Role of miRNAs in the enterocolitis syndrome due to food proteins and their potential as diagnostic and predictive targets.
Authorship
A.A.M.
Master in Biomedical Research
A.A.M.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) is a potentially severe non-IgE-mediated food allergy whose pathophysiology is still poorly understood, mainly affecting young children. Symptoms may be mistaken for sepsis or acute gastroenteritis, which may lead to ineffective, costly or even unnecessary invasive interventions. Expression profiles of miRNAs could be useful in identifying biomarkers associated with this disease. In this study, blood samples were taken from 29 patients with suspected FPIES who had a moderate or severe reaction during the trigger food challenge test. Expression profiles of miRNAs were analysed at three time points: before the challenge test (TP1), during the reaction (TP2) and four hours later (TP3) using an nCounter NanoString miRNA panel. Longitudinal analysis revealed a heterogeneous response at baseline that evolved into a more consistent pattern at TP3, indicating that it is dynamic and evolves over time. A total of 11 miRNAs (9 up-regulated and 2 down-regulated) were identified as showing the greatest changes in expression. The study of the molecular pathways involved revealed that these miRNAs play an important role in the TGF-beta signalling pathway and in the differentiation of T lymphocytes during the allergic reaction to FPIES. This work has allowed us to identify miRNAs that undergo significant changes in their expression throughout the reaction, with the potential to be used as biomarkers to help differentiate FPIES from other pathologies. Furthermore, the analysis of the pathways involved offers new opportunities to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) is a potentially severe non-IgE-mediated food allergy whose pathophysiology is still poorly understood, mainly affecting young children. Symptoms may be mistaken for sepsis or acute gastroenteritis, which may lead to ineffective, costly or even unnecessary invasive interventions. Expression profiles of miRNAs could be useful in identifying biomarkers associated with this disease. In this study, blood samples were taken from 29 patients with suspected FPIES who had a moderate or severe reaction during the trigger food challenge test. Expression profiles of miRNAs were analysed at three time points: before the challenge test (TP1), during the reaction (TP2) and four hours later (TP3) using an nCounter NanoString miRNA panel. Longitudinal analysis revealed a heterogeneous response at baseline that evolved into a more consistent pattern at TP3, indicating that it is dynamic and evolves over time. A total of 11 miRNAs (9 up-regulated and 2 down-regulated) were identified as showing the greatest changes in expression. The study of the molecular pathways involved revealed that these miRNAs play an important role in the TGF-beta signalling pathway and in the differentiation of T lymphocytes during the allergic reaction to FPIES. This work has allowed us to identify miRNAs that undergo significant changes in their expression throughout the reaction, with the potential to be used as biomarkers to help differentiate FPIES from other pathologies. Furthermore, the analysis of the pathways involved offers new opportunities to improve the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Direction
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Tutorships)
GOMEZ CARBALLA, ALBERTO (Co-tutorships)
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Tutorships)
GOMEZ CARBALLA, ALBERTO (Co-tutorships)
Court
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
Monoclonal antibody of pTau as a therapy in Alzheimer’s disease.
Authorship
A.A.T.
Master in Biomedical Research
A.A.T.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Moreover, the clinical consequences of this condition represent one of the leading causes of mortality and disability in developed countries. It is important to highlight that Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of two key proteins that trigger brain damage and progressive cognitive decline: Bamyloid peptide (AB) and Tau protein. Both proteins are known to form toxic aggregates that initiate a cascade of severe molecular and cellular alterations. At the cellular level, dysfunction is observed in the endocytic and autophagic pathways, along with increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), plasma membrane alterations, dysregulation of membrane potential, and damage to various organelles such as mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. On the other hand, at the extracellular level, there is an exacerbated activation of the inflammatory response and disturbances in the concentration of several neurotransmitters, as a result of damage to multiple brain regions. Tau protein also exhibits complex physiological functions: it interacts with microtubule-associated proteins, synaptic elements, as well as DNA and RNA. These interactions are modulated by post-translational modifications, which are crucial both for its normal function and its dysfunction in the pathological context. Additionally, Tau displays prion-like properties, allowing it to propagate pathologically between neurons and thereby contribute to disease progression. Currently, the treatments available for Alzheimer’s disease are purely symptomatic, based on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors or NmethylDaspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists. However, in recent years, new therapeutic strategies based on monoclonal antibodies have begun to emerge, offering a promising alternative. In this context, the NEURAL group at IDIS, as part of the development of a European project coordinated by Dr. Tomás Sobrino, has developed the B6 monoclonal antibody, specifically targeting three phosphorylation sites of the Tau protein. This antibody has been evaluated in murine models of Alzheimer’s disease, demonstrating its clinical potential. To this end, various biomarkers of damage and neurodegeneration were analysed using advanced proteomic and analytical techniques, with the aim of characterizing the molecular and functional therapeutic effects of B6.
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Moreover, the clinical consequences of this condition represent one of the leading causes of mortality and disability in developed countries. It is important to highlight that Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by the abnormal accumulation of two key proteins that trigger brain damage and progressive cognitive decline: Bamyloid peptide (AB) and Tau protein. Both proteins are known to form toxic aggregates that initiate a cascade of severe molecular and cellular alterations. At the cellular level, dysfunction is observed in the endocytic and autophagic pathways, along with increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), plasma membrane alterations, dysregulation of membrane potential, and damage to various organelles such as mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. On the other hand, at the extracellular level, there is an exacerbated activation of the inflammatory response and disturbances in the concentration of several neurotransmitters, as a result of damage to multiple brain regions. Tau protein also exhibits complex physiological functions: it interacts with microtubule-associated proteins, synaptic elements, as well as DNA and RNA. These interactions are modulated by post-translational modifications, which are crucial both for its normal function and its dysfunction in the pathological context. Additionally, Tau displays prion-like properties, allowing it to propagate pathologically between neurons and thereby contribute to disease progression. Currently, the treatments available for Alzheimer’s disease are purely symptomatic, based on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors or NmethylDaspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonists. However, in recent years, new therapeutic strategies based on monoclonal antibodies have begun to emerge, offering a promising alternative. In this context, the NEURAL group at IDIS, as part of the development of a European project coordinated by Dr. Tomás Sobrino, has developed the B6 monoclonal antibody, specifically targeting three phosphorylation sites of the Tau protein. This antibody has been evaluated in murine models of Alzheimer’s disease, demonstrating its clinical potential. To this end, various biomarkers of damage and neurodegeneration were analysed using advanced proteomic and analytical techniques, with the aim of characterizing the molecular and functional therapeutic effects of B6.
Direction
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Tutorships)
Sobrino Moreiras, Tomás (Co-tutorships)
Ouro Villasante, Alberto (Co-tutorships)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Tutorships)
Sobrino Moreiras, Tomás (Co-tutorships)
Ouro Villasante, Alberto (Co-tutorships)
Court
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
mpact of Omega 3 Supplementation During Pregnancy and Its Influence on the Early Programming of Health and Disease: A Systematic Review
Authorship
A.B.C.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
A.B.C.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:00
07.17.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Pregnancy is a critical window for the fetal programming of health, and supplementation with omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) has been the subject of research due to their influence on fetal development, immunological maturation, and the prevention of chronic diseases. Objective: The main objective of the present systematic review is to synthesize scientific evidence on the impact of omega 3 supplementation during pregnancy and its influence on the early programming of health and disease, analyzing effects on neurodevelopment, physical growth, immunity, and the risk of chronic diseases. Methodology: For these purposes, a review of randomized controlled trials published between 2015 and 2025 is carried out, in which pregnant women received DHA/EPA supplements compared to placebo or low doses. This review follows the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and uses the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Results: The analyzed studies show that high dose supplementation (800 to 1000 mg/day) of DHA significantly reduces the risk of preterm birth, especially in women with low DHA levels at the beginning of pregnancy, while effects on neurodevelopment are variable, showing some improvements in inhibitory control and visual processing, albeit inconsistently. Conclusions: The systematic review suggests that omega 3 supplementation during pregnancy can be a safe and effective intervention to prevent preterm birth and promote certain aspects of neurological development, although the evidence regarding other benefits is limited and heterogeneous.
Introduction: Pregnancy is a critical window for the fetal programming of health, and supplementation with omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) has been the subject of research due to their influence on fetal development, immunological maturation, and the prevention of chronic diseases. Objective: The main objective of the present systematic review is to synthesize scientific evidence on the impact of omega 3 supplementation during pregnancy and its influence on the early programming of health and disease, analyzing effects on neurodevelopment, physical growth, immunity, and the risk of chronic diseases. Methodology: For these purposes, a review of randomized controlled trials published between 2015 and 2025 is carried out, in which pregnant women received DHA/EPA supplements compared to placebo or low doses. This review follows the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and uses the Cochrane RoB 2.0 tool to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. Results: The analyzed studies show that high dose supplementation (800 to 1000 mg/day) of DHA significantly reduces the risk of preterm birth, especially in women with low DHA levels at the beginning of pregnancy, while effects on neurodevelopment are variable, showing some improvements in inhibitory control and visual processing, albeit inconsistently. Conclusions: The systematic review suggests that omega 3 supplementation during pregnancy can be a safe and effective intervention to prevent preterm birth and promote certain aspects of neurological development, although the evidence regarding other benefits is limited and heterogeneous.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
GRAÑA BARCIA, MARIA MARCELINA (Co-tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
GRAÑA BARCIA, MARIA MARCELINA (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Impact of KLF15 on Childhood Obesity
Authorship
H.I.B.B.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
H.I.B.B.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Childhood obesity is currently one of the main public health problems, as it increasingly affects more children and its metabolic consequences appear even at very early ages. It is a complex phenomenon influenced not only by lifestyle habits but also by genetic and molecular factors. Among the latter, the transcription factor Krüppel-like 15 (KLF15) has begun to be studied for its role in the regulation of different metabolic processes. The aim of this work was to review the existing literature to better understand the relationship between KLF15 and childhood obesity, identifying the most relevant mechanisms. For this purpose, academic databases such as PubMed, PMC and others were consulted, in addition to official WHO reports, selecting a total of 16 relevant articles and documents from the last 15 years. The results indicate that KLF15 is involved in hepatic gluconeogenesis, amino acid catabolism in skeletal muscle, and lipid regulation in adipose tissue. When these functions are altered, problems such as insulin resistance and fat accumulation arise, which are key factors in the development of obesity during childhood. In conclusion, KLF15 appears to play an important role in the predisposition to childhood obesity, although further studies are still needed to confirm this hypothesis and to evaluate whether it could be considered a therapeutic target in the future.
Childhood obesity is currently one of the main public health problems, as it increasingly affects more children and its metabolic consequences appear even at very early ages. It is a complex phenomenon influenced not only by lifestyle habits but also by genetic and molecular factors. Among the latter, the transcription factor Krüppel-like 15 (KLF15) has begun to be studied for its role in the regulation of different metabolic processes. The aim of this work was to review the existing literature to better understand the relationship between KLF15 and childhood obesity, identifying the most relevant mechanisms. For this purpose, academic databases such as PubMed, PMC and others were consulted, in addition to official WHO reports, selecting a total of 16 relevant articles and documents from the last 15 years. The results indicate that KLF15 is involved in hepatic gluconeogenesis, amino acid catabolism in skeletal muscle, and lipid regulation in adipose tissue. When these functions are altered, problems such as insulin resistance and fat accumulation arise, which are key factors in the development of obesity during childhood. In conclusion, KLF15 appears to play an important role in the predisposition to childhood obesity, although further studies are still needed to confirm this hypothesis and to evaluate whether it could be considered a therapeutic target in the future.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Seoane Camino, Luísa María (Co-tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Seoane Camino, Luísa María (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
The role of ATF4 and other stress response regulators in mitochondrial disease
Authorship
I.B.F.
Master in Biomedical Research
I.B.F.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Mitochondrial diseases (MDs) are metabolic disorders that affect 1 in 5000 adults and can be caused by both defects in mitochondrial and nuclear DNA. A single cell can harbour several copies of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) leading to a coexistence of mutant and wild-type molecules, a phenomenon known as heteroplasmy. Although different factors, including nutrient deprivation, have been proposed to modulate mutant load, the molecular mechanisms underlying their effect remain poorly understood. Moreover, as the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) is commonly activated in MD models and under nutrient-restricted conditions, its main effector, the activator factor 4 (ATF4), was proposed as a potential modulator. Here, by using human cell lines carrying the m.3243AG and m.8344AG mtDNA mutations in heteroplasmy, we found that glucose and glutamine restriction modulate heteroplasmy in a mutation-specific manner. These changes were accompanied by a shift from fragmented to fused mitochondrial morphology together with a partial rescue of the mitochondrial protein levels. Despite these findings, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of ATF4 did not significantly alter mutant load, suggesting that ATF4 is not a central regulator of heteroplasmy, or the mitochondrial network and/or protein levels under these conditions and other processes like the mitochondrial network dynamics itself might be playing a key role. Even further analysis is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the partial recovery, altogether, our findings reveal a complex relationship between nutrient availability, mitochondrial dynamics, and genotype-specific responses, and suggest new avenues for metabolic interventions in mitochondrial diseases that might fall beyond the activation of ATF4 and the ISR.
Mitochondrial diseases (MDs) are metabolic disorders that affect 1 in 5000 adults and can be caused by both defects in mitochondrial and nuclear DNA. A single cell can harbour several copies of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) leading to a coexistence of mutant and wild-type molecules, a phenomenon known as heteroplasmy. Although different factors, including nutrient deprivation, have been proposed to modulate mutant load, the molecular mechanisms underlying their effect remain poorly understood. Moreover, as the Integrated Stress Response (ISR) is commonly activated in MD models and under nutrient-restricted conditions, its main effector, the activator factor 4 (ATF4), was proposed as a potential modulator. Here, by using human cell lines carrying the m.3243AG and m.8344AG mtDNA mutations in heteroplasmy, we found that glucose and glutamine restriction modulate heteroplasmy in a mutation-specific manner. These changes were accompanied by a shift from fragmented to fused mitochondrial morphology together with a partial rescue of the mitochondrial protein levels. Despite these findings, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of ATF4 did not significantly alter mutant load, suggesting that ATF4 is not a central regulator of heteroplasmy, or the mitochondrial network and/or protein levels under these conditions and other processes like the mitochondrial network dynamics itself might be playing a key role. Even further analysis is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying the partial recovery, altogether, our findings reveal a complex relationship between nutrient availability, mitochondrial dynamics, and genotype-specific responses, and suggest new avenues for metabolic interventions in mitochondrial diseases that might fall beyond the activation of ATF4 and the ISR.
Direction
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Tutorships)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Tutorships)
Court
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
Energy Drink Consumption in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: A Systematic Review.
Authorship
M.D.R.B.G.
Master in Public Health
M.D.R.B.G.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
06.25.2025 17:00
06.25.2025 17:00
Summary
Background: Energy drinks (EDs) are ultra processed beverages containing caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants. Their consumption has been associated with cardiovascular, neurological, and behavioral risks, particularly among youth. Despite health concerns, EDs remain widely available and aggressively marketed. In high income countries, several public health measures have been adopted to regulate their use; however, such efforts are scarce or inconsistently reported across low and middle income countries, including some in the Eastern Mediterranean. Understanding ED consumption patterns and characterizing consumers in this region is essential for informing targeted public health actions. Objective: To systematically assess the prevalence of ED consumption and characterize consumers across countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region and Turkey, identifying population-specific patterns and potential gaps in public health policy. Methods: We conducted a systematic review in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches were performed in Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases up to November 2024. Inclusion criteria covered original studies reporting ED consumption prevalence and/or consumer characteristics in the selected countries. Four independent reviewers performed screening, data extraction, and quality assessment using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data synthesis was descriptive and stratified by intake timeframe, population group, and study characteristics. Results: A total of 103 cross-sectional studies comprising 106,659 individuals from 13 countries were included. Most studies focused on university (55%) or school students (24%), with few targeting the general population (9%). Reported prevalence estimates varied widely by timeframe: daily (1: 87%), weekly (0.7: 81.8%), monthly (3.4: 60.4%), yearly (2.8: 42.9%), ever/lifetime (3.7: 95.6%), and alternative descriptors (1.4: 81.3%). Clinical diversity across studies was high, largely due to differences in methodology, target populations, and intake definitions. Only 17 studies employed representative sampling. Countries with documented public health measures (such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Turkey) showed trends suggesting a reduction in consumption over time. Conversely, in countries without identified measures, no consistent trend was observed. Conclusions: There is substantial variability in ED consumption across countries and population groups within the EMR. Most studies focus on students, who appear more susceptible to consumption due to academic and social pressures. The high diversity in study design limits comparability and precludes meta analytical synthesis. Nonetheless, these findings highlight the urgent need for context-specific public health strategies and stronger regulatory frameworks to mitigate ED related risks in the region.
Background: Energy drinks (EDs) are ultra processed beverages containing caffeine, sugar, and other stimulants. Their consumption has been associated with cardiovascular, neurological, and behavioral risks, particularly among youth. Despite health concerns, EDs remain widely available and aggressively marketed. In high income countries, several public health measures have been adopted to regulate their use; however, such efforts are scarce or inconsistently reported across low and middle income countries, including some in the Eastern Mediterranean. Understanding ED consumption patterns and characterizing consumers in this region is essential for informing targeted public health actions. Objective: To systematically assess the prevalence of ED consumption and characterize consumers across countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region and Turkey, identifying population-specific patterns and potential gaps in public health policy. Methods: We conducted a systematic review in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches were performed in Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane databases up to November 2024. Inclusion criteria covered original studies reporting ED consumption prevalence and/or consumer characteristics in the selected countries. Four independent reviewers performed screening, data extraction, and quality assessment using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data synthesis was descriptive and stratified by intake timeframe, population group, and study characteristics. Results: A total of 103 cross-sectional studies comprising 106,659 individuals from 13 countries were included. Most studies focused on university (55%) or school students (24%), with few targeting the general population (9%). Reported prevalence estimates varied widely by timeframe: daily (1: 87%), weekly (0.7: 81.8%), monthly (3.4: 60.4%), yearly (2.8: 42.9%), ever/lifetime (3.7: 95.6%), and alternative descriptors (1.4: 81.3%). Clinical diversity across studies was high, largely due to differences in methodology, target populations, and intake definitions. Only 17 studies employed representative sampling. Countries with documented public health measures (such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Turkey) showed trends suggesting a reduction in consumption over time. Conversely, in countries without identified measures, no consistent trend was observed. Conclusions: There is substantial variability in ED consumption across countries and population groups within the EMR. Most studies focus on students, who appear more susceptible to consumption due to academic and social pressures. The high diversity in study design limits comparability and precludes meta analytical synthesis. Nonetheless, these findings highlight the urgent need for context-specific public health strategies and stronger regulatory frameworks to mitigate ED related risks in the region.
Direction
MONTES MARTINEZ, AGUSTIN (Tutorships)
Teijeiro Teijeira, Ana (Co-tutorships)
MONTES MARTINEZ, AGUSTIN (Tutorships)
Teijeiro Teijeira, Ana (Co-tutorships)
Court
TAKKOUCHE SOUILAMAS, EL BAHI (Chairman)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Secretary)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Member)
TAKKOUCHE SOUILAMAS, EL BAHI (Chairman)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Secretary)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Member)
Development of nanoencapsulated systems for its use in targeted cancer treatment
Authorship
A.C.C.
Master in Biomedical Research
A.C.C.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Cancer is considered a major societal and public health issue, accounting for about 9.7 million deaths worldwide in 2022. A key factor contributing to this high mortality rate is the late stage at which many cancers are diagnosed, often after metastasis to distinct organs has occurred. Conventional and combination treatments often have several side effects and a poor quality of life for patients. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) using photosensitizer-loaded nanoemulsions (NEs) has emerged as an alternative approach for selectively targeting cancer cells while minimizing systemic toxicity. In this context, we propose the formulation of oil-in-water NEs using as hydrophobic photosensitizer verteporfin (VP), which is activated under near-infrared (NIR) light exposure, causing cell death, mainly due to the release of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Four different NEs were developed based on their fatty acid core composition: palmitoleic acid (POA), monounsaturated, and palmitic acid (PA), saturated; and on the presence of encapsulated PV. As a result, PA, VPA, POA and VPOA-NEs were generated. The VP was successfully encapsulated at various concentrations and the encapsulation efficiency, around 90%, was obtained through spectrophotometry. Physicochemical characterization was performed using: Transmission Electron Microscopy, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis, and Dynamic Light Scattering, to evaluate particle concentration, size, polydispersity index, and surface charge. In vitro assays in SKOV-3 (ovarian) and A549 (lung) cancer cell lines showed efficient VP-NEs internalization and light-dependent cytotoxicity upon NIR activation, implying their high therapeutic potential.
