Learning objectives
This course is aimed to provide the bases for the comprehension of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of repair /regeneration
Learning objectives of the course. To provide students with knowledge about the biological basis of repair and tissue regeneration. It will be particularly examined the role of coagulation and inflammation in the repair and will be provided knowledge on the characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells and their potential in regenerative medicine. Particular emphasis will be placed on the molecular characterization, the nutritional requirements and about the molecular mechanisms of cell differentiation and the regenerative capacity of tissues and organs
Learning outcomes. At the end of the course the student will have acquired the knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms by which repair and tissue regeneration take place. The student will be able to understand the potential of stem cells in the regenerative medicine and will have acquired solid bases to be able to critically evaluate the scientific literature related to tissue repair and regeneration. The knowledge gained during the course will be particularly useful for the understanding of the other topics covered in the degree program and to develop a successful internship.
Prerequisites
To understand the contents of the course are required adequate knowledge of Histology, Anatomy, Embryology.
Course unit content
The spectrum of regeneration
• Regeneration of connective tissues
• Regeneration of epithelia
• Regeneration of muscolar tissues
• Regeneration of nervous tissues
The signals of regeneration: hormons and cytokines,cell-to-cell communication, nervous stimuli
Wound healing
• Healing by first intention
• Healing by second intention
Full programme
Wound healing: the role of hemostasis and inflammation. Cytokines and cell repair. Wound healing of the skin. Repair of bone fractures
The regeneration and stem cells
Examples of biological regeneration: the planarian, the salamander, the MRL mouse. Embryonic stem cells: markers for characterization. Nuclear reprogramming: methods and characteristics. The mesenchymal stem cells: characterization, origin, differentiation techniques. Stem cells from fetal adnexa: umbilical cord, Wharton’s jelly, amniotic fluid and placenta.
Stem cells in the adult
Gene expression profile of mesenchymal cells and methods of molecular characterization. Culture and in vitro expansion of mesenchymal cells. Functional characteristics of mesenchymal cells: homing and trafficking. Stem cells in liver regeneration. The stem cells in the regeneration of endocrine disruption. The stem cells in the regeneration of the skin.
Bibliography
No specific text is adopted. Proper reference to the texts of biochemistry and cell biology used in previous courses is recommended. Lectures will be supported by slides and scientific literature, which will be provided to the students.
Teaching methods
lectures
Assessment methods and criteria
The final assessment will be carried out through an oral examination.
Each student will be directed by teachers three questions on topics listed in the program.
The inability to answer a question will result in not passing the exam.
At the end of the response each teacher will formulate a judgment:
A. Excellent knowledge and understanding of the topic. High capacity for critique and analysis of the issues. Mark out of thirty: 30.
B. Good knowledge and understanding of the subject with some serious inaccuracies. Good ability to critique and analysis of the issues. Mark out of thirty: 27-29.
C. Good knowledge and understanding of the subject despite some shortcomings. Ability to critique and analysis of themes: Mark out of thirty: 24-26.
D. Knowledge and understanding of the fully sufficient even if there are obvious gaps. Mark out of thirty: 21-23.
E. Knowledge and understanding of the subject with just enough obvious and serious flaws. Mark out of thirty: 18-20.
“Lode” will be offered to students who have achieved 30/30, for the demonstration of independence of judgment, high communication skills and ability.
Other information
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