Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction to Stem Cells
Types of stem cells: Embryonic, adult, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), Stem cell niche: Microenvironment and regulation, Basics of stem cell self-renewal, differentiation, and potency

Module 2: Stem Cell Culture and Engineering Techniques
Isolation, expansion, and maintenance of stem cells, Genetic modification of stem cells: CRISPR, viral and non-viral methods, Biomaterials for stem cell culture and differentiation

Module 3: Stem Cells in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
Applications in cartilage, bone, neural, and cardiac tissue regeneration, Integration of stem cells with scaffolds and bioreactors, Role of growth factors and signaling pathways in directing stem cell fate

Module 4: Stem Cells in Disease Modeling and Drug Screening
Development of organoids and organ-on-chip models, High-throughput screening using stem cell-derived tissues, Stem cells for understanding disease mechanisms

Module 5: Clinical Translation and Ethics
Regulatory frameworks for stem cell-based therapies, Current challenges in clinical applications, Ethical concerns and guidelines in stem cell research

To provide an in-depth understanding of the biology, properties, and types of stem cells.

To equip students with knowledge of advanced techniques for stem cell isolation, culture, and genetic modification.

To explore the integration of stem cells with biomaterials and bioreactors for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

To familiarize students with the applications of stem cells in disease modeling, drug screening, and clinical translation while addressing ethical and regulatory concerns.

1. Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of stem cell biology, including their self-renewal, differentiation, and therapeutic potential.
2. Apply advanced techniques for the isolation, culture, and genetic engineering of stem cells.
3. Integrate stem cells with biomaterials and bioreactors for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
4. Develop and utilize stem cell-based models for disease research, drug screening, and organoid creation.
5. Analyze and address clinical, ethical, and regulatory challenges in the translation of stem cell research into therapies.

Ulrich Martin, Engineering of Stem Cells, Springer,2009

Li, L’Heureux and Elisseeff, Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, World Scientific (2011).

Artmann, Minger and Hescheler,, Stem Cell Engineering: Principles and Applications, Springer (2011).

Editors Alberts, Johnson, Lewis, Raff, Roberts, and Walter., Molecular Biology of the Cell, Garland Science (2002)