Research Laboratories
December 17, 2024 2024-12-17 10:51Research Laboratories
Division of Basic Sciences
Laboratory of Biochemistry
– Website: http://biochemistry.med.uoc.gr/
D. Kardassis: Understanding the molecular and genetic basis of cardiovascular diseases using genomics approaches and genetically modified animal models..Understanding the mechanisms that control the transcription of human lipoprotein genes under physiological or pathological conditions. Development of novel drugs and biomarkers of cardiovascular diseases.
P. Theodoropoulos: Structure, organization and functions of the nuclear envelope. Subcellular localization and nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of plasma membrane, cytoplasmic and nuclear proteins. EMT and stem characteristics of cancer cells.
E. Papakonstanti: Studying signaling pathways triggered by or regulate oncoproteins. Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlie tumor growth and metastasis using animal models. Investigating approaches for combination therapy targeting both, cancer cells and cells of the tumour microenvironment, aiming at development of promising drugs which will effectively prevent cancer progression.
Ch. Stournaras: Functions and regulation of cytoskeletal proteins. The role of cytoskeleton dynamics in the acquisition and the processing of intracellular signals. The role of cytoskeletal proteins in cell differentiation and signaling.
V. Zannis
Laboratory of Pharmacology
A. Gravanis, Ph.D (Professor of Pharmacology) His research group is developing synthetic compounds, agonists of neurotrophin receptors, with neuroprotective and neurogenic properties and potential applications in therapeutics of neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, his group is focusing on 3D microscaffold and neural stem cell technologies to develop neuroimplants for spinal cord injury and neurobiosensors for drug screening.
K. Thermos, Ph.D (Chair, Professor of Pharmacology)
The research interests of her group focus on the elucidation of the underlying mechanisms involved in ischemia induced retinal disease and in the development of new therapeutics for the treatment of ischemia induced retinal neurodegeneration. In vivo animal models of diabetic retinopathy and excitotoxicity are employed to examine the neuroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of novel compounds of three therapeutic targets: a) the endocannabinoid system (agonists of CB1 and CB2 receptors, and inhibitors of endocannabinoid metabolic enzymes), b) neurosteroid microneurotrophins, and c) novel NADPH Oxidase (NOX) inhibitors.
G. Liapakis, Ph.D (Associate Professor of Pharmacology)
My scientific interests are focused on elucidating the mode of interaction of ligands with G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and particularly those which bind the corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and angiotensin. Furthermore, I am interested in studying the activation-associated conformational changes in these receptors. These studies will provide us with the information that might lead to the rational design of receptor-selective compounds with predetermined efficacy, among them proteolytically stable non-peptide agonists and/or antagonists.
I. Charalampopoulos, Ph.D (Associate Professor of Pharmacology)
Our research focuses on the study of molecular mechanisms of regeneration and repair of neural tissue, investigating the cellular effects of neurotrophin receptors and the implicated signaling pathways on mature neuronal and glial cells, as well as their precursors, in the adult brain. The laboratory has developed research protocols and novel chemical molecules that act as agonists of neurotrophin receptors, and recently explores their therapeutic efficacy in animal models of Alzheimer’s Disease, as well as in human induced pluripotent stem cells-derived neurons and glia cells.
Laboratory of Neurophysiology
A. Moschovakis,(Professor)
– Website: http://www.iacm.forth.gr/index_main.php?l=en&group=5&page=about Study of the structure and function of the central nervous system focused on eye movements and with particular emphasis on: – Recording and analysis of movements evoked in response to central microstimulation and of movement related spike trains. – Computer assisted light microscopic analysis of neuron morphology. – Simulations of crucial oculomotor structures such as the neural integrator, the burst generator, the metric computers in the superior colliculus and the construction of compartmental models of the neurons that comprise these circuits.
Laboratory of Functional Brain Imagine
V. Raos,(Associate Professor), G. Gregoriou (Associate Professor)
– Website: http://www.iacm.forth.gr/index_main.php?l=en&group=5&page=about
– Investigation of the cortical cerebral pathways associated with voluntary arm-reaching movements of monkeys executing learned visuo-skeletomotor tasks. Representation of the visual and somatosensory guidance of arm movements. – Cortical regions, related to saccadic eye-movements in the monkey brain. How are saccade parameters (direction, amplitude, eye-position and trajectory) coded in distinct cortical areas. – Cortical areas involved in execution and observation of grasping movements. Mirror-neurons circuit in the monkey brain.
Laboratory of Cell Physiology
Y. Dalezios,(Associate Professor)
Study of the synaptic organization of neural networks in cortical and subcortical oculomotor areas/nuclei, the neocortex and hippocampus.
Laboratory of Movement Physiology
V. Raos,(Associate Professor)
– Website: http://physiology.med.uoc.gr/?n=LaboratoryOfMovementPhysiology.Home
Neurophysiology of premotor cortical areas with emphasis on the control of grasping movements.
Laboratory of Physiology of Cognition
G. Gregoriou (Associate Professor)
– Website: http://physiology.med.uoc.gr/?n=LaboratoryOfVisualCognition.Home
Neural mechanisms of selective attention and working memory.
