Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Programme Admission Criteria Only

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

The modules aims are to:

1. provide a thorough introduction to biological aspects of stem cells and their development

2. introduce the stem cell related concepts: totipotency, pluripotency multipotency during different developmental stages

3. explain different types of stem cells and their sources

4. explain techniques used for derivation and culture of stem cells

5. explain the current understanding of the immunobiology of stem cells and potential alloantigen responses

6. explain current therapeutic clinical applications of stem cells and related regulatory and ethical aspects

Outline Of Syllabus

A stem cell is a type of cell that has the ability to either divide for indefinite periods in culture to create more stem cells, or to give rise to specialized cells. Because of their ability to develop into different cell types, they could potentially provide an unlimited source of adult cells, such as bone, muscle, liver, or blood cells. Study of these important cell types now offers new insight into the fundamental processes of embryogenesis and homeostasis of adult tissues. Stem cell biology has gained tremendous interest in the recent years as part of a renewed interest in regenerative medicine – the replacement of defective cells and tissues with new cell types, offering the hope of new therapies for otherwise intractable disease. This module will draw upon very recent research in science and medicine to examine three broad areas in the field of stem cell and regenerative medicine: (1) the basic principles of stem cell science; (2). the basic biology of stem cells and (3) the role of stem cells in regenerative medicine.

The following topics will be covered:


• Origin and development of stem cells
• General terminology of stem cell classification
• Differentiation potential of stem cells
• Embryonic versus adult stem cells
• Isolation and culture of stem cells
• Tissue engineering
• Stem cell transplantation
• Stem cell based therapies
• Tolerance mechanisms and rejection
• Regulatory aspects of stem cells

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Upon completing this module students should be able to:

1. display a clear overview of different stem cell types and their origin

2. discuss the molecular basis of stem cell renewal and differentiation

3. display a sound knowledge of basic experimental techniques used in stem cell research, including isolation and culture of stem cells

4. discuss the clinical uses of stem cells and related ethical and political aspects

Intended Skill Outcomes

Upon completing this module students should be able to:

1. explain in detail the differences between stem cell types and their origin

2. describe the basic experimental techniques used in stem cell research, including isolation and culture of stem cells

3. discuss the clinical uses of stem cells and regulatory aspects

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

This will be a mainly didactic module. In lectures students will learn fundamental principles of stem cell biology and their use and potential use in medical practice with examples from cutting-edge research. They will also learn how to evaluate and interpret current research. They will have the opportunity to discuss their ideas within the classroom environment. In addition to the 27 hours of formal teaching, the students will use the remainder of the time associated with this 20 credit module in independent study, including reading literature and preparing assignments.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The essay will provide the opportunity to assess the knowledge and understanding of the subject, as well as enabling the student to demonstrate their ability to critical assess the current literature and to consider the ethical and regulatory framework that may be needed.

The project proposal addresses both the skills needed to understand the importance of how a project needs to be developed and designed, but also the impact of the environment and the importance of the team members in presenting a project for consideration for funding, it also covers the ethical and regulatory framework of the topic.

General Notes

N/A