CDE: [Dean’s Speaker Series] ft. Kang I. Ko, DMD DScD

Virtually presented via Zoom Webinar

Time: 12:00-1:00 pm; This virtual lecture will begin promptly at 12:00 pm via Zoom Webinar.
Registration: FREE; Registration is still required.
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CE Credits: 1.0 lecture credits

Fibroblast Heterogeneity and its Impact on Innate Immunity in Skin and Oral Cavity

Course Description

This lecture will discuss the basic science behind the role of fibroblasts that extends beyond extracellular matrix protein production. Fibroblasts are commonly recognized for their role in scar formation, but it is increasingly becoming apparent that they are critical regulators of immune response in healing wounds and pathological conditions. This is of great significance to oral biologists and others as the mechanism of optimal wound healing is still unclear.

In this lecture, the speaker will introduce advances made in fibroblast biology, and present ongoing research studies investigating the relevant role of fibroblasts in mediating inflammatory skin condition and fibroblast heterogeneity within oral cavity that could explain expedited wound healing. The speaker will also discuss clinical relevance of these studies.

Learning Objectives

The participants will learn that fibroblasts, in addition to their traditional role as stromal cells, are critical regulators of immune responses both in skin and in the oral cavity. They will also learn that ‘fibroblasts’ represent a heterogeneous cell population, with distinct type responsible for modulating inflammation in both pathology and physiologic wound healing.

Speaker

Dr. Kang I. Ko graduated with his BS and MS from the University of California, San Diego, where he studied starvation-driven shift in olfactory sensitivity and behavior. He then received his DMD as well as Certificate in Periodontics and DScD from the University of Pennsylvania. During this time Dr. Ko’s research focused on the impact of endogenous mesenchymal progenitor cells in modulating immune response using diabetic fracture healing model. Towards his research independence, Dr. Ko has transitioned to studying the under-appreciated role of fibroblasts in regulating innate immunity during homeostasis and wound healing responses. Dr. Ko was the recipient of K08 mentored career development award and AAP educator award among others.

Disclosure: Dr. Ko has no relevant financial relationships to disclose.

University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine is an ADA CERP Recognized Provider. ADA CERP is a service of the American Dental Association to assist dental professionals in identifying quality providers of continuing dental education. ADA CERP does not approve or endorse individual courses or instructors, nor does it imply acceptance of credit hours by boards of dentistry.

University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine designates this activity for 1.0 continuing education credits.