Laboratory of (Bioinformatics, Basic Neuroscience, Molecular Biology – Systems Biology)
(I. Iliopoulos, D. Karagogeos, N. Tavernarakis)
Bioinformatics:
– Website: http://cbg.med.uoc.gr/
Evolution, comparative genomics, microbial evolution, text mining of biological literature, bibliometrics, computational biology.
Basic Neuroscience:
– Website: http://www.imbb.forth.gr/en/research-en/neurosciences/item/70-domna-karagogeos
Molecular and cellular biology of axon guidance and neuronal migration. Role of transcription factors in central nervous system developement. Axoglial interactions and myelination Animal models of de- and remyelination.
Molecular Biology – Systems Biology:
– Website: (Μοριακής Βιολογίας): http://mcb.med.uoc.gr/
– Website: (Molecular Biology – Systems Biology): http://www.tavernarakislab.gr/
Ageing & energy metabolism. Sensory transduction & integration. Neurodegeneration & Necrotic cell death. More specifically, neuronal function and dysfunction, using the nematode Caenorhabditiselegans as a model organism. Molecular mechanisms of necrotic cell death in neurodegeneration and senescent decline.Molecular mechanisms of sensory transduction and integration by the nervous system.Interplay between cellular metabolism and ageing.Development of novel genetic tools for C. elegans research.
Laboratory of Medical Chemistry
G. Mavrothalassitis,(Professor)
– Website: http://www.imbb.forth.gr/imbb-people/index.php/en/mavrothalassitis-laboratory-home
Decipher the role of ERF in multiple diseases, as craniosynostosis, prostate cancer, anemia etc. Elucidate of the molecular mechanism contributing in the disease development and explore therapies based on the regulation of ERF transcriptional repressor activity.
Division of Internal Medicine
LABORATORY OF MOLECULAR & CELLULAR PULMONOLOGY
(N. Tzanakis, S. Schiza, K. Αntoniou)
Post graduate students: 10, Technicians: 4
The Department has published approximately 200 peer-reviewed papers on respiratory physiology and mechanics, diseases of the pleura, interstitial diseases, pharmacological clinical trials, quality of life, and molecular lung biology. Currently we are working on the following research projects: Somatic acquired mutations [instability of the microsatellite DNA, and/or loss of heterozygosity] in sputum cells of patients with COPD & Asthma. Our working hypothesis is that chronic airway inflammation and increased oxidative burden which are present in COPD & Severe Asthma have the potential to result in genetic alterations due to inactivation of the DNA mismatch Repair system (MMR). B) Apoptosis and genetic instability in COPD. Recent data suggest that abnormal apoptotic events subvert cellular homeostasis and may play a primary role in the destruction of lung tissue, leading to emphysema. Cigarette smoking is the primary cause for this vicious cascade of events through weakening all protective-defensive mechanisms of the cell leading to DNA damage of various extensions. In smokers who develop COPD there is an activation of adaptive immunity, with an infiltration of CD4 and primarily CD8 cells which are cytotoxic to epithelial cells through the release of granzymes and perforin, which can further induce apoptosis of alveolar cells. The objective of this project is to evaluate the expression levels of certain apoptotic markers in COPD and their association with genomic instability. C) Pathophysiology of Obstructive Sleep Apneea Hypopnea Syndrome (OSAHS) and Cardiological consequences. OSAHS is a systemic rather than a local disease with familial predisposition and severe cardiological consequences. We currently focus our research to polyparametric analysis of OSAHS familial predisposition, studying several genes polymorphisms. In parallel inflammatory biomarkers evaluation is carried out related to vascular remodelling. D) Investigation of angiogenetic mechanisms in IPF, sarcoidosis and connective tissue disorders with interstitial lung involvement. The aim of this study is to evaluate the expression of cardinal growth factors (TGF-β1, CTGF, VEGF), chemokines (CXC angiogenic/ angiostatic), in order to identify alterations that maybe implicated in the pathogenesis of fibrotic lung disorders.
Dermatology LABORATORY
(K. Krasagakis, S. Krüger-Krasagakis)
PhD Students=7, Researcher=1, Biologist=1
Study of the action mechanism of biologicals in inflammatory diseases of the skin. Study of photobiology processes, and of mechanisms that contribute to the carcinogenesis of cutaneous tumors. In the LABORATORY seven (7) PhD students from medicine and basic sciences are trained, five (5) of them by Androniki Tosca, Professor in Dermatology and Venereology, one (1) by Konstantin Krasagakis, Associate Professor in Dermatology and Venereology, and one (1) by Sabine-Krüger-Krasagakis, Assistant Professor in Dermatology and Venereology.
NEPHROLOGY LABORATOTY
(E. Dafnis)
In the nephrology laboratory are conducted the following projects: Study of protein expression of slit diaphragm proteins in experimental model of SEL nephritis and the effect on them the treatment with different therapeutical protocols. Study of podocyte injury in experimental model of membranous nephropathy and the effect of treatment with rapamycinand interferon β1α on it. Study of the mechanisms of rapamycin nephrotoxicity in mice. Study of physical properties of the arteries in patients with chronic kidney disease.
GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY RESEARCH LABORATOR
(E. Kouroumalis, Ι. Mouzas, Ι. Koutroubakis)
– Website: http://gastroenterology.med.uoc.gr/
The purpose of the Gastroenterology & Hepatology Research Laboratory is to conduct translational research in mucosal and liver immunology, taking part in global efforts towards personalized medicine.
LABORATORY RHEUMATOLOGY CLINICAL AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY
(P. Sidiropoulos, G. Bertsias)
– Website: http://www.rheumatology-uoc.gr/
The Laboratory of Rheumatology, Autoimmunity and Inflammation together with the Affiliated Clinical Research Unit at the University Hospital, represent an interdisciplinary group of physician scientists, bio-scientists, clinicians and nurses that invesatigates medical inflammation in the context of autoinflammatory-autoimmune rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis [RA]), systemic lupus erythematosus [SLE], familial Mediterranean fever.
HAEMATOLOGY LABORATORY
(H. Papadaki, Ch. Pontikoglou)
– Website: https://honos.admin.uoc.gr/haemopoiesis/
Haemopoiesis LABORATORY: [PhD students = 5, Research Associates = 2, Post Doc = 2] which is focused on: (a) the pathophysiology of chronic idiopathic neutropenia at cellular and molecular level with an emphasis on the role of T-cell system, (b) the study of haemopoietic stem cells and their interactions with the bone marrow microenvironment in patients with T-cell mediated bone marrow failure syndromes, (c) the study of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in autoimmune and haematologic diseases with special interest in the investigation of their number, the molecular and functional characteristics and their immunoregulatory properties.
Haematology Clinical LABORATORY: [PhD students = 5, Post Doc = 1] which is focused on (a) the effect of flavinoids in the differentiation and secretion of inducers from leukaemic mastocytes and basophils, (b) the study of angiogenesis in patients with multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas, B- and T- skin lymphomas.
ONCOLOGY LABORATORY
(D. Mavroudis, S. Aggelaki, J. Souglakos)
Post-doctoral investigators (5), Biologists (7), Biochemists (2), Post-graduate students (3), Pre-graduate students (4), Technicians (5), Secretaries (2)
Operates as lab of “Tumor Cell Biology” and its research activities include the following: detection and characterization of micrometastatic tumor cells in the blood and the bone marrow of patients with breast, lung and colon cancer. Monitoring of the immune responses and anti-tumoral activity following immunization with a telomerase-derived vaccine using optimized cryptic peptides in patients with chemotherapy-resistant tumors. Tumor pharmacogenomics by gene expression and mutational analysis of genes associated with resistance or sensitivity to chemotherapy and biological agents. Signal transduction through growth factor receptors in lung and breast cancer cell lines. Effect of growth factor receptor inhibitors in intracellular signalling, proliferation rate, cell cycle and survival of cancer cells.
CARDIOLOGY LABORATORY
(F. Parthenakis, E. Simantirakis, G. Kochiadakis, Em. Skalides)
– Website: Molecular Cardiology Laboratory
Postgraduate students=5, Technicians=2, Postdoctoral researchers=2
Pathophysiology and treatment of atrial fibrillation with emphasis on the evaluation of changes in the electrophysiological properties of atrial myocardium after the cardioversion of chronic atrial fibrillation. Pathophysiology and treatment of ventricular extrasystoles with modern systems for electro-anatomical mapping. Study of cardiac arrhythmias in patients with sleep apnoea syndrome and the role of cardiac pacing in the treatment of the syndrome. Effect of intracoronary stents on growth factors and indexes of inflammation. Study of endothelial function in the manifestation and progression of coronary artery disease, the physiology of collateral circulation in patients with coronary artery disease, the physiology of reperfusion of atrial myocardium, and the effect of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation on reperfusion of the atria. The biophysical properties of the proximal aorta in specific population groups are studied ultrasonographically using a pioneering method. In addition, exercise capacity, neurohormonal load and coronary reserve are studied in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. Also, the genetic basis of cardiovascular diseases is studied in collaboration with molecular cardiology centres in Europe and America. Furthermore, we have established the Molecular Cardiology Laboratory, where gene expression analysis and progenitor cell studies are performed, in order to approach the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases by an interdisciplinary manner.
Division of Laboratory Medicine
Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry
(M. Venihaki, C. Tsatsanis)
Graduate students:4 Postdoctoral scientists: 3
Analysis of the involvement of stress-related neuropeptides in inflammation, wound healing and cancer; Crosstalk between the neuroendocrine and immune systems; Effects of neuropeptides on adipocyte function and homeostasis; Molecular mechanisms of macrophage activation and inactivation.