Cancer is considered a major societal and public health issue, accounting for about 9.7 million deaths worldwide in 2022. A key factor contributing to this high mortality rate is the late stage at which many cancers are diagnosed, often after metastasis to distinct organs has occurred. Conventional and combination treatments often have several side effects and a poor quality of life for patients. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) using photosensitizer-loaded nanoemulsions (NEs) has emerged as an alternative approach for selectively targeting cancer cells while minimizing systemic toxicity. In this context, we propose the formulation of oil-in-water NEs using as hydrophobic photosensitizer verteporfin (VP), which is activated under near-infrared (NIR) light exposure, causing cell death, mainly due to the release of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Four different NEs were developed based on their fatty acid core composition: palmitoleic acid (POA), monounsaturated, and palmitic acid (PA), saturated; and on the presence of encapsulated PV. As a result, PA, VPA, POA and VPOA-NEs were generated. The VP was successfully encapsulated at various concentrations and the encapsulation efficiency, around 90%, was obtained through spectrophotometry. Physicochemical characterization was performed using: Transmission Electron Microscopy, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis, and Dynamic Light Scattering, to evaluate particle concentration, size, polydispersity index, and surface charge. In vitro assays in SKOV-3 (ovarian) and A549 (lung) cancer cell lines showed efficient VP-NEs internalization and light-dependent cytotoxicity upon NIR activation, implying their high therapeutic potential.
Direction
LOPEZ LOPEZ, RAFAEL (Tutorships)
DAVILA IBAÑEZ, ANA BELEN (Co-tutorships)
LOPEZ LOPEZ, RAFAEL (Tutorships)
DAVILA IBAÑEZ, ANA BELEN (Co-tutorships)
Court
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
Optimization of an Intein-Based Protein Purification System for the Production of Rad51 and Rad54
Authorship
A.C.A.
Master in Biomedical Research
A.C.A.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Affinity chromatography is a fundamental tool in protein purification due to its high specificity, efficiency, and ability to preserve biological activity. The IMPACT purification system (Intein Mediated Purification with an Affinity Chitin-binding Tag) based on inteins from New England Biolabs, using vectors such as pTXB1, takes advantage of the self-cleaving activity of inteins to separate the target protein from the affinity tag. This innovative system offers several significant advantages in the production and purification of recombinant proteins. Firstly, it eliminates the need for proteases to release the protein of interest, enabling purification through a single chromatographic step. Additionally, it allows the recovery of the target protein without the addition of extra amino acid residues from the expression vector. Finally, it offers flexibility to isolate proteins with or without an N-terminal methionine residue, depending on experimental or functional requirements. However, a potential drawback is the low binding capacity of chitin resins (approximately 2 mg/mL). In this work, we aimed to adapt these vectors to express polyhistidine tags so that proteins can be captured not only using chitin columns but also through an IMAC (Immobilized Metal Affinity Chromatography) system such as Ni-NTA (nickel bound to nitrilotriacetic acid). To achieve this, we modified the pTXB1 vector by adding histidine tags to enhance the initial capture of the protein of interest, leveraging the advantages provided by the intein-based system. From this point, it would be possible to perform the capture using Ni-NTA resin and compare the purification efficiency with existing protocols.
Affinity chromatography is a fundamental tool in protein purification due to its high specificity, efficiency, and ability to preserve biological activity. The IMPACT purification system (Intein Mediated Purification with an Affinity Chitin-binding Tag) based on inteins from New England Biolabs, using vectors such as pTXB1, takes advantage of the self-cleaving activity of inteins to separate the target protein from the affinity tag. This innovative system offers several significant advantages in the production and purification of recombinant proteins. Firstly, it eliminates the need for proteases to release the protein of interest, enabling purification through a single chromatographic step. Additionally, it allows the recovery of the target protein without the addition of extra amino acid residues from the expression vector. Finally, it offers flexibility to isolate proteins with or without an N-terminal methionine residue, depending on experimental or functional requirements. However, a potential drawback is the low binding capacity of chitin resins (approximately 2 mg/mL). In this work, we aimed to adapt these vectors to express polyhistidine tags so that proteins can be captured not only using chitin columns but also through an IMAC (Immobilized Metal Affinity Chromatography) system such as Ni-NTA (nickel bound to nitrilotriacetic acid). To achieve this, we modified the pTXB1 vector by adding histidine tags to enhance the initial capture of the protein of interest, leveraging the advantages provided by the intein-based system. From this point, it would be possible to perform the capture using Ni-NTA resin and compare the purification efficiency with existing protocols.
Direction
González Blanco, Miguel (Tutorships)
González Blanco, Miguel (Tutorships)
Court
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Chairman)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Secretary)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Member)
Efecto de la lactancia materna sobre la microbiota intestinal en neonatos
Authorship
A.C.L.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
A.C.L.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Human breast milk, in addition to providing essential nutrients for infant growth and development, is a natural source of commensal bacteria that enhance the neonatal immune system and intestinal microbiota. Objective: To examine the most recent scientific evidence on the relationship between breastfeeding and the gut microbiota in newborns. Methods: A systematic literature review is conducted in PubMed and Embase, including studies from the past five years on healthy neonates fed with breast milk, formula, or mixed feeding. Specific inclusion criteria are applied to ensure the relevance of the selected data. Results: Exclusive breastfeeding is associated with a gut microbiota dominated by Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis and lower alpha diversity compared to formula feeding. Human milk oligosaccharides act as selective prebiotics, favoring the growth of beneficial bacteria. Lactoferrin and secretory IgA have antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. Breastfed infants show lower infection rates and a reduced risk of allergic diseases. Conclusions: Breastfeeding shapes the composition of neonatal gut microbiota, promoting the development of beneficial bacterial communities that support immune maturation. Encouraging exclusive breastfeeding is crucial in child health policies.
Introduction: Human breast milk, in addition to providing essential nutrients for infant growth and development, is a natural source of commensal bacteria that enhance the neonatal immune system and intestinal microbiota. Objective: To examine the most recent scientific evidence on the relationship between breastfeeding and the gut microbiota in newborns. Methods: A systematic literature review is conducted in PubMed and Embase, including studies from the past five years on healthy neonates fed with breast milk, formula, or mixed feeding. Specific inclusion criteria are applied to ensure the relevance of the selected data. Results: Exclusive breastfeeding is associated with a gut microbiota dominated by Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis and lower alpha diversity compared to formula feeding. Human milk oligosaccharides act as selective prebiotics, favoring the growth of beneficial bacteria. Lactoferrin and secretory IgA have antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. Breastfed infants show lower infection rates and a reduced risk of allergic diseases. Conclusions: Breastfeeding shapes the composition of neonatal gut microbiota, promoting the development of beneficial bacterial communities that support immune maturation. Encouraging exclusive breastfeeding is crucial in child health policies.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Viñas López, Pilar (Co-tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Viñas López, Pilar (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Characterization of the Role of PI3k Beta And Delta Isoforms in Platelet Activation
Authorship
F.A.C.N.
Master in Biomedical Research
F.A.C.N.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Platelet activation, essential for hemostasis and thrombosis, is regulated by several intracellular pathways, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). This study examined the differential role of PI3K beta and PI3K delta isoforms in platelet activation induced by the collagen receptor Glycoprotein VI (GPVI). A whole blood microfluidics model was used to evaluate the effect of specific inhibitors on activation and thrombus formation. A mechanistic western blot analysis of intracellular Akt/GSK3b/PTEN signaling after activation with collagen-related peptide (CRP) and inhibitors was performed. The results showed that all inhibitors tested by microfluidics were able to significantly decrease P-selectin expression, fibrinogen binding, and phosphatidylserine exposure, while an effect on thrombus formation was only evident against PI3K delta inhibition with idelalisib and GSK2636771 (GSK3b). On the other hand, the PI3K delta inhibitors, idelalisib and AMG-319, showed a consistent inhibition of Akt, and in the case of AMG-319 also of GSK3b, supporting its effect on the classical PI3K/Akt pathway. Regarding PI3K beta inhibitors, both TGX-221 and GSK2636771 managed to reduce GSK3b phosphorylation, although their effect on Akt was less uniform. PTEN phosphorylation levels were not affected by experimental conditions. These findings suggest that both PI3K beta and PI3K delta participate in platelet activation, with the role of the delta isoform being more relevant than described to date, and therefore could represent a more specific antithrombotic therapeutic strategy.
Platelet activation, essential for hemostasis and thrombosis, is regulated by several intracellular pathways, including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K). This study examined the differential role of PI3K beta and PI3K delta isoforms in platelet activation induced by the collagen receptor Glycoprotein VI (GPVI). A whole blood microfluidics model was used to evaluate the effect of specific inhibitors on activation and thrombus formation. A mechanistic western blot analysis of intracellular Akt/GSK3b/PTEN signaling after activation with collagen-related peptide (CRP) and inhibitors was performed. The results showed that all inhibitors tested by microfluidics were able to significantly decrease P-selectin expression, fibrinogen binding, and phosphatidylserine exposure, while an effect on thrombus formation was only evident against PI3K delta inhibition with idelalisib and GSK2636771 (GSK3b). On the other hand, the PI3K delta inhibitors, idelalisib and AMG-319, showed a consistent inhibition of Akt, and in the case of AMG-319 also of GSK3b, supporting its effect on the classical PI3K/Akt pathway. Regarding PI3K beta inhibitors, both TGX-221 and GSK2636771 managed to reduce GSK3b phosphorylation, although their effect on Akt was less uniform. PTEN phosphorylation levels were not affected by experimental conditions. These findings suggest that both PI3K beta and PI3K delta participate in platelet activation, with the role of the delta isoform being more relevant than described to date, and therefore could represent a more specific antithrombotic therapeutic strategy.
Direction
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Tutorships)
GARCIA ALONSO, ANGEL (Tutorships)
Court
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Chairman)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Secretary)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Member)
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Chairman)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Secretary)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Member)
Prevalence and Risk of Respiratory Symptoms in Electronic Cigarette Users: A Systematic Review
Authorship
L.C.D.L.R.
Master in Public Health
L.C.D.L.R.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
06.25.2025 16:40
06.25.2025 16:40
Summary
Introduction: In the past decade, the use of electronic cigarettes has experienced exponential growth, especially among adolescents and young adults. These devices, initially promoted as a less harmful alternative to conventional tobacco, have become a growing concern due to their potential adverse effects on respiratory health. Despite their popularity, scientific evidence regarding their medium- and long-term safety remains limited. Objectives: To identify and describe studies that estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms in young electronic cigarette users and to analyze the risk of developing respiratory symptoms associated with electronic cigarette use in young populations. Methodology: A literature search was conducted in the MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases up to October 2024. Studies were included if they involved electronic cigarette users under the age of 26 and reported prevalence of respiratory symptoms and/or relative risks (RR), odds ratios (OR), or hazard ratios (HR) accompanied by their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). A narrative synthesis was performed for prevalence results, and a quantitative synthesis of effect measures was conducted when possible, using a random-effects meta-analysis. The quality of the studies was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A total of 23 studies were included: 6 assessed the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, 5 examined the association between e-cigarette use and respiratory symptoms, and 12 assessed both. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms varied across studies. Cough was the most frequently reported symptom. A significant association was found between e-cigarette use and The presence of the following respiratory symptoms: any respiratory symptom (RR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.13 to 1.56), dyspnea (RR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.28 to 1.61), chest pain (RR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.23 to 1.49), phlegm (RR = 1.49; 95% CI: 1.21 to 1.83), and wheezing (RR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.82). Three of the studies were rated as high quality, sixteen as moderate, and four as low quality. Conclusions: The results demonstrate a consistent relationship between electronic cigarette use and the presence of respiratory symptoms in young people. Coordinated efforts in prevention, regulation, and health education are needed, along with more longitudinal studies to assess the long-term effects of electronic cigarettes.
Introduction: In the past decade, the use of electronic cigarettes has experienced exponential growth, especially among adolescents and young adults. These devices, initially promoted as a less harmful alternative to conventional tobacco, have become a growing concern due to their potential adverse effects on respiratory health. Despite their popularity, scientific evidence regarding their medium- and long-term safety remains limited. Objectives: To identify and describe studies that estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms in young electronic cigarette users and to analyze the risk of developing respiratory symptoms associated with electronic cigarette use in young populations. Methodology: A literature search was conducted in the MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases up to October 2024. Studies were included if they involved electronic cigarette users under the age of 26 and reported prevalence of respiratory symptoms and/or relative risks (RR), odds ratios (OR), or hazard ratios (HR) accompanied by their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). A narrative synthesis was performed for prevalence results, and a quantitative synthesis of effect measures was conducted when possible, using a random-effects meta-analysis. The quality of the studies was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A total of 23 studies were included: 6 assessed the prevalence of respiratory symptoms, 5 examined the association between e-cigarette use and respiratory symptoms, and 12 assessed both. The prevalence of respiratory symptoms varied across studies. Cough was the most frequently reported symptom. A significant association was found between e-cigarette use and The presence of the following respiratory symptoms: any respiratory symptom (RR = 1.33; 95% CI: 1.13 to 1.56), dyspnea (RR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.28 to 1.61), chest pain (RR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.23 to 1.49), phlegm (RR = 1.49; 95% CI: 1.21 to 1.83), and wheezing (RR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.82). Three of the studies were rated as high quality, sixteen as moderate, and four as low quality. Conclusions: The results demonstrate a consistent relationship between electronic cigarette use and the presence of respiratory symptoms in young people. Coordinated efforts in prevention, regulation, and health education are needed, along with more longitudinal studies to assess the long-term effects of electronic cigarettes.
Direction
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Tutorships)
Teijeiro Teijeira, Ana (Co-tutorships)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Tutorships)
Teijeiro Teijeira, Ana (Co-tutorships)
Court
TAKKOUCHE SOUILAMAS, EL BAHI (Chairman)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Secretary)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Member)
TAKKOUCHE SOUILAMAS, EL BAHI (Chairman)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Secretary)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Member)
Methods for the analytical determination of microplastics in biological samples during the perinatal period: a systematic review
Authorship
M.D.C.V.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
M.D.C.V.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
ABSTRACT Introduction. Currently, tons of plastic are generated, which are subsequently degraded into smaller particles, resulting in microplastics and nanoplastics. These particles pose risks to the human body, representing a clear risk factor due to their toxicity during the perinatal period and fetal development. Methodology. This systematic review was conducted between May and August 2025, following the PRISMA guidelines and using the PICO strategy. The databases PubMed, WOS, and Scopus were consulted, considering as inclusion criteria observational studies from the last 5 years, in English or Spanish, and involving human samples from the perinatal period; animal studies were excluded. A total of 506 articles were retrieved, of which 12 were finally included in the analysis. Results. In the detection of microplastics, polyethylene is the most abundant in amniotic fluid, meconium, and placenta. In umbilical cord blood, maternal blood, and breast milk, polyamide predominates. However, in ovarian follicular fluid, morphology was identified using Raman spectroscopy, and its micro-Raman application in animals, which is more common and effective, was complemented with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Quantification is performed using direct laser-induced infrared spectroscopy, which is more effective and comprehensive. Discussion. The abundance of polyethylene in amniotic fluid, meconium, and human and feline placenta is demonstrated, as well as polyamide and polyurethane in umbilical cord blood; however, these were not detected in human ovarian follicular fluid. Pregnant mouse blood contained polystyrene, which has been linked to toxicity in humans; the same applies to human breast milk, which contains several types of microplastics. Finally, micro-Raman spectroscopy identifies, and FTIR quantifies, microplastics in human umbilical cord blood and placenta. Conclusions. There is no universal technique for determining and quantifying microplastics; it is influenced by sample characteristics, chemical and morphological identification; therefore, further research is needed.
ABSTRACT Introduction. Currently, tons of plastic are generated, which are subsequently degraded into smaller particles, resulting in microplastics and nanoplastics. These particles pose risks to the human body, representing a clear risk factor due to their toxicity during the perinatal period and fetal development. Methodology. This systematic review was conducted between May and August 2025, following the PRISMA guidelines and using the PICO strategy. The databases PubMed, WOS, and Scopus were consulted, considering as inclusion criteria observational studies from the last 5 years, in English or Spanish, and involving human samples from the perinatal period; animal studies were excluded. A total of 506 articles were retrieved, of which 12 were finally included in the analysis. Results. In the detection of microplastics, polyethylene is the most abundant in amniotic fluid, meconium, and placenta. In umbilical cord blood, maternal blood, and breast milk, polyamide predominates. However, in ovarian follicular fluid, morphology was identified using Raman spectroscopy, and its micro-Raman application in animals, which is more common and effective, was complemented with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Quantification is performed using direct laser-induced infrared spectroscopy, which is more effective and comprehensive. Discussion. The abundance of polyethylene in amniotic fluid, meconium, and human and feline placenta is demonstrated, as well as polyamide and polyurethane in umbilical cord blood; however, these were not detected in human ovarian follicular fluid. Pregnant mouse blood contained polystyrene, which has been linked to toxicity in humans; the same applies to human breast milk, which contains several types of microplastics. Finally, micro-Raman spectroscopy identifies, and FTIR quantifies, microplastics in human umbilical cord blood and placenta. Conclusions. There is no universal technique for determining and quantifying microplastics; it is influenced by sample characteristics, chemical and morphological identification; therefore, further research is needed.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
González Sanz, Juan Diego (Co-tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
González Sanz, Juan Diego (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Association of Knowledge and Attitudes with opioid misuse Practices in undergraduate university students in Spain.
Authorship
M.C.C.L.
Master in Public Health
M.C.C.L.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
06.25.2025 09:00
06.25.2025 09:00
Summary
Background: Opioid misuse is a current public health concern that can lead to serious health and social outcomes. It represents the primary substance consumed by people entering a drug treatment program in Europe. Educational interventions could help control this problem. Objective: To explore the association of Knowledge and Attitudes with the Practices of opioid misuse among university undergraduate students in Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken using data collected at the first time point of a cohort study on psychosocial determinants of psychoactive substance use by undergraduate university students. Data were collected between October and November 2025 using a validated, anonymous, voluntary and self-administered questionnaire that inquired over Knowledge and Attitudes towards opioid misuse Practices. Each item of Knowledge and Attitudes presented an exposure. The outcome was a composite variable of opioid misuse practices. Opioid was considered misused when taken without medical prescription or when failing to adhere to prescribed instructions in terms of duration and dosage of treatment, as well as, when performing incorrect behavior with leftover medication after the treatment was over. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence levels (CI) were estimated using multivariate logistic regression models. Results: 5048 students answered the questionnaire, representing a participation rate of 90.64%. A total of 243 (5.1%) students used opioids in the two months before the survey. Of the opioid users, 177 (72.8%) performed at least one practice considered misuse. Most participants showed adequate Knowledge and Attitudes towards opioids. However, students with improper Knowledge and Attitudes have higher odds of opioid misuse. For instance, Individuals who don´t acknowledge that the use of opioids can cause dependence or addiction, have six times higher odds of opioid misuse compared to those who agreed with this affirmation [aOR: 6 .14 (95% CI: 3.75;10.05)]. Those who would consider consuming unprescribed opioids had up to 18 times higher odds of opioid misuse [aOR: 17.98 (95% CI:11.39;28.4)] than those who wouldn’t consume them without medical advice. Lastly, the most reported motive for taking opioids without prescription was to relieve pain when common pain killers are not effective, and it was associated with almost 7 times higher odds of opioid misuse compared with students that would not consider using opiod without prescription [aOR: 6.94(95% CI:5.08;9.48)]. Conclusion: Inadequate Knowledge and Attitudes increase the odds of opioid misuse. These findings would help design specific intervention programs to control opioid misuse among emerging adults.
Background: Opioid misuse is a current public health concern that can lead to serious health and social outcomes. It represents the primary substance consumed by people entering a drug treatment program in Europe. Educational interventions could help control this problem. Objective: To explore the association of Knowledge and Attitudes with the Practices of opioid misuse among university undergraduate students in Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken using data collected at the first time point of a cohort study on psychosocial determinants of psychoactive substance use by undergraduate university students. Data were collected between October and November 2025 using a validated, anonymous, voluntary and self-administered questionnaire that inquired over Knowledge and Attitudes towards opioid misuse Practices. Each item of Knowledge and Attitudes presented an exposure. The outcome was a composite variable of opioid misuse practices. Opioid was considered misused when taken without medical prescription or when failing to adhere to prescribed instructions in terms of duration and dosage of treatment, as well as, when performing incorrect behavior with leftover medication after the treatment was over. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence levels (CI) were estimated using multivariate logistic regression models. Results: 5048 students answered the questionnaire, representing a participation rate of 90.64%. A total of 243 (5.1%) students used opioids in the two months before the survey. Of the opioid users, 177 (72.8%) performed at least one practice considered misuse. Most participants showed adequate Knowledge and Attitudes towards opioids. However, students with improper Knowledge and Attitudes have higher odds of opioid misuse. For instance, Individuals who don´t acknowledge that the use of opioids can cause dependence or addiction, have six times higher odds of opioid misuse compared to those who agreed with this affirmation [aOR: 6 .14 (95% CI: 3.75;10.05)]. Those who would consider consuming unprescribed opioids had up to 18 times higher odds of opioid misuse [aOR: 17.98 (95% CI:11.39;28.4)] than those who wouldn’t consume them without medical advice. Lastly, the most reported motive for taking opioids without prescription was to relieve pain when common pain killers are not effective, and it was associated with almost 7 times higher odds of opioid misuse compared with students that would not consider using opiod without prescription [aOR: 6.94(95% CI:5.08;9.48)]. Conclusion: Inadequate Knowledge and Attitudes increase the odds of opioid misuse. These findings would help design specific intervention programs to control opioid misuse among emerging adults.
