the progression of atrial fibrillation, there is a disconnect between electrical and mechanical activity in the atrium of the heart. Furthermore, changes in cardiac cells and an increase in atrial fibrosis were observed, suggesting that this type of arrhythmia leads to profound remodeling of cardiac tissue. It was also found that electromechanical dissociation is an early indicator of atrial remodeling in atrial fibrillation, which could be crucial for clinical prognosis.

One of the authors of the study, Dr. Álvaro García Osuna, a physician in the Biochemistry Service and a researcher in the Cardiovascular Biochemistry Group, explains that “in the clinical part of the study, we measured cardiac troponin, which is the biomarker we normally use for the management of patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome. We were able to demonstrate a relationship between the progression of atrial fibrillation and an increase in cardiac troponin concentration.”

Another researcher in the study is Dr. Jordi Ordoñez-Llanos from the Biochemistry Service of the Hospital de Sant Pau, who played a prominent role in demonstrating that atrial fibrillation causes damage to myocardial cells in animal models. “This work is an example of the necessary collaboration between experimental and clinical research,” emphasize these experts.

Reference article

Enríquez-Vázquez, D., Quintanilla, J.G., García-Escolano, A. et al. Non-invasive electromechanical assessment during atrial fibrillation identifies underlying atrial myopathy alterations with early prognostic value. Nat Commun 14, 4613 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-40196-y

El Congrés ESMO 2023, la trobada científica europea de referència en oncologia ha estat escenari d’una destacada participació dels experts de l’Institut de Recerca Sant Pau.

En aquesta important trobada científica, que s’ha celebrat aquest any a Madrid amb més de 33.000 participants de 144 països, s’han compartit els últims avenços en la recerca oncològica, oferint una formació de la més alta qualitat per als professionals de la salut i brindant oportunitats excepcionals per establir xarxes de contactes entre oncòlegs i altres implicats en aquest àmbit.

Els experts de l’Institut de Recerca Sant Pau han jugat un paper destacat en aquest esdeveniment, presentant diversos resultats i treballs científics, entre els quals destaquen tres estudis presentats a la sessió plenària del congrés i publicats simultàniament a la prestigiosa revista The New England Journal of Medicine. Un d’ells és l’estudi CodeBreak 300, en el qual va participar el Dr. David Paéz López Bravo, del Grup de Recerca en Oncologia Clínica.

En aquest estudi de fase 3, es va investigar l’eficàcia de l’inhibidor KRAS G12C sotorasib combinat amb el panitumumab, un inhibidor del receptor del factor de creixement epidermal (EGFR), en pacients amb càncer colorectal metastàsic quimiorrefractari amb KRAS G12C mutat. Els resultats van mostrar que ambdues dosis de sotorasib combinades amb panitumumab van aconseguir una supervivència lliure de progressió més llarga que el tractament estàndard.

També s’ha presentat en la sessió plenària l’estudi DeLLphi-301, el qual ha participat la Dra. Margarita Majem Tarruella, del Grup de Recerca en Oncologia Clínica, que va avaluar l’activitat antitumoral i la seguretat de tarlatamab, una immunoteràpia de cèl·lules T biespecífica que apunta al lligand delta-like 3 i CD3, en pacients amb càncer de pulmó de cèl.lula petita prèviament tractats. Els resultats mostren quetarlatamab presenta una notable activitat antitumoral amb respostes objectives duradores i resultats de supervivència prometedors en aquests pacients. També es va observar una seguretat manejable, essent la majoria dels efectes adversos de grau 1 o 2.

L’equip de la Dra. Majem també va participar l’estudi PAPILLON, presentat també en una sessió plenària del congrés. Aquest estudi  fase 3 mostra que l’ús d’amivantamab amb quimioteràpia millora significativament la supervivència lliure de progressió en els pacients amb càncer de pulmó no microcític avançat amb insercions en l’exó 20 del receptor del factor de creixement epidèrmic (EGFR), respecte a la quimioteràpia sola com a tractament de primera línia. Els efectes adversos principals d’aquesta teràpia estan relacionats amb problemes hematològics i cutanis i són reversibles.

