PROJECT OVERVIEW
The Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC) is a leading institution focused on biomedical research. At ABC, researchers engage in a wide range of investigations spanning various areas of biomedicine, with a focus on promoting active aging and enhancing community healthcare services in the region.
PROJECT DETAILS
- Research Name Algarve Biomedical Center Research Institute (ABC-RI)
- Category AREAS OF ACTIVITY
- Location PT
Active Ageing
ABC is actively engaged in research aimed at promoting active ageing and improving the quality of life for older adults in the Algarve. This includes investigating age-related diseases, studying interventions to enhance healthy aging, and developing personalized approaches to geriatric care.
Development of integrated tools to improve quality of life and healthy aging
The research at ABC aims to position the Algarve as a leading region in Healthy Aging, by creating innovative tools and activities with high social and economic impact.
Development of personalized exercise programs for prevalent pathologies or rehabilitation
Implementation of a 12-week personalized exercise program by sports technicians and physiotherapists for individuals aged 50 and over, who concurrently exhibit two highly prevalent pathologies: knee osteoarthritis (manifesting knee pain) and cardiovascular disease/risk factors (high blood pressure or cholesterol levels, smoking habits, or a history of heart attack).
Longevity and Genetics of Aging
By elucidating the genetic basis of aging, researchers aim to identify potential targets for interventions that could extend healthy lifespan and mitigate age-related diseases, ultimately contributing to the promotion of healthy aging strategies.
Healthcare Innovation and Technology
ABC embraces healthcare innovation and technology to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes in the region. The Experimental Surgery and Intensive Care Support Unit at the Algarve Biomedical Center (ABC) is poised to lead the way in this endeavor. Starting in 2024, the unit will offer advanced training courses aimed at deepening and acquiring knowledge in innovative techniques relevant to surgery and intensive care. Moreover, it will serve as a platform for the development and testing of new therapeutic approaches, medical devices, and equipment in emerging areas of healthcare. By providing a conducive environment for research and training, the unit at ABC will contribute significantly to the evolution of healthcare practices, ultimately benefiting both patients and healthcare professionals.
Fundamental, Translational & Clinical Research
ABC-RI is based on a consolidated expertise in fundamental research, translational research and clinical research.
ABC highlights the importance of these research domains for the Region of Algarve as a recognized Reference site for the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing.
Importantly, it allows a comprehensive and integrative approach to healthy ageing research, ranging from molecular studies to a bench-to-bedside (translational and clinical) and bench-to-market (knowledge transfer) actions, benefiting also from founded collaborations with relevant regional (e.g. CHUA, UALG), national (e.g. Fundação Champalimaud, ISCTE), and international (e.g. Goethe-Universität Frankfurt am Main) stakeholders.
Moreover, the ABC-RI benefits from access to relevant structures, including the ABC Biobank, the Algarve Experimental Surgery Center, the Genome-Portugal – National Facility for Genome Sequencing and Analysis, and Portuguese Platform of Bioimaging (PPBI).
Ultimately, ABC-RI encompasses the concept that biomedical innovation makes its greatest impact when top-research, collaboration, translation, and entrepreneurship are brought together.
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