Lines of research
INTEGRATED MULTIMODAL IMAGING
Starting from conventional approaches, advanced imaging (ultrasound, MRI, CT scan and nuclear medicine), aims to develop new methods of integrated analysis to study cardiac structure, metabolism and function, as well as the anatomy of the coronary arteries and myocardial perfusion, in both adults and children, with specific attention to the differences in gender.
BIOMARKERS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE: TOWARDS PRECISION CARDIOLOGY
Integrated “gender-balanced” approach to biohumoral diagnostics through the development and clinical validation of new biomarkers of genetic background and pathophysiological processes involved in ageing and in various pathologies, including ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, dyslipidaemias, arrhythmias, and amyloidosis.
CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM RESEARCH: THE HEART BRAIN AXIS
Starting with studies on healthy subjects both under physiological conditions and under the effect of risk factors, these lines of research are moving towards patients, suffering from heart dysfunction and failure, to seek a deeper insight into the pathophysiological mechanisms of the disease and to search for new therapeutic targets.
NEW TARGETS AND THERAPEUTIC TOOLS
Our research into the pathophysiological mechanisms of disease lays the foundations for the development of new clinical pathways, innovative surgical approaches and for an adequate evaluation of new and unconventional therapeutic tools, including new implantable devices through percutaneous or minimally invasive approaches, new biomaterials and nanomaterials for drug delivery.
HEALTH SCIENCE: THE THIRD BLOCK OF TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH
These lines of medical and nursing research aim to transfer advances in medical knowledge from the literature and guidelines to everyday clinical care, i.e. to support “policy makers” in redesigning the healthcare system.
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) FOR HEALTH
Management of data flows, artificial intelligence and management of epidemiological records (e.g. Montignoso cohort, rare diseases and coeliac disease records of the Tuscany Region), are activities made possible by advanced computer systems, often developed and managed in house, able to integrate
clinical data, signs and images with the aim of supporting clinical, research and governance activities.