– Website: http://clinchem.med.uoc.gr/
Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis (CMMP)
(E. Skoulika, G. Chamilos, A. Psaroulaki)
Research at Laboratory of CMMP focuses on:
- Cutting edge basic and translational research in the following areas:
- Host defense and fungal pathogenesis
- Parasitology
- Bacterial infections
- Rickettsial and Vectorborne Zoonotic Diseases
- Environmental Microbiology
– Website: http://www.cmmp.med.uoc.gr
Laboratory of Clinical Virology
( G. Sourvinos, A. Zafeiropoulos)
PhD students=18, Technicians=3, Post-doctoral researchers=3, Teaching Associate=1
1) Oncogenes and viral oncogenesis. 2) HPV in human malignancies 3) Genetic polymorphisms and susceptibility in ΗΙV infection. 4) Epidemiological study of Hepatitis B and C viral incidence in the Cretan population. 5) Herpes virus DNA replication 6) Regulation and localization of herpes virus gene expression 7) Activation of signal transduction pathways upon Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection. 8) Expression of cellular and viral microRNAs during HCMV infection
– Website: Laboratory of Clinical Virology – Research interests
Laboratories of Experimental Endocrinology & Clinical Immunology
(M. Kampa, G. Notas)
Postdoctoral Students=2, Assistants=1, PostDoc fellows=2
Identification and molecular/cellular mechanisms involved in rapid (extranuclear) steroid actions. Basic and translational research for their possible implication as novel diagnostic and/or therapeutic agents in hormone-sensitive cancer. Iteraction with growth factors (erythropoietin). Interaction of the TNF superfamily members with steroid ligands/receptors and growth factors in hormone-sensitive cancer. Identification and effects of natural or hemi-synthetic polyphenols on the growth, differentiation and fate of cancer cells, and study of their mechanisms of action. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of neuropeptide (opioids and natural or synthetic analogs) control of cancer cell fate, with special emphasis in hormone-dependent cancer.
Laboratories of Hematology
(Ch. Kalpadaki)
Research of Hematology Laboratory focuses on the study of:
1. Primary hemostasis disorders in patients with cardiac diseases
2. Coagulation disorders – thrombophilia
3. T-cell populations by flow cytometry in patients with chronic neutropenia
4. Detection of prognostic factors by flow cytometry in patients with lymphoproliferative disorders
5. Detection of MRD by 8-color flow cytometry in patients with hematology malignancies
6. Identification of genes with diagnostic and prognostic value in patients with hematology malignancies .
Division of Morphology
LABORATORY OF ANATOMY
(J. Tsiaoussis)
Postdoctoral fellows=1, PhD candidates=2, EDIP=1, ETEP=1
The main focus of the Laboratory’s research activity in the last years is the translational research regarding colorectal cancer. In particular, the ongoing research programs and protocols target the detection and the study of possible biomarkers such as the telomerase activity, the micronuclei frequency, the length of telomeres, and the intestinal microbiota in various patient categories with colorectal cancer. In parallel, the possible association of the observed alterations with the response to treatment (comparison with existing, well-established in clinical practice, prognostic biomarkers in addition to the imaging study of the treatment response which is part of the “routine” follow-up of these patients). Specifically, regarding the intestinal microbiota, its association with the oral and oropharyngeal microbiota is investigated along with its alterations before and after the application of various diagnostic and invasive interventions on the colon and the rectum.
– Website: http://anatomy.med.uoc.gr/
LABORATORY OF FORENSIC SCIENCE
(E. Kranioti)
Application of Postmortem Imaging in forensic investigation of death and positive identification. Study of violent deaths in relation to socioeconomic changes of the last decades in Crete. Development of methods for the reconstruction of biological profile (sex, age, stature, origin) from the examination of the skeleton based on morphological, histomorphometric and physicochemical variables. Experimental investigation of trauma mechanisms (blunt force, ballistic) with the application of a load in synthetic surrogates of human anatomical regions (e.g. head). Reconstruction of homicide cases of historical/archaeological interest.
– Website: http://histology.med.uoc.gr/
LABORATORY OF HISTOLOGY & EMBRYOLOGY
(D. Nikitovits-Tzanakaki)
Postgraduate students=5, Technicians=1, Postdoctoral investigators=2, EEDIP=1
Study of the roles that the Small Leucine Rich Proteoglycans of the extracellular matrix have in biology. The effects of Decorin on the EGFR-related signaling pathways in human osteosarcoma cells. The actions of Lumican on cell proliferation, migration and chemotaxis of melanoma, osteosarcoma and colon cancer cells. The pericellular matrix of cancer cells. The analysis of the hyaluronan and versican synthesis pathways in fibrosarcoma cells. The regulation of the hyaluronan and versican synthesis by TGFb, FGF and PDGF-BB growth factors. The importance of glycosaminoglycans in cancer. The roles of chondroitin sulfate A on fibrosarcoma cell proliferation, migration and chemotaxis. The effects of chondroitin sulfate A on PDGF signaling pathways in cells of fibroblastic origin. The roles of heparin on colon cancer cells. Membrane proteoglycans. The specific effects of syndecan 1 subdomains on cell proliferation, adhesion and migration.
