From May 4–7 this year, two medical students from the University of Zielona Góra – Martyna Niemiec (3rd-year student) and Jakub Wojtacha (6th-year student) – represented the university at the 93rd International Congress of the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS), held in Glasgow, United Kingdom. This congress is one of the most important scientific events in the field of cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis, bringing together distinguished specialists, researchers, and students from around the world each year.
Jakub and Martyna gave presentations during scientific sessions, sharing the results of research conducted within the scientific team of the Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology at the University of Zielona Góra. The academic supervisor of the team is Prof. Agnieszka Zembroń-Łacny, and the research was carried out in collaboration with the Department of Cardiac Surgery and Invasive Cardiology under the direction of Prof. Jarosław Hiczkiewicz, MD, PhD.
Martyna Niemiec presented a study titled "Oxi-inflammation in aging-related vascular dysfunction," which explored the role of chronic oxidative inflammation (so-called oxi-inflammation) in vascular dysfunction associated with the aging process. The presentation focused on identifying oxidative-inflammatory markers that may contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis in the elderly population.
Jakub Wojtacha, on the other hand, presented research titled "Circulating miRNAs in the assessment of endothelial dysfunction in patients with acute coronary syndrome." The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of circulating microRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction in patients with acute coronary syndrome. Statistically significant results indicating the diagnostic value of the studied miRNA markers generated considerable interest among participants of the translational session.
During the congress, both students had the opportunity to take part in a wide range of highly valuable scientific events, including:
Participation in the congress was not only an opportunity to present research conducted at the University of Zielona Góra but also a valuable educational experience. It enabled the young scientists to develop presentation skills, gain knowledge in cutting-edge areas of medicine, and establish international connections.
The participation of our students in the congress highlighted the growing role of young researchers in shaping the future of translational medicine and cardiovascular research.
