Doctorate, at Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, LAIKO University Hospital of Athens, Greece.
Dr. Maria Yavropoulou is an accomplished Endocrinology Consultant at the Endocrinology Unit of the 1st Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine at the Medical School of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), based in LAIKO University Hospital, Athens. With a career spanning clinical practice, research, and teaching, she specializes in rare endocrine disorders, particularly calcium and phosphate metabolism. Dr. Yavropoulou’s dedication to endocrine research has resulted in over 133 publications, earning 3,430 citations. Her international training, expertise in bone metabolism, and leadership roles in specialized endocrine centers highlight her contribution to the field.
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Education 🎓
Dr. Yavropoulou earned her Medical Degree from Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTh) and specialized in Endocrinology at AHEPA University Hospital. She advanced her expertise with specialized training in the Netherlands (LUMC) and the USA (UAMS), focusing on bone metabolism under esteemed mentors. Dr. Yavropoulou holds a Ph.D. in diseases affecting bone metabolism from AUTh and two Master’s Degrees: one in “Translational Research in Molecular Biology and Genetics” and another in “Epidemiology – Research Methodology in Biomedical Sciences” from NKUA. Her multidisciplinary education underpins her impactful research in endocrinology.
Experience 🏥
Dr. Yavropoulou has extensive experience managing endocrine diseases, emphasizing rare calcium and phosphate metabolism disorders. As Deputy Head of the Center for Expertise of Rare Disorders of Calcium and Phosphate Metabolism (C.E.R.E.D.) since 2019, she leads specialized care. She also coordinates quality for the Adult Langerhans Histiocytosis Center. Her tenure includes roles in clinical, translational research and leadership positions within the European Society of Endocrinology (ESE).
Research Interests 🔬
Dr. Yavropoulou focuses on bone metabolism, diabetes, and endocrine implications on systemic health. Her work integrates clinical and molecular approaches, exploring topics such as transgenic models, cortisol production, and endocrine-related immune system interactions. Her meta-analytical studies provide insights into treatment compliance and endocrine therapies.
Awards 🏆
Dr. Yavropoulou’s accolades include the Jens Sandahl Christiansen Award (2020, ESE) and the G. TOLIS Award (2019, HES). She has received multiple national and European honors for her basic and clinical research contributions, including the inaugural 2022 EJE Rising Star Award by the European Journal of Endocrinology. Her excellence has also been recognized with scholarships and grants from esteemed organizations like the Hellenic Society for the Study of Bone Metabolism.
Top Notes Publications 📚
Here are some of Dr. Yavropoulou’s notable recent publications:
1. The Association of Vitamin D Receptor Polymorphisms with COVID-19 Severity
Journal: Nutrients, 2024
Key Highlights:
- Investigates the role of polymorphisms in the Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene in determining the severity of COVID-19.
- Findings suggest that certain VDR polymorphisms may influence the immune response and inflammation during COVID-19 infection.
- Highlights the potential of personalized medicine approaches to mitigate COVID-19 severity by addressing VDR-related pathways.
Read more
2. Diurnal Production of Cortisol in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Journal: RMD Open, 2024
Key Highlights:
- Explores the daily fluctuation of cortisol levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- The study links disrupted cortisol patterns to increased disease activity and pain levels in RA patients.
- Suggests therapeutic interventions targeting cortisol rhythms to alleviate symptoms.
Read more
3. Transient Osteoporosis of the Hip after Denosumab Discontinuation
Journal: Osteoporos Int, 2024
Key Highlights:
- Reports cases of transient osteoporosis of the hip following the discontinuation of denosumab, an anti-resorptive therapy.
- Discusses the rebound effect in bone turnover and the need for careful management post-treatment.
- Recommends alternative therapies to mitigate risk.
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4. Nocebo-Associated Discontinuation with Subcutaneous Anti-Osteoporotic Drugs
Journal: Maturitas, 2024
Key Highlights:
- Examines the role of nocebo effects (negative expectations) in the discontinuation of subcutaneous anti-osteoporotic drugs.
- Highlights the importance of patient education and communication to reduce nocebo-associated discontinuation rates.
- Suggests strategies for improving adherence to osteoporosis treatment.
Read more
5. Immune System Effects on the Endocrine System
Journal: Endotext, 2023
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive review of the interactions between the immune system and the endocrine system.
- Focuses on how immune dysregulation can lead to endocrine disorders, including thyroid dysfunction and adrenal insufficiency.
- Discusses implications for treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Read more
Conclusion
Dr. Maria Yavropoulou is a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her exceptional achievements in clinical and basic endocrinology research, leadership in international academic societies, and contributions to understanding rare metabolic disorders position her as a distinguished figure in her field. Addressing minor areas of improvement could further elevate her already outstanding career. She exemplifies the qualities of a world-class researcher, and her work continues to significantly impact endocrinology and related disciplines.