Ateneo - UPO

The course will deal with the molecular pathology of the main haematological malignancies, especially by analysing the topics relevant for the profession of Medical Biotechnologist. During the course, self-evaluation exercises will also be proposed, as well as additional material for in-depth study and group presentations on topics of particular interest.

Reference textbook:
Williams Hematology, 9e
Author(s): Kenneth Kaushansky, Marshall A. Lichtman, Josef T. Prchal, Marcel M. Levi, Oliver W. Press, Linda J. Burns and Michael Caligiuri
(available on UPO off campus library via AccessMedicine)

The aim of the course is to render the student able to know, interpret and analyse the main hematological topics of the course, that are are relevant for a Medical Biotechnologist, with a critical attitude, as requested by the Dublin descriptor 3.

Basic knowledge of cell and molecular biology

A) Taught (frontal) classes with slide presentations available on the UPO DIR website (https://www.dir.uniupo.it/); B) Self-assessment tests after classes; C) Group presentations by the students on topics agreed upon with the professor

Participation in the self-assessment activitities after each class is strongly recommended.

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities
Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

The exam will be in the context of the exam of the integrated course. The exam of Hematoncology will be based on 4 statements, for which the candidate has to: i) assign true/false; ii) write 5-10 lines of comment to justify the choice. Examples of these tests are provided as self-assessment tests after classes.

A. Hematopoiesis and hematopoietic stem cell

B. General concepts of myeloid neoplasia and chronic myeloid leukemia: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment

C. BCR/ABL negative myeloproliferative neoplasia (MPN): general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment

D. General concepts on lymphoid neoplasia, Analysis of B-cell clonality, and Mantle cell lymphoma: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment

E. Follicular lymphoma: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment

F. Hairy cell leukemia and Burkitt lymphoma: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment

G. Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma and Splenic marginal zone lymphoma: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment

H. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment

I. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia and CAR T-cells: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment

J. Minimal residual disease (MRD); Precision Medicine, Clinical Trials and Benefit Sharing in Hematoncology

At the end of the course, the student will be able to: i) critically analyse the molecular pathology of several models of hematologic malignancies; ii) appreciate the importance of molecular pathology for improving precision medicine, molecular diagnosis and target treatment in hematologic neoplasia