Research lines

• Impact of lifestyle on diabetes

  Diabetes is a serious global health problem due to its prevalence (more than 425 million people), the economic burden and the number of deaths it causes due to the complications that arise from this disease. Combining clinical and basic research we carry out studies in animal models and in humans to better understand the impact of lifestyle on diabetes. For this purpose, we analyze metabolic and molecular responses to exercise and nutrition in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as in animal models.

• Circulating microRNAs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets in type 2 diabetes

  We are interested in finding circulating microRNAs as biomarkers for prediabetes and diabetes, for its micro- and macrovascular complications and for monitoring treatment response. We are also exploring the role of circulating exosomal microRNAs in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and the beneficial effects of exercise on health.

• New therapeutic targets for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity

  The molecular mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of type 2 diabetes is crucial to find novel targets and therapeutic strategies to treat this disease. We investigate the mechanisms of pancreatic islet dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus, focusing on the potential protective effects of endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibitors and anti-inflammatory molecules against amyloid-induced beta-cell dysfunction. We also explore how the signaling and transcriptional networks are affected in pancreatic islets in type 2 diabetes and under stress conditions. Our research on novel targets for type 2 diabetes treatment includes the protease Bace2, which may play an important role in the control of glucose homeostasis and body weight.

• Mechanisms and treatment of endothelial dysfunction in type 2 diabetes

  Diabetes has a detrimental impact on endothelial cell function. In this context, we investigate the impact of glucose oscillations on cardiovascular complications of diabetes and the potential beneficial effects of GLP-1 and DPP-4 inhibitors in endothelial cells exposed to hyperglycemic conditions.