Participació molt diversa

Per part del Servei d’Oncologia Mèdica de l’Hospital de Sant Pau, la Dra. Alejandra Romano Cardozo va presentar un estudi relatiu a la trombosis i les complicacions secundàries en pacients amb adenocarcinoma ductal de pàncrees i el Dr. Francisco José Pelegrín Mateo, un estudi de trombosi associada a catèter del registre TESEO.

La Dra. Maria Aguado Sorolla va compartir els resultats de l’aplicació de les escales de benefici clínic en fàrmacs aprovats pel tractament de Sarcomes. La Dra. Judit Sanz Beltran va presentar l’impacte del tractament de suport en la qualitat de vida dels pacients hospitalitzats, treball que forma part del projecte Plantology.

A més, el Dr José Antonio González, cirurgià de l’Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, va presentar els resultats de l’estudi de fase 1 amb Ceb-01 per Sarcomes Retroperitoneals, un esforç multidisciplinari de tot l’equip de sarcomes.

La Dra. Aida Piedra Cascón va presentar els resultats d’un estudi retrospectiu multicèntric de pacients amb càncer de pulmó no cèl·lula petita avançat amb alta expressió de PD-L1 tractats amb Pembrolizumab en primera línia de tractament i el Dr. Sergio Martínez-Recio va presentar els resultats d’un estudi retrospectiu multicèntric que analitza l’impacte predictiu del temps transcorregut des de la resecció complerta del melanoma fins a l’inici de l’adjuvància amb anti-PD-1.

A més, en una interessant xerrada, la infermera gestora d’immunoteràpia, Jorgina Serra, va compartir coneixements sobre l’educació als pacients amb càncer d’endometri que comencen el tractament.

Finalment, la Dra. Ariadna Tibau Martorell va donar a conèixer els resultats de l’ús de les escales de benefici clínic en els fàrmacs dirigits a diana, realitzat gràcies a una beca de la Fundació Privada de Sant Pau.

Aquesta destacada participació de l’Institut de Recerca Sant Pau a l’ESMO 2023 demostra l’excel·lència de la recerca i la dedicació dels seus experts en la lluita contra el càncer.

Investigadors de l’Institut de Recerca Sant Pau i del Servei de Cirurgia Vascular de l’Hospital del Mar, liderats per la Dra. Maria Sabater Lleal, investigadora Miguel Servet al grup de Genòmica de les Malalties Complexes de l’Institut d’Investigació Sant Pau, han participat en l’estudi genètic d’aneurisma més gran de l’aorta abdominal realitzat fins ara. L’etiopatogènesi d’aquesta malaltia és complexa i multifactorial i encara que roman essencialment desconeguda, se sap que hi ha un component genètic important.

L’estudi, que publica la revista Nature Genetics, ha analitzat les dades clíniques i genètiques de 14 cohorts de pacients (entre elles la cohort de l’Institut de Recerca Sant Pau), incloent-hi prop de 40.000 persones amb aneurisma i més d’un milió de controls sans , per identificar i investigar els determinants genètics de l’aneurisma de l’aorta abdominal. L’anàlisi ha localitzat 121 regions cromosòmiques associades amb l’aneurisma de l’aorta abdominal, de les quals 97 són descrites per primera vegada. La informació genètica derivada de la metaanàlisi permet explicar el risc d’aquesta malaltia més enllà dels factors de risc clínics tradicionals.

Una de les autores del treball, la Dra. Mercedes Camacho, del grup de Genòmica de les malalties complexes de l’Institut de Recerca Sant Pau, explica que l’aneurisma de l’aorta abdominal consisteix en una dilatació localitzada i progressiva de l’aorta abdominal, generalment a la zona infrarrenal. És una malaltia lligada a l’envelliment que afecta el 6-9% dels homes i l’1-2% de dones de més de 65 anys i tendeix a augmentar a la població paral·lelament a l’esperança de vida.

