Oncology and Solid Tumors

The University General Hospital Of Heraklion is highly active in medical oncology, with trials focused on major neoplasms such as breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, and gastric and colorectal cancers. Research here is largely aimed at testing new cancer treatments, improving disease control, and lowering the risk of recurrence or progression.

  • Studies in advanced and early-stage breast cancer, including hormone receptor-positive and HER2-related disease
  • Trials in non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer, including targeted and immunotherapy approaches
  • Research in other solid tumors, including metastatic and treatment-resistant cancers

These trials reflect a strong emphasis on evaluating treatment effectiveness and expanding options for patients with difficult-to-treat cancers.

Immune-Mediated and Inflammatory Diseases

A major part of the site’s research portfolio addresses immune system diseases and chronic inflammatory conditions, especially Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. The studies are designed to improve symptom control, reduce flares, and assess longer-term safety of emerging therapies.

  • Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis trials focused on better control of bowel inflammation
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus research examining new options for disease activity and tolerability
  • Studies in psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and related autoimmune conditions

At this site, the goal is often to find therapies that can offer more durable relief for patients living with chronic immune-mediated disease.

Kidney, Cardiovascular, and Metabolic Research

The hospital also conducts extensive trials in cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease, and nutritional and metabolic diseases. Key areas include hypertension, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, lipoprotein(a) elevation, proteinuria, and several forms of glomerular disease. Many of these studies aim to slow organ damage and reduce long-term cardiovascular risk.

  • Chronic kidney disease and proteinuria, including studies on preserving kidney function
  • Hypertension and broader cardiovascular risk reduction
  • Research in IgA nephropathy, complement-mediated kidney disease, and related renal disorders

These trials combine prevention and treatment goals, with a strong focus on improving long-term outcomes for patients with overlapping kidney and heart disease.

Respiratory and Pulmonary Disorders

Another important research area at University General Hospital Of Heraklion involves respiratory tract diseases and progressive lung conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary sarcoidosis, COPD, asthma, and progressive pulmonary fibrosis. These studies are generally aimed at evaluating new therapies that may reduce inflammation, improve breathing, and slow disease worsening.

  • Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and progressive fibrosing lung disease
  • Asthma and COPD, including symptom control and rescue treatment research
  • Pulmonary sarcoidosis and other inflammatory lung disorders

The site’s pulmonary trials are centered on finding better ways to preserve lung function and improve daily quality of life.

Hematology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases

The site supports a broad range of studies in hemic and lymphatic diseases, virus diseases, and bacterial infections. Research includes acute leukemias, neutropenia, sepsis, candidemia, and difficult viral infections in immunocompromised patients. These trials often aim to improve survival, prevent complications, and strengthen infection control.

  • Acute lymphoblastic leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia studies
  • Sepsis and serious hospital-related infections
  • Research on resistant viral and fungal infections in vulnerable patients

This area reflects a strong interest in both cancer-related blood disorders and the management of severe infections in high-risk groups.

Neurology, Psychiatry, and Other Specialized Conditions

Beyond its major disease programs, the site also conducts trials in nervous system diseases and mental disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease-related agitation and psychosis, as well as selected rare and complex conditions such as Fabry disease, amyloidosis, and ophthalmic diseases. These studies are intended to improve symptoms, refine diagnosis, and explore new treatment options for conditions with limited current choices.

  • Alzheimer’s disease-related behavioral symptoms and major depressive disorder
  • Rare diseases such as Fabry disease and amyloidosis
  • Eye diseases including age-related macular degeneration

These projects add breadth to the site’s portfolio and show its involvement in both common chronic illness and less frequent specialized disorders.