Research lines

• Non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic tools for bladder tumors

  This research line involves the identification of biomarkers in urine samples. We study gene and miRNA expression profiles as well as methylation profiles in urine cells from bladder cancer patients. Furthermore, we analyze the aneuploidies in urine cells of bladder cancer patients.

• Predictive biomarkers of prognosis and response to treatments in bladder and upper urinary tract tumors

  We have identified biomarkers of bladder tumor dissemination by analyzing lymph nodes and peripheral blood samples from bladder cancer patients. We are currently working in determining these dissemination biomarkers by using  a non-invasive sample: cell free DNA and circulating tumour cells (liquid biopsy). We also work in the identification prognostic biomarkers in bladder and upper urinary tract tumors. In addition, biomarkers of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in bladder cancer patients are also investigated.

• Non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic tools for prostate tumours

  We have developed a gene expression signature in post-prostatic massage urine samples. We are currently working in identifying miRNA expression signatures in the same type of sample. Finally, prognostic biomarkers for aggressive prostate cancer are also investigated.

• Renal cell carcinoma prognostic biomarkers

  This is our most recent research line. We are working in identifiying prognostic gene expression profiles in clear cell renal cell carcinoma.