This course provides a comprehensive foundation in stem cell biology and its application in regenerative medicine. Students will examine the principles of pluripotency, self-renewal, and cellular differentiation, with a focus on embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells. The course covers key molecular pathways regulating stem cell fate, tissue homeostasis, and repair, as well as emerging technologies such as organoid systems, 3D culture models, and gene editing approaches including CRISPR-based strategies.
A strong emphasis is placed on translational applications, including tissue engineering, biomaterials, and cell-based therapies for degenerative diseases affecting the nervous system, cardiovascular system, liver, and musculoskeletal tissues. Students will also explore current clinical trials, regulatory considerations, and challenges in the clinical translation of regenerative therapies. Ethical considerations surrounding stem cell research and therapeutic use are integrated throughout. By the end of the course, students will be able to critically evaluate regenerative medicine strategies and understand their potential and limitations in advancing precision and restorative healthcare.
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