2011 Course Description
The United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation, the Mitochondrial Medicine Society, the Mitochondria Research Society, the Mitochondrial Physiology Society, and Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy have joined efforts to sponsor and organize another multidisciplinary symposium. Mitochondrial diseases are more common than previously recognized, and mitochondrial pathophysiology is now a recognized part of many disease processes, including heart disease, cancer, AIDS and diabetes. There have been significant advances in the molecular genetics, proteomics, epidemiology and clinical aspects of mitochondrial pathophysiology. This conference is directed toward the scientist and clinician interested in all aspects of mitochondrial science. 

The content of this educational program was determined by rigorous assessment of educational needs and includes surveys, program feedback, expert faculty assessment, literature review, medical practice, chart review and new medical knowledge.  The format will include didactic lectures from invited experts intermixed with peer-reviewed platform presentations. There will be ample time for professional discussion both in and out of the meeting room, and peer-reviewed poster presentations will be given throughout the meeting. This will be a four-day scientific meeting aimed at those with scientific and clinical interests.

Accreditation Statement
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) and/or the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE); through the joint sponsorship of Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy and The United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.  Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy is accredited by the ACCME and the ACPE to provide continuing education.  

Credits
Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy designates this educational activity for a maximum of 26.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)^TM.  Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Target Audience
Scientists, physicians (Neurologists, Geneticists, Pediatrics/Generalists, Nephrologists, Cardiologists, Endocrinologists), nurses, physician assistants, advanced practice nurses, genetic counselors and allied health professionals.

Learning Objectives
At the end of the scientific program, attendees will have an in-depth understanding of the following areas - note that each session will have a learning objective outlined in the course syllabus:  

1. Define the current state of knowledge of mitochondrial DNA mutations and nuclear DNA mutations as they result in human disease.
2. Review the current state of knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms of mitochondrial diseases.
3. Review the current state of knowledge of the role of mitochondrial function in Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome.
4. Review current knowledge on mitochondrial biochemistry, physiology and dynamics and relate this to the pathophysiology of mitochondrial disease.

Speakers are leaders in the study of mitochondria from around the world. Attendees will be exposed to new ideas and concepts that will be valuable to both researchers and clinicians.