UE29 Tissue homeostasis, repair and regeneration

Questions about how and why tissue regeneration occurs capture the attention of humans since the Greek mythology. Such attention is stimulated by the promise to either promote innate or introduce new regenerative capacities in humans, especially in the elderly in whom regeneration potential of tissue is altered.
Regeneration, or the ability to replace lost or damaged body parts, is widespread yet highly variable among animals. In this teaching unit, the current knowledge related to the cellular and molecular mechanisms that support tissue homeostasis and regeneration in evolution will be introduced. Perspectives on regenerative medicine, and philosophical implications will also be addressed.

Treated themes:
- Tissue homeostasis, insults, repair and aging
- The concepts of progenitors, stem cells and their identification, behaviors and functions.
Philosophic concept of stem cells.
- Levels of regeneration and their research models, ethical aspect
- Regenerative medicine
- Practicals: Hands-on regeneration with Nematostella
- Assignments/Tutored projects: in groups, prepare an oral presentation and grant proposal on
challenging questions in regenerative or stem cell biology and/or their impact on medical care
or society