Biology of Stem Cells

Catalog description

Stem cells are characterized by the ability to renew themselves through mitotic cell division and the potential to differentiate into a diverse range of specialized cell types. As such they are the focus of considerable interest by the biomedical research community and in the area of regenerative medicine. In addition, derivation from embryonic tissues raises ethical concerns. This lecture course focuses on the biological and genetic characteristics of stem cells that originate from embryonic and adult tissues. Study materials will be drawn from contemporary scientific papers and web based resources. Prerequisite(s): A BIO 212Y, A BIO 303, and permission of instructor. May not be offered in 2024-2025.