HAP-31306 Development and Healthy Aging

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

EZO-10306, HAP-20306, CBI-10306

Continuation courses:

EZO-30806, EZO-30806, HAP-30306, HAP-30806, CBI-30306, CBI-30806

Contents:

This course highlights primary concepts and approaches in immunology, cell biology, developmental biology, biomechanics, and human and animal physiology in the context of development and healthy aging. A systems view, from molecules to the whole body, of the muscle, of energy metabolism and of the immune system will be provided. Relevant state-of the-art methodology and techniques will be explained using current literature and ongoing research. Mechanisms will be explained using findings in wide range of organisms, including yeast, worm, fruitfly, zebrafish, chicken, mouse, cow, human and other organisms. Keywords are: development, pattern formation, gradients, gene regulation, gene networks, muscle fibre activation dynamics, muscle architecture, skeletal system and motion, physiology and molecular regulation of energy metabolism, mitochondria, adipose tissue function, organ-organ interactions, metabolic imprinting, function and (dys) regulation of the immune system, chronic diseases, in vitro and in vivo test models, healthy aging.
This course is in development; consult the coordinator of the course prior to the academic year 2010/2011 for detailed information.

Learning outcomes:

Students who followed this course should be able to:
- understand the basic mechanisms of gradient formation and its role in development;
- understand the principle of the clock- and wavefront model of somitogenesis;
- understand how basic mechanisms such as gradient formation, a genetic oscillator and cell-cell communication can lead to pattern formation;
- have a basic understanding of the architectural organization and function of muscles, joints, and kinematic chains;
- have gained basic knowledge of animal movement research;
- have knowledge on the key molecular mechanisms that regulate energy metabolism in animals and humans;
- have basic understanding of the role of energy metabolism in healthy aging and insight mechanisms and effects of metabolic imprinting;
- understand current approaches and techniques used for mechanistic molecular and physiological analysis of energy metabolism;
- comprehend the immunological mechanisms underlying beneficial and aberrant immune responses in various stages of life;
- analyze and design strategies at a basic level to modulate immunity using specific components and apply techniques to assess an individuals' immune status;
- are able to read scientific literature and integrate scientific information from relevant disciplines, such as genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, histology, developmental biology biomechanics, and physiology to explain the basic mechanisms and functional consequences of development and aging.

Activities:

Lectures, working groups, practicals, computer learning, self study.

Examination:

Written examination.

Literature:

Syllabus and handouts of the lectures.