Direction
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Tutorships)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Tutorships)
Court
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Member)
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Member)
Inflammation and cardiac pathology in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: effect of the peptide obestatin
Authorship
L.D.C.
Master in Biomedical Research
L.D.C.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked, recessively inherited, neuromuscular disease affecting 1 in 5000 male births. It is a lethal disease, currently incurable and caused by a mutation in the DMD gene, which triggers the absence of the dystrophin protein. The disappearance of this protein, which is essential for the stability of muscle cells, leads to progressive muscle weakness. One of the signs of the disease is dilated cardiomyopathy, which is present in almost all elderly patients and is now the leading cause of premature death. It is characterised by inflammation of the heart muscle, dilatation and thinning of the wall, impaired homeostasis and cell death, chronic fibrosis and loss of contractile capacity. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for treatment and symptom reduction. The obestatin/GPR39 system has shown positive effects on skeletal muscle, such as increased muscle strength, reduced fibrosis and overall improved phenotype in animal models of DMD. The main objective of this work is to elucidate the molecular and inflammatory mechanisms underlying the cardiac pathology associated with DMD at late ages, in order to evaluate the possible effect of obestatin peptide administration on late dystrophic cardiac muscle. Immunoblot and quantitative RT-PCR results revealed alterations in anabolic and catabolic pathways as well as in mitochondrial homeostasis and inflammatory processes in the heart muscle of the mdx animal model. Obestatin treatment restored anabolic pathways and exerted a protective role against fibrosis and cell death. Microarray analysis of the inflammatory profile reveals an anti-inflammatory environment in the late heart muscle of mdx animals, reversed by obestatin treatment, which positively modulates different pro-inflammatory markers.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked, recessively inherited, neuromuscular disease affecting 1 in 5000 male births. It is a lethal disease, currently incurable and caused by a mutation in the DMD gene, which triggers the absence of the dystrophin protein. The disappearance of this protein, which is essential for the stability of muscle cells, leads to progressive muscle weakness. One of the signs of the disease is dilated cardiomyopathy, which is present in almost all elderly patients and is now the leading cause of premature death. It is characterised by inflammation of the heart muscle, dilatation and thinning of the wall, impaired homeostasis and cell death, chronic fibrosis and loss of contractile capacity. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for treatment and symptom reduction. The obestatin/GPR39 system has shown positive effects on skeletal muscle, such as increased muscle strength, reduced fibrosis and overall improved phenotype in animal models of DMD. The main objective of this work is to elucidate the molecular and inflammatory mechanisms underlying the cardiac pathology associated with DMD at late ages, in order to evaluate the possible effect of obestatin peptide administration on late dystrophic cardiac muscle. Immunoblot and quantitative RT-PCR results revealed alterations in anabolic and catabolic pathways as well as in mitochondrial homeostasis and inflammatory processes in the heart muscle of the mdx animal model. Obestatin treatment restored anabolic pathways and exerted a protective role against fibrosis and cell death. Microarray analysis of the inflammatory profile reveals an anti-inflammatory environment in the late heart muscle of mdx animals, reversed by obestatin treatment, which positively modulates different pro-inflammatory markers.
Direction
CASABIELL PINTOS, JESÚS ANTONIO (Tutorships)
Santos Zas, Icía (Co-tutorships)
CASABIELL PINTOS, JESÚS ANTONIO (Tutorships)
Santos Zas, Icía (Co-tutorships)
Court
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Chairman)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Secretary)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Member)
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Chairman)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Secretary)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Member)
Association Between Childhood Respiratory Diseases and the Risk of Developing COPD in Adulthood: A Systematic Review.
Authorship
A.I.D.P.
Master in Public Health
A.I.D.P.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Objective: The aim of this study is to synthesize the available evidence on the relationship between childhood respiratory diseases and the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adulthood through a systematic review of the literature. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted using the PubMed database, including observational studies that assessed the association between childhood respiratory diseases and COPD in adulthood. Studies not published in Spanish, English, Italian, or Portuguese were excluded. Results: Out of the 1,599 articles identified in PubMed, 13 were included in the review: 11 cohort studies and 2 case-control studies. The included studies comprised 10 on asthma, 4 on pneumonia, 3 on bronchitis, 2 on respiratory infections, 1 on bronchiolitis, and 1 on tuberculosis. Five of the 10 studies on asthma found that the risk of COPD in adulthood was significantly higher among those who had asthma in childhood compared to those who did not (OR 1.96 [CI 95%: 1.13-3.34] a OR 31.9 [CI 95%: 3.4-269]). A significant association was also found in 2 of the 4 studies on pneumonia, 2 of the 3 studies on bronchitis, and the single study on bronchiolitis. The single study on tuberculosis did not show a significant correlation. Conclusions: Childhood respiratory diseases appear to be associated with an increased risk of developing COPD in adulthood. To strengthen the existing evidence and guide specific prevention strategies in at-risk populations, further studies are needed that evaluate well-defined and individually assessed exposures.
Objective: The aim of this study is to synthesize the available evidence on the relationship between childhood respiratory diseases and the risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adulthood through a systematic review of the literature. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted using the PubMed database, including observational studies that assessed the association between childhood respiratory diseases and COPD in adulthood. Studies not published in Spanish, English, Italian, or Portuguese were excluded. Results: Out of the 1,599 articles identified in PubMed, 13 were included in the review: 11 cohort studies and 2 case-control studies. The included studies comprised 10 on asthma, 4 on pneumonia, 3 on bronchitis, 2 on respiratory infections, 1 on bronchiolitis, and 1 on tuberculosis. Five of the 10 studies on asthma found that the risk of COPD in adulthood was significantly higher among those who had asthma in childhood compared to those who did not (OR 1.96 [CI 95%: 1.13-3.34] a OR 31.9 [CI 95%: 3.4-269]). A significant association was also found in 2 of the 4 studies on pneumonia, 2 of the 3 studies on bronchitis, and the single study on bronchiolitis. The single study on tuberculosis did not show a significant correlation. Conclusions: Childhood respiratory diseases appear to be associated with an increased risk of developing COPD in adulthood. To strengthen the existing evidence and guide specific prevention strategies in at-risk populations, further studies are needed that evaluate well-defined and individually assessed exposures.
Direction
VARELA LEMA, MARIA LEONOR (Tutorships)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Co-tutorships)
VARELA LEMA, MARIA LEONOR (Tutorships)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Co-tutorships)
Court
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Member)
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Member)
Influence of the production system on the quality and nutritional composition of cow's milk
Authorship
R.D.M.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
R.D.M.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:00
07.17.2025 09:00
Summary
Milk has a high nutritional value in the human diet, determined by its varied chemical composition, and is especially essential for children nutrition. Several factors can modify its composition and quality, potentially affecting human health. The main objective of this study was to analyze the quality and nutritional composition of raw cow’s milk according to the production system. To this end, samples from four different production types were collected and analyzed for their fatty acids, minerals and microbiological composition. The data were subjected to statistical analysis using Prism software. The results showed a higher presence of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids in organic milk, suggesting a more favorable nutritional profile for children diets. Intensively produced milk presented higher amounts of calcium and iodine, key minerals for child development, while organic milk had a higher sodium concentration, the intake of which should be limited during childhood. From a microbiological perspective, aerobic bacteria and enterococci were found in greater amounts in pasture-based milk. These findings highlight the influence of production systems on the quality and nutritional composition of raw cow’s milk.
Milk has a high nutritional value in the human diet, determined by its varied chemical composition, and is especially essential for children nutrition. Several factors can modify its composition and quality, potentially affecting human health. The main objective of this study was to analyze the quality and nutritional composition of raw cow’s milk according to the production system. To this end, samples from four different production types were collected and analyzed for their fatty acids, minerals and microbiological composition. The data were subjected to statistical analysis using Prism software. The results showed a higher presence of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids in organic milk, suggesting a more favorable nutritional profile for children diets. Intensively produced milk presented higher amounts of calcium and iodine, key minerals for child development, while organic milk had a higher sodium concentration, the intake of which should be limited during childhood. From a microbiological perspective, aerobic bacteria and enterococci were found in greater amounts in pasture-based milk. These findings highlight the influence of production systems on the quality and nutritional composition of raw cow’s milk.
Direction
Cepeda Sáez, Alberto (Tutorships)
LAMAS FREIRE, ALEXANDRE (Co-tutorships)
Cepeda Sáez, Alberto (Tutorships)
LAMAS FREIRE, ALEXANDRE (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
New metabolic pathways regulated by neddylation: possible implication in glycogen synthesis
Authorship
A.D.C.
Master in Biomedical Research
A.D.C.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Hepatic glycogen metabolism plays an essential role in mainteining glucose homeostasis. This is because glycogen serves as an important glucose reservoir or source depending on the nutritional status. Particularly, the key enzymes for the control of glycogen deposition are glycogen synthase, which elongates the chain, and glycogen phosphorylase, which shortens it. Additionally, the post-translational modification neddylation is the attachment of the small protein NEDD8 to target proteins through a three-step enzymatic cascade. Primarily, neddylation research has focused on its pathological role. However, little is known about its physiological function, especially that concerning glucose metabolism. Interestingly, a previous study suggests that liver glycogen synthase is a target protein for NEDD8. Furthermore, during nutrient deprivation conditions its presence bound to NEDD8 increases. Hence, the purpose of this Master’s dissertation is to study how nutritional status and neddylation influence liver glycogen synthase levels in vivo. To achieve this, different animal models of nutrient deprivation were used: 60% caloric restriction and different durations of fasting with or without refeeding. In addition, to inhibit neddylation the compound MLN4924 was used. Afterwards, liver expression and liver protein levels were analyzed by qPCR and Western Blot, respectively. After results analysis, higher levels of liver glycogen synthase were observed in the mouse models for nutrient deprivation. Furthermore, neddylation inhibition attenuated the increase of the enzyme’s levels in mice which followed caloric restriction. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that liver glycogen synthase levels are regulated by both nutritional state and by neddylation in vivo.
Hepatic glycogen metabolism plays an essential role in mainteining glucose homeostasis. This is because glycogen serves as an important glucose reservoir or source depending on the nutritional status. Particularly, the key enzymes for the control of glycogen deposition are glycogen synthase, which elongates the chain, and glycogen phosphorylase, which shortens it. Additionally, the post-translational modification neddylation is the attachment of the small protein NEDD8 to target proteins through a three-step enzymatic cascade. Primarily, neddylation research has focused on its pathological role. However, little is known about its physiological function, especially that concerning glucose metabolism. Interestingly, a previous study suggests that liver glycogen synthase is a target protein for NEDD8. Furthermore, during nutrient deprivation conditions its presence bound to NEDD8 increases. Hence, the purpose of this Master’s dissertation is to study how nutritional status and neddylation influence liver glycogen synthase levels in vivo. To achieve this, different animal models of nutrient deprivation were used: 60% caloric restriction and different durations of fasting with or without refeeding. In addition, to inhibit neddylation the compound MLN4924 was used. Afterwards, liver expression and liver protein levels were analyzed by qPCR and Western Blot, respectively. After results analysis, higher levels of liver glycogen synthase were observed in the mouse models for nutrient deprivation. Furthermore, neddylation inhibition attenuated the increase of the enzyme’s levels in mice which followed caloric restriction. Taken together, the results of this study suggest that liver glycogen synthase levels are regulated by both nutritional state and by neddylation in vivo.
Direction
NOGUEIRAS POZO, RUBEN (Tutorships)
Parracho Martínez, Tamara (Co-tutorships)
NOGUEIRAS POZO, RUBEN (Tutorships)
Parracho Martínez, Tamara (Co-tutorships)
Court
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Chairman)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Secretary)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Member)
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Chairman)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Secretary)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Member)
Evaluation of the performance of preliminary tests for fluid identification in routine forensic testing
Authorship
R.D.D.
Master in Biomedical Research
R.D.D.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Preliminary tests are presumptive tests widely used in forensic routine for the identification of biological fluids. However, despite having good sensitivity, their specificity is not as high as it should be, and false positives and negatives can be observed. Therefore, the main objective of the present work is to evaluate these aspects of the RSIDTM preliminary tests, designed for the detection of blood, semen or saliva. First, the detection limit of each of the tests was determined. Subsequently, their specificity was analyzed with different sample types and in the presence of non-target fluids, as well as under different experimental conditions. In addition, the effect of sample incubation time and sample age on the sensitivity and specificity of the kits was studied. Finally, the effect of subjectivity on the reading of the results was evaluated using RSIDTM Reader, a device designed to read the cassettes and record the results in an automated way. The results obtained help to optimize the use of these kits, both in relation to the technical aspects in the laboratory and in the interpretation of the results in forensic cases.
Preliminary tests are presumptive tests widely used in forensic routine for the identification of biological fluids. However, despite having good sensitivity, their specificity is not as high as it should be, and false positives and negatives can be observed. Therefore, the main objective of the present work is to evaluate these aspects of the RSIDTM preliminary tests, designed for the detection of blood, semen or saliva. First, the detection limit of each of the tests was determined. Subsequently, their specificity was analyzed with different sample types and in the presence of non-target fluids, as well as under different experimental conditions. In addition, the effect of sample incubation time and sample age on the sensitivity and specificity of the kits was studied. Finally, the effect of subjectivity on the reading of the results was evaluated using RSIDTM Reader, a device designed to read the cassettes and record the results in an automated way. The results obtained help to optimize the use of these kits, both in relation to the technical aspects in the laboratory and in the interpretation of the results in forensic cases.
Direction
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Tutorships)
MOSQUERA MIGUEL, ANA (Co-tutorships)
LAREU HUIDOBRO, MARIA VICTORIA (Tutorships)
MOSQUERA MIGUEL, ANA (Co-tutorships)
Court
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Chairman)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Secretary)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Member)
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Chairman)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Secretary)
MARTIN CORA, FRANCISCO JAVIER (Member)
Prevalence and characterization of knowledge or radon gas in Spain
Authorship
A.F.S.
Master in Public Health
A.F.S.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
09.16.2025 11:50
09.16.2025 11:50
Summary
The aim of the study is characterize the levele of knowledge and awareness of th spanish population regarding radon gas. To achieve tnis, the prevalence of knowledge is analyzed across three dimensions; the general population, the social and demographic attributes of the participants and their province os residences. The latter allows for the identification of differences in awareness between regions. Additionally, the sociodemographic characteristics of individuals who possess inforamtion about this gas are described, in order to better understand the profiles of the most informed population groups
The aim of the study is characterize the levele of knowledge and awareness of th spanish population regarding radon gas. To achieve tnis, the prevalence of knowledge is analyzed across three dimensions; the general population, the social and demographic attributes of the participants and their province os residences. The latter allows for the identification of differences in awareness between regions. Additionally, the sociodemographic characteristics of individuals who possess inforamtion about this gas are described, in order to better understand the profiles of the most informed population groups
Direction
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Tutorships)
Martín de Bernardo Gisbert, Lucía (Co-tutorships)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Tutorships)
Martín de Bernardo Gisbert, Lucía (Co-tutorships)
Court
ZAPATA CACHAFEIRO, MARUXA (Chairman)
SALGADO BARREIRA, ANGEL (Secretary)
Rodríguez Loureiro, Lucía (Member)
ZAPATA CACHAFEIRO, MARUXA (Chairman)
SALGADO BARREIRA, ANGEL (Secretary)
Rodríguez Loureiro, Lucía (Member)
CCR9 as therapeutic target in lung cancer
Authorship
L.F.V.
Master in Biomedical Research
L.F.V.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Lung cancer is the type of cancer that causes the most deaths worldwide. It’s high mortality may be due to the diagnosis in late stages and to the development of chemoresistance and subsequent relapse. CCR9 is a chemokine receptor that is involved in cell behaviours associated with a higher aggressiveness, such as chemoresistance, invasion and metastasis, in different cancer types, including lung cancer. Due to its role in this pathology, in this work, the potential of CCR9 as a therapeutic target has been studied. For it, some phenotypic features associated with a higher aggressiveness, such as migration, chemoresistnce and proliferation, were compared between two lung adenocarcinoma cell lines, A549 WT, the parental one, and A549 CCR9 KO, in which this receptor was genetically inactivated. In this work, it has been observed that CCR9 knockout cells migrate significantly less and are significantly more sensitive to cisplatin than the WT cells. The conclusion of this work is that CCR9 has potential as a therapeutic target in lung cancer given that it promotes cell migration and chemoresistance in the context of this pathology.
Lung cancer is the type of cancer that causes the most deaths worldwide. It’s high mortality may be due to the diagnosis in late stages and to the development of chemoresistance and subsequent relapse. CCR9 is a chemokine receptor that is involved in cell behaviours associated with a higher aggressiveness, such as chemoresistance, invasion and metastasis, in different cancer types, including lung cancer. Due to its role in this pathology, in this work, the potential of CCR9 as a therapeutic target has been studied. For it, some phenotypic features associated with a higher aggressiveness, such as migration, chemoresistnce and proliferation, were compared between two lung adenocarcinoma cell lines, A549 WT, the parental one, and A549 CCR9 KO, in which this receptor was genetically inactivated. In this work, it has been observed that CCR9 knockout cells migrate significantly less and are significantly more sensitive to cisplatin than the WT cells. The conclusion of this work is that CCR9 has potential as a therapeutic target in lung cancer given that it promotes cell migration and chemoresistance in the context of this pathology.
Direction
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Tutorships)
CARNEIRO FREIRE, CARMEN (Co-tutorships)
VIDAL FIGUEROA, ANXO (Tutorships)
CARNEIRO FREIRE, CARMEN (Co-tutorships)
Court
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
Influence of diet on the early development of cardiovascular diseases
Authorship
L.F.L.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
L.F.L.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death worldwide, with approximately 18 million deaths annually according to the World Health Organization. Despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, their incidence continues to rise, driven by modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Among the modifiable ones, diet stands out for its dual role as a potential protective factor or a trigger in the early development of CVD. Objective: To analyse the influence of diet and nutrition on the early development of cardiovascular diseases. Secondary aims include identifying dietary patterns, key nutrients, comparisons between dietary approaches, nutritional status, and the effectiveness of nutritional interventions. Methods: A literature review was conducted using the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases, following the PRISMA guidelines. Studies were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, with a qualitative assessment of their content, methodology, and scientific rigor. Results: The initial search yielded 150 documents, of which 17 met the eligibility criteria after screening. These selected studies were analysed in depth based on their methodological quality and relevance to the research objectives. Conclusions: The findings support that early-life nutrition is crucial in preventing cardiovascular risk. Nutritional interventions implemented during the prenatal period and throughout childhood significantly influence metabolic, vascular, and epigenetic programming. These results underscore the importance of implementing comprehensive public health policies that foster healthy and sustainable food environments from an early age.
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of death worldwide, with approximately 18 million deaths annually according to the World Health Organization. Despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, their incidence continues to rise, driven by modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Among the modifiable ones, diet stands out for its dual role as a potential protective factor or a trigger in the early development of CVD. Objective: To analyse the influence of diet and nutrition on the early development of cardiovascular diseases. Secondary aims include identifying dietary patterns, key nutrients, comparisons between dietary approaches, nutritional status, and the effectiveness of nutritional interventions. Methods: A literature review was conducted using the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases, following the PRISMA guidelines. Studies were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, with a qualitative assessment of their content, methodology, and scientific rigor. Results: The initial search yielded 150 documents, of which 17 met the eligibility criteria after screening. These selected studies were analysed in depth based on their methodological quality and relevance to the research objectives. Conclusions: The findings support that early-life nutrition is crucial in preventing cardiovascular risk. Nutritional interventions implemented during the prenatal period and throughout childhood significantly influence metabolic, vascular, and epigenetic programming. These results underscore the importance of implementing comprehensive public health policies that foster healthy and sustainable food environments from an early age.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and practices of medical students regarding climate change: a systematic review
Authorship
M.F.S.
