Role of Endothelial Glycocalyx Degradation in Disease

Presentation Description / Summary: I'll plan to explain what the vascular endothelial glycocalyx is and how it contributes to normal physiological processes in the healthy state. I will describe the processes by which glycocalyx degradation arises in various disease states and show how its degradation contributes to the pathophysiological process. Recent research findings regarding equine vascular endothelial glycocalyx will be presented and discussed. Discussion regarding potential preventive and therapeutic strategies intended to promote glycocalyx recovery and stabilization will be presented.

Learner Outcomes: 1. Be able to describe the basic structure and functions of the vascular endothelial glycocalyx in the healthy state 2. Be able to understand how the vascular endothelial glycocalyx is affected in various disease states and how degradation of the glycocalyx influences the pathophysiological aspects of those conditions 3. Know some equine-specific clinical scenarios in which degradation of the glycocalyx is likely contributing to clinical signs and treatment outcomes