PATHOLOGY LABORATORY
(E. Stathopoulos, M. Tzardi, A. Kalogeraki)
Postdoctoral researchers (1) and Postdoctoral students (7): 8
Scientific interests and Research: Sentinel Lymph Node and Micrometastases in Breast Cancer (prognosis and prediction). Comparative study of mutations, amplification and expression of EGFR and HER-2 in breast and other carcinomas. Molecular Markers in prognosis and prediction of Breast Cancer and molecules-targets of hormonal and targeted therapies [ER (a/b), PR(A/B), HER-2, signal transduction molecules]. Triple negative carcinomas of breast (immunophenotypic and molecular studies). Breast Cancer angiogenesis and molecules involved. Growth factor receptors (EGFR, VEGFR) and mutations of K-Ras in Colorectal Carcinomas (prognosis, prediction and targeting therapy). K-Ras and MET mutations, and ERCC1 expression in Gastric Carcinomas–Research for targets of targeting therapy. Expression of molecules Cyclin-D1, Cyclin E, Cyclin A in correlation with their inhibitors p21, p27 and p16 in colorectal Carcinomas (prognosis and prediction). Cell proliferation and apoptosis of tumor cells in peritoneal effusions. Molecules involved in tumor progression and metastasis (immunophenotypic and molecular studies). Molecular Pathology Techniques, Methods and Tools of research: Immunohistology/Immunocytology and Histochemistry. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). Real Time PCR, RT-PCR. In situ Hybridization. Tumor banks (frozen tissues, cDNA)
LABORATORY OF TOXICOLOGY
(A. Tsatsakis)
Ph.D. Candidates =5, Technicians=2, Postdoctoral fellows=3
Among the research interests of the lab, the following fields are included: Assessment of population chronic past or recent exposure to pesticides and environmental pollutants using segmental hair analysis. Correlations between exposure and health complaints, especially those concerning pregnant women, and embryos, as well as those of population suffering from neurological disorders. Assessment of exposure to drugs of abuse, based on laboratory findings from analyses of biological samples like urine, blood and hair, using chromatography-mass spectrometry. Extraction and identification of several xenobiotics and their metabolites from biological samples. Polymorphism studies of PON and CYP genes in population groups with occupational exposure to pesticides. Basic equipment: LC-MS and GC-MS/MS (Shimadzu, Thermo-Finnigan).
Division of Mother and Child Health
Laboratory of the Pediatric Hematology / Oncology Department
(M. Kalmanti, E. Stiakaki, H. Dimitriou)
Post-graduated students= 11, Lab technicians= 1, Post- doctoral researchers= 1
The research interests of the Research Laboratories of Hemopoietic Stem Cells Transplantation and Tissue Cultures includes: Immunophenotypic characterization of cord blood stem cells and their ex vivo expansion. In vitro hematopoiesis of children with malignant diseases. Qualitative evaluation of stem and progenitors cells (bone marrow or peripheral blood derived) and their in vitro expansion. Gene expression studies of genes involved in the pathogenesis and course of childhood malignancies. Study of the plasticity of Hemopoietic stem cells and the use of bone marrow derived stem cells for tissue repair. The role of spectral imaging in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. In vitro study and expansion of mesenchymal cells. The role of apoptosis in childhood acute leukemia. Detection and study of the role of gene polymorphisms in hematologic malignancies of childhood. Characterization of endothelial cells and study of their role in benign disease as well as childhood malignancies. Study of cardiotoxicity in children with malignant diseases. Study of treatment early and late effects in children and adolescents with neoplastic diseases.
Laboratory of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
(G. Briassoulis)
– Website: http://briassoulislab.med.uoc.gr/
The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit clinical research interests are focused on sepsis, trauma, respiratory distress and other stress situations. In particular research projects are dealing with nutrition and immune-nutrition in critically ill children, with energy expenditure measurements and relation to multiple organ failure and inflammatory process, and with the role of heat shock proteins in shock and stress situations. In collaboration with the Clinical Chemistry Lab of the University of Crete PICU expands its research interests on the role of immune-nutrition – especially glutamine – and hormonal and inflammatory indices in animal models, including those which belong to the HPAA and chaperokines, on several physiological stressful situations such as the inflammatory stress and sepsis.
Division of Neurology and Sensory Organs
NEUROSURGICAL LABORATORY
(A.Vakis)
Study of genetic profile of human brain tumors. In collaboration with the Clinical Virology laboratory of the University of Crete. Detection of viral DNA in human brain gliomas. In collaboration with the Clinical Virology laboratory of the University of Crete. Demonstration of molecular signatures and markers for the categorization of brain tumors with the use of metagenomic techniques. In cooperation with the Laboratory of Metagenomic Research at FO.R.T.H. (Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas). Demonstration of genetic signatures of hypoxia in cultures of human brain cell cultures with the use of DNA microarrays. In collaboration with the Laboratory of Metagenomic Research of FO.R.T.H. (Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas). Pluripotent stem cells of brain tumors. Study of genes and new technologies in the service of prognosis and therapy. In cooperation with FO.R.T.H. (Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas).
