AFNS 601 Seminar

*0 (fi2) (variable, 0-1s-0). (F - 15:00 - 17:00pm, AF 113)

Provides a forum in which graduate students prepare and present seminars or prepare at both general and technical levels. Attendance is required of all graduate students. Students will participate actively as presenters, discussants and evaluators.

All graduate students require to complete AFNS 601 Seminar course by attending, and presenting seminars (one seminar for Msc and two seminars for PhD students during the entire program)

Speakers are encouraged to sign up early in the beginning of each session. Submit an abstract three days before your seminar date (before Wednesday Morning at latest) by email to

jsim@afns.ualberta.ca or mperich@afns.ualberta.ca

If you have any problem or questions, see the instructor,
Dr. Jeong Sim, RM# AF318A, or phone 492-7687

Research Supervisors are also invited to attend the seminar with your students and to introduce the speaker and your research programs.

Speaker Evaluation sheet must be filled up by every attendee for a friendly evaluation of speaker performance and the attendance record of registered student (The minimum required attendance for credit is >60%)

Abstract Format: Provide an abstract of not more than 300 words. Use complete sentences and limit the use of abbreviations. Include five key words. See the following sample.

Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is a group of positional and geometric isomers of linoleic acid. In our diet, CLA is predominantly found in ruminant meats and dairy products and, in recent years, has been found to possess several unique characteristics. Using various animal models, CLA has been found to act as an anticarcinogen, reduce atherosclerotic progression, increase feed efficiency, alter body composition and affect immune function. Its anticancer properties have received a great deal of attention because these effects are present at levels that could potentially be achieved in the diet. Difficulties exist, however, in extrapolating these health benefits to humans because virtually all animal studies to date have utilized diets which have a macronutrient composition that is not representative of what humans eat. Specifically, the level and composition of fat fed to animals in these studies are not consistent with current intake or recommendations by various nutrition agencies.

The current study will examine whether CLA exerts its anticarcinogenic effects in the context of current human fat recommendations and actual North American dietary fat consumption patterns. In addition, this study will examine the possible effects of CLA on various components of the immune system as a mechanism underlying its antitumorigenic properties. Both branches of the immune system- acquired and innate- are involved in our defense against tumors. Previous studies have shown that dietary fat alters immune function. Since CLA is a fat and has also been shown to affect immune function it seems plausible that its anticancer activities may be mediated through the immune system.

Much remains to be learned about CLA and the mechanism(s) whereby it may reduce tumor development. Greater insight into such mechanisms will provide valuable information about the process of tumor development and the numerous roles of lipids in the body. This work will contribute to our understanding of the effects of CLA on immune function and if CLA is indeed the "fat of the future".

Key Words: CLA, dietary fat, anticarcinogens, immune functions, fat of the future

1999 Spring Session AFNS 601 Seminar Schedule

(F - 15:00 - 17:00 pm, AF 113)