The Intersection of Two Major Health Crises

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of illness and death worldwide. type 2 diabetes mellitus, the most prevalent metabolic disorder globally, frequently enough exacerbates these risks. The Carddiab research center recognizes the critical link between these conditions.

an Interdisciplinary Approach

Carddiab fosters an integrative research habitat, bringing together the extensive expertise of the University hospital (UKD) and HHU. This collaborative synergy aims to translate preclinical and clinical research directly into improved healthcare outcomes.

• Focus: Understanding the mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, with emphasis on their mutual influences.
• Goal: developing new therapeutic approaches thru collaborative research.

state-of-the-Art Imaging Capabilities

Imaging is central to Carddiab’s research endeavors. The recent delivery of two advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems marks a significant milestone:

• 3-Tesla MRI: Used for mapping organs (heart, liver, muscles) and examining functional recordings and metabolic processes in real time.
• 7-Tesla MRI: Offers significantly higher sensitivity and spatial resolution, enabling real-time monitoring of metabolic processes and inflammatory markers in minute structures.

To accommodate these large devices, sections of the building’s facade where temporarily removed to allow access to the “Imaging Core Unit” on the ground floor.

Expert Perspectives

Prof. Dr. Malte Kelm,director of the Clinic for Cardiology,Pneumology and Angiology at the UKD and a Carddiab spokesman,explains the importance of these new tools: People with diabetes are increasingly affected by circulatory disorders and heart failure. In order to examine the effects of metabolic diseases on the cardiac structure and energetics as well as the heart function in peace and stress, the 3-Tesla-MRI/MRS will be connected directly to a catheter system for measuring parameters of the large and small circulation.

The 7-Tesla MRI’s enhanced capabilities are notably promising. It can detect subtle changes and damage, leading to a better understanding of the complex relationship between cardiovascular and diabetological diseases. This,in turn,can facilitate early and tailored therapies.

Prof. Dr. Michael Roden, director of the Clinic for Endocrinology and Diabetology at the UKD and the other spokesman for Carddiab, emphasizes the center’s proactive approach:

Our goal is to develop new examination methods for early detection and to establish everyday life with which we can not only improve the care situation for those affected with diabetes and cardiovascular illnesses, but can even prevent the disorders.
Prof. Dr. Michael Roden, Director of the Clinic for Endocrinology and Diabetology at the UKD

Core Units and Research Focus

Carddiab houses three specialized units:

• Imaging Core Unit: Provides cutting-edge imaging processes.
• Metabolic Core Unit: Analyzes various metabolic processes.
• Cardiac & Circulatory Unit: Focuses on analyzing cardiac functions.

Funding and Future Outlook

Carddiab is supported by approximately 72 million euros from the “BUND-LANDER program research buildings.” Around 18 million euros are allocated to the acquisition of large-scale equipment.

The foundation stone for the building was laid in December 2021,and research groups are expected to commence work in autumn 2025.