LABORATORY OF OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGY
(G. VELEGRAKIS, J. BIZAKIS, P. CHRISTODOULOU, EM. HELIDONIS)
POSTGRATUATED STUDENTS: 5, TECHNICIANS: 1 Assistant Personnel: 1
Research Laboratories of Voice and Swallowing Disorders and Voice and Signal Analysis which research includes: Research for the use and appliance of various Laser types in Otorhinolaryngology. The effect of Laser CO2 on cartilage cells as well as the evaluation of Excimer Laser in ENT diseases. A new piston of stapedectomy named “Velegrakis piston”. Research with purpose the qualitive and quantitive specification of pollen with allergic impact in the major cities of Crete. Development of new methods of otoplasty and otosurgery for the treatment and rehabilitation of the patients with dysplasia of the ears and hearing disorders. Development of structures to analyze and treat pathological vocal signs. The effect of electromagnetic radiation on the organ of hearing and equilibrium. Designing of special surgery tools for the safety and improvement of surgical procedures of the Head and Neck.
EYE LABORATORY
(I. Pallikaris, M Tsilimbaris, C. Siganos)
Postgraduate students = 34, Technicians = 7, Postdoctoral Researchers = 5
Corneal refractive surgery. Improvement of accuracy and safety of refractive operations. Corneal microsurgery. Therapeutic manipulation of corneal elastic properties. Intracorneal inlays. Adaptive optics assisted in-vivo imaging of the eye. Electrophysiology and response times of the optical system. Techniques for assessing the refractive status of the eye. New approaches in eye histology. Computer simulation of optical systems; simulation of refractive errors. Design and manufacturing of microsurgical and optomechanical devices for use in ophthalmology. Ocular hydrodynamics. Ophthalmic applications of photodynamic therapy. Pharmacological approaches for macular diseases. Ocular drug toxicity investigation. Retina neuroprotection. Evaluation of macular pigment in macular diseases. Correlation of ocular elasticity with macular pathology. Thrombolytic approaches in retinal vascular diseases. DNA Bank for retinal diseases; genotyping/phenotyping of retinal diseases. Use of ultrasound enhancement for evaluation of ocular circulation. Use of stem cells for ocular surface diseases. New approaches in corneal transplantation. Adjuvant use of topical anti-metabolites for ocular surface neoplasia.
Neurology Laboratory
(A. Plaitakis, G. Amoiridis, C. Spanaki.)
Postdoctoral Fellows = 3; Graduate students = 4; ΠΔ407=1; Technicians=1.
Two Research Laboratories are Operational. The first concerns the Molecular Basis of Neurologic Disorders and interested in deregulation of glutamatergic mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases. In this context the Laboratory has been investigating the structure and function of human glutamate dehydrogenases (housekeeping and neural-testicular tissue specific) and their involvement in human disorders. The Laboratory in conducting epidemiological studies in the Cretan population related to Multiple Sclerosis, dementias, movement disorders (Parkinson’s disease, PSP, idiopathic tremor) epilepsy and cerebral vascular accidents. Patient Registries and DNA banks for these disorders have been established. Detailed family trees of patients affected by these disorders have been constructed and family members are being studied using molecular genetic approaches. The second, concerns Clinical Neurophysiology issues in health and disease. Neurophysiological studies focus on the innervations of the autochonous (intrinsic) muscles of the extremities and on disorders affecting the peripheral and central nervous system, including HGPPS, Multiple sclerosis, Motor Neuron Diseases, etc.
Division of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Laboratory of Department of Psychiatry
(P. Bitsios)
– Website: http://bitsioslab.med.uoc.gr/
Postgraduate students=6, Research Assistants=2, Post-doctoral students=2
Behavioral, psychopharmacological and neuropsychological investigation of sensorimotor gating (prepulse inhibition) in human subjects. Behavioral genetics using endophenotypes for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Development of experimental models of anxiety and arousal, and emotional information processing in human subjects.
Division of Radiology
Laboratory of Medical Imaging
(A. Karantanas, D. Tsetis, A. Hatzidakis, M. Raissaki, E. Papadaki)
Inflammatory and neoplastic diseases of the small bowel.
Bone marrow disorders.
Imaging and image guided treatment of sports injuries.
Imaging of rheumatological disorders.
Spinal imaging and intervention.
Imaging and interventional procedures of pancreatic and biliary disorders.
Diagnosis and percutaneous treatment of vascular disorders.
MRI of abdominal disorders.
Newer MRI techniques in imaging of CNS infection demyelination, neoplasms and epilepsy. Contrast media applications in ultrasonography.
MR urography applications in children.
Radiation protection in pediatric CT examinations.
CT perfusion applications.
Laboratory of Medical Physics
(J. Damilakis, K. Perisinakis, T. Maris, M. Mazonakis)
– Website: http://medicalphysics.med.uoc.gr/
Development of methods for the estimation of radiation dose and risk
– to conceptus from radiological exposures performed on the expectant mother
– to patients undergoing radiological procedures
– to occupationally exposed medical stuff
Exposure parameter optimization in radiography, fluoroscopy and CT imaging.
Monte Carlo simulation of photon beams from linear accelerators for the radiation dose calculation and the evaluation of dose distributions in pregnant and/or pediatric patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment.
Gel dosimetry techniques for radiotherapy treatment planning verification.
Development of MR maging protocols for the quantitative assessment of osteoporosis and hemosiderosis in multi-transfused thalassemic patients.