Master in Public Health
M.F.S.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
06.25.2025 09:40
06.25.2025 09:40
Summary
Introduction: Climate change (CC) is the greatest public health threat of the century. Healthcare professionals play a key role in responding to the health threats posed by CC. Objectives: To identify the knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and practices (KBAP) of medical university students in relation to CC and to analyze their perspectives regarding the incorporation of CC into the medical school curriculum. Methods: Systematic review. A search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Knowledge, LILACS, and Cochrane databases. To be eligible for inclusion, studies had to be reported in English, Spanish, or Portuguese; they had to assess KBAP related to CC and/or perspectives regarding the inclusion of CC in the academic curriculum; and the target population had to include medical students. Results: A total of 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most medical students acknowledged the existence of CC and recognized human activities as its main cause. However, they reported a lack of knowledge on how to address it. Conclusion: Medical students have a general understanding of CC. However, specific education and training are needed for future physicians that emphasize the health effects of CC.
Introduction: Climate change (CC) is the greatest public health threat of the century. Healthcare professionals play a key role in responding to the health threats posed by CC. Objectives: To identify the knowledge, beliefs, attitudes, and practices (KBAP) of medical university students in relation to CC and to analyze their perspectives regarding the incorporation of CC into the medical school curriculum. Methods: Systematic review. A search was conducted in the PubMed, Embase, Web of Knowledge, LILACS, and Cochrane databases. To be eligible for inclusion, studies had to be reported in English, Spanish, or Portuguese; they had to assess KBAP related to CC and/or perspectives regarding the inclusion of CC in the academic curriculum; and the target population had to include medical students. Results: A total of 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. Most medical students acknowledged the existence of CC and recognized human activities as its main cause. However, they reported a lack of knowledge on how to address it. Conclusion: Medical students have a general understanding of CC. However, specific education and training are needed for future physicians that emphasize the health effects of CC.
Direction
SALGADO BARREIRA, ANGEL (Tutorships)
ZAPATA CACHAFEIRO, MARUXA (Co-tutorships)
SALGADO BARREIRA, ANGEL (Tutorships)
ZAPATA CACHAFEIRO, MARUXA (Co-tutorships)
Court
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Member)
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Member)
Search of ferroptosis biomarkers in metabolic diseases
Authorship
L.G.A.
Master in Biomedical Research
L.G.A.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Ferroptosis is a form of iron-dependent, regulated cell death characterized by the accumulation of lipid peroxides. It's implicated in multiple biological contexts such as aging, immunity, and cancer. However, although ferroptosis has been widely studied in other biological and pathological contexts, its specific role in metabolism and its functionality in adipose tissue remain unclear. In this context, there is a need to study the relationship between the different mechanisms involved in ferroptosis and obesity. This work focused on the analysis of gene expression variations of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase family member 4 (ACSL4), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4) in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of obese patients compared to control patients and patients after bariatric surgery (BS)-induced body weight normalization. The results indicate a possible greater vulnerability of SAT to oxidative stress and ferroptosis. Further studies are needed to determine whether the observed effects reflect a crucial role of ferroptosis in adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity and whether its modulation could represent a therapeutic strategy after CB-induced weight loss.
Ferroptosis is a form of iron-dependent, regulated cell death characterized by the accumulation of lipid peroxides. It's implicated in multiple biological contexts such as aging, immunity, and cancer. However, although ferroptosis has been widely studied in other biological and pathological contexts, its specific role in metabolism and its functionality in adipose tissue remain unclear. In this context, there is a need to study the relationship between the different mechanisms involved in ferroptosis and obesity. This work focused on the analysis of gene expression variations of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase family member 4 (ACSL4), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 (FSP1), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11), and nuclear receptor coactivator 4 (NCOA4) in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) of obese patients compared to control patients and patients after bariatric surgery (BS)-induced body weight normalization. The results indicate a possible greater vulnerability of SAT to oxidative stress and ferroptosis. Further studies are needed to determine whether the observed effects reflect a crucial role of ferroptosis in adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity and whether its modulation could represent a therapeutic strategy after CB-induced weight loss.
Direction
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Tutorships)
Fafián Labora, Juan Antonio (Co-tutorships)
Sangiao Alvarellos, Susana (Co-tutorships)
TOVAR CARRO, SULAY AMPARO (Tutorships)
Fafián Labora, Juan Antonio (Co-tutorships)
Sangiao Alvarellos, Susana (Co-tutorships)
Court
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
Prevalence and characterization of energy drink consumption in South and Central America: a systematic review
Authorship
M.G.G.
Master in Public Health
M.G.G.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
09.16.2025 11:30
09.16.2025 11:30
Summary
ABSTRACT Introduction Energy drinks (EDs) are non-alcoholic beverages with a high caffeine content. Their consumption has been steadily increasing among young populations. However, frequent intake has been associated with adverse health outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify studies estimating the prevalence of energy drink consumption in South and Central America and to characterize consumers. Methods A systematic review was conducted across different databases following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies published up to November 2024 were eligible, with no language restrictions. Articles reporting prevalence of consumption in South and Central America were included. Results A total of 1,884 records were screened, of which 18 studies published between 2008 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies employed a cross-sectional design and focused on university students. Seventeen studies were classified as low quality, and one as moderate quality. Reported prevalence of daily consumption ranged from 2.1% to 4.8%; weekly consumption from 16.4% to 61.4%; monthly consumption from 30.8% to 57.3%; and lifetime consumption from 37.9% to 87.8%. Among school-aged populations, daily consumption varied from 0.4% to 26.9%. Higher consumption was consistently observed among males and individuals aged 21 to 35 years. Conclusions Energy drink consumption in South and Central America is high, particularly among males. More high-quality research is needed to provide accurate estimates of consumption patterns in the region.
ABSTRACT Introduction Energy drinks (EDs) are non-alcoholic beverages with a high caffeine content. Their consumption has been steadily increasing among young populations. However, frequent intake has been associated with adverse health outcomes. The aim of this study was to identify studies estimating the prevalence of energy drink consumption in South and Central America and to characterize consumers. Methods A systematic review was conducted across different databases following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Studies published up to November 2024 were eligible, with no language restrictions. Articles reporting prevalence of consumption in South and Central America were included. Results A total of 1,884 records were screened, of which 18 studies published between 2008 and 2021 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies employed a cross-sectional design and focused on university students. Seventeen studies were classified as low quality, and one as moderate quality. Reported prevalence of daily consumption ranged from 2.1% to 4.8%; weekly consumption from 16.4% to 61.4%; monthly consumption from 30.8% to 57.3%; and lifetime consumption from 37.9% to 87.8%. Among school-aged populations, daily consumption varied from 0.4% to 26.9%. Higher consumption was consistently observed among males and individuals aged 21 to 35 years. Conclusions Energy drink consumption in South and Central America is high, particularly among males. More high-quality research is needed to provide accurate estimates of consumption patterns in the region.
Direction
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Tutorships)
GARCIA , GUADALUPE (Co-tutorships)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Tutorships)
GARCIA , GUADALUPE (Co-tutorships)
Court
ZAPATA CACHAFEIRO, MARUXA (Chairman)
SALGADO BARREIRA, ANGEL (Secretary)
Rodríguez Loureiro, Lucía (Member)
ZAPATA CACHAFEIRO, MARUXA (Chairman)
SALGADO BARREIRA, ANGEL (Secretary)
Rodríguez Loureiro, Lucía (Member)
Sugar and sweetener consumption and gut microbiota alterations in overweight or obese pediatric patients. Systematic review.
Authorship
T.G.Q.D.L.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
T.G.Q.D.L.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction and objectives: Childhood obesity and overweight constitute a growing and complex public health problem, associated not only with excess weight from an early age, but also with metabolic complications such as NAFLD and insulin resistance. High consumption of free sugars and ultraprocessed foods has been identified as a key factor in this phenomenon, while the gut microbiota and metabolome emerge as determining mediators between diet and health. Furthermore, replacing sugar with artificial sweeteners is presented as a common strategy, although there is conflicting evidence regarding its safety and efficacy, especially in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children. The objective of this systematic review is to synthesize the current evidence on the effects of sugar and sweetener consumption in childhood, evaluating their impact on metabolism, microbiota composition, and health outcomes related to obesity and overweight. Methods: A search was conducted in three databases, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, selecting studies published between 2015 and 2025. The PRISMA methodology was followed for the systematic review, inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and the CASPe tool was used to assess the risk of bias. Results: 110 publications were identified. After eliminating duplicates and applying different inclusion and exclusion criteria, 7 articles were included. Reducing free sugars was associated with metabolic, metabolomic, and microbiota improvements. Artificial sweeteners did not show clear benefits and, in perinatal settings, were linked to alterations in the colostrum microbiota and higher body mass index in offspring. Conclusions: Reducing free sugars in childhood has significant metabolic and microbiological benefits. Artificial sweeteners are not a safe alternative, especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women. More longitudinal studies are needed to guide childhood obesity prevention policies.
Introduction and objectives: Childhood obesity and overweight constitute a growing and complex public health problem, associated not only with excess weight from an early age, but also with metabolic complications such as NAFLD and insulin resistance. High consumption of free sugars and ultraprocessed foods has been identified as a key factor in this phenomenon, while the gut microbiota and metabolome emerge as determining mediators between diet and health. Furthermore, replacing sugar with artificial sweeteners is presented as a common strategy, although there is conflicting evidence regarding its safety and efficacy, especially in vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children. The objective of this systematic review is to synthesize the current evidence on the effects of sugar and sweetener consumption in childhood, evaluating their impact on metabolism, microbiota composition, and health outcomes related to obesity and overweight. Methods: A search was conducted in three databases, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, selecting studies published between 2015 and 2025. The PRISMA methodology was followed for the systematic review, inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and the CASPe tool was used to assess the risk of bias. Results: 110 publications were identified. After eliminating duplicates and applying different inclusion and exclusion criteria, 7 articles were included. Reducing free sugars was associated with metabolic, metabolomic, and microbiota improvements. Artificial sweeteners did not show clear benefits and, in perinatal settings, were linked to alterations in the colostrum microbiota and higher body mass index in offspring. Conclusions: Reducing free sugars in childhood has significant metabolic and microbiological benefits. Artificial sweeteners are not a safe alternative, especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women. More longitudinal studies are needed to guide childhood obesity prevention policies.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Metabolic role of insuline signaling in astrocytes.
Authorship
R.G.V.
Master in Biomedical Research
R.G.V.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
The Central Nervous System plays a fundamental role in the integration and coordination of metabolic and endocrine signals. The hypothalamus is the main region responsible for controlling metabolic homeostasis and generates responses to peripheral signals such as hormones, including insulin. This hormone is involved in glucose metabolism. It exerts its function through binding to its receptor, but it also acts by binding to the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) receptor (a receptor with a structure very similar to the insulin receptor) and to hybrid receptors composed of both types, thereby allowing activation of the same signaling pathways. In the Central Nervous System, insulin regulates glucose entrance into the brain. Moreover, its elimination in both the Central Nervous System and specifically in the hypothalamus causes alterations in glucose and lipid metabolism. This signaling in the brain is essential for the regulation of hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism. In addition to neurons, glial cells also possess this type of receptor. This study investigates both the individual role of the insulin receptor and its synergistic function with the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 receptor in hypothalamic astrocytes, as well as the potential metabolic alterations in the liver. This process was carried out using two animal models. In one, insulin receptor ablation was induced, and in the other, a double ablation of the insulin receptor and the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 receptor, both in the hypothalamic astrocytes of male mice. Through molecular and histological techniques, the results show that the combined action of both receptors in hypothalamic astrocytes is necessary to maintain hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism.
The Central Nervous System plays a fundamental role in the integration and coordination of metabolic and endocrine signals. The hypothalamus is the main region responsible for controlling metabolic homeostasis and generates responses to peripheral signals such as hormones, including insulin. This hormone is involved in glucose metabolism. It exerts its function through binding to its receptor, but it also acts by binding to the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) receptor (a receptor with a structure very similar to the insulin receptor) and to hybrid receptors composed of both types, thereby allowing activation of the same signaling pathways. In the Central Nervous System, insulin regulates glucose entrance into the brain. Moreover, its elimination in both the Central Nervous System and specifically in the hypothalamus causes alterations in glucose and lipid metabolism. This signaling in the brain is essential for the regulation of hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism. In addition to neurons, glial cells also possess this type of receptor. This study investigates both the individual role of the insulin receptor and its synergistic function with the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 receptor in hypothalamic astrocytes, as well as the potential metabolic alterations in the liver. This process was carried out using two animal models. In one, insulin receptor ablation was induced, and in the other, a double ablation of the insulin receptor and the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 receptor, both in the hypothalamic astrocytes of male mice. Through molecular and histological techniques, the results show that the combined action of both receptors in hypothalamic astrocytes is necessary to maintain hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism.
Direction
GONZALEZ GARCIA, ISMAEL (Tutorships)
GONZALEZ GARCIA, ISMAEL (Tutorships)
Court
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
Tanycytes and Aging: Validation of an In Vitro Model and Study of Potentially Involved Genes
Authorship
J.L.P.
Master in Biomedical Research
J.L.P.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
In recent years, a large part of scientific effort has focused on understanding the mechanisms of aging. To this end, this study focuses on tanycytes, some of the most affected cells by the aging process in the central nervous system, acting as a gateway for multiple metabolites into the hypothalamus. This work will validate the use of primary cultures for the in vitro study of the aging process in tanycytes and, if validated, the possible effects of the target Desmoglein 2 on this process will be studied. The results of this study validate the in vitro model for the study of aging and position Dsg2 as a promising target due to its effects on cell proliferation.
In recent years, a large part of scientific effort has focused on understanding the mechanisms of aging. To this end, this study focuses on tanycytes, some of the most affected cells by the aging process in the central nervous system, acting as a gateway for multiple metabolites into the hypothalamus. This work will validate the use of primary cultures for the in vitro study of the aging process in tanycytes and, if validated, the possible effects of the target Desmoglein 2 on this process will be studied. The results of this study validate the in vitro model for the study of aging and position Dsg2 as a promising target due to its effects on cell proliferation.
Direction
NOGUEIRAS POZO, RUBEN (Tutorships)
NOGUEIRAS POZO, RUBEN (Tutorships)
Court
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
Role of the PCK1 protein in the development of liver fibrosis
Authorship
B.L.P.
Master in Biomedical Research
B.L.P.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK1) is a gluconeogenic enzyme involved in the energy homeostasis of hepatic glucose. Its deficiency in hepatocytes is known to be associated with the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD); however, its role in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main fibrogenic cells in the liver, remains unknown. HSCs are not traditionally considered gluconeogenic cells. However, during their activation, they undergo metabolic reprogramming characterized by a marked increase in glycolysis to meet the high energy and biosynthetic demands required for the acquisition of a profibrogenic phenotype. Based on this, the present study aimed to investigate whether PCK1, by regulating glucose metabolism in HSCs, could play a relevant role in this process and, therefore, in the development of hepatic fibrosis. To this end, the gene expression of PCK1 was analyzed both in in vitro human models of activated HSCs and in primary HSCs from mice with liver fibrosis, confirming a reduction in its expression levels. The decrease in PCK1 was also studied as a potential causal mechanism in fibrosis development. It was observed that both in in vitro human HSC models and in in vivo conditional knockdown models, fibrosis levels worsened and glycolytic capacity increased. Taken together, these results suggest a possible role for PCK1 downregulation in the development of fibrosis in the context of MASLD, by enhancing the glycolytic capacity of activated HSCs and thereby promoting their fibrogenic metabolism.
Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK1) is a gluconeogenic enzyme involved in the energy homeostasis of hepatic glucose. Its deficiency in hepatocytes is known to be associated with the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD); however, its role in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), the main fibrogenic cells in the liver, remains unknown. HSCs are not traditionally considered gluconeogenic cells. However, during their activation, they undergo metabolic reprogramming characterized by a marked increase in glycolysis to meet the high energy and biosynthetic demands required for the acquisition of a profibrogenic phenotype. Based on this, the present study aimed to investigate whether PCK1, by regulating glucose metabolism in HSCs, could play a relevant role in this process and, therefore, in the development of hepatic fibrosis. To this end, the gene expression of PCK1 was analyzed both in in vitro human models of activated HSCs and in primary HSCs from mice with liver fibrosis, confirming a reduction in its expression levels. The decrease in PCK1 was also studied as a potential causal mechanism in fibrosis development. It was observed that both in in vitro human HSC models and in in vivo conditional knockdown models, fibrosis levels worsened and glycolytic capacity increased. Taken together, these results suggest a possible role for PCK1 downregulation in the development of fibrosis in the context of MASLD, by enhancing the glycolytic capacity of activated HSCs and thereby promoting their fibrogenic metabolism.
Direction
NOGUEIRAS POZO, RUBEN (Tutorships)
Nóvoa Deaño, Eva María (Co-tutorships)
NOGUEIRAS POZO, RUBEN (Tutorships)
Nóvoa Deaño, Eva María (Co-tutorships)
Court
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Chairman)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Secretary)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Member)
Interstitial Cells of Cajal and Enteric Nervous System in Gastrointestinal and Neurological Pathology, Relation to Oxidative Stress
Authorship
L.L.P.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
L.L.P.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
02.14.2025 11:45
02.14.2025 11:45
Summary
One of the attacks on cell structures is oxidative stress. In the enteric nervous system (ENS) it is interesting to study the relationship between oxidative processes, gastrointestinal pathology and intestinal nerve plexuses. Through bibliographic review, we analyze the relationship between oxidative stress, ENS and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), in gastrointestinal, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental pathologies. And, later, we value the bidirectional relationship between the central nervous system and the ENS. Conducting a bibliographic review in PubMed, with the filters: Review, Full Text, 10 years, Humans, with subsequent extension to: Case Reports, Clinical Trial and Meta-Analysis, and older than 10 years. Search algorithms: Enteric nervous system OR ICCs AND oxidative stress; ICC OR ENS AND brain; Parkinson AND ENS NOT microbiota; Alzheimer AND ENS”NOT microbiota; ELA AND ENS NOT microbiota. The MeSH terms for each algorithm: Parkinson; ENS; GIST, Chagas; Postoperative paralytic ileus; Nitric oxide; Plasticity, Oxidative stress, among others. The results are structured in the following sections: 1) ICC in the intestine. 2) Oxidative stress in ICC and ENS. 3) Gastrointestinal disorders related to ICC and ENS. 4) Neurodegenerative diseases affecting the ENS. 5) Neurodevelopmental disorders with involvement of the ENS. ICCs are located in the intestine and participate in enteric neurotransmission. They are the pacemaker cells of the ENS, responsible for the genesis of slow waves. In the main gastrointestinal pathologies, an alteration of the myenteric plexus and its connections with ICC are evident.
One of the attacks on cell structures is oxidative stress. In the enteric nervous system (ENS) it is interesting to study the relationship between oxidative processes, gastrointestinal pathology and intestinal nerve plexuses. Through bibliographic review, we analyze the relationship between oxidative stress, ENS and interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), in gastrointestinal, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental pathologies. And, later, we value the bidirectional relationship between the central nervous system and the ENS. Conducting a bibliographic review in PubMed, with the filters: Review, Full Text, 10 years, Humans, with subsequent extension to: Case Reports, Clinical Trial and Meta-Analysis, and older than 10 years. Search algorithms: Enteric nervous system OR ICCs AND oxidative stress; ICC OR ENS AND brain; Parkinson AND ENS NOT microbiota; Alzheimer AND ENS”NOT microbiota; ELA AND ENS NOT microbiota. The MeSH terms for each algorithm: Parkinson; ENS; GIST, Chagas; Postoperative paralytic ileus; Nitric oxide; Plasticity, Oxidative stress, among others. The results are structured in the following sections: 1) ICC in the intestine. 2) Oxidative stress in ICC and ENS. 3) Gastrointestinal disorders related to ICC and ENS. 4) Neurodegenerative diseases affecting the ENS. 5) Neurodevelopmental disorders with involvement of the ENS. ICCs are located in the intestine and participate in enteric neurotransmission. They are the pacemaker cells of the ENS, responsible for the genesis of slow waves. In the main gastrointestinal pathologies, an alteration of the myenteric plexus and its connections with ICC are evident.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Muñoz Hoyos, Antonio (Co-tutorships)
Agil Abdalla, Ahmad (Co-tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Muñoz Hoyos, Antonio (Co-tutorships)
Agil Abdalla, Ahmad (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Biological Effects of AG5 on Cancer Cells at the Endoplasmic Reticulum Level
Authorship
O.L.V.