Aquesta malaltia en molts casos sol ser asimptomàtica, per la qual cosa el diagnòstic es produeix majoritàriament de manera casual. Actualment, no hi ha cap tractament farmacològic capaç de limitar la progressió de l’aneurisma o evitar-ne el trencament, associat a una alta taxa de mortalitat. La intervenció quirúrgica, sigui oberta o endovascular, és l’única opció terapèutica, procediment costós per al sistema sanitari i amb elevada morbimortalitat. “L’estudi genètic és fonamental per desxifrar la patogènesi de la malaltia i permetrà el diagnòstic precoç i el desenvolupament d’eines clíniques“, informa la Dra. Sabater.

El paper del metabolisme lipídic

Una de les troballes més destacades de l’estudi ressalta el paper fonamental dels lípids i el seu metabolisme en la patogènesi de la malaltia: 42 de les 121 regions cromosòmiques associades a risc d’aneurisma contenen gens associats amb lípids, fet que dona suport a les teràpies moduladores de la malaltia lípids poden tenir un paper en el tractament de la malaltia.

“Encara que les dades actuals sobre els efectes de les estatines en l’expansió aòrtica són contradictòries, l’evidència genètica d’aquest estudi suggereix que la reducció del colesterol-LDL mitjançant la inhibició de PCSK9 (proteïna relacionada amb els nivells de LDL-colesterol circulatori i la inhibició és el tractament més eficaç per reduir els seus nivells) podria també disminuir el risc de desenvolupar un aneurisma de l’aorta abdominal, encara que futurs estudis han de demostrar si aquest tractament redueix la progressió de la malaltia una vegada diagnosticada” afegeix la Dra. Sabater, coordinadora de la participació espanyola a l’estudi.

A més, afegeix la investigadora, conèixer les variants genètiques implicades en aquesta malaltia també permetrà desenvolupar un score genètic que ajudi a predir quines persones tindran més risc de patir-la i que, per tant, serien candidates a fer proves de cribratge més específiques.

Els processos de desenvolupament de fàrmacs i assaigs clínics són llargs, costosos i complexos, per la qual cosa cal triar amb cura les noves intervencions terapèutiques. Aquestes troballes contribueixen a canviar l’abordatge d’aquesta malaltia aportant informació genètica.

Article de referència

Roychowdhury T, Klarin D, Levin MG, Spin JM, Rhee YH, et al. Genome-wide association meta-analysis identifies risk loci for abdominal aortic aneurysm and highlights PCSK9 as a therapeutic target. Nat Genet. 2023 Oct 16. doi: 10.1038/s41588-023-01510-y. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37845353.

Today, October 19th, is World Breast Cancer Day, a day established to raise awareness about the disease, give it visibility, and create tools and resources to confront it.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. Raising awareness among the population about the importance of this disease is crucial to achieve early detection, one of the fundamental measures to combat it. That’s why it is recommended that women between the ages of 50 and 69 have a mammogram every two years.

Dr. Agustí Barnadas, head of the Clinical Oncology Research Group at the Sant Pau Research Institute and head of the Medical Oncology Service at the same hospital, has emphasized the importance of continuing to promote early cancer diagnosis and determining patient profiles to decide who is a candidate for screening studies.

Recently, a study led by Dr. Barnadas has suggested that certain microRNAs (miRNAs) can be useful as non-invasive biomarkers for the early diagnosis of lymph node metastasis in patients with early-stage breast cancer, specifically those with estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer.

On the occasion of World Breast Cancer Day, Sant Pau is conducting various initiatives to contribute to raising awareness.

EVENT “PER A VOSALTRES”

The event, organized by the Activity Girls group, takes place on Thursday, October 19th, at the Sant Pau Hospital Auditorium, from 8:45 AM to 2 PM. Admission is free.

