PCOL 530: Pharmacology and Biology of the Vessel Wall

This course provides students a comprehensive overview of vascular biology related to physiological and pathological functions and pharmacological approaches to treatment of cardiovascular diseases, focusing on the vascular system as a target for the development of new therapeutic agents. One goal of the course is to investigate, in depth, the unique and important functions of the endothelium, e.g., as an endocrine organ, in regulation of cell adhesion, regulation of transport across the vascular wall, control of cell growth (angiogenesis, smooth muscle cell proliferation) and blood cell interactions. In addition, the consequences of dysfunction of the endothelium and pharmacological interventions to treat cardiovascular diseases are studied.

Offered: Spring semester, even years