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Integrative Cardiovascular Physiology


Course Description

An examination of the physiology and pathophysiology of the cardiovascular system, including the cellular physiology of vascular function, the control of the circulation during exercise, exercise-induced signals for vascular adaptations, and mechanisms underlying the development and treatment of chronic cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease, heart failure, and hypertension.

Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students will prepare a review paper summarizing research findings dealing with a topic broadly covered in the course exploring a personal area of interest relevant for what he/she intends to do professionally, as it is recognized that students may select clinical or research careers post- graduation. Learning objectives include: A) To raise the level of knowledge on the chosen topic beyond the undergraduate level to enable a more in-depth understanding and a greater application of the information. B) To gain experience in reading, summarizing, and interpreting research. C) To appreciate ambiguities in research and the limits of current knowledge. Components include: 1) Background/Significance, 2) Frame and Defend the Selected “Centerpiece” Publication, 3) Critique the Article, and 4) Provide Practical Applications of the Research.


Athena Title

Integrative Cardiov Physiol


Prerequisite

KINS 4630/6630 or KINS 4630H or VPHY 3100 or VPHY 3100E or permission of department


Semester Course Offered

Offered fall


Grading System

A - F (Traditional)


Student learning Outcomes

  • The student who successfully completes this course will have an integrated understanding of the physiology and pathophysiology of the cardiovascular system.
  • The student who successfully completes this course will have a working knowledge and appreciation for the important role that exercise and physical activity play in cardiovascular health and disease.
  • The student who successfully completes this course will understand the cellular physiology of vascular function, the control of the circulation during exercise, and exercise- induced signals for vascular adaptations.
  • The student who successfully completes this course will appreciate the mechanisms underlying the development and treatment of chronic cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, hypertension, and diabetes-related cardiovascular complications.
  • The student who successfully completes this course will be prepared for advanced graduate studies in basic, applied, or the allied health sciences (e.g., medical or physical therapy school) with regard to human cardiovascular biology.

Topical Outline

  • • Cellular physiology of blood flow control
  • • Control of the circulation during exercise
  • • Endothelial function and shear stress
  • • Exercise-induced signals for vascular adaptations o Traditional risk factors o Hemodynamic signals o Cardiovascular stem cells o Adaptations in inactive vascular beds o Myokines o Adipokines
  • • Cardiovascular diseases o Atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease o Heart failure o Hypertension o Diabetic cardiovascular complications