Introduction to Regenerative Medicine
Code
11168
Academic unit
NOVA Medical School|Faculdade de Ciências Médicas
Department
MCM
Credits
3
Teacher in charge
Prof. Doutor António Jacinto
Objectives
The aim of this course is to expand the knowledge about stem cells and study potential applications of genetic and cellular therapies in regenerative medicine. This area has developed a lot in recent years. It is important to give students a solid knowledge base so that in future they are prepared for the application of such therapies in tissue and organs repair and regeneration. The format of the classes will be oriented towards the exposition of the fundamental principles of Regenerative Medicine and the analysis and discussion of scientific articles that explore the potential applications of regenerative medicine.
Prerequisites
Subject matter
Theoretical classes:
1 - Fundamentals of regenerative medicine. Historical perspective. Homeostasis and repair mechanisms of adult tissues in mammals.
2 - Principles and mechanisms of stem cell biology.
3 - Regenerative biology. Regeneration mechanisms in animal models.
4 - Cell Reprogramming and induction of stem cells. Stem cell sources: umbilical cord, mesenchymal and adipose tissue. Ethical issues.
5 - Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine.
Practical classes:
6 - Cell therapy of the hematopoietic system.
7 - Bioengineering cartilage and bone.
8 - Wound healing and bioengineered skin.
9 - Reconstruction of organs based on extracellular matrix holders of decellularized organs
10 - Cell therapy for heart and muscle tissues.
11 - Cell therapy for pancreas and liver.
12 - Cell therapy for cornea and retina.
13 - Final discussion on regenerative medicine.
Bibliography
Reference book:
Principles of Regenerative Medicine (Second Edition)
Anthony Atala, Robert Lanza, James A. Thomson, Robert Nerem
Academic Press
During the lectures the students will be given a list of extra articles.
Teaching method
The first 5 lessons are theoretical (2 sessions of 50 min per class) where the teacher presents the fundamental concepts of the scientific area of this unit. The following 8 classes are practical and focused on specific topics on stem cells and regenerative medicine.
Practical classes are given to a maximum of 30 students, who are divided into groups of 3 or 4.
In each lesson one of the groups gives an introduction to the topic of the lesson and presents a scientific article that constitutes a major contribution to area or a relevant review article.
The article is chosen from a list previously provided by the teacher.
Each group makes at least one presentation at the unit, followed by discussion with colleagues. When necessary, the teacher makes a summary of topic under study and complements the information discussed by students.
The evaluation is based on a test and on the students presentations. Each component is worth 50% of the final grade.
Evaluation method
The evaluation is based on a test and on the students presentations. Each component is worth 50% of the final grade.
Courses