ACTIVITIES ON OCTOBER 19th

Photographic exhibition “The Challenge: The Fragility of Life.” Sant Quintí Hospital Atrium at Sant Pau Hospital. From October 19th to November 23rd.

Information tables about breast cancer Sant Quintí and Mas Casanova Hospital Atriums at Sant Pau Hospital. October 19th from 9 AM to 1 PM.

Today, October 10, is World Mental Health Day and this year the chosen motto is “Mental health is a universal right”, where the objectives are to improve knowledge, increase its visibility and promote measures to protect it . Sant Pau has a long history and expertise in research, care and treatment of people with mental illnesses and has the necessary devices to address the various pathologies and improve the quality of life of patients. Among the main research lines of the Mental Health Group of the Sant Pau Research Institute, led by Dr. Maria Portella, highlight psychotic disorders, affective disorders (such as depression) and borderline personality disorder.

The commemoration of World Mental Health Day began in 1992 at the hands of the World Federation of Mental Health with the challenge of raising public awareness of mental disorders, fighting the stigmatization of affected people and promoting initiatives to improve – the attention According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem during their lifetime.

The Department of Health of the Generalitat de Catalunya states that mental health and emotional well-being is a broad concept related to the way we feel, think or act in our day-to-day life. Therefore, it is the basis for the well-being and effective functioning of people and communities and becomes an inseparable aspect of the concept of health: you cannot have good health without good mental health.

In this sense, the Master Plan for Mental Health and Addictions (PdSMiA), is the instrument of information, study and proposal through which the Department of Health determines the guidelines to promote, plan, coordinate and evaluate the actions to be developed in the field of mental health promotion, prevention and treatment of diseases associated with mental health and addictions, and improving the quality of life of affected people.

All this in response to the objectives of the Catalan Health Plan 2021-2025, which provides some important data: a quarter of the population over the age of 15 has emotional distress (1 in 5 men and 1 in 3 women), a figure that increases with age and is more prevalent in the most disadvantaged social groups; in addition, 7.4% of men and 13.7% of women from the age of 15 suffer major or major depression, especially from the age of 75, and especially women.

The Catalan Foundation for Research and Innovation has published this interview with Dr. José Manuel Soria, head of the Genomics Group for Complex Diseases at the Research Institute Sant Pau, on the occasion of the Joan Roget Prize for the transfer of knowledge awarded to Beyond You (formerly Exheus) .

This company, which was born as a spin-off from the Sant Pau Research Institute, the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya – BarcelonaTech (UPC) and Summit SL incubated at Venture Builder The Collider, is a pioneer in research and development of advanced genetic technology. Specialized in analyzing the expression of the more than 22,000 genes present in the transcriptome using artificial intelligence to detect and correct parameters that may be out of the ordinary with personalized recommendations.

The Joan Roget Awards recognize actions linked to the transfer of knowledge considered as success stories of the system for their contribution to the economic and social development of individual researchers or technicians, together with the institutions to which they belong.

A study coordinated by Dr. Vicenta Llorente-Cortés, a researcher at the CSIC and CIBERCV, and Dr. Antonio Pérez, director of the endocrinology unit and a member of CIBERDEM at the Research Institute Sant Pau, reveals that newly diagnosed patients with type II diabetes have elevated levels of soluble LRP1 receptor (sLRP1) and decreased levels of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP).

The article, published in the journal Frontiers in Endocrinology, was conducted by analyzing liquid biopsies from newly diagnosed type II diabetes patients, in which it was found that strict glycemic and metabolic control over 12 months normalizes the sLRP1/ANP ratio after a year of treatment, and therefore, this index could be a reliable marker of cardiometabolic function.

Dr. Llorente explains that these findings open the door to search for new ways to intervene and personalize treatment to reduce the risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. She explains that sLRP1 is a marker that has been associated with coronary artery disease or atherosclerosis and also cardiovascular risk. “In other words, people with higher levels of this marker in their blood have a higher cardiovascular risk.”

