Endocrinology, metabolism, nutrition and renal diseases

The research area on endocrinology and nutrition, metabolism and kidney disease brings together researchers focusing on different chronic conditions in this field, some highly prevalent and others considered rare diseases. Taking clinical, biochemical, and molecular/genetic perspectives, the different research groups work together on the characterisation of the aetiopathogenesis and the epidemiology of these conditions and the identification of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, seeking to translate scientific progress to patients. Diabetes, obesity, and coeliac disease are key areas in endocrinology and nutrition, and we focus on the genetic and environmental causes and on disease control, as well as new therapeutic approaches including prevention, new drugs and technologies, and cell therapy.

The study of alterations in neuroendocrine tumours aims to achieve molecular and tissue characterisation to enable more effective treatments. Research into various congenital metabolic disorders, related to lipids, carbohydrates and amino acids, aims to define early diagnostic strategies that enable adequate prevention and early treatment.

Finally, the disorders of calcium and phosphate metabolism and renal tubulopathies are emerging research areas focused on the genetic characterisation of the clinical disorders and the definition of more effective therapeutic strategies. Research groups include scientists focused on both basic and clinical research, who are leaders in their area at the national level and participate in international collaborations in these fields in the framework of European and other international projects.