Endocrine disorders: crosstalk between molecular, metabolic and therapeutic determinants

Problem

The group studies molecular, metabolic and therapeutic aspects of complex endocrine disorders within the context of research on endocrine tumours and on steroids.

Approach

The group’s research work is organized into two programmes: the steroids programme and the endocrine tumours programme. The former studies the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms that cause severe and persistent damage to the target tissues of steroidal hormones. The endocrine tumours programme researches genetic and molecular factors, biomarkers and new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

The basic goal of the group’s research is translation of the knowledge derived from basic research to clinical practice.

Impact

As a result of the research carried out to date, the group has provided evidence, in a translational ex vivo-in vitro model, of endothelial activation and inflammation on the action of circulating factors that remain after endogenous tumour hypercortisolism. In parallel, a new animal model of reversible exogenous Cushing syndrome has shown the persistence of the harmful metabolic effects that result from excess steroids.

In terms of technological innovation, work is being carried out on the differential diagnosis and minimally invasive percutaneous treatment of benign and malignant thyroid nodules.