The IUPS is one of the leading international organizations dedicated to promoting research and education in physiology (the functioning of the human body). His appointment as a fellow recognizes researchers whose contributions have advanced this discipline.
“This award is both an honor and a responsibility, as it involves contributing to the advancement of physiology from a global perspective,” said García Rivas, Director of Translational Research at TecSalud.
According to the researcher, that responsibility has a clear goal: “Understanding the heart’s processes is essential to improving its treatment.”
Dr. Gerardo García Rivas has been named a fellow of the International Union of Physiological Sciences. (Photo: TecSalud)
The aim of this research is to generate knowledge that will enable the development of new treatment options for heart failure in the future.
As part of that research, “We have identified molecules that restore the function of heart cells, which will serve as the basis for future treatments and medications,” the researcher said.
The honor that only four Mexicans have received
Currently, the IUPS has 174 fellows, only four of whom are Mexican. One of them is Gerardo García Rivas, who also became the first researcher from a private institution in Mexico to receive this award.
In addition to this recognition, the appointment involves serving as a liaison between the IUPS and the scientific community in each region to identify local needs and convey them to the organization.
“Our job is to identify local needs, submit proposals to international physiology committees, and adapt those initiatives so that they are relevant and have an impact in each of our regions,” he said.
The appointment represents an opportunity for García Rivas to advance the field of physiology in Mexico through strategic partnerships, academic exchanges, and long-term scientific projects.
“We’ve got the talent and skills needed to conduct world-class research. Now is the time to invest in research, strengthen strategic partnerships, and develop a solid scientific infrastructure,” he said.
Process of culturing cardiac cells for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. (Photo: TecSalud)
An event to discuss the future of physiology
To mark the occasion, TecSalud’s Zambrano Hellion Hospital brought together three of the four Mexicans named fellows of the IUPS to discuss current challenges in the field of physiology and their contribution to the study of metabolic, neurological, and cardiovascular diseases.
Marcia Hiriart Urdanivia, Gabriel Gutiérrez Ospina, and Gerardo García Rivas participated in the event, where they shared their views with researchers, students, and healthcare professionals on the future of this discipline and its impact on the treatment of various diseases.
From left to right: Dr. Gabriel Gutiérrez Ospina, Dr. Marcia Hiriart, and Dr. Gerardo de Jesús García Rivas. (Photo: TecSalud)
“In our research group, we’ve prioritized quality over quantity in everything we do, from our publications to our collaboration with external organizations,” said García Rivas.
Currently, his team is working on various research projects related to cardiovascular diseases to better understand these conditions and develop new treatment options.
“Our ultimate goal is for this knowledge to contribute, in the long term, to improving the quality of life for people suffering from these diseases,” he concluded.
