Thesis Defense Meeting: Ms. Ana Valencia

Title: Association between increased hepatic lipid storage

and impaired hepatic mitochondrial function in

ovariectomized mice

Abstract: Reduced ovarian function is associated with development of the metabolic

syndrome (MetS). Increased risk for MetS is strongly linked to hepatic metabolic

dysfunction. However, at this time few studies have examined metabolic function of

hepatic tissue under conditions of reduced ovarian function. The purpose of this study

was to determine if ovariectomy (OVX) impaired hepatic mitochondrial function and its

potential association with sirtuin (SIRT) function. Female C57BL/6 mice were divided

into two groups (SHAM, OVX). Hepatic mitochondrial function was measured by

assessing oxygen consumption, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and

mitochondrial protein content. In addition, acetylation status and SIRT protein content

was determined. The OVX group exhibited increased ROS production compared to the

SHAM group. However, no differences were detected in oxygen consumption,

mitochondrial protein content, acetylation status, or total SIRT content between groups.

The data show that ovariectomy increases mitochondrial ROS production, which suggests

the onset of the metabolic dysfunction.

Committee:Espen Spangenburg, Ph.D, Advsior, James Hagberg, Ph.D, and

Stephen Roth, Ph. D

University Main Commencement

SPH Commencement Ceremony

USPHS Scientific and Training Symposium - Prevention Strategies for a Healthy Nation: Building on the Basics of Public Health

The 2012 U.S. Public Health Service Scientific and Training Symposium will be held June 19-21 at the University of Maryland, College Park. The event is organized by the Public Health Service Commissioned Officers Foundation.

The theme for the 2012 Symposium is "Prevention Strategies for a Healthy Nation: Building on the Basics of Public Health."

"We are very enthused to be coming back to the Washington, DC metropolitan area, which is home to so many Commissioned Corps Officers and civilian public health employees," Farrell said. "We are also excited about partnering with the University of Maryland and its School of Public Health. This is a unique opportunity to acquaint students and educators with the work of the Public Health Service and for the School of Public Health to highlight the work they are doing."

The conference is also being streamlined for 2012. "The goal is to provide the same great content in a more efficient and affordable two and one-half day format," Farrell said. "In recognition of the lingering effects of the economy, registration rates will be lower in 2012 and we are working to identify sponsorship partners who can help us expand our Emerging Leaders Scholarship program to underwrite registration for Junior Officers and others."

The Symposium will maintain all the critical elements that have contributed to the past success of the conference including:

Category Day featuring a full-day of profession-specific topics and activities;

Track sessions covering emerging trends, recent research results, case studies, best practices and more, on a wide range of key public health topics;

Significant continuing education credits for all professional categories and several disciplines;

Keynote talks by thought leaders in public health and the Corps;

An exhibit hall featuring an array of the latest products and services in the field;

An even more robust slate of pre-conference sessions providing continuing education credits;

Networking;

And more!

Registration will open in early 2012. The Call for Abstracts for oral presentations and posters is open through December 21!