NBIA08025U Extracellular Matrix Biology in Health and Disease

Volume 2013/2014
Content
Most cells are dependent on interaction with the extracellular matrix. This three-dimensional meshwork of (glyco)proteins is present to different degrees in virtually all tissues and provide biomechanical properties to the tissues, but also vital cell biological cues guiding cell proliferation, motility, differentiation and survival. These signals are transmitted to the cells through specific transmembrane matrix receptors, e.g. integrins and syndecans.
Disturbed matrix formation, maintenance and cellular interaction is a key factor in many human disorders. This course will focus on the biology of the extracellular matrix and cell-matrix interactions as well as on matrix-related processes in disease.
Learning Outcome
The course aims at giving the students a solid understanding of the normal biology of the extracellular matrix as well as changes in relevant disease conditions.


Knowledge:

After completing the course the student will be able to:

  • Describe the molecular composition of different types of extracellular matrix in key tissues and organs.
  • Explain mechanisms of extracellular matrix assembly and turnover/maintenance
  • Understand cellular interactions with the extracellular matrix through specific receptors and the effects of these interactions.
  • Explain how dysregulated extracellular matrix assembly and degradation contributes to disease processes, e.g. in musculoskeletal disorders and in cancer metastasis.


Skills:

After completing the course the student will be able to:

  • Critically read and summarize original research articles in the field.
  • Understand the methodology used in the study of extracellular matrix and related disorders.
  • Formulate a short research plan.


Competencies:

After completing the course the student will be able to:

  • Independently identify an unanswered research question within the field of extracellular matrix, put this in perspective, formulate hypotheses and suggest relevant methodological approaches to test the hypotheses.
Literature
See Absalon.
Bachelor level biochemistry and cell biology is a requirement.
Knowledge in protein chemistry and/or human pathobiology is an advantage.
Lectures, seminars and guest lectures from internationally leading experts in the field. The seminars will include student presentations on primary literature and on methodology based on literature and discussions with teachers.
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Colloquia
  • 12
  • Guidance
  • 1
  • Lectures
  • 36
  • Preparation
  • 145
  • Theory exercises
  • 12
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written assignment
Examination will be through an essay in the form of a research proposal on a self-chosen topic within the extracellular matrix/cell-matrix adhesion research field. This research proposal essay will be graded pass/non-pass, with internal censorship.
Reexam: The same as the ordinary exam.
Exam registration requirements
Active participation in the course (at least 80% presence) and satisfactory student presentations of methodology and primary literature (journal club) are required to pass the course.
Marking scale
passed/not passed
Censorship form
No external censorship
Criteria for exam assesment
To receive the grade “pass”, the student should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of extracellular matrix biology and related disorders, and be able to formulate a research proposal on a self-chosen problem within this field, including suggesting a relevant experimental approach.