Cardiovascular Pharmacology

Our research explores innovative strategies to better understand and protect cardiovascular health. We study how natural and synthetic compounds influence heart and blood vessel function, focusing on key mechanisms such as ion channels, gaseous transmitters, and vascular signaling. Through cutting-edge techniques, we aim to identify new therapeutic approaches for cardiovascular diseases, improve drug safety, and develop more effective treatments.

Our studies focus on:

• Preclinical characterization of synthetic and naturally derived compounds, as well as agro-food by-products in modulating cardiovascular functions, with a special emphasis on the role of gaseous transmitters and ion channels in cardiovascular pathophysiology.
• Investigation of gaseous transmitter pathways (nitric oxide and hydrogen sulphide) in endothelial function and angiogenesis.
• Evaluation of nutraceuticals and other bioactive compounds in maintaining vascular and lymphatic function, as well as in promoting angiogenesis.
• Experimental research on natural compounds as modulators of calcium and potassium channels in cardiovascular myocytes, using the patch-clamp technique—exploring medicinal plants as potential sources of new drugs for cardiovascular diseases.
• Cardiovascular safety pharmacology of novel anticancer agents, from cellular models to isolated organ-based assays.