Master in Biomedical Research
O.L.V.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Cancer is a complex disease and one of the leading causes of death worldwide, characterised by metabolic alterations and therapeutic resistance. In this paper, the therapeutic potential of five-atom quantum atomic clusters (AQCs-Ag5) has been evaluated in two cell lines, focusing on their effect on endoplasmic reticulum stress and calcium signalling. AQCs-Ag5 treatment induces the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum, promoting the dissociation of BiP from the PERK sensor and its subsequent phosphorylation, which triggers eIF2 alpha phosphorylation, reduces global translation, and promotes the expression of ATF4 and CHOP - factors associated with apoptosis. The results suggest that these clusters induce calcium-related alterations affecting the morphology of both the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, in addition to activating the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway, with differences observed among the studied cell lines. These findings highlight the specificity of clusters as a promising therapeutic strategy against cancer.
Cancer is a complex disease and one of the leading causes of death worldwide, characterised by metabolic alterations and therapeutic resistance. In this paper, the therapeutic potential of five-atom quantum atomic clusters (AQCs-Ag5) has been evaluated in two cell lines, focusing on their effect on endoplasmic reticulum stress and calcium signalling. AQCs-Ag5 treatment induces the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum, promoting the dissociation of BiP from the PERK sensor and its subsequent phosphorylation, which triggers eIF2 alpha phosphorylation, reduces global translation, and promotes the expression of ATF4 and CHOP - factors associated with apoptosis. The results suggest that these clusters induce calcium-related alterations affecting the morphology of both the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, in addition to activating the unfolded protein response (UPR) pathway, with differences observed among the studied cell lines. These findings highlight the specificity of clusters as a promising therapeutic strategy against cancer.
Direction
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Tutorships)
PORTO GONZALEZ, VANESA (Co-tutorships)
DOMINGUEZ PUENTE, FERNANDO (Tutorships)
PORTO GONZALEZ, VANESA (Co-tutorships)
Court
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
Master Dissertation Association of Knowledge and Attitudes with the Misuse of Pharmaceutical Stimulants Among Students: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Student Population of the University of Santiago de Compostela
Authorship
A.M.M.
Master in Public Health
A.M.M.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
06.25.2025 09:20
06.25.2025 09:20
Summary
OBJECTIVE: To explore whether there is an association between students' knowledge and attitudes regarding pharmaceutical stimulants and their misuse. METHODS: We carried out a cross-sectional study among undergraduate students at the University of Santiago de Compostela during the first semester of the 2024-2025 academic year. Data were collected using a validated Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices questionnaire (KAP). Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Each knowledge and attitude item represented an exposure factor and was analysed in a separate regression model. The outcome was the misuse of stimulant medication misuse defined as having at least one of the following practices: use without a medical prescription, prescribed use not adhering to the doctor's instructions regarding dose, timing, and duration, and/or improper handling of leftover medication (sharing with others, disposing in the trash, or keeping it). RESULTS: 5048 out of 5569 students invited to participate in the study answered the questionnaire, representing a participation rate of 90.6 %. 133 students reported having used pharmaceutical stimulants in the two months prior to the study , and 94 (70.7 %) of them engaged in at least one misuse practice. A strong association was observed between the lack of knowledge and inappropriate attitudes towards pharmaceutical stimulants and their misuse. For example, compared to students with good knowledge levels or appropriate attitudes, the odds of misuse were considerably higher when students were unaware that these drugs could cause dependence or addiction [ORa: 4.46 (1.80-11.03)] or when they were willing to take them without a prescription if they believed they needed them [ORa: 13,33 (6,30-28,22)]. The reason for using pharmaceutical stimulants without a prescription most associated with misuse was to improve concentration and academic performance [ORa: 4,81 (3,00-7,71)]. CONCLUSIONS: Both a lack of knowledge and inappropriate attitudes increase the likelihood of pharmaceutical stimulant misuse. More awareness on the importance of following medical advice and on the possible adverse effects of stimulant medication is needed in the population.
OBJECTIVE: To explore whether there is an association between students' knowledge and attitudes regarding pharmaceutical stimulants and their misuse. METHODS: We carried out a cross-sectional study among undergraduate students at the University of Santiago de Compostela during the first semester of the 2024-2025 academic year. Data were collected using a validated Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices questionnaire (KAP). Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Each knowledge and attitude item represented an exposure factor and was analysed in a separate regression model. The outcome was the misuse of stimulant medication misuse defined as having at least one of the following practices: use without a medical prescription, prescribed use not adhering to the doctor's instructions regarding dose, timing, and duration, and/or improper handling of leftover medication (sharing with others, disposing in the trash, or keeping it). RESULTS: 5048 out of 5569 students invited to participate in the study answered the questionnaire, representing a participation rate of 90.6 %. 133 students reported having used pharmaceutical stimulants in the two months prior to the study , and 94 (70.7 %) of them engaged in at least one misuse practice. A strong association was observed between the lack of knowledge and inappropriate attitudes towards pharmaceutical stimulants and their misuse. For example, compared to students with good knowledge levels or appropriate attitudes, the odds of misuse were considerably higher when students were unaware that these drugs could cause dependence or addiction [ORa: 4.46 (1.80-11.03)] or when they were willing to take them without a prescription if they believed they needed them [ORa: 13,33 (6,30-28,22)]. The reason for using pharmaceutical stimulants without a prescription most associated with misuse was to improve concentration and academic performance [ORa: 4,81 (3,00-7,71)]. CONCLUSIONS: Both a lack of knowledge and inappropriate attitudes increase the likelihood of pharmaceutical stimulant misuse. More awareness on the importance of following medical advice and on the possible adverse effects of stimulant medication is needed in the population.
Direction
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Tutorships)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Tutorships)
Court
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Member)
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Member)
Study of the functionality of the rare natural variant A55T of fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 in cell lines
Authorship
L.M.T.
Master in Biomedical Research
L.M.T.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Recent research in the field of Central Nervous System disease pharmacology links the fractalkine receptor CX3CR1, particularly its rare native variant CX3CR1-A55T, to neuropsychiatric disease phenotypes such as schizophrenia and autism. Interaction studies with beta-arrestins showed a decreased ability of the mutant receptor to promote translocation of these proteins to the plasma membrane compared to the native variant in response to fractalkine ligand. It has been suggested that the A55T variant is deficient in G protein interaction, but the kinetics of G protein dissociation in response to fractalkine have not been properly studied. The aim of this work was to evaluate the functionality of the rare A55T variant of the fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 in stable cell lines. The determination of the G protein activation kinetics of CX3CR1 and the CX3CR1-A55T mutant was performed using the Transduction Pathways assay platform, employing the Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer technique, contemplating a previous step of optimization of the assay conditions in relation to the CX3CR1 native receptor. Complementary intracellular calcium assays in response to fractalkine were performed for both receptor types. The efficiency of G protein interaction with the receptor in response to fractalkine, as well as the potency with which fractalkine promotes such interaction, were not affected in the CX3CR1-A55T variant with respect to the native CX3CR1 receptor. Intracellular calcium signaling assays showed transient increases of this ion in a concentration-dependent manner in response to increasing concentrations of fractalkine, both for the native receptor and for its mutated variant. The results obtained suggest that the G protein-dependent signaling pathway is functional for the CX3CR1-A55T mutant.
Recent research in the field of Central Nervous System disease pharmacology links the fractalkine receptor CX3CR1, particularly its rare native variant CX3CR1-A55T, to neuropsychiatric disease phenotypes such as schizophrenia and autism. Interaction studies with beta-arrestins showed a decreased ability of the mutant receptor to promote translocation of these proteins to the plasma membrane compared to the native variant in response to fractalkine ligand. It has been suggested that the A55T variant is deficient in G protein interaction, but the kinetics of G protein dissociation in response to fractalkine have not been properly studied. The aim of this work was to evaluate the functionality of the rare A55T variant of the fractalkine receptor CX3CR1 in stable cell lines. The determination of the G protein activation kinetics of CX3CR1 and the CX3CR1-A55T mutant was performed using the Transduction Pathways assay platform, employing the Bioluminescence Resonance Energy Transfer technique, contemplating a previous step of optimization of the assay conditions in relation to the CX3CR1 native receptor. Complementary intracellular calcium assays in response to fractalkine were performed for both receptor types. The efficiency of G protein interaction with the receptor in response to fractalkine, as well as the potency with which fractalkine promotes such interaction, were not affected in the CX3CR1-A55T variant with respect to the native CX3CR1 receptor. Intracellular calcium signaling assays showed transient increases of this ion in a concentration-dependent manner in response to increasing concentrations of fractalkine, both for the native receptor and for its mutated variant. The results obtained suggest that the G protein-dependent signaling pathway is functional for the CX3CR1-A55T mutant.
Direction
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Tutorships)
CASTRO PEREZ, MARIA DE LOS ANGELES (Tutorships)
Court
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
Tobacco control measures: acceptance by the population
Authorship
J.M.M.M.
Master in Public Health
J.M.M.M.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
02.18.2025 09:20
02.18.2025 09:20
Summary
The objective is to assess the acceptability of new measures against tobacco consumption control measures in Spain through a survey of the population over 16 years of age. The measure of the prohibition of smoking inside cars in the presence of minors is the measure that has had the greatest acceptance among the participants.
The objective is to assess the acceptability of new measures against tobacco consumption control measures in Spain through a survey of the population over 16 years of age. The measure of the prohibition of smoking inside cars in the presence of minors is the measure that has had the greatest acceptance among the participants.
Direction
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Tutorships)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Co-tutorships)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Tutorships)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Co-tutorships)
Court
MONTES MARTINEZ, AGUSTIN (Chairman)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Secretary)
VARELA LEMA, MARIA LEONOR (Member)
MONTES MARTINEZ, AGUSTIN (Chairman)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Secretary)
VARELA LEMA, MARIA LEONOR (Member)
Systematic review on the relationship between zinc supplementation and metabolic hormone levels: ghrelin, leptin, thyroid hormone, insulin, adiponectin, and body composition in pediatric patients with overweight and obesity
Authorship
D.D.M.C.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
D.D.M.C.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:00
07.17.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern, associated with hormonal disturbances that affect metabolism and body composition. Zinc supplementation has been proposed as a potential modulator of these alterations due to its involvement in several metabolic pathways. This systematic review aims to evaluate the available evidence on the effect of oral zinc on metabolic hormones and anthropometric parameters in overweight or obese children and adolescents. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science 2005 - 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials and quasiexperimental studies were included if they assessed the effect of zinc on at least one metabolic hormone: insulin, leptin, ghrelin, adiponectin, thyroid hormones and one body composition variable: BMI, fat mass, waist circumference in pediatric populations with excess weight. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the RoB 2.0 tools. Results: Out of 183 studies identified, 4 met the inclusion criteria. Three were randomized controlled trials and one was quasi-experimental. The total sample comprised 280 participants aged 6-15 years, including both boys and girls in prepubertal stages. Most studies reported significant improvements in insulin and leptin levels, as well as reductions in BMI and waist circumference after zinc supplementation. Conclusion: Evidence suggests that zinc may have beneficial effects on the hormonal profile and body composition of overweight or obese children. However, the limited number of studies and methodological heterogeneity restrict generalization. Further well-designed trials with long-term follow-up are needed to confirm these effects and guide clinical recommendations.
Introduction: Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern, associated with hormonal disturbances that affect metabolism and body composition. Zinc supplementation has been proposed as a potential modulator of these alterations due to its involvement in several metabolic pathways. This systematic review aims to evaluate the available evidence on the effect of oral zinc on metabolic hormones and anthropometric parameters in overweight or obese children and adolescents. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science 2005 - 2025, following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials and quasiexperimental studies were included if they assessed the effect of zinc on at least one metabolic hormone: insulin, leptin, ghrelin, adiponectin, thyroid hormones and one body composition variable: BMI, fat mass, waist circumference in pediatric populations with excess weight. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the RoB 2.0 tools. Results: Out of 183 studies identified, 4 met the inclusion criteria. Three were randomized controlled trials and one was quasi-experimental. The total sample comprised 280 participants aged 6-15 years, including both boys and girls in prepubertal stages. Most studies reported significant improvements in insulin and leptin levels, as well as reductions in BMI and waist circumference after zinc supplementation. Conclusion: Evidence suggests that zinc may have beneficial effects on the hormonal profile and body composition of overweight or obese children. However, the limited number of studies and methodological heterogeneity restrict generalization. Further well-designed trials with long-term follow-up are needed to confirm these effects and guide clinical recommendations.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Study of the effect of the tumor microenvironment on red blood cells in the context of breast cancer
Authorship
M.M.V.
Master in Biomedical Research
M.M.V.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
This work explores the impact of the tumor microenvironment on red blood cells and how this can influence breast cancer progression, especially in its metastatic form. Red blood cells have been shown to play an active role in adhering to tumor cells and modulating their behavior, despite being little studied in the tumor context. Using in vitro experimental models that simulate inflammatory conditions of the tumor microenvironment (such as exposure to IL-6, hypoxia, or media conditioned by tumor cells), the ability of red blood cells to adhere to MDA-MB-231 tumor cells was evaluated. Additionally, changes in the expression of genes related to tumor progression (VIM and PAK4) were analyzed in the tumor cells, as well as the expression of the CD275/ICOSL protein after contact with red blood cells. The results show that red blood cells from patients with metastatic breast cancer exhibit a greater adhesion capacity, and “simulated patient” models were developed that partially replicate this effect in the laboratory. This validates their experimental utility and reduces the interindividual variability of biological samples. Furthermore, it is also demonstrated that red blood cells are capable of inducing molecular changes in tumor cells, including an increase in CD275 expression. This study suggests that red blood cells could act as active components and/or mediators of the tumor microenvironment, participating in mechanisms of metastatic dissemination, immune modulation, and tumor progression. These findings open new lines of research aimed at characterizing the factors involved, especially the tumor secretome and extracellular vesicles, and propose the development of more complex co-culture models that integrate immune cells
This work explores the impact of the tumor microenvironment on red blood cells and how this can influence breast cancer progression, especially in its metastatic form. Red blood cells have been shown to play an active role in adhering to tumor cells and modulating their behavior, despite being little studied in the tumor context. Using in vitro experimental models that simulate inflammatory conditions of the tumor microenvironment (such as exposure to IL-6, hypoxia, or media conditioned by tumor cells), the ability of red blood cells to adhere to MDA-MB-231 tumor cells was evaluated. Additionally, changes in the expression of genes related to tumor progression (VIM and PAK4) were analyzed in the tumor cells, as well as the expression of the CD275/ICOSL protein after contact with red blood cells. The results show that red blood cells from patients with metastatic breast cancer exhibit a greater adhesion capacity, and “simulated patient” models were developed that partially replicate this effect in the laboratory. This validates their experimental utility and reduces the interindividual variability of biological samples. Furthermore, it is also demonstrated that red blood cells are capable of inducing molecular changes in tumor cells, including an increase in CD275 expression. This study suggests that red blood cells could act as active components and/or mediators of the tumor microenvironment, participating in mechanisms of metastatic dissemination, immune modulation, and tumor progression. These findings open new lines of research aimed at characterizing the factors involved, especially the tumor secretome and extracellular vesicles, and propose the development of more complex co-culture models that integrate immune cells
Direction
LOPEZ LOPEZ, RAFAEL (Tutorships)
Costa Nogueira, Clotilde (Co-tutorships)
LOPEZ LOPEZ, RAFAEL (Tutorships)
Costa Nogueira, Clotilde (Co-tutorships)
Court
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
Association between genetic polymorphisms in FTO, MC4R, and LEP and the risk of childhood obesity: Systematic Review
Authorship
N.M.N.G.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
N.M.N.G.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Childhood obesity is a multifactorial condition resulting from complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. The FTO, MC4R, and LEP genes have been extensively studied for their roles in appetite regulation, energy metabolism, and body fat distribution in children and adolescents. Objective: To evaluate the association between polymorphisms in FTO, MC4R, and LEP genes and the risk of obesity in children through a systematic review of the scientific literature. Methodology: The Pubmed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were used to search for articles, in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and MetaAnalysis) model, selecting articles published between 2022 and 2025. Observational studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were included which evaluated the association of polymorphisms in FTO, MC4R, and LEP with obesity parameters, such as body mass index (BMI), body composition, and risk of metabolic syndrome in the pediatric population (0 to 18 years). The CASP tool was applied for bias risk analysis. Results: 5 articles were included, with a total sample of 41895 children and adolescents. The reviewed evidence indicates that variants such as FTO rs9939609, MC4R rs17782313, and LEP rs7799039 are significantly associated with increased risk of childhood obesity and related metabolic alterations. Geneenvironment interactions, including diet, physical activity, and exposure to endocrinedisrupting chemicals, were also reported. Most studies presented a low to moderate risk of bias, although heterogeneity in study design and outcome measurement limits the generalisability of findings. Conclusions: Polymorphisms in FTO, MC4R, and LEP represent important genetic risk factors for childhood obesity. Further research with robust designs and longitudinal follow up is required to confirm these associations and to deepen understanding of geneenvironment interactions, supporting the development of personalised prevention and management strategies
Introduction: Childhood obesity is a multifactorial condition resulting from complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. The FTO, MC4R, and LEP genes have been extensively studied for their roles in appetite regulation, energy metabolism, and body fat distribution in children and adolescents. Objective: To evaluate the association between polymorphisms in FTO, MC4R, and LEP genes and the risk of obesity in children through a systematic review of the scientific literature. Methodology: The Pubmed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were used to search for articles, in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and MetaAnalysis) model, selecting articles published between 2022 and 2025. Observational studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were included which evaluated the association of polymorphisms in FTO, MC4R, and LEP with obesity parameters, such as body mass index (BMI), body composition, and risk of metabolic syndrome in the pediatric population (0 to 18 years). The CASP tool was applied for bias risk analysis. Results: 5 articles were included, with a total sample of 41895 children and adolescents. The reviewed evidence indicates that variants such as FTO rs9939609, MC4R rs17782313, and LEP rs7799039 are significantly associated with increased risk of childhood obesity and related metabolic alterations. Geneenvironment interactions, including diet, physical activity, and exposure to endocrinedisrupting chemicals, were also reported. Most studies presented a low to moderate risk of bias, although heterogeneity in study design and outcome measurement limits the generalisability of findings. Conclusions: Polymorphisms in FTO, MC4R, and LEP represent important genetic risk factors for childhood obesity. Further research with robust designs and longitudinal follow up is required to confirm these associations and to deepen understanding of geneenvironment interactions, supporting the development of personalised prevention and management strategies
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Nutritional strategies in the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants: a systematic review
Authorship
F.N.G.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
F.N.G.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Abstract Introduction: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most frequent and devastating gastrointestinal emergency in preterm infants, with high mortality and long-term sequelae. Its pathophysiology combines intestinal immaturity, altered microbial colonization, and dysregulated immune responses, which explains the strong influence of nutrition in its prevention. Objective: To analyze the effectiveness of different nutritional interventions (exclusive human milk, fortified human milk, infant formula and probiotics) in the prevention of NEC in preterm neonates. Methods: Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines (PubMed 2010 to 2025). Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses in preterm infants born at less than 37 weeks of gestation were included. A total of 62 studies were analyzed. Results: Human milk significantly reduces NEC incidence compared with formula, with a dose-dependent effect. Donor milk offers protection, although with lower growth outcomes if not fortified. Human or bovine fortifiers do not clearly modify NEC risk. Lactoferrin reduces sepsis, but its impact on NEC remains inconsistent. The most robust evidence comes from multi-strain probiotics (Lactobacillus + Bifidobacterium), which decrease both NEC and neonatal mortality. Discussion: Findings support prioritizing mother’s own milk and the use of multi-strain probiotics, although methodological heterogeneity persists regarding strains, doses, and outcomes. Large multicenter trials with standardized protocols and long-term follow-up are still needed. Conclusions: NEC prevention should be addressed as a multifactorial strategy, where human milk and multi-strain probiotics currently represent the most effective and safest measures.
Abstract Introduction: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most frequent and devastating gastrointestinal emergency in preterm infants, with high mortality and long-term sequelae. Its pathophysiology combines intestinal immaturity, altered microbial colonization, and dysregulated immune responses, which explains the strong influence of nutrition in its prevention. Objective: To analyze the effectiveness of different nutritional interventions (exclusive human milk, fortified human milk, infant formula and probiotics) in the prevention of NEC in preterm neonates. Methods: Systematic review following PRISMA guidelines (PubMed 2010 to 2025). Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses in preterm infants born at less than 37 weeks of gestation were included. A total of 62 studies were analyzed. Results: Human milk significantly reduces NEC incidence compared with formula, with a dose-dependent effect. Donor milk offers protection, although with lower growth outcomes if not fortified. Human or bovine fortifiers do not clearly modify NEC risk. Lactoferrin reduces sepsis, but its impact on NEC remains inconsistent. The most robust evidence comes from multi-strain probiotics (Lactobacillus + Bifidobacterium), which decrease both NEC and neonatal mortality. Discussion: Findings support prioritizing mother’s own milk and the use of multi-strain probiotics, although methodological heterogeneity persists regarding strains, doses, and outcomes. Large multicenter trials with standardized protocols and long-term follow-up are still needed. Conclusions: NEC prevention should be addressed as a multifactorial strategy, where human milk and multi-strain probiotics currently represent the most effective and safest measures.
