Pathophysiology and Mechanisms of Metabolic Diseases

Theoretical classes will include content presentations based on the syllabus of the discipline. Multimedia presentations will be used to enhance learning, encouraging direct student participation through the description and discussion of physiological mechanisms.
In the theoretical-practical aspect of physiology teaching, emphasis will be placed on video visualization to illustrate specific syllabus topics, as well as research, presentation, and discussion of scientific articles on recent advancements related to the course content.

Continuous assessment will have a significant weight and will include the following components:
• Active participation in theoretical-practical sessions and debates (25%)
o Monitoring student engagement in case study analysis, scientific article discussions, and problem-solving of experimental issues.
o Evaluating students’ ability to argue, think critically, and integrate acquired knowledge.
• Individual critical review work and debates (75%)
The primary assessment component will be a group presentation developed throughout the course. Students will analyze, present, and debate innovative topics based on recent scientific research articles. The student must:
o Explain the scientific basis of the study and discuss hypotheses.
o Assess the appropriateness of the experimental design, including chosen models, inclusion/exclusion criteria, control strategies, variable analysis, etc.
o Discuss the obtained results.
o The work will be presented orally before a panel composed of the course instructors and, whenever possible, invited specialists.
Approval Criteria
• The final grade will be determined based on the weighting of the above components.
• To pass, students must achieve a minimum score of 10 (on a scale of 0 to 20) in the weighted average of continuous assessment and the final project.
• Attendance and active participation are encouraged, with a mandatory presence of at least 75% of the sessions.

1) Understand the pathophysiological changes in nutrient sensing mechanisms at the central and peripheral levels.
2) Recognize the pathophysiological alterations in the neuronal pathways of appetite regulation and their control by systemic signals
3) Understand the pathophysiological mechanisms associated with the dysregulation of energy balance and glucose and lipid metabolism.

1. Alterations in the mechanisms of nutrient sensing
Alteration in the perception of nutrients by the gastrointestinal systems and in the secretion of gastrointestinal factors
Alterations in the perception of nutrients by other tissues
Dysregulation of endocrine systems of metabolic control: insulin resistance
2. Dysregulation of central control of appetite and satiety
Alterations in the orexigenic and anorexigenic pathways of appetite and satiety control
Dysregulation in the periphery to brain communication in metabolic disorders.
3. Dysregulation of energy balance in peripheral tissues
Pathophysiology of insulin-sensitive tissues
Alterations in the peripheral sensitivity to gastrointestinal factors
Dysregulation of nutrient storage and expenditure processes

NAO