As the field of glycomics continues to expand, so does research into the endothelial glycocalyx, a glycan-based structure essential to vascular and systemic health. Yet awareness of this important protective barrier in the blood vessels has not yet reached most clinicians. From hypertension to kidney disease, from atherosclerosis to neuropathy, the endothelial glycocalyx plays a decisive role in prevention, disease progression, and now, at last, treatment. This session provides an overview of this vital structure, recent research on the endothelial glycocalyx, and the therapeutics showing significant outcomes. Finally, Dr. Houston will present new preliminary results from a hypertension pilot study, in which he is the lead principal investigator.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the endothelial glycocalyx’s protective and therapeutic role for cardiovascular health.
- Assess the many ways degradation of the endothelial glycocalyx can affect vascular physiology.
- Review research studies on restoration and protection of the endothelial glycocalyx for therapeutic benefits.