Stem Cells and Regeneration (381-0-1)
Instructors
Christian Paul Petersen
847/467-3553
Pancoe 4411
Meeting Info
Technological Institute MG28: Tues, Thurs 9:30AM - 10:50AM
Overview of class
The use of stem cells for growth, repair, and maintenance of tissue is widespread throughout the animal kingdom. In addition, species vary in their natural abilities of repair tissue in adulthood, from wound healing and scar formation to complete cell/tissue/organ regeneration after damage. What are the molecular processes that imbue stem cells with their unique abilities, how are these controlled by the organism, and how can they be harnessed therapeutically? This course takes a comparative approach to explore this fascinating problem by critically examining classic and modern scientific literature about the developmental and molecular biology of regeneration and both embryonic and adult stem cells.
Registration Requirements
Prerequisite: Students must have completed BIOL_SCI 203-0 or BIOL_SCI 215-0 and BIOL_SCI 202-0 or BIOL_SCI 219-0, to register for this course.
Teaching Method
In this course, students will learn principles of developmental analysis as applied to studying the biology of stem cells and tissue regeneration. We will interleave class sessions with lectures and discussions of classic and contemporary primarily literature to learn how experimental information is used to explain developmental phenomena. This course will provide a framework for understanding how biologists analyze gene function and cell lineage to uncover the molecular pathways and cellular processes involved in regeneration and stem cell biology in animals.
Evaluation Method
Grading will be based on a combination of quizzes, written assignments, and in-class discussions
Class Materials (Required)
"The Science of Stem Cells" by Jonathan M.W. Slack; ISBN-13: 978-1119235156
Class Attributes
Natural Sciences Distro Area
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: Students must have completed BIOL_SCI 203-0 or BIOL_SCI 215-0 and BIOL_SCI 202-0 or BIOL_SCI 219-0, to register for this course.