Direction
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Tutorships)
Picáns Leis, Rosaura (Co-tutorships)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Tutorships)
Picáns Leis, Rosaura (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Pneumococcal vaccination coverage in transplanted patients in a health area of northwestern Spain. A cross-sectional study
Authorship
A.N.G.
Master in Public Health
A.N.G.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
02.18.2025 09:00
02.18.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Streptococcus pneumoniae is a bacterium that causes several infectious conditions among which invasive pneumococcal disease stands out due to its important morbimortality, mainly in immunocompromised subjects. Vaccination against this microorganism represents the main tool to reduce the probability of infection. Methods: We conducted a descriptive study to know the vaccination coverage against Streptococcus pneumoniae in patients belonging to a health area of northwestern Spain who have undergone solid organ transplantation (SOT) or hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) from 2017 to 2022. Subjects were selected from the “Registro de Actividad de Atención Especializada (RAE-CMBD)” using ICD-10 procedure codes, while vaccination data were extracted from the “Sistema de Información y Análisis Complejo (SIAC)”. Results: A total of 680 patients were included (649 belonging to the solid organ transplantation group and 211 belonging to the hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation group). In the first group, 326 patients (69.51%) have received the complete pneumococcal vaccination schedule (at least one dose of 13-valent conjugate vaccine and one dose of polysaccharide vaccine); in the second group, 45 patients (21.33%) have received the complete vaccination schedule (at least 3 doses of 13-valent conjugate vaccine and one dose of polysaccharide vaccine at least 3 months after the receipt of HSCT). Conclusions: Vaccination coverage against pneumococcus in transplanted patients in the healthcare area is suboptimal, fundamentally among patients with HSCT. It is necessary to take measures to raise awareness of the importance of vaccination both among transplanted patients and their health professionals, as well as to carry out a “catch up” of patients who have not correctly completed their vaccination regimen.
Introduction: Streptococcus pneumoniae is a bacterium that causes several infectious conditions among which invasive pneumococcal disease stands out due to its important morbimortality, mainly in immunocompromised subjects. Vaccination against this microorganism represents the main tool to reduce the probability of infection. Methods: We conducted a descriptive study to know the vaccination coverage against Streptococcus pneumoniae in patients belonging to a health area of northwestern Spain who have undergone solid organ transplantation (SOT) or hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) from 2017 to 2022. Subjects were selected from the “Registro de Actividad de Atención Especializada (RAE-CMBD)” using ICD-10 procedure codes, while vaccination data were extracted from the “Sistema de Información y Análisis Complejo (SIAC)”. Results: A total of 680 patients were included (649 belonging to the solid organ transplantation group and 211 belonging to the hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation group). In the first group, 326 patients (69.51%) have received the complete pneumococcal vaccination schedule (at least one dose of 13-valent conjugate vaccine and one dose of polysaccharide vaccine); in the second group, 45 patients (21.33%) have received the complete vaccination schedule (at least 3 doses of 13-valent conjugate vaccine and one dose of polysaccharide vaccine at least 3 months after the receipt of HSCT). Conclusions: Vaccination coverage against pneumococcus in transplanted patients in the healthcare area is suboptimal, fundamentally among patients with HSCT. It is necessary to take measures to raise awareness of the importance of vaccination both among transplanted patients and their health professionals, as well as to carry out a “catch up” of patients who have not correctly completed their vaccination regimen.
Direction
RUANO RAVIÑA, ALBERTO (Tutorships)
RUANO RAVIÑA, ALBERTO (Tutorships)
Court
MONTES MARTINEZ, AGUSTIN (Chairman)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Secretary)
VARELA LEMA, MARIA LEONOR (Member)
MONTES MARTINEZ, AGUSTIN (Chairman)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Secretary)
VARELA LEMA, MARIA LEONOR (Member)
Role of SPARC in exosome-mediated communication of Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) in breast cancer
Authorship
E.P.H.
Master in Biomedical Research
E.P.H.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and CTC clusters (cCTCs) are considered key elements in the development of metastasis in breast cancer. Recently, their metastatic potential has been associated with an overexpression of the SPARC protein. This work addresses the possible secretion of SPARC by these cells through exosomes and the implication that this mechanism could have in tumor dissemination and progression. To this end, both the mCTC cell line, a cellular model derived from a mouse xenograft resembling cCTCs, and its parental line MDA-MB-231 were used. As part of an initial characterization, an intracellular SPARC staining was optimized for analysis by flow cytometry. Subsequently, an exosome extraction method based on ultracentrifugation was developed, followed by the evaluation of SPARC presence in the exosomes and the study of its role in cell migration through functional assays. Firstly, intracellular SPARC staining validated its overexpression in mCTCs compared to MDA-MB-231. On the other hand, exosome extraction through cell culture in the absence of FBS and serial ultracentrifugations of the medium constituted a good initial approach, although further validation is still required. Likewise, exosomal lysates from the mCTC line showed a higher amount of SPARC than those from MDA-MB-231, suggesting greater incorporation of the protein into the exosomes. However, it remains necessary to confirm that the analyzed amount of these vesicles is equivalent in both lines. Finally, SPARC’s action in cell migration appears to depend both on its concentration and on interaction with other factors present in the medium. Due to limitations in time, cells, and material resources, the described results do not reach statistical robustness. Nevertheless, they provide a solid basis to continue deepening this line of research, potentially laying the groundwork to clarify how exosomal conditioning influences the tumor nesting profile.
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and CTC clusters (cCTCs) are considered key elements in the development of metastasis in breast cancer. Recently, their metastatic potential has been associated with an overexpression of the SPARC protein. This work addresses the possible secretion of SPARC by these cells through exosomes and the implication that this mechanism could have in tumor dissemination and progression. To this end, both the mCTC cell line, a cellular model derived from a mouse xenograft resembling cCTCs, and its parental line MDA-MB-231 were used. As part of an initial characterization, an intracellular SPARC staining was optimized for analysis by flow cytometry. Subsequently, an exosome extraction method based on ultracentrifugation was developed, followed by the evaluation of SPARC presence in the exosomes and the study of its role in cell migration through functional assays. Firstly, intracellular SPARC staining validated its overexpression in mCTCs compared to MDA-MB-231. On the other hand, exosome extraction through cell culture in the absence of FBS and serial ultracentrifugations of the medium constituted a good initial approach, although further validation is still required. Likewise, exosomal lysates from the mCTC line showed a higher amount of SPARC than those from MDA-MB-231, suggesting greater incorporation of the protein into the exosomes. However, it remains necessary to confirm that the analyzed amount of these vesicles is equivalent in both lines. Finally, SPARC’s action in cell migration appears to depend both on its concentration and on interaction with other factors present in the medium. Due to limitations in time, cells, and material resources, the described results do not reach statistical robustness. Nevertheless, they provide a solid basis to continue deepening this line of research, potentially laying the groundwork to clarify how exosomal conditioning influences the tumor nesting profile.
Direction
LOPEZ LOPEZ, RAFAEL (Tutorships)
Piñeiro Cid, Roberto (Co-tutorships)
LOPEZ LOPEZ, RAFAEL (Tutorships)
Piñeiro Cid, Roberto (Co-tutorships)
Court
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
Master Dissertation: Trends in stroke incidence and mortality in Chile: analysis of the 2018 to 2023 period
Authorship
J.A.P.R.
Master in Public Health
J.A.P.R.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:20
09.16.2025 09:20
Summary
Introduction: Stroke is a major public health problem and a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. In Chile, understanding its epidemiological trends is essential for developing effective prevention and care strategies. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using hospital discharge records from Chile's public health network. Patients with a diagnosis of ischemic, hemorrhagic, unspecified stroke, and cerebral venous thrombosis, coded according to ICD10, were included. Crude incidence and mortality rates per 100,000 inhabitants were calculated, and joinpoint regression was applied to identify the trends in incidence and inhospital mortality. The annual percentage change (APC) and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) were used as a weighted geometric procedure of the APCs for each identified segment. Results: A total of 131,470 inhospital discharges for stroke from the public health network were analyzed, with a predominance of ischemic stroke (69.7%). Inhospital mortality reached 16,696 cases (51.3% hemorrhagic, 46.3% ischemic). Incidence showed a slight increase at the national level (AAPC 2018 a 2023 = 0.26%; 95% CI (,)2.41 to 3.02), with significant increases in the 2020 to 2023 period (APC = 2.91%; 95% CI 0.34 to 7.20). The Atacama and Antofagasta regions showed the largest increases, while Aysén showed a significant decrease. Mortality presented a downward trend (AAPC 2018 to 2023 = (,)1.01%; 95% CI (,)3.27 to 1.03), with a sharp decrease from 2021 onwards (APC = (,)3.26%). The Arica region showed a sustained decrease in mortality throughout the analysis period (AAPC 2018 to 2023 = (,)8.26%; 95% CI (,)16.5 to 0.75). Conclusions: The incidence of stroke increased in Chile starting in 2020, while inhospital mortality showed a progressive reduction. The regional differences reflect inequities in resources and access to specialized treatments. These findings highlight the need to develop health prevention and promotion strategies that address the specific characteristics and needs of each region, especially in those with higher incidence and mortality rates.
Introduction: Stroke is a major public health problem and a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. In Chile, understanding its epidemiological trends is essential for developing effective prevention and care strategies. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using hospital discharge records from Chile's public health network. Patients with a diagnosis of ischemic, hemorrhagic, unspecified stroke, and cerebral venous thrombosis, coded according to ICD10, were included. Crude incidence and mortality rates per 100,000 inhabitants were calculated, and joinpoint regression was applied to identify the trends in incidence and inhospital mortality. The annual percentage change (APC) and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) were used as a weighted geometric procedure of the APCs for each identified segment. Results: A total of 131,470 inhospital discharges for stroke from the public health network were analyzed, with a predominance of ischemic stroke (69.7%). Inhospital mortality reached 16,696 cases (51.3% hemorrhagic, 46.3% ischemic). Incidence showed a slight increase at the national level (AAPC 2018 a 2023 = 0.26%; 95% CI (,)2.41 to 3.02), with significant increases in the 2020 to 2023 period (APC = 2.91%; 95% CI 0.34 to 7.20). The Atacama and Antofagasta regions showed the largest increases, while Aysén showed a significant decrease. Mortality presented a downward trend (AAPC 2018 to 2023 = (,)1.01%; 95% CI (,)3.27 to 1.03), with a sharp decrease from 2021 onwards (APC = (,)3.26%). The Arica region showed a sustained decrease in mortality throughout the analysis period (AAPC 2018 to 2023 = (,)8.26%; 95% CI (,)16.5 to 0.75). Conclusions: The incidence of stroke increased in Chile starting in 2020, while inhospital mortality showed a progressive reduction. The regional differences reflect inequities in resources and access to specialized treatments. These findings highlight the need to develop health prevention and promotion strategies that address the specific characteristics and needs of each region, especially in those with higher incidence and mortality rates.
Direction
VARELA LEMA, MARIA LEONOR (Tutorships)
Rivero de Aguilar Pensado, Alejandro (Co-tutorships)
VARELA LEMA, MARIA LEONOR (Tutorships)
Rivero de Aguilar Pensado, Alejandro (Co-tutorships)
Court
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Member)
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Member)
Study of genomic instability induced by LINE-1 retrotransposition.
Authorship
U.P.M.
Master in Biomedical Research
U.P.M.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
Nearly half of the human genome is composed of mobile elements, repetitive sequences with the potential to transpose to other locations within the genome. Among these, LINE-1 stands out: as an active retrotransposon, L1 contributes to genomic variation and has been implicated in a wide range of human diseases. Many aspects of this mobile element and its transposition cycle remain unknown, which could be adressed through studies in established cell lines. This work aims to carry out the initial steps of a protocol for inserting an exogenous L1 into both tumour and non-tumour cells. To this end, HeLa and RPE-1 cells were transfected with plasmid vectors encoding L1 elements, and both transfection efficiency and the activity of these elements were analyzed. Prior to this, the plasmids were amplified and evaluated. The protocol was successfully implemented in both cell lines and shows high applicability in HeLa cells, although the results suggest further optimization of the assay conditions for RPE-1 cells.
Nearly half of the human genome is composed of mobile elements, repetitive sequences with the potential to transpose to other locations within the genome. Among these, LINE-1 stands out: as an active retrotransposon, L1 contributes to genomic variation and has been implicated in a wide range of human diseases. Many aspects of this mobile element and its transposition cycle remain unknown, which could be adressed through studies in established cell lines. This work aims to carry out the initial steps of a protocol for inserting an exogenous L1 into both tumour and non-tumour cells. To this end, HeLa and RPE-1 cells were transfected with plasmid vectors encoding L1 elements, and both transfection efficiency and the activity of these elements were analyzed. Prior to this, the plasmids were amplified and evaluated. The protocol was successfully implemented in both cell lines and shows high applicability in HeLa cells, although the results suggest further optimization of the assay conditions for RPE-1 cells.
Direction
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Tutorships)
Oitabén Fernández, Ana (Co-tutorships)
Sánchez Luque, Francisco José (Co-tutorships)
CASTRO TUBIO, JOSE MANUEL (Tutorships)
Oitabén Fernández, Ana (Co-tutorships)
Sánchez Luque, Francisco José (Co-tutorships)
Court
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
Food habits of the galician population
Authorship
A.M.P.V.
Master in Public Health
A.M.P.V.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
06.25.2025 16:20
06.25.2025 16:20
Summary
The food consumption pattern has undergone changes in recent years that have shifted away from the traditional pattern. There are no recent studies assessing the diet of the Galician population. Our objective is to describe the diet of the Galician population in 2024 and its relationship to socioeconomic characteristics, analyzing the changes in eating habits since 2007. The eating habits of the Galician population have changed depending on their socioeconomic characteristics. The consumption pattern of fresh fruits and vegetables has decreased and is low compared to other Autonomous Communities.
The food consumption pattern has undergone changes in recent years that have shifted away from the traditional pattern. There are no recent studies assessing the diet of the Galician population. Our objective is to describe the diet of the Galician population in 2024 and its relationship to socioeconomic characteristics, analyzing the changes in eating habits since 2007. The eating habits of the Galician population have changed depending on their socioeconomic characteristics. The consumption pattern of fresh fruits and vegetables has decreased and is low compared to other Autonomous Communities.
Direction
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Tutorships)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Tutorships)
Court
TAKKOUCHE SOUILAMAS, EL BAHI (Chairman)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Secretary)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Member)
TAKKOUCHE SOUILAMAS, EL BAHI (Chairman)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Secretary)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Member)
Exposición prenatal a filtros ultravioleta y efectos sobre el crecimiento y neurodesarrollo infantil: revisión sistemática
Authorship
A.Q.I.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
A.Q.I.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Resumo Antecedentes: A benzofenona.3, BP3, é un filtro ultravioleta de uso moi extendido con potencial disruptor endocrino. Evidencias recentes sinalan que a exposición prenatal podería influír no crecemento fetal, nos resultados neonatais e no desenvolvemento infantil. Obxectivo: Revisar sistematicamente a evidencia publicada nos últimos cinco anos sobre a exposición prenatal a BP3 e a súa asociación co crecemento, os desenlaces metabólicos e o neurodesenvolvemento infantil. Métodos: Realizouse unha procura sistemática en PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science para artigos publicados entre xaneiro de 2019 e xaneiro de 2025 en inglés ou español. Incluíronse estudos observacionais en humanos que avaliaron a exposición prenatal a BP-3 mediante biomarcadores biolóxicos e que informaron desenlaces de saúde infantil. O risco de sesgo avaliouse coas ferramentas ROBINS.I. Resultados: Incluíronse dez estudos observacionais, con cohortes de Estados Unidos, Europa, China e Irán, que en conxunto analizaron 7.944 díadas nai.fillo. Os tamaños mostrais oscilaron entre 151 e 3.619 participantes. A maioría dos estudos mediron BP3 en ouriños maternos, e un en soro. Observáronse asociacións consistentes entre maior exposición prenatal e desenlaces adversos ao nacemento, incluíndo menor peso, redución da idade xestacional e maior risco de pequeno para a idade xestacional, especialmente no terceiro trimestre. En etapas posteriores, os achados foron heteroxéneos: algúns estudos reportaron incremento do índice de masa corporal na infancia temperá, mentres que outros describiron reducións antropométricas ou asociacións nulas. No relativo ao neurodesenvolvemento, identificáronse posibles efectos en dominios cognitivos, de atención e de conduta social, con maior susceptibilidade nos varóns. Conclusións: A exposición prenatal a BP3 pode afectar negativamente o crecemento intrauterino e ter repercusións posteriores na saúde metabólica e no neurodesenvolvemento. Aínda que os efectos observados foron modestos e heteroxéneos, estes achados reforzan a necesidade de máis investigación.
Resumo Antecedentes: A benzofenona.3, BP3, é un filtro ultravioleta de uso moi extendido con potencial disruptor endocrino. Evidencias recentes sinalan que a exposición prenatal podería influír no crecemento fetal, nos resultados neonatais e no desenvolvemento infantil. Obxectivo: Revisar sistematicamente a evidencia publicada nos últimos cinco anos sobre a exposición prenatal a BP3 e a súa asociación co crecemento, os desenlaces metabólicos e o neurodesenvolvemento infantil. Métodos: Realizouse unha procura sistemática en PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science para artigos publicados entre xaneiro de 2019 e xaneiro de 2025 en inglés ou español. Incluíronse estudos observacionais en humanos que avaliaron a exposición prenatal a BP-3 mediante biomarcadores biolóxicos e que informaron desenlaces de saúde infantil. O risco de sesgo avaliouse coas ferramentas ROBINS.I. Resultados: Incluíronse dez estudos observacionais, con cohortes de Estados Unidos, Europa, China e Irán, que en conxunto analizaron 7.944 díadas nai.fillo. Os tamaños mostrais oscilaron entre 151 e 3.619 participantes. A maioría dos estudos mediron BP3 en ouriños maternos, e un en soro. Observáronse asociacións consistentes entre maior exposición prenatal e desenlaces adversos ao nacemento, incluíndo menor peso, redución da idade xestacional e maior risco de pequeno para a idade xestacional, especialmente no terceiro trimestre. En etapas posteriores, os achados foron heteroxéneos: algúns estudos reportaron incremento do índice de masa corporal na infancia temperá, mentres que outros describiron reducións antropométricas ou asociacións nulas. No relativo ao neurodesenvolvemento, identificáronse posibles efectos en dominios cognitivos, de atención e de conduta social, con maior susceptibilidade nos varóns. Conclusións: A exposición prenatal a BP3 pode afectar negativamente o crecemento intrauterino e ter repercusións posteriores na saúde metabólica e no neurodesenvolvemento. Aínda que os efectos observados foron modestos e heteroxéneos, estes achados reforzan a necesidade de máis investigación.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Sedentary behavior as a risk factor for obesity in Pediatrics: A systematic review.
Authorship
M.R.G.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
M.R.G.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Childhood obesity is a major global public health concern, with prevalence increasing in recent decades. Among its multiple risk factors, sedentary behavior has emerged as a key determinant, particularly in pediatric populations. This study aimed to review recent scientific evidence on the association between sedentary behavior and childhood obesity, assessing the role of different sedentary activities, such as screen time and physical inactivity, in the development of excess weight. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, identifying 1,437 records, of which 36 studies were finally included after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. The reviewed evidence consistently indicates that greater time spent in sedentary activities is associated with higher obesity risk, even after adjusting for physical activity levels and other factors. Excessive screen time, particularly television and video games, is linked to unhealthy eating habits and increased caloric intake. These findings reinforce the need for interventions aimed at reducing sedentary time from early childhood, promoting active and healthy lifestyles. In conclusion, current literature supports sedentary behavior as an independent risk factor for childhood obesity, highlighting its relevance in prevention and public health strategies.
