Admission requirements
This course requires discipline and a solid knowledge of the basics of molecular and cell biology (Molecular Biology of the Cell. Fifth Edition. Bruce Alberts, Alexander Johnson, Julian Lewis, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter. Garland Science Publishers, 2007; ISBN 978-0-8153-4106-2).
Relevant documentation/literature will be put onto blackboard one month prior to the start of the course.
Description
Period: February 29 – March 25, 2016
This four-week (8 hours/day) course focuses on tissue specific stem and progenitor cells (for example hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells) and pluripotent stem cells (embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells. Key fundamental features of these cells, such as cell fate and maintenance, will be discussed using experimental examples. In addition, the potential of these cells for regenerative medicine purposes will be dealt with.
The course comprises:
seminars by experts in the field
dialogues with these experts
forum discussion using presentations by the students
hands-on culture (generation of induced pluripotent stem cells, and factor induced differentiation of somatic and pluripotent stem cells)
self study of key/state-of-the-art publications on the biology and applications of stem cells
a written exam
Research competences:
Defining relevant research questions from stem cell literature and/or lectures;
Gaining insight into the interplay between basic and applied research;
Getting acquainted with the combination/integration of multidisciplinary research in molecular medicine.
Professional competences:
Identifying, formulating and solving problems; critical reading; creative thinking; motivation; commitment
Course main objectives
To educate a solid basic knowledge about somatic and embryonic stem cells
To improve the students’ scientific (creative) way of thinking
To get familiar with specific ‘stem cell’ tissue culture techniques
Mode of instruction
Seminars, practical classes, interactive presentations, expert meetings, self study assignments.
Assessment method
Written exam, student behaviour (motivation, participation in panel and expert discussions, scientific input, presentation).