This area is made up of a large number of well-established research groups, reflecting the long tradition of research in this area that has always existed at Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro. It is characterised by the creation of a knowledge and collaboration network among its member groups, resulting in a very fluid flow of information between them and with respect to the rest of the Institute's groups, which fits perfectly with the objectives underlying the creation of Health Research Institutes and also enhances and increases scientific productivity, not only in the area but throughout the Institute