Childhood obesity is a major global public health concern, with prevalence increasing in recent decades. Among its multiple risk factors, sedentary behavior has emerged as a key determinant, particularly in pediatric populations. This study aimed to review recent scientific evidence on the association between sedentary behavior and childhood obesity, assessing the role of different sedentary activities, such as screen time and physical inactivity, in the development of excess weight. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, identifying 1,437 records, of which 36 studies were finally included after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. The reviewed evidence consistently indicates that greater time spent in sedentary activities is associated with higher obesity risk, even after adjusting for physical activity levels and other factors. Excessive screen time, particularly television and video games, is linked to unhealthy eating habits and increased caloric intake. These findings reinforce the need for interventions aimed at reducing sedentary time from early childhood, promoting active and healthy lifestyles. In conclusion, current literature supports sedentary behavior as an independent risk factor for childhood obesity, highlighting its relevance in prevention and public health strategies.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Impact of Environmental Tobacco Smoke Exposure on the Respiratory Health of Never Smokers: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis
Authorship
W.R.A.
Master in Public Health
W.R.A.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
06.25.2025 10:00
06.25.2025 10:00
Summary
Abstract. Introduction. Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) has been linked to various diseases and symptoms, primarily respiratory, posing a public health risk. The available evidence on the impact of ETS exposure on the respiratory health of never smokers shows inconsistencies. Therefore, the aim of this study is to synthesize the available evidence on the impact of ETS on lung function and the development of respiratory symptoms in individuals who have never smoked. Methods. A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted. The literature search was carried out in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science. All studies conducted in adult never smokers assessing the impact of ETS on lung function and/or the presence of respiratory symptoms were included. Meta-analyses were performed on outcomes assessed by at least three or more studies, using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic, study influence was evaluated through sensitivity analyses, and publication bias was assessed using Begg’s and Egger’s tests and funnel plot analysis. Results. A total of 27 studies were included, comprising 19 cross-sectional and 8 cohort studies, with a combined sample size of 135,363 participants (67.4% never smokers). Of these, 22 studies assessed lung function and 15 assessed respiratory symptoms. Regarding lung function, subjects exposed to ETS had a mean FEF25-75 that was 5.92% lower than that of unexposed individuals (95% CI: -10.49% to -1.35%) and an FEV1/FVC that was 2.52% lower (95% CI: -4.32% to -0.73%). Among respiratory symptoms, statistically significant associations were found between ETS exposure and cough [pooled OR 1.17 (95% CI: 1.08-1.27)]; wheezing [OR 1.27 (95% CI: 1.00-1.62)]; and dyspnea [OR 1.16 (95% CI: 1.07-1.26)]. Conclusion. Based on the findings of this review, it can be concluded that exposure to ETS in never smokers leads to impaired respiratory function, particularly affecting FEF25-75 and FEV1/FVC. Furthermore, there is an increased risk of developing cough, wheezing, and dyspnea compared to unexposed never smokers.
Abstract. Introduction. Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) has been linked to various diseases and symptoms, primarily respiratory, posing a public health risk. The available evidence on the impact of ETS exposure on the respiratory health of never smokers shows inconsistencies. Therefore, the aim of this study is to synthesize the available evidence on the impact of ETS on lung function and the development of respiratory symptoms in individuals who have never smoked. Methods. A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted. The literature search was carried out in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science. All studies conducted in adult never smokers assessing the impact of ETS on lung function and/or the presence of respiratory symptoms were included. Meta-analyses were performed on outcomes assessed by at least three or more studies, using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic, study influence was evaluated through sensitivity analyses, and publication bias was assessed using Begg’s and Egger’s tests and funnel plot analysis. Results. A total of 27 studies were included, comprising 19 cross-sectional and 8 cohort studies, with a combined sample size of 135,363 participants (67.4% never smokers). Of these, 22 studies assessed lung function and 15 assessed respiratory symptoms. Regarding lung function, subjects exposed to ETS had a mean FEF25-75 that was 5.92% lower than that of unexposed individuals (95% CI: -10.49% to -1.35%) and an FEV1/FVC that was 2.52% lower (95% CI: -4.32% to -0.73%). Among respiratory symptoms, statistically significant associations were found between ETS exposure and cough [pooled OR 1.17 (95% CI: 1.08-1.27)]; wheezing [OR 1.27 (95% CI: 1.00-1.62)]; and dyspnea [OR 1.16 (95% CI: 1.07-1.26)]. Conclusion. Based on the findings of this review, it can be concluded that exposure to ETS in never smokers leads to impaired respiratory function, particularly affecting FEF25-75 and FEV1/FVC. Furthermore, there is an increased risk of developing cough, wheezing, and dyspnea compared to unexposed never smokers.
Direction
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Tutorships)
RUANO RAVIÑA, ALBERTO (Co-tutorships)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Tutorships)
RUANO RAVIÑA, ALBERTO (Co-tutorships)
Court
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Member)
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
RODRÍGUEZ FERNÁNDEZ, Mª DE LA ALMUDENA (Member)
Advanced in vitro models of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion
Authorship
D.R.S.
Master in Biomedical Research
D.R.S.
Master in Biomedical Research
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:30
07.17.2025 09:30
Summary
In this Master's Thesis, a perfusable vessel-on-a-chip model was developed to study ischemia/reperfusion injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, within a biomimetic context of ischemic stroke. First, it was established that an OGD (oxygen and glucose deprivation) period of 1 hour was sufficient to maintain an adequate cell density for comparative morphological and expression analyses under different conditions in a functional endothelial monolayer. The study continued by validating a 3-hour reperfusion period as appropriate to ensure partial recovery of the monolayer, as assessed by nuclear size and cytoplasmic area per cell. Additionally, the expression of Fn14 (fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14) was examined under different experimental conditions of perfusion, ischemia, and reperfusion. Fn14 expression increased in both ischemic and reperfusion conditions, reaching a threefold increase over basal levels after 3 hours of reperfusion, with statistically significant differences in both reperfusion conditions. In parallel, the cytotoxicity of recombinant TWEAK (tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis) was assessed in 2D cultures of endothelial cells at 1, 3, 24, and 48 hours of incubation, showing that TWEAK disrupts the monolayer through mechanisms other than loss of cell viability. Finally, the release of two inflammatory mediators- soluble E-selectin and MCP-1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1)- was evaluated. While MCP-1 was detectable only under basal perfusion conditions, soluble E-selectin was not detected in any of the conditions tested. In conclusion, this vessel-on-a-chip model enabled the study of ischemia/reperfusion damage after 1 hour of OGD, revealing a marked upregulation of Fn14 and morphological recovery after 3 hours of reperfusion. Moreover, TWEAK was shown not to impair endothelial viability under static conditions. Lastly, the release of soluble mediators after reperfusion was undetectable, indicating that the method is not optimized for this type of analysis.
In this Master's Thesis, a perfusable vessel-on-a-chip model was developed to study ischemia/reperfusion injury in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, within a biomimetic context of ischemic stroke. First, it was established that an OGD (oxygen and glucose deprivation) period of 1 hour was sufficient to maintain an adequate cell density for comparative morphological and expression analyses under different conditions in a functional endothelial monolayer. The study continued by validating a 3-hour reperfusion period as appropriate to ensure partial recovery of the monolayer, as assessed by nuclear size and cytoplasmic area per cell. Additionally, the expression of Fn14 (fibroblast growth factor-inducible 14) was examined under different experimental conditions of perfusion, ischemia, and reperfusion. Fn14 expression increased in both ischemic and reperfusion conditions, reaching a threefold increase over basal levels after 3 hours of reperfusion, with statistically significant differences in both reperfusion conditions. In parallel, the cytotoxicity of recombinant TWEAK (tumor necrosis factor-like weak inducer of apoptosis) was assessed in 2D cultures of endothelial cells at 1, 3, 24, and 48 hours of incubation, showing that TWEAK disrupts the monolayer through mechanisms other than loss of cell viability. Finally, the release of two inflammatory mediators- soluble E-selectin and MCP-1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1)- was evaluated. While MCP-1 was detectable only under basal perfusion conditions, soluble E-selectin was not detected in any of the conditions tested. In conclusion, this vessel-on-a-chip model enabled the study of ischemia/reperfusion damage after 1 hour of OGD, revealing a marked upregulation of Fn14 and morphological recovery after 3 hours of reperfusion. Moreover, TWEAK was shown not to impair endothelial viability under static conditions. Lastly, the release of soluble mediators after reperfusion was undetectable, indicating that the method is not optimized for this type of analysis.
Direction
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Tutorships)
IGLESIAS REY, RAMON (Co-tutorships)
ALVAREZ CASTRO, EZEQUIEL (Tutorships)
IGLESIAS REY, RAMON (Co-tutorships)
Court
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
SALAS ELLACURIAGA, ANTONIO (Chairman)
GOMEZ DURAN, AURORA (Secretary)
González Blanco, Miguel (Member)
Assessment of Low-Protein Product Consumption and Eating Habits in Patients with Phenylketonuria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authorship
A.R.B.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
A.R.B.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is the most common disorder of essential amino acid metabolism, leading to a deficiency of phenylalanine hydroxylase and accumulation of phenylalanine (Phe). This accumulation causes neurotoxicity, clinically manifesting as psychomotor delay, intellectual disability, behavioral disturbances, and other neurological and systemic symptoms. Early diagnosis is achieved through neonatal screening, allowing timely initiation of dietary treatment and prevention of neurological sequelae. Nutritional management of PKU involves strict restriction of natural Phe-rich proteins, supplemented with Phe-free metabolic formulas that provide complete protein and essential micronutrients, which are crucial for adequate growth and development. Within the diet of these patients, specially formulated low-protein foods, known as Special Low Protein Foods (SLPF), provide energy and dietary variety and are particularly important in patients with severe phenotypes. However, evidence regarding their nutritional and energetic contribution is limited, and it is unclear how their availability and consumption affect dietary adherence and nutritional status. Therefore, it is necessary to characterize SLPF consumption habits and their contribution to the diet of patients with PKU in order to optimize nutritional strategies that support better metabolic control and adequate energy intake. This study focuses on analyzing SLPF consumption, habitual diet, treatment adherence, and associated factors in a pediatric PKU cohort, aiming to inform future clinical recommendations and improve the quality of nutrition in this population.
Phenylketonuria (PKU) is the most common disorder of essential amino acid metabolism, leading to a deficiency of phenylalanine hydroxylase and accumulation of phenylalanine (Phe). This accumulation causes neurotoxicity, clinically manifesting as psychomotor delay, intellectual disability, behavioral disturbances, and other neurological and systemic symptoms. Early diagnosis is achieved through neonatal screening, allowing timely initiation of dietary treatment and prevention of neurological sequelae. Nutritional management of PKU involves strict restriction of natural Phe-rich proteins, supplemented with Phe-free metabolic formulas that provide complete protein and essential micronutrients, which are crucial for adequate growth and development. Within the diet of these patients, specially formulated low-protein foods, known as Special Low Protein Foods (SLPF), provide energy and dietary variety and are particularly important in patients with severe phenotypes. However, evidence regarding their nutritional and energetic contribution is limited, and it is unclear how their availability and consumption affect dietary adherence and nutritional status. Therefore, it is necessary to characterize SLPF consumption habits and their contribution to the diet of patients with PKU in order to optimize nutritional strategies that support better metabolic control and adequate energy intake. This study focuses on analyzing SLPF consumption, habitual diet, treatment adherence, and associated factors in a pediatric PKU cohort, aiming to inform future clinical recommendations and improve the quality of nutrition in this population.
Direction
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Tutorships)
SANCHEZ PINTOS, PAULA (Co-tutorships)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Tutorships)
SANCHEZ PINTOS, PAULA (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Anthropometric and biochemical indices as predictive biomarkers of cardiometabolic risk in obesity in a Venezuelan adolescent population
Authorship
G.A.R.A.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
G.A.R.A.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Childhood obesity has significantly increased in recent decades and poses a major global public health challenge. It is associated with early risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Among the proposed indicators are the waist-to-height ratio, the triglycerides/HDL ratio (TG/HDL), the visceral adiposity index (VAI), the cardiometabolic index (CMI), and the triglycerides/fasting glucose ratio (TAG/GLU), which have shown utility in the pediatric population. This study aimed to analyze these indices as predictors of obesity in adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 804 school children aged 10 to 13 years. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were taken, and the indices WHtR, TG/HDL, VAI, CMI, TG/GLU were calculated. Percentiles were determined, and the discriminative capacity was evaluated using ROC curves. SPSS v.25 was used and p 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Of the total participants, 27.5% presented obesity. The waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.963, followed by TAG/HDL (0.745), VAI (0.743), and TRI/GLU (0.725). The cardiometabolic index showed low discriminative capacity (AUC 0.364). Conclusions: WHtR is the best predictor of obesity in schoolchildren, followed by TAG/HDL and VAI. These indices could be useful and low-cost tools for the early identification of cardiometabolic risk. The following cutoff values are suggested for the studied general population: for the WHtR index: 0.5, for the TAG/HDL index: 2.3, for the VAI index: 1.3, and for the TRI/GLU index: 3.5.
Introduction: Childhood obesity has significantly increased in recent decades and poses a major global public health challenge. It is associated with early risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Among the proposed indicators are the waist-to-height ratio, the triglycerides/HDL ratio (TG/HDL), the visceral adiposity index (VAI), the cardiometabolic index (CMI), and the triglycerides/fasting glucose ratio (TAG/GLU), which have shown utility in the pediatric population. This study aimed to analyze these indices as predictors of obesity in adolescents. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 804 school children aged 10 to 13 years. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were taken, and the indices WHtR, TG/HDL, VAI, CMI, TG/GLU were calculated. Percentiles were determined, and the discriminative capacity was evaluated using ROC curves. SPSS v.25 was used and p 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Of the total participants, 27.5% presented obesity. The waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.963, followed by TAG/HDL (0.745), VAI (0.743), and TRI/GLU (0.725). The cardiometabolic index showed low discriminative capacity (AUC 0.364). Conclusions: WHtR is the best predictor of obesity in schoolchildren, followed by TAG/HDL and VAI. These indices could be useful and low-cost tools for the early identification of cardiometabolic risk. The following cutoff values are suggested for the studied general population: for the WHtR index: 0.5, for the TAG/HDL index: 2.3, for the VAI index: 1.3, and for the TRI/GLU index: 3.5.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Composición corporal y riesgo de Esteatosis Hepática Metabólica en niños.as y adolescentes: una revisión sistemática de la evidencia
Authorship
R.S.O.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
R.S.O.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Obxectivo. Sintetizar a evidencia dos últimos cinco anos sobre a relación entre composición corporal medida por bioimpedancia eléctrica e por absorciometría dual de raios X e a presenza e severidade da enfermidade hepática esteatótica asociada a disfunción metabólica en idade pediátrica. Métodos. Busca sistemática en PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science para artigos en inglés ou español en menores de 19 anos publicados nos últimos cinco anos. Incluíronse estudos observacionais e ensaios que avaliaran NAFLD ou MASLD por ecografía, elastografía transitoria con parámetro de atenuación controlada e rixidez, resonancia magnética con fracción de graxa por densidade de protóns ou histoloxía, con composición corporal por bioimpedancia eléctrica e por absorciometría dual de raios X. Dous revisores fixeron o cribado segundo PRISMA e avaliaron o risco de sesgo coa ferramenta ROBINS E. Resultados. Incluíronse 15 estudos con mostras heteroxéneas que sumaron 7 450 participantes. A adiposidade total e especialmente a central e a visceral medida por absorciometría dual de raios X con graxa androide e troncal, por resonancia magnética con tecido adiposo visceral e por antropometría abdominal asociouse de forma consistente con maior probabilidade e severidade de esteatose. As métricas de bioimpedancia eléctrica como a relación músculo graxa e os índices musculares esqueléticos e apendiculares amosaron asociación inversa con NAFLD e con marcadores de gravidade, e varios traballos propuxeron puntos de corte de bioimpedancia eléctrica. A resonancia magnética con fracción de graxa por densidade de protóns superou ao índice de masa corporal ou á circunferencia da cintura para graduar a severidade, mentres que o parámetro de atenuación controlada foi útil no cribado pero resultou sensible ao espesor de graxa subcutánea. Observáronse diferenzas por sexo con maior risco en nenos moduladas pola puberdade e pola distribución da graxa. A calidade metodolóxica foi variable con predominio de deseños transversais e protocolos non estandarizados. Conclusións. En nenos e adolescentes unha maior graxa central e visceral e unha menor masa muscular asócianse con NAFLD e MASLD máis frecuentes e máis graves. A bioimpedancia eléctrica baseada na relación músculo graxa e a absorciometría dual de raios X centrada na distribución androide e xinoide melloran a estratificación inicial máis alá do índice de masa corporal e, xunto con marcadores clínicos sinxelos como alanina aminotransferase, sustentan itinerarios de cribado por etapas. É necesario crear cohortes lonxitudinais estandarizadas e realizar ensaios que confirmen que reducir a adiposidade central e mellorar a masa e a función muscular modifican a fracción de graxa por densidade de protóns en resonancia magnética e os desenlaces clínicos, con análises específicas por sexo e puberdade.
Obxectivo. Sintetizar a evidencia dos últimos cinco anos sobre a relación entre composición corporal medida por bioimpedancia eléctrica e por absorciometría dual de raios X e a presenza e severidade da enfermidade hepática esteatótica asociada a disfunción metabólica en idade pediátrica. Métodos. Busca sistemática en PubMed, Scopus e Web of Science para artigos en inglés ou español en menores de 19 anos publicados nos últimos cinco anos. Incluíronse estudos observacionais e ensaios que avaliaran NAFLD ou MASLD por ecografía, elastografía transitoria con parámetro de atenuación controlada e rixidez, resonancia magnética con fracción de graxa por densidade de protóns ou histoloxía, con composición corporal por bioimpedancia eléctrica e por absorciometría dual de raios X. Dous revisores fixeron o cribado segundo PRISMA e avaliaron o risco de sesgo coa ferramenta ROBINS E. Resultados. Incluíronse 15 estudos con mostras heteroxéneas que sumaron 7 450 participantes. A adiposidade total e especialmente a central e a visceral medida por absorciometría dual de raios X con graxa androide e troncal, por resonancia magnética con tecido adiposo visceral e por antropometría abdominal asociouse de forma consistente con maior probabilidade e severidade de esteatose. As métricas de bioimpedancia eléctrica como a relación músculo graxa e os índices musculares esqueléticos e apendiculares amosaron asociación inversa con NAFLD e con marcadores de gravidade, e varios traballos propuxeron puntos de corte de bioimpedancia eléctrica. A resonancia magnética con fracción de graxa por densidade de protóns superou ao índice de masa corporal ou á circunferencia da cintura para graduar a severidade, mentres que o parámetro de atenuación controlada foi útil no cribado pero resultou sensible ao espesor de graxa subcutánea. Observáronse diferenzas por sexo con maior risco en nenos moduladas pola puberdade e pola distribución da graxa. A calidade metodolóxica foi variable con predominio de deseños transversais e protocolos non estandarizados. Conclusións. En nenos e adolescentes unha maior graxa central e visceral e unha menor masa muscular asócianse con NAFLD e MASLD máis frecuentes e máis graves. A bioimpedancia eléctrica baseada na relación músculo graxa e a absorciometría dual de raios X centrada na distribución androide e xinoide melloran a estratificación inicial máis alá do índice de masa corporal e, xunto con marcadores clínicos sinxelos como alanina aminotransferase, sustentan itinerarios de cribado por etapas. É necesario crear cohortes lonxitudinais estandarizadas e realizar ensaios que confirmen que reducir a adiposidade central e mellorar a masa e a función muscular modifican a fracción de graxa por densidade de protóns en resonancia magnética e os desenlaces clínicos, con análises específicas por sexo e puberdade.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
The Impact of Early Nutrition on Child Neurodevelopment
Authorship
A.S.P.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
A.S.P.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:00
07.17.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Child neurodevelopment is a complex process that is highly sensitive to environmental influences, with nutrition playing a key role. During the first years of life, particularly within the first 1,000 days, the brain undergoes rapid growth that requires optimal nutrient intake to ensure proper functional and structural maturation. Objective: To analyze the relationship between dietary patterns in early childhood and the risk of developing neurodevelopmental disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Methodology: A qualitative systematic review of scientific literature published between 2017 and 2025 was conducted. Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were consulted, selecting observational studies, systematic reviews, and clinical trials involving children aged 0 to 12 years. Results: Evidence suggests that healthy dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, are associated with improved cognitive, emotional, and behavioral outcomes, and a lower incidence of ADHD and ASD. In contrast, diets high in ultra-processed foods, added sugars, trans fats, and low in essential micronutrients are linked to impairments in attention, language, and behavior. Additionally, mechanisms such as intestinal dysbiosis, low-grade systemic inflammation, and epigenetic changes help explain this relationship. Conclusions: The quality of early childhood nutrition is a key determinant in neurological development. Promoting adequate nutrition from the earliest stages of life can be an effective strategy for preventing neurodevelopmental disorders.
