Although individually uncommon, cardiomyopathies collectively represent a relevant epidemiological entity in contemporary cardiovascular medicine, posing formidable clinical and pathophysiological challenges. Unprecedented advances have characterized the field in the last decade, attracting growing numbers of investigators in various specialties, in recognition of the inherent fascination and complexity of these conditions. This Joint Symposium aims to provide a comprehensive update on international cardiomyopathy research by presenting ongoing efforts in the fields of genetics and genomics, translational science and imaging. Supported by an unrestricted grant by Fondazione Menarini, the symposium brings together faculty members of the National Heart and Lung Institute Royal Brompton Hospital and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Careggi, enriched by the participation of top investigators from Holland, Belgium and the US. Following a tradition dear to prior Florence Advanced Courses on Cardiomyopathies, the program encourages a close interaction among geneticists, biostatisticians, basic scientists, imaging specialists and clinicians, with ample time for discussion and a session reserved to young investigators and ongoing research projects. Such design is intended to stimulate debate, maximize interaction and promote networking. We hope to attract a multidisciplinary audience of enthusiasts, in order to share old doubts and discuss new ideas in a very informal setting. Welcome to Florence!
Stuart Cook Iacopo Olivotto