PHAR40030 Advanced cardiovascular pharmacology: mechanisms and pharmacotherapy in atherothrombotic disease

Academic Year 2022/2023

This module is core for stage 4 of the BSc (Hons) degree in Pharmacology. The module evaluates existing and potential therapies for disordered haemostasis and atherosclerosis in chronic and acute vascular disease. Topics covered include the cellular and molecular mechanisms in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and evaluates inflammatory cells as novel therapeutic targets in the treatment of atherosclerosis. In addition, drug treatment of dyslipidaemia, including the pharmacology of statins and the more recent HDL raising approach is also addressed. The module also covers advances in antiplatelet therapies including aspirin resistance, anticoagulants and treatment of coronary vascular injury. New disruptive technologies in this field are also discussed, including nanotechnology for drug delivery.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able to:1. Define the molecular mechanisms of atherogenesis. 2. Elucidate the cellular targets for novel therapies 3. Appreciate the role of inflammation in vascular disease 4. Understand the difference between an anti-inflammatory and a pro-resolving therapy approach. 5. Discuss disordered haemostasis in the context of potential drug targets. 6. Describe the rationale and use of anti-platelet and anticoagulant drugs. 7 Familiarise with the emerging technologies in the field.

Indicative Module Content:

This module will provide detailed insight to novel therapies for the treatment of atherosclerosis, including associated inflammation, hyperlipidemia and thrombosis.
Most recent clinical trial data will be also discussed.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

12
Autonomous Student Learning

90
Total

102
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures, group discussion, review and exam preparations 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Examination: End-of-Trimester Exam. 2 hours, Essay-type on 2 topics of choice split in Sections A & B. 2 hour End of Trimester Exam No Graded No

100

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Name Role
Dr Eoin Brennan Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Monica De Gaetano Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Fiona McGillicuddy Lecturer / Co-Lecturer