It is known that atrial natriuretic peptide is very high in the blood when there is a situation of cardiac damage. “But, in addition, when these levels are very low, there is usually a metabolic problem behind it. So, both people with diabetes and those who are obese have very low levels of this peptide.”

The study was conducted in newly diagnosed patients with type II diabetes, meaning they had not yet been treated with any medication for this condition. The blood of these individuals was analyzed, and they were followed up for a year, and it was found that intervention through lifestyle changes and pharmacological interventions indicated by their metabolic condition normalized the levels of these two molecules.

“These markers could be useful for non-invasively assessing cardiovascular risk as well as the effectiveness of different therapies indicated to improve metabolic control and cardiovascular risk in patients with type II diabetes.”

Reference Article

García E, Gil P, Miñambres I, Benitez-Amaro A, Rodríguez C, Claudi L, Julve J, Benitez S, Sánchez-Quesada JL, Rives J, Garcia-Moll X, Vilades D, Perez A, Llorente-Cortes V. Increïen sLRP1 i decreixen atrial natriurètic peptide plasma de nivells en els nous diagnosis T2DM pacients són normalitzats per optimització de glycemic control. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023 Aug 10;14:1236487. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1236487. PMID: 37635956; PMCID: PMC10450024.

Motor cortical stimulation could be a promising therapeutic alternative for patients with chronic neuropathic pain who do not respond to conventional treatments, according to the results of a multicenter study conducted by researchers from the Neurosurgery Group at the Research Institute of the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau – IIB Sant Pau, in collaboration with the Hospital del Mar Research Institute, published in the journal Neurosurgery.

The study, led by Dr. Rodrigo Rodríguez Rodríguez, a researcher and neurosurgeon at Sant Pau, analyzes data from one of the world’s largest cohorts of patients with treatment-resistant neuropathic pain who underwent motor cortical stimulation as a rescue therapy. This technique involves the implantation of electrodes on the surface of the brain in specific areas indirectly related to pain circuits.

The results demonstrate the long-term effectiveness of motor cortical stimulation in the treatment of neuropathic pain, specifically trigeminal neuralgia. Of the evaluated patients, 42% showed a positive response to motor cortical stimulation after 6 months. Additionally, there was an average reduction of 34% in pain intensity.

Dr. Juan Aibar, from the Neurosurgery Group at IIB Sant Pau and a neurosurgeon at the same hospital, explains that neuropathic pain is a form of pain that persists even though the injury that caused it no longer exists. It is related to central or peripheral nervous system lesions and is especially difficult to control with conventional treatments. Patients suffering from this condition often experience associated problems such as anxiety, depression, and work-related issues, in addition to a significant impact on their quality of life.

“It is crucial that motor cortical stimulation is carried out in specialized centers with well-established headache and neuralgia units,” emphasizes this expert, adding that this is due to “the complexity of patients seeking this treatment and the need for a thorough evaluation before considering it as a suitable alternative.”

Dr. Aibar also highlights the importance of considering the pain’s semiology, meaning understanding the nuances of neuropathic pain and its underlying cause, as each case may have different outcomes with neuromodulation therapy. “For example, if it is multiple sclerosis, herpes, trauma, or trigeminal neuralgia at onset… all these conditions can cause this type of facial pain, and each one has a different outcome with neuromodulation therapy,” Dr. Aibar comments.

This is a highly specific cerebral neuromodulation treatment for patients with severe neuropathic pain, performed at very few centers in Spain. This is the reason that led the authors of these two Catalan centers, which have more experience in this neuromodulation technique in Catalonia, to gather and jointly analyze the data. “In cerebral neuromodulation, studies should be multicenter because it is the only way to obtain sufficient data to reach conclusions,” explains Dr. Gloria Villalba, coordinating neurosurgeon of the Neurosurgery Service at the Hospital del Mar and co-principal author of the publication, along with Dr. Juan Aibar and Dr. Rodrigo Rodríguez.

