General description
In the last several years, evidence from Mendelian randomization studies and pharmacological trials suggest that high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level is not causally related to coronary artery disease (CAD). A reasonable assumption that hasbeen made from these studies is that the cholesterol content of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles is not the cardioprotective factor by itself, suggesting that the relationship between HDL and cardiovascular risk is more complex and involves other properties.
Thus, metrics of HDL structure and function such as particle size, cholesterol efflux capacity and antioxidant activity may be causal mediators of atheroprotection. Indeed, the ability to remove excess cholesterol from arterial wall cells may represent a more precise biomarker of CAD risk than HDL-cholesterol. In this intensive course students will be able to improve the understanding of plasma lipoproteins, especially HDL metabolism. Additionally, students will be able to learn important techniques to measure HDL properties.
Course objectives
The main objectives of this intensive course include:
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To improve the global understanding of coronary artery disease markers and the role of HDL properties in this subject;
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To allow students to learn advanced concepts regarding HDL structure, metabolism and function;
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To develop technical skills regarding lipoprotein isolation and HDL function determinations, such as cholesterol efflux capacity and antioxidant function.
Teaching methods
The students will take part in:
Interactive lectures with senior and associated faculty including the essential topics, on the structure/function of lipoproteins and their role in cardiovascular disease
Guided seminars in which students have to prepare a short presentation followed by a discussion that will include the clinical implications of new CAD biomarkers based on HDL function.
Guided hands-on experience with the isolation of lipoproteins, cholesterol efflux and determination of antioxidant activity.
Who should attend?
Students of medicine, biology, biochemistry, pharmacy, chemistry, biomedicine, nursing or physical activity with interest in clinical Lipidology.
Faculty
Eliana Cotta de Faria, MD, PhD (coordinator): Professor of the Departament of Clinical Pathology, head of Lipids Laboratory in the School of Medical Sciences - University of Campinas.
Vanessa Helena de Souza Zago, MS, PhD: Research Associate of the Lipids Laboratory in School – University of Campinas.
Schedule
Dates: July 10-14, 2017
Time/Days: 5 days, 2 periods per day.
Course material
Books, printed and electronic scientific papers and case reports will be provided before the course starts.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge in the sciences, fluency in spoken and written English.