Design and development of quality control procedures and software tools for Magnetic Resonance Imaging systems.
Development and evaluation of computerized methods for organ volume measurements on CT and/or MR images.
Leakage determination of chemotherapeutic agents during isolated limb perfusion using the radioisotopic method.
Optimization of bone densitometry methods (DXA, QCT, QUS, MR)
Laboratory of Nuclear Medicine
(S. Koukouraki)
Evaluation of response to chemoradiotherapy. Labelling of several chemotherapeutics in collaboration with the research center «DEMOKRITOS». Scintimammography and lymphatic mapping using the radioisotopic probe. Myocardial perfusion SPECT in patients with CAD. Radiolabeled WBCs in Inflammatory bowel disease. 123I MIBG scintigraphy: cardiac adrenergic imaging in Heart Failure. Diabetes Mellitus and Hyperlipidemia. Scintigraphic evaluation of rennin-angiotensin dependent hypertension. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of brain SPECT in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Differential diagnosis Parkinson’s disease vs Parkinson plus syndromes using combined radioisotopique techniques. Application of brain perfusion SPECT using HMPAO in patients with NPSLE. Combined Diffusion- Perfusion MR and SPECT HMPAO in patients with neuropsychiatric lupus erythematous. Radioisotopique techniques for the evaluation of gastric and intestinal motility after sleeve gastrectomy. Brain tumors. Evaluation of grading between low and high grade glioblastomas compared to the histopathological data. Screening for hepatopulmonary syndrome in cirrhotic patients. Correlation with clinical data. Combined 99mTc-besilesomab and bone marrow imaging in diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection.
Laboratory of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology
(H. Varveris)
The academic – research interests of the Department (5 Specialized Physicians, 2 Trainee Doctors) are focused on:
A) The use of Concurrent Chemoradiation for any kind of tumors treated radically and/or with an Adjuvant intent (External Beam Radiotherapy – Brachytherapy after Surgery and/or Chemotherapy)
– Carcinoma of the G.I. Tract (Esophagus, Stomach, Pancreas, Hepatobiliary, Colon, Rectum)
– Head and Neck Tumors
– Gliomas and other CNS tumors
– Thoracic Neoplasms (Lung Cancer, Tumors of the Mediastinum)
– Genitourinary Tumors (Testis, Prostate, Penus, Bladder, Kidney)
– Gynecological Neoplasms (Cervical, Endometrial, Vulvar, Vaginal and Ovarian Carcinomas)
– Breast tumors
– Soft tissue Sarcomas
– Childhood Cancers
– Lymphomas and Haematologic Malignancies
B) In addition, research has been made regarding the concomitant use of Irradiation to Monoclonal Antibodies (moAb) raised against EGFR – Receptor for Head & Neck / Breast / Lung / and Uterine Cervix Carcinoma Patients
C) In collaboration with the Clinical Oncology Department, Phase I/II trials have been conducted concerning Radiation treatment of Gliomas and Colorectal Carcinomas concurrently or sequentially with Bevacizumab (a VEGF – R moAb).
D) The experimental use of Immunotherapy for patients with Lung Cancer, Melanoma and Grawitz tumors of the Kidney.
E) Moreover, in combination with the Medical Physics Department, Studies have been made regarding Radiation doses to conceptus following different Radiotherapy schedules and/or Radiodiagnostic procedures, to estimate the corresponding Radiogenic risk.
F) Furthermore, with the Physicists, the RT Therapists, Nurses, and the Administrator employee, a Quality Assurance Committee has been formed to monitor the quality and appropriateness of patient care, regarding Equipment and Treatment Outcomes as well as the Frequency and Seriousness of treatment induced sequelae.
Division of Social Medicine
LABORATORY OF THE CLINIC OF SOCIAL & PREVENTIVE MEDICINE
(A. Philalithis)
Post-graduate students: 10, Technicians: 15, Post-doctoral students: 1
– Nutrition and health: How does the Mediterranean diet affect reproductive health, allergies and asthma in children, metabolic syndrome. Effect of nutrition in pregnancy and child health. Obesity, prevalence and aetiology, physical activity. Metabolic syndrome. Early biological and molecular markers of effects of nutrition and food contaminants on health. Long-term health effects of nutrition (cardiovascular system). Evaluation of health education in schools. Chemical pollutants and health: Drinking water contaminants and effects on new-borns and children (e.g. underweight, early pregnancy, asthma). Air- pollution and effects on new-borns and early childhood. Hormone disrupters (dioxins, phthalates and pesticides) and effects on male genitourinary system, allergies and neurodevelopment. Exposure to heavy metals and health. Interaction of chemical exposures and genetic factors (polymorphisms).Psycho-social factors: Psycho-social factors in the work environment. Their relation with musculoskeletal disorders, other physical symptoms and disability. Psycho-social factors and mother and child health. Prevalence and cause of postpartum depression. Effect of social capital on mother and child health. Psycho-social stress effects in adolescents. Evaluation and aetiology of neurodevelopment in children.Smoking and health: Effects of mothers’ smoking and passive smoking on newborns and children. Evaluation of biological genotoxic markers (e.g. Micronuclei in cord blood) in relation to smoking.
