Learning Objectives

  • Understand the foundational role of the endothelium through a systems biology lens

  • List the multiple roles of the endothelial glycocalyx (EGX), including its protective, regulatory, and communication roles for endothelial function

  • Identify patients where EGX support would benefit hormone replacement therapy and/or overall health

  • Utilize strategies to prevent vascular disease in those at risk

About This Course

This course introduces and explains the role of the endothelial glycocalyx (EGX), the microscopically thin lining of every artery, vein, and capillary in the human body. 

Recent science has established that the EGX is a selectively permeable barrier that both protects and mediates essential endothelial functions. Almost every therapeutic intervention relies upon a healthy vascular system, including hormone replacement therapies.

Featuring family practitioner Kristine Burke, MD, IFMCP.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Welcome

    • Overview: The New Key to Vascular Health: The Endothelial Glycocalyx

    • Video: The New Key to Vascular Health: The Endothelial Glycocalyx ( 30-minute video)

    • Reference Material: Endothelium as an endocrine organ

Instructor(s)

Guest Instructor

Kristine Burke, MD

Dr. Burke, medical director and CEO of the True Health Center for Functional Medicine in El Dorado Hills, CA, specializes in family, sports, and functional medicine. She also has served as chief of family medicine at Mercy Hospital of Folsom, assistant clinical professor of preventive medicine at Loma Linda School of Medicine, and as an educator and facilitator for the Institute for Functional Medicine. Additionally, she contributed to the development of the COVID-19 Virtual Care pathway for VirtualPractices.org and The Institute for Functional Medicine’s COVID-19 Task Force. Dr. Burke received her M.D. at University of California School of Medicine in Davis, Calif., and is board certified in family medicine, sports medicine, and integrative medicine.