Pathophysiology of Heart and Circulatory System

COURSE OBJECTIVE
The aim of this course is to provide students with insight into the
functioning of the cardiovascular system, the pathogenesis of the major cardiovascular diseases and in the possibilities for therapeutic intervention. Pathomechanisms are discussed that that can lead to the development of myocardial infarction and heart failure, mechanisms of genetic heart disease and the role of co-morbidities in cardiac disease.

COURSE CONTENT
The course consists of the following subjects:
- Macrocirculation and atherosclerosis
- Microcirculation and vasoregulation
- Heart function and myocardial infarction
- Cardiomyopathies
- Angiogenesis and arteriogenesis

In the first part of the course, the properties of macrocirculation (atherosclerosis) and microcirculation (organ level) and their
regulation are discussed, and the changes in the vessel wall that may lead to increased blood pressure and atherosclerosis.
In the second part, the heart's action on molecule, cell and and organ level are discussed, the abnormalities (pathomechanisms) that
arise and different forms of acquired and inherited cardiac disease.
In the third part, the regulation of the barrier function of blood vessels is discussed and the role of angiogenesis and arteriogenesis.

TEACHING METHODS
Lectures: 18 hours
Practical courses: 6 hours
Workgroups: 10 hours

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Report of research proposal & presentation: 20%, Exam: 80%. The two components of the test can be compensated and together they must be sufficient ( a grade of at least 5.5).

RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE

Sufficient and demonstrable knowledge of the physiology and anatomy of the cardiovascular and respiratory system