Toll-like receptors and inflammatory diseases

The group is focused on studying the role of innate receptors in inflammatory diseases; particularly on Toll-like receptors (TLRs). These are sensors of molecular patterns from pathogens as well as endogenous molecules released after tissue damage with an important role in both the immune responses and inflammatory diseases. Using basic and translational approaches, the group investigates TLR-mediated signaling and its modulation by cytokines such as interferons and lipid mediators in the context of cardiovascular disease, i.e. atherosclerosis and aortic stenosis, as well as the relevance of cell metabolism and the molecular mechanisms of the sex differences observed in patients. As part of the network CIBERCV (Cardiovascular Diseases), the study has led to several scientific publications and a patent. International collaborators include Drs Chester and Yacoub (Imperial College, UK), Dr. Pihlajaniemi (U. Oulu, Finland), Drs Bastista and Cruz (U. Coimbra, Portugal).