These findings highlight the importance of continuing to research motor cortical stimulation as a valuable option for the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain, especially trigeminal neuralgia. This study represents a significant step toward a more comprehensive and effective understanding of the treatment of treatment-resistant neurological conditions.

Reference article

Aibar-Durán, Juan Ángel MD; Villalba Martínez, Gloria MD; Freixer-Palau, Berta; Araus-Galdós, Elena; Morollón Sanchez-Mateos, Noemi; Belvis Nieto, Robert; Revuelta Rizo, Miren MD; Molet Teixeido, Joan; García Sánchez, Carmen; de Quintana Schmidt, Cristian; Muñoz Hernandez, Fernando; Rodríguez Rodríguez, Rodrigo. Long-Term Results of Cortical Motor Stimulation for Neuropathic Peripheral and Central Pain: Real-World Evidence From Two Independent Centers. Neurosurgery. August 28, 2023. | DOI: 1227/neu.0000000000002638

Today, September 29th, World Heart Day, Sant Pau celebrates it from the perspective of a hospital that has witnessed the development of Cardiology. It was the first center in the country to successfully perform a heart transplant in 1984 and the first to establish a specialized research institute specifically focused on the research and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Currently, it continues to be an advanced reference in Cardiology research, with ongoing development of new therapeutic procedures, advancements in basic Cardiology knowledge, and care for cardiac patients. It pioneers programs aimed at improving the cardiovascular health of its users, such as the SCA (post-acute coronary syndrome prevention and education program) launched this year, which monitors around 300 patients annually.

The SCA program is an outpatient initiative for early monitoring of all patients admitted to Sant Pau Hospital with an acute myocardial infarction. It involves very close and early monitoring to control all risk factors for individuals admitted with a heart attack, such as hypertension, cholesterol levels, smoking, obesity, diabetes, stress, and more.

“The SCA program started with the collaboration of Nursing and Cardiology staff, back in February. We train between 5 and 10 patients from the hospital’s reference area who have been admitted due to a myocardial infarction on a weekly basis,” explains Dr. Miquel Gual, coordinator of the SCA program and associate of the Cardiology Service at Sant Pau. “At present, the program accommodates all these debut patients, meaning those who have had a first myocardial infarction, and therefore, we work with the goal of acting quickly. As the program grows, other groups with ischemic heart disease, angina, or other types of myocardial infarction will be included,” Dr. Gual specifies.

The program addresses a need arising from the improvement of treatment techniques or revascularization of myocardial infarctions. This advancement results in increasingly shorter hospital stays for this condition. Patients enter the hospital with a very severe condition, but the majority of these patients recover satisfactorily, leading to shorter hospitalizations. Consequently, patient awareness of the disease is low.

“In addition to this, while they are hospitalized, the time available for training, education, and initiating prevention measures to prevent the recurrence of ischemic diseases is also very limited. Consequently, it is necessary to restructure the post-hospitalization phase, organize, gather, and follow up on all patients with infarctions, and maintain an educational program to develop cardiovascular lifestyle habits,” states the program coordinator, who estimates that they will annually follow up with between 250 and 300 patients.

One of the key aspects of this initiative is ensuring continuous care, meaning the educational program, with a significant role played by specialized Nursing staff in cardiovascular care. “The program is finite, lasting six months; patients enter, but they also have to leave. A key factor that we believe is very important is to establish this continuous care, with a continuous flow of patients. Once the initial hospital phase is completed, we get in touch with each responsible person at each primary care center in the Sant Pau reference area, thus maintaining the flow of patients and facilitating direct and continuous communication between hospital professionals and primary care professionals,” Dr. Gual adds.

