Outline

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. What are the reasons for this and how can it be prevented or treated? This course will focus on molecular and cellular biology aspects of cardiovascular disease, which will lead to a comprehensive understanding of methods of prevention and treatment. Key topics include: the molecular basis of hyperlipidaemias; molecular and cellular aspect of atherosclerosis; the role of the endothelium and nitric oxide in health and disease; the molecular aspects of haemostasis and thrombosis; transgenic animal models and gene therapy strategies for investigating cardiovascular disease; novel and experimental gene therapy approaches and treatments for cardiovascular disease. Key questions that will be addressed include: What is the role of free radicals in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease, and can dietary changes or antioxidants help to prevent cardiovascular disease? What is the role of environmental and genetic factors?

Aims

This aim of this course is to give students a comprehensive understanding of important and recent developments in the understanding of cardiovascular disease at a molecular and cellular biological level.

Objectives

The main objective is for the student understand the major current theories of the development of cardiovascular disease at the molecular level. This course will also provide a substantial core of knowledge to support further studies in clinical aspects of cardiovascular disease.

Indicative lecture topics (based on 2021/22 syllabus)

Introduction to CVD/Plasma cholesterol and lipoproteins – the basics
	Pathology of cardiovascular disease
	Vascular remodelling in cardiovascular disease
	Endogenous cholesterol transport (VLDL & LDL, CM & ApoE)
	Reverse cholesterol transport (HDL)
	Animal models of lipoprotein metabolism & CVD
	Mechanisms of CVD - lipids
	Mechanisms of CVD - Free radicals and oxidative stress
	Roles of macrophages in atherosclerosis
	Genetics of Cardiovascular Disease
	Diet and cardiovascular disease
	Early atherosclerosis - endothelial dysfunction
	Inflammation and cardiovascular disease
	Cardiovascular disease and renal dysfunction
	Haemostasis and vascular disease
	Molecular aspects of Thrombosis
	Nitric Oxide and protection from CVD
 