Introduction: Child neurodevelopment is a complex process that is highly sensitive to environmental influences, with nutrition playing a key role. During the first years of life, particularly within the first 1,000 days, the brain undergoes rapid growth that requires optimal nutrient intake to ensure proper functional and structural maturation. Objective: To analyze the relationship between dietary patterns in early childhood and the risk of developing neurodevelopmental disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Methodology: A qualitative systematic review of scientific literature published between 2017 and 2025 was conducted. Databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were consulted, selecting observational studies, systematic reviews, and clinical trials involving children aged 0 to 12 years. Results: Evidence suggests that healthy dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, are associated with improved cognitive, emotional, and behavioral outcomes, and a lower incidence of ADHD and ASD. In contrast, diets high in ultra-processed foods, added sugars, trans fats, and low in essential micronutrients are linked to impairments in attention, language, and behavior. Additionally, mechanisms such as intestinal dysbiosis, low-grade systemic inflammation, and epigenetic changes help explain this relationship. Conclusions: The quality of early childhood nutrition is a key determinant in neurological development. Promoting adequate nutrition from the earliest stages of life can be an effective strategy for preventing neurodevelopmental disorders.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Martínez Llorente, Antonia (Co-tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Martínez Llorente, Antonia (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Knowledge and attitudes of university students regarding vaccination and their vaccination schedule
Authorship
M.M.S.A.
Master in Public Health
M.M.S.A.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:40
09.16.2025 09:40
Summary
Introduction. Vaccines hesitanvy represents a threat to immunization programs and herd immunity. Our objetive was to validate a Spanish language questionnaire to asses knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare students regarding vaccination and the immunization schedule. Methods. An online questionnaire was developed and distributed via RedCap v.13.7.1 to health sciences students undertaking clinical placements at the University Hospital of Santiago of Compostela during the 2024 2025 academic year. The questionnaire assessed 9 dimensions through 35 items. Validation was carried out in two phases 1. translation and expert content validation, and 2. reliability testing using Cronbach s alpha and validity assesment through principal componente analysis (PCA). Results. Validation was performed with a sample of 398 students. The mean age was 23.78 moreless 3.77 years. The sample included 80 men 19.6 percent and 316 women 77.5 percent. The final 30 item questionnaire showed high internal consistency (Cronbach s alpha of 0.828) and construct validity confirmed by PCA, supporting the presence of 9 dimensions that explained 60.93percent of the total variance. A total of 74.7percent of students reported that scientific evidence was the main influence on their opinion about vaccines. Regardin prectices, 76,1 percent believed that certain vaccines should be mandatory for healthcare personnel. Conclusion. The questionnaire demonstrated reliability and validity for evaluating KAP on vaccination among future healthcare professionals. Having this instrument available will help guide future educational interventions and strengthen their role as trusted agents in immunization.
Introduction. Vaccines hesitanvy represents a threat to immunization programs and herd immunity. Our objetive was to validate a Spanish language questionnaire to asses knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare students regarding vaccination and the immunization schedule. Methods. An online questionnaire was developed and distributed via RedCap v.13.7.1 to health sciences students undertaking clinical placements at the University Hospital of Santiago of Compostela during the 2024 2025 academic year. The questionnaire assessed 9 dimensions through 35 items. Validation was carried out in two phases 1. translation and expert content validation, and 2. reliability testing using Cronbach s alpha and validity assesment through principal componente analysis (PCA). Results. Validation was performed with a sample of 398 students. The mean age was 23.78 moreless 3.77 years. The sample included 80 men 19.6 percent and 316 women 77.5 percent. The final 30 item questionnaire showed high internal consistency (Cronbach s alpha of 0.828) and construct validity confirmed by PCA, supporting the presence of 9 dimensions that explained 60.93percent of the total variance. A total of 74.7percent of students reported that scientific evidence was the main influence on their opinion about vaccines. Regardin prectices, 76,1 percent believed that certain vaccines should be mandatory for healthcare personnel. Conclusion. The questionnaire demonstrated reliability and validity for evaluating KAP on vaccination among future healthcare professionals. Having this instrument available will help guide future educational interventions and strengthen their role as trusted agents in immunization.
Direction
FERNANDEZ PEREZ, CRISTINA (Tutorships)
FERNANDEZ PEREZ, CRISTINA (Tutorships)
Court
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Member)
CAAMAÑO ISORNA, FRANCISCO (Chairman)
Rey Brandariz, Julia (Secretary)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Member)
Systematic review on the effect of diet on fetal neurodevelopment
Authorship
A.S.P.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
A.S.P.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:00
07.17.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction and objectives: Fetal neurodevelopment is essential for establishing the structural and functional foundations of the nervous system, with critical implications for postnatal cognitive, emotional, and motor development. Maternal nutrition plays a key role in these processes. This systematic review aims to synthesize current evidence on the impact of maternal diet during pregnancy on fetal neurodevelopment, identifying specific dietary patterns and nutrients involved. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase databases. Studies published between 2005 and 2025 in English or Spanish were included. Eligible designs comprised observational studies, prospective cohorts, randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and narrative reviews. Results: A total of 28 relevant studies were identified, analyzing over 25,000 motherchild dyads through various methodological designs, with follow-ups ranging from birth to adolescence. The findings show that healthy dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, are consistently associated with better neurocognitive outcomes in children. Nutrients such as omega3 fatty acids, choline, vitamin B12, and zinc were found to be particularly beneficial. In contrast, diets high in ultra-processed foods or with an imbalanced omega6/omega3 ratio were linked to poorer outcomes. Maternal stress and socioeconomic context emerged as key modulators of these effects. Conclusions: Maternal nutrition has a significant impact on fetal neurodevelopment. Promoting balanced diets, nutritional education, and supplementation strategies during pregnancy may improve long-term child neurological health.
Introduction and objectives: Fetal neurodevelopment is essential for establishing the structural and functional foundations of the nervous system, with critical implications for postnatal cognitive, emotional, and motor development. Maternal nutrition plays a key role in these processes. This systematic review aims to synthesize current evidence on the impact of maternal diet during pregnancy on fetal neurodevelopment, identifying specific dietary patterns and nutrients involved. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase databases. Studies published between 2005 and 2025 in English or Spanish were included. Eligible designs comprised observational studies, prospective cohorts, randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and narrative reviews. Results: A total of 28 relevant studies were identified, analyzing over 25,000 motherchild dyads through various methodological designs, with follow-ups ranging from birth to adolescence. The findings show that healthy dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, are consistently associated with better neurocognitive outcomes in children. Nutrients such as omega3 fatty acids, choline, vitamin B12, and zinc were found to be particularly beneficial. In contrast, diets high in ultra-processed foods or with an imbalanced omega6/omega3 ratio were linked to poorer outcomes. Maternal stress and socioeconomic context emerged as key modulators of these effects. Conclusions: Maternal nutrition has a significant impact on fetal neurodevelopment. Promoting balanced diets, nutritional education, and supplementation strategies during pregnancy may improve long-term child neurological health.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Intervention with the two varieties of fish sticks to evaluate their acceptance and effects on body composition and cardio-metabolic risk, in a group of adolescents with obesity.
Authorship
R.V.C.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
R.V.C.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
09.16.2025 09:00
09.16.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Childhood obesity is a global health priority. In Spain, the ALADINO study (2023) (Estudio sobre la Alimentación, Actividad física, Desarrollo Infantil y obesidad en España) estimates that 36.1% of schoolchildren aged 6 a 9 are overweight. The main determinants of this situation include low adherence to traditional healthy diets (Mediterranean/Atlantic), insufficient physical activity, and a sedentary lifestyle. The ENALIA study (Encuesta Nacional de Alimentación en la Población Infantil y Adolescente) shows low consumption of key foods such as fish, so promoting healthy and attractive products for children emerges as a promising prevention strategy from an early age. Objective: The main objective of this study is to develop fish sticks coated with chickpea/lentil flour as an innovative product for the development and production of new healthy food products, as well as to evaluate their effect on body composition, cardiometabolic risk, and diet quality. Method: Randomized clinical trial (n=51 participants with obesity aged 12 to 17 years), divided into a control group (n=25) and an intervention group (n=26) with fish sticks. Validated questionnaires were used to assess body composition, glucose metabolism, lipid profile, inflammatory parameters, diet quality, use of ICTs, socioeconomic status, product perception, and family history. Results: Most parents (63% mothers and 58% fathers) are obese. Seventy-five percent of children always or almost always eat in front of the TV. No significant differences in anthropometric variables were observed between the initial and final visits in the control and intervention groups. In terms of cardiometabolic risk, total cholesterol, LDL.c, HDL.c, and SBP improved in the intervention group. The consumption of fish sticks may be related to improved levels of the anti-inflammatory interleukin IL4 in the intervention group. Diet quality worsened in both groups. The tested food was well accepted by the participants, mainly the sticks coated with red lentil flour. Conclusions: The intervention does not appear to be associated with anthropometric variables or diet quality, but it is associated with improvement in some cardiometabolic indicators. More clinical trials are needed, with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods, to establish the benefits or otherwise of interventions, which will guide strategies for the prevention and intervention of obesity in adolescence.
Introduction: Childhood obesity is a global health priority. In Spain, the ALADINO study (2023) (Estudio sobre la Alimentación, Actividad física, Desarrollo Infantil y obesidad en España) estimates that 36.1% of schoolchildren aged 6 a 9 are overweight. The main determinants of this situation include low adherence to traditional healthy diets (Mediterranean/Atlantic), insufficient physical activity, and a sedentary lifestyle. The ENALIA study (Encuesta Nacional de Alimentación en la Población Infantil y Adolescente) shows low consumption of key foods such as fish, so promoting healthy and attractive products for children emerges as a promising prevention strategy from an early age. Objective: The main objective of this study is to develop fish sticks coated with chickpea/lentil flour as an innovative product for the development and production of new healthy food products, as well as to evaluate their effect on body composition, cardiometabolic risk, and diet quality. Method: Randomized clinical trial (n=51 participants with obesity aged 12 to 17 years), divided into a control group (n=25) and an intervention group (n=26) with fish sticks. Validated questionnaires were used to assess body composition, glucose metabolism, lipid profile, inflammatory parameters, diet quality, use of ICTs, socioeconomic status, product perception, and family history. Results: Most parents (63% mothers and 58% fathers) are obese. Seventy-five percent of children always or almost always eat in front of the TV. No significant differences in anthropometric variables were observed between the initial and final visits in the control and intervention groups. In terms of cardiometabolic risk, total cholesterol, LDL.c, HDL.c, and SBP improved in the intervention group. The consumption of fish sticks may be related to improved levels of the anti-inflammatory interleukin IL4 in the intervention group. Diet quality worsened in both groups. The tested food was well accepted by the participants, mainly the sticks coated with red lentil flour. Conclusions: The intervention does not appear to be associated with anthropometric variables or diet quality, but it is associated with improvement in some cardiometabolic indicators. More clinical trials are needed, with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods, to establish the benefits or otherwise of interventions, which will guide strategies for the prevention and intervention of obesity in adolescence.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Durán Fernández-Feijóo, Cristina (Co-tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Durán Fernández-Feijóo, Cristina (Co-tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
The Coverage of Drugs in the Galician Press: Analysis of News Articles Published in 2022
Authorship
E.V.R.
Master in Public Health
E.V.R.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
06.25.2025 16:00
06.25.2025 16:00
Summary
Introduction: Drug use is a social and public health issue. The media could serve as a tool to spread messages about drug use impact on health and society. Their approach on the subject has repercussions on the public perception and attitudes. Objective: To analyze in a quantitative and qualitative manner the communication of drug-related topics in the main newspaper of Galicia during 2022, and to contextualize the findings within the Galician population. Methods: A search was conducted for every news article published in 2022 in the digital edition of the newspaper La Voz de Galicia that referenced cocaine, heroin, cannabis and minor drugs. The search was conducted individually using keywords and was limited to articles published between January 1st and December 31st 2022. The following variables were collected in a predesigned Excel table: edition, day of the week and publication date, headline, newspaper section, article location, presence of images, among others. Each article was categorized based on its content and a descriptive analysis of the information was carried out. A qualitative analysis of the articles classified under the health category was performed (formal information analysis and content analysis). Additionally, drug consumption prevalence was estimated for Galician provinces using microdata obtained from the 2022 Survey on Alcohol and Other Drugs in Spain. Drug consumption prevalence per province and amount of news articles published in each of them was compared. Data analysis was executed using IBM SPSS Statistics software (29.0.1.0 version). Results: A total of 1,696 news articles were included in the final analysis, with the majority of them focusing on cocaine, followed by cannabis. The main category identified was police and judiciary articles. The health specific section showed very few articles concerning drug use. An inverse relationship was found between the prevalence of drug use and the percentage of news articles published by province. Conclusion: Drug consumption continues to be presented from a punitive and stigmatizing point of view, with a focus in police and judicial reporting. A more balanced informational approach is essential for the media to fulfill its potential role as a public health agent. Greater collaboration is needed between public health professionals and media teams to design effective prevention and education campaigns.
Introduction: Drug use is a social and public health issue. The media could serve as a tool to spread messages about drug use impact on health and society. Their approach on the subject has repercussions on the public perception and attitudes. Objective: To analyze in a quantitative and qualitative manner the communication of drug-related topics in the main newspaper of Galicia during 2022, and to contextualize the findings within the Galician population. Methods: A search was conducted for every news article published in 2022 in the digital edition of the newspaper La Voz de Galicia that referenced cocaine, heroin, cannabis and minor drugs. The search was conducted individually using keywords and was limited to articles published between January 1st and December 31st 2022. The following variables were collected in a predesigned Excel table: edition, day of the week and publication date, headline, newspaper section, article location, presence of images, among others. Each article was categorized based on its content and a descriptive analysis of the information was carried out. A qualitative analysis of the articles classified under the health category was performed (formal information analysis and content analysis). Additionally, drug consumption prevalence was estimated for Galician provinces using microdata obtained from the 2022 Survey on Alcohol and Other Drugs in Spain. Drug consumption prevalence per province and amount of news articles published in each of them was compared. Data analysis was executed using IBM SPSS Statistics software (29.0.1.0 version). Results: A total of 1,696 news articles were included in the final analysis, with the majority of them focusing on cocaine, followed by cannabis. The main category identified was police and judiciary articles. The health specific section showed very few articles concerning drug use. An inverse relationship was found between the prevalence of drug use and the percentage of news articles published by province. Conclusion: Drug consumption continues to be presented from a punitive and stigmatizing point of view, with a focus in police and judicial reporting. A more balanced informational approach is essential for the media to fulfill its potential role as a public health agent. Greater collaboration is needed between public health professionals and media teams to design effective prevention and education campaigns.
Direction
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Tutorships)
GARCIA , GUADALUPE (Co-tutorships)
PEREZ RIOS, MONICA (Tutorships)
GARCIA , GUADALUPE (Co-tutorships)
Court
TAKKOUCHE SOUILAMAS, EL BAHI (Chairman)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Secretary)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Member)
TAKKOUCHE SOUILAMAS, EL BAHI (Chairman)
Candal Pedreira, Cristina (Secretary)
MALLAH NASRALLAH, NARMEEN (Member)
Screen time in the Spanish child population: analysis of sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health factors
Authorship
M.V.F.
Master in Public Health
M.V.F.
Master in Public Health
Defense date
09.16.2025 12:10
09.16.2025 12:10
Summary
Introduction: Screen time has increased significantly in children and adolescents, especially during the pandemic, and is associated with negative impacts on language development, visual health, sleep, obesity, and mental health. Family and socioeconomic factors influence this behavior. Objectives: Analyze the relationship between sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle factors and screen time in Spanish children, characterizing their exposure and identifying associated variables. Materials and Methods: Crosssectional study using data from the 2017 Spanish National Health Survey (ENSE). Sociodemographic variables, health status, sleep, physical activity, and screen time on weekdays and weekends were analyzed through descriptive, bivariate, and multiple regression analyses. Results: Screen time was higher with increasing age and on weekends, with no differences by sex. It was also higher in children with good or fair perceived health compared to those with very good health, as well as among those who engage in less physical activity, guardians with lower educational levels, lower social class, unemployment status of the head of the household, and with fewer cohabiting minors. Longer sleep duration is associated with less screen time. No significant association was found with family income, lack of green spaces, or type of household. Conclusions: Screen time among the Spanish child population is linked to multiple factors, as occurs in other countries. It is recommended to design comprehensive interventions that consider the social, health, and lifestyle factors associated with screen use in childhood. Future research should include device characterization and standardization in screen time measurement.
Introduction: Screen time has increased significantly in children and adolescents, especially during the pandemic, and is associated with negative impacts on language development, visual health, sleep, obesity, and mental health. Family and socioeconomic factors influence this behavior. Objectives: Analyze the relationship between sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle factors and screen time in Spanish children, characterizing their exposure and identifying associated variables. Materials and Methods: Crosssectional study using data from the 2017 Spanish National Health Survey (ENSE). Sociodemographic variables, health status, sleep, physical activity, and screen time on weekdays and weekends were analyzed through descriptive, bivariate, and multiple regression analyses. Results: Screen time was higher with increasing age and on weekends, with no differences by sex. It was also higher in children with good or fair perceived health compared to those with very good health, as well as among those who engage in less physical activity, guardians with lower educational levels, lower social class, unemployment status of the head of the household, and with fewer cohabiting minors. Longer sleep duration is associated with less screen time. No significant association was found with family income, lack of green spaces, or type of household. Conclusions: Screen time among the Spanish child population is linked to multiple factors, as occurs in other countries. It is recommended to design comprehensive interventions that consider the social, health, and lifestyle factors associated with screen use in childhood. Future research should include device characterization and standardization in screen time measurement.
Direction
MONTES MARTINEZ, AGUSTIN (Tutorships)
MONTES MARTINEZ, AGUSTIN (Tutorships)
Court
ZAPATA CACHAFEIRO, MARUXA (Chairman)
SALGADO BARREIRA, ANGEL (Secretary)
Rodríguez Loureiro, Lucía (Member)
ZAPATA CACHAFEIRO, MARUXA (Chairman)
SALGADO BARREIRA, ANGEL (Secretary)
Rodríguez Loureiro, Lucía (Member)
Lifestyle and Obesity in Adolescence: Impact on Prevalence and Management Strategies. A Systematic Review.
Authorship
D.V.V.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
D.V.V.
Master in Genetic, Nutritional and Environmental Determinants concerning Growth and Development-NUTRENVIGEN G+D Factors
Defense date
07.17.2025 09:00
07.17.2025 09:00
Summary
Introduction: Adolescent obesity represents a global public health challenge with significant implications for long-term physical and psychosocial health. Lifestyle modification is fundamental to its development and management. Objectives: This systematic review aims to synthesize the evidence on the impact of lifestyle on the prevalence of adolescent obesity and to evaluate the effectiveness of lifestyle-based management strategies, using studies with populations predominantly over 10 years old. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, analyzing 19 primary studies. Inclusion criteria focused on clinical trials or intervention studies addressing lifestyle and obesity in adolescents. Multicomponent, family-based, and digital interventions showed variable effects on reducing body mass index (BMI) and improving habits. Results: Improvements were observed in diet, such as reduced sugary drinks and increased fruit and vegetable intake, and physical activity, although long-term sustainability and the magnitude of the effect on BMI were inconsistent. Parental involvement and the use of technology emerged as facilitating factors. Conclusions: Lifestyle strategies are fundamental in the management of adolescent obesity, with evidence of improvements in specific habits. However, effectiveness in sustained BMI reduction requires more intensive and prolonged interventions, with a strong family component and tailored follow-up.
Introduction: Adolescent obesity represents a global public health challenge with significant implications for long-term physical and psychosocial health. Lifestyle modification is fundamental to its development and management. Objectives: This systematic review aims to synthesize the evidence on the impact of lifestyle on the prevalence of adolescent obesity and to evaluate the effectiveness of lifestyle-based management strategies, using studies with populations predominantly over 10 years old. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, analyzing 19 primary studies. Inclusion criteria focused on clinical trials or intervention studies addressing lifestyle and obesity in adolescents. Multicomponent, family-based, and digital interventions showed variable effects on reducing body mass index (BMI) and improving habits. Results: Improvements were observed in diet, such as reduced sugary drinks and increased fruit and vegetable intake, and physical activity, although long-term sustainability and the magnitude of the effect on BMI were inconsistent. Parental involvement and the use of technology emerged as facilitating factors. Conclusions: Lifestyle strategies are fundamental in the management of adolescent obesity, with evidence of improvements in specific habits. However, effectiveness in sustained BMI reduction requires more intensive and prolonged interventions, with a strong family component and tailored follow-up.
Direction
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Tutorships)
Court
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)
Leis Trabazo, María Rosaura (Coordinator)
COUCE PICO, MARIA DE LA LUZ (Chairman)
MARTINON TORRES, FEDERICO (Secretary)
Concheiro Guisán, Ana (Member)