HEALTH PLANNING UNIT
(A. Philalithis)
LABORATORY OF THE CLINIC OF SOCIAL & FAMILY MEDICINE
(Ch. Lionis)
Involvement of Primary Health Care services in dealing with partner violence and development of tools and means for quality of care improvement on the basis of European experience. Study of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease management in Primary Health Care and General Practice. Student practice in Primary Health Care. Epidemiological and molecular study of Hepatitis viruses in a well defined rural area of Crete. Iron deficiency anaemia in Primary Health Care: Study in select General Medicine practices in Crete, Greece. Biological, psychological and social determinants of coronary disease among a low risk population in rural Crete, Greece. Epidemiologic study of herpes zoster. Vaccination coverage of first year students at the University of Crete and clinical effectiveness of interventions aimed towards their needs.
BIOSTATISTICS LABORATORY
(G. Chlouverakis, J. Moschandreas)
The Biostatistics Lab provides guidance in the design, implementation, analysis and interpretation of biomedical investigations, and aims to ensure that the results are of the highest scientific integrity and meet rigorous biostatistical standards. Research at the Biostatistics Lab is undertaken across a wide range of topics in medical statistics, in collaboration with other units within the medical school. As a participant in collaborative studies, the lab contributes to: study design; development of data collection forms; data management with emphasis on protocol adherence and data quality; development of new statistical methodology; statistical analysis of results; and preparation of scientific reports and publications. Recent work has involved mixed effects modelling in longitudinal data analysis, validation studies and the analysis of clustered data. Current independent research being undertaken is in the field of dietary exposure assessment in nursery school children in collaboration with nine other European countries. Faculty members at the Biostatistics Lab also contribute to the advancement of the quality of research by teaching Biostatistics both at the undergraduate and postgraduate level.
HISTORY OF MEDICINE & MEDICAL ETHICS RESEARCH LABORATORY
(C. Trompoukis)
Paleoradiology and palaeopathology: Application of modern medical imaging methods, primarily computed tomography and microtomography (micro-CT) for imaging the details of bone structure and its disorders. The role of imaging results in the development and history of diseases. History of illnesses: The role of an interdisciplinary approach in the evolution of diseases and the effects of illnesses on global history. Illness as a factor in historical and cultural development. Medicine as a factor in the formation of historical conditions. Documentation and creation of a complete digital database for Greek medicine, with the aim of linking it to similar international databases. The role of the history of medicine in the formation of the medical thought of the contemporary physician. Showcasing the contribution of Greek medicine during the ancient and medieval periods for the formation of contemporary medical thought. The role of Byzantine medicine in resolving great medical issues.
Division of Surgery
Laboratory OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY AND BARIATRIC SURGERY
(J. Melissas, E.de Bree, J. Romanos, E. Sanidas, D.D. Tsiftsis)
Postgraduate students=5, Τechnicians=2
Surgical treatment of type II diabetes. Study of the quality of life after the surgical treatment of obesity. Study on the European Centres of Excellence for the ensuring of safety and effectiveness of metabolic surgery. Study of the importance of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) in the treatment of breast cancer. Study of the importance of Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) in the treatment of melanoma.
Laboratory OF ORTHOPAEDICS AND TRAUMATOLOGY
(P. Katonis, G. Kontakis, A. Hadjipavlou)
The role of growth factors and the bone morphogenetic proteins in ligamentum flavum degeneration. Recording and assessment of kinesiometric characteristics for the evaluation of the musculoskeletal system in athletes. Developement and evaluation of the entropimetry as diagnostic tool in spinal diseases. Assessment of the lumbo-sacral curve and its relation with osteoarthriris and osteoporosis. The role of growth factors in proliferation, invasion and migration of the osteosarcoma cells. Study of the expression of the angiogenetic growth factors and metallo-proteinases in lumbar disc hernia.Treatment of trochanteric hip fractures with intra- or extra-medullary fixation systems. Study of the neural elements of the shoulder joint with immuno-histochemical methods.
Laboratory OF UROLOGY
(F. Sofras)
Study evaluating the correlation between obstructive sleep apnoea-hypopnea syndrome and erectile dysfunction. The role of inflammation and the response to therapy with CPAP and low-dose daily todalatil. Combined T2 –Weighted and Diffusion-Weighted MRI for staging of Prostate Cancer –Comparison of the findings with histopathological assessment of the retro pubic radical prostatectomy specimens.
LABORATORIES OF INTENSIVE CARE MEDICINE
The Animal Laboratory of ICU studies the mechanisms of acute lung injury and ventilator-induced lung injury using animal models. The Laboratory of Sleep Studies of the Critically Ill studies sleep quality and disorders of ICU patients. The Laboratory of Respiratory System Mechanics studies the physiology of the respiratory system in mechanically ventilated patients and lung models, and the mechanisms of ventilator-induced lung injury.
Laboratory Of Experimental Oncology
(St. Baritaki)
– Website: http://leo.med.uoc.gr/