The age profile of patients admitted with myocardial infarctions ranges from around 50 to 70 years, as there is currently a selection of patients with the onset of cardiac diseases, meaning those who have experienced a first episode. The majority of the population is relatively young, regardless of gender. “This means that there is still a percentage of patients who are actively employed, and thanks to this early and comprehensive treatment monitoring, they can, among other things, return to their work activity earlier than usual,” concludes Dr. Miquel Gual.

Translational Research in Cardiology

Cardiology is one of the five strategic areas of the Sant Pau Hospital Research Institute – IIB Sant Pau and serves as a clear example of translational medicine, aiming to find answers to unmet needs directly emerging from the patient’s bedside “through research that encompasses preclinical genetic studies in cellular models to the most advanced clinical research. This is crucial for translating research results into therapeutic solutions for patients,” says Dr. José Guerra, from the Arrhythmia Unit of the Cardiology Service at Sant Pau.

With this goal in mind, they also promote knowledge transfer by fostering the creation of spin-off companies. “In this regard, a few years ago, we began investigations to discover new therapeutic targets that could address the remaining needs in the clinical field. One example is the research on cardioprotection we have been conducting in recent years, which has resulted in the creation of a company with several investors,” explains Prof. Lina Badimon, director of the Area of Cardiovascular Disease Research and the Molecular Pathology and Therapeutics Research Group of Atherothrombotic and Ischemic Diseases at IIB Sant Pau. “This is an example of how we want to provide solutions to patients through research.”

Specifically, this spin-off company is working on the development of an intravenous statin that will be useful for patients who require high doses of this medication, which is currently administered orally, which is not always sufficient “for patients undergoing transplantation, undergoing oncological treatments, or undergoing surgery.”

Gender and Cardiovascular Health

This year, IIB Sant Pau has launched a cross-cutting research program in Women’s Health and Gender to promote a gender perspective in all its areas and research groups. Created within the framework of the Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) Plan, the program is an example of joint work between IIB Sant Pau and Sant Pau Hospital and is currently implementing actions to promote the incorporation of a gender perspective into research content and to encourage specific gender research to address existing knowledge gaps, by providing the necessary means and resources to facilitate it.

It should be noted that, in fact, Sant Pau Hospital was one of the first Catalan centers to create the Health and Gender Commission, which impacts healthcare, research, and teaching.

In Cardiology, there are increasing projects that incorporate the gender perspective from their initial planning. There is also growing evidence of significant differences in the evolution and clinical manifestations of various cardiovascular disorders and the impact that these variables can have on prevention and treatment. Several examples exist in this regard. The group led by Prof. Badimon is developing a personalized medicine project in a national cohort with a genetic diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia, where gender specificity is a goal to identify and determine the importance of new molecular biomarkers. Another notable initiative is the RETROVE program, which seeks mathematical algorithms to define individual risk of venous thrombosis, as well as a study analyzing the use of beta-blockers in patients with atrial fibrillation based on gender.

In the field of cardiovascular health, Dr. Elisa Llurba, in collaboration with researchers from the Perinatal and Women’s Medicine Research Group, the Biochemistry Research Group, and the Cardiovascular Diseases Group, is leading three studies funded by the Carlos III Health Institute on the impact of different reproductive processes on cardiovascular health at three key stages: before pregnancy in women undergoing assisted reproduction, during pregnancy, and 3-6 years after childbirth. The objective is to study how placental-origin diseases can impact maternal and neonatal cardiovascular health.

Diet influences the accumulation of fat in the arteries. This has been demonstrated by a recent study confirming that low adherence to the Mediterranean Diet is linked to a greater presence of fatty plaques in the arteries, specifically atherosclerosis. The study, conducted with the population from the ILERVAS project, known as ‘the Health Bus,’ which included 8,116 individuals, was recently published in the Atherosclerosis journal.

