Neurodegenerative and Alzheimer’s Disease Research

At Hospital Universitari De Santa Maria, a major share of activity focuses on nervous system diseases and neurodegenerative disorders, especially Alzheimer’s disease, early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease, and related cognitive disorders. These studies are designed to better understand disease progression and test new therapies that may slow decline, protect brain health, and improve thinking and daily functioning.

  • Research in preclinical Alzheimer’s disease aims to evaluate whether new treatments can delay cognitive decline before symptoms become more advanced.
  • Studies in early Alzheimer’s disease are examining therapies intended to reduce tau buildup and influence disease progression.
  • Trials in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease and associated neurocognitive disorders are exploring ways to improve cognition and overall function.

This line of research reflects a strong focus on early intervention and treatment innovation for complex brain disorders.

Sleep Apnea and Obesity-Related Studies

Another important area at the site is respiratory tract disease research, with emphasis on obstructive sleep apnea, overweight, and obesity. The trials are evaluating new approaches to improve sleep quality, reduce breathing interruptions during sleep, and support weight management in people affected by these overlapping conditions.

  • Studies are testing whether new treatments can improve sleep apnea severity and lower the apnea-hypopnea index.
  • Research is also looking at treatment options for people with obesity or overweight who have sleep apnea, including those already using positive airway pressure.
  • These trials aim to support better symptom control and healthier long-term outcomes in a common respiratory and metabolic condition.

The work combines respiratory care with broader metabolic health research.

Allergy and Immune System Research

The site also conducts studies in immune system diseases, particularly allergic rhinitis and rhinoconjunctivitis, with or without mild to moderate asthma. These trials are focused on assessing new allergy treatments that may reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for people with seasonal or persistent allergic disease.

  • Research is evaluating whether new allergy therapies can better control nasal and eye symptoms linked to grass and olive tree allergy.
  • Studies include patients with coexisting allergic asthma, reflecting interest in linked airway and immune responses.
  • The goal is to improve symptom relief and everyday functioning for people with chronic allergic conditions.

This work highlights a practical focus on improving treatment effectiveness in common allergic diseases.

Respiratory and Inflammatory Disease Research

Respiratory tract diseases are also represented by studies in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, where investigators are exploring new treatment strategies for patients with inflammatory airway disease. These trials are intended to evaluate whether emerging therapies can better control symptoms and support disease management.

  • Research in COPD is focused on improving outcomes in people with ongoing respiratory inflammation.
  • The studies are designed to assess the effectiveness of new medicines for controlling disease activity.
  • This area adds breadth to the site’s respiratory research portfolio beyond sleep-related conditions.

The program shows a continued interest in treatments for chronic breathing disorders and inflammation.

Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer’s Disease

Within psychiatry and psychology, the site is studying psychosis associated with Alzheimer’s disease and related mental disorders. These trials aim to understand whether new therapies can reduce hallucinations, delusions, and other neuropsychiatric symptoms while also supporting cognition and global functioning.

  • Research is assessing treatments for psychosis linked to Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Additional studies are examining whether therapies can help with cognitive impairment and broader daily functioning.
  • The focus is on improving both behavioral symptoms and overall patient well-being.

This area connects brain disease research with practical mental health outcomes.

Digestive and Metabolic Disease Research

The clinical trial portfolio at Hospital Universitari De Santa Maria also includes digestive system diseases and nutritional and metabolic diseases, with studies in recurrent pancreatitis and weight-related health conditions. These trials are aimed at preventing repeat disease episodes and evaluating therapies that may improve metabolic health.

  • Research in recurrent pancreatitis is focused on reducing new episodes and understanding preventive treatment approaches.
  • Studies in overweight and obesity examine whether new options can support weight reduction and related health improvements.
  • This area brings together digestive care and metabolic disease management in a clinically relevant way.

The studies aim to improve long-term control of chronic conditions that often affect overall health and quality of life.