The research, jointly led by investigators from the IIB Sant Pau and IRBLleida, involved the participation of research personnel from Primary Care in Lleida, the Jordi Gol Research Institute for Primary Care (IDIAP Jordi Gol), the Biomedical Research Centre for Respiratory and Metabolic Diseases, the Washington University School of Medicine in the United States, and other research groups from IRBLleida, the University Hospital of Lleida, and the University of Lleida, among others.

“Current research on the association between dietary patterns and subclinical atherosclerotic disease (fatty plaques in the arteries) remains limited, and published results are inconsistent and based on a small population,” explained Minerva Granado, a researcher from the University of Lleida, the Institute of Biomedical Research of Lleida (IRBLleida), and the Biomedical Research Network on Diabetes and Metabolic Associated Diseases (CIBERDEM).

For this reason, this research was initiated to assess the dietary habits of the population in Lleida and their consequences. “Participants with atherosclerotic disease are older and have a higher frequency of smoking, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and waist circumference,” confirmed Granado, who added that the study showed that individuals with better dietary habits related to the Mediterranean diet had a lower number of fatty plaques in their arteries compared to those with low adherence to the diet.

Another confirmation from the study is that women had a lower frequency and number of atherosclerotic plaques. The research was conducted using the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) questionnaire and non-invasive ultrasounds to assess the arteries.

“It is important to note that the population we studied has a low to moderate risk of cardiovascular disease, so the results cannot be fully extrapolated to the general population, let alone to populations with other pathologies,” stated Marina Idalia Rojo López, a researcher in the Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Nutrition Group at the Institute of Research at the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau – IIB Sant Pau.

This expert added that “nonetheless, these findings support the use of strategies aimed at reducing atherosclerotic disease through the promotion of the Mediterranean diet and emphasize the need for nutritionists at all levels of healthcare.”

Reference article

Rojo-López MI, Bermúdez-López M, Castro E, Farràs C, Torres G, Pamplona R, Lecube A, Valdivielso JoséManuel, Fernández E, Julve J, Castelblanco E, Franch-Nadal J, Alonso Nú, Granado-Casas M, Mauricio Dí, on behalf of the ILERVAS project collaborators, Miquel E, Ortega M, Barbé F, González J, Barril S, Sánchez-de-la-Torre M, Portero-Otín M, Jové M, Hernández M, Rius F, Godoy P, Alonso MM-, Low adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with increased prevalence and number of atherosclerotic plaques in the ILERVAS cohort, Atherosclerosis (2023), doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.117191.

Professor Lina Badimon, Director of the Cardiovascular Disease Research Area and the Molecular Pathology and Therapeutics of Atherothrombotic and Ischemic Diseases research group at the Research Institute of Hospital Santa Creu i Sant Pau – IIB Sant Pau, has been awarded the Michael J. Davies Prize at the 10th Congress of the European Association of Cardiovascular Pathology (EACVP), which took place this week in Padua, Italy.

Coinciding with the presentation of this award, Professor Lina Badimon gave a lecture titled “A Journey into Atherosclerotic Plaque: From the Laboratory to the Patient.” The presentation will focus on advances in understanding and characterizing atherosclerotic plaque, the cellular, molecular, and genetic processes involved in its progression, and how these processes contribute to the transformation of this silent arterial lesion into clinical ischemic syndromes. Finally, existing therapeutic advances and targets that do not yet have treatment will be discussed.

Today, Professor Badimon is one of the world’s leading researchers in arteriosclerosis and thrombosis. After completing her postgraduate studies in Spain, she spent 15 years in the United States conducting various studies on atherosclerosis and myocardial lesions resulting from ischemic episodes at prestigious institutions such as the Mayo Clinic, Mount Sinai Medical Center, and Harvard Medical School. Upon her return to Spain in the mid-1990s, she continued to explore cardioprotection processes in the context of myocardial infarction.

Throughout her distinguished professional career, Professor Badimon has made significant advances in understanding the complexity of atherosclerosis, which plays a pivotal role in most cardiovascular diseases—the leading cause of death worldwide—and in identifying innovative and groundbreaking strategies.