Ateneo - UPO

- Molecular foundations and epigenetics: Review of molecular biology; chromatin organization and remodeling (histone modifications, DNA methylation); transcription factors (Myc, Fos); mechanisms and etiology of epigenetic diseases, along with corresponding therapeutic strategies.
- Molecular oncology and tumor stemness: Oncogenes and tumor suppressors (focus on p53, MDM2, and pRb); tumor heterogeneity, stochastic and hierarchical theories; isolation, properties, and signaling pathways of cancer stem cells (CSCs), cell division dynamics, and their therapeutic implications.
- Advanced therapies, reprogramming, and pluripotency: Principles of cell and gene therapy; gene transfer via viral and non-viral vectors; stem cell biology; nuclear reprogramming (SCNT, cell fusion, Yamanaka factors, and iPSCs) and associated challenges; parallels between epigenetic reprogramming and oncogenesis; therapeutic applications of iPSCs and embryonic stem cells.

Please refer to the syllabi for the individual modules

The course aims to provide the theoretical and methodological foundations of stem cell biology, reprogramming, and pluripotency, integrated with the fundamental principles of gene and cell therapy. Students will acquire the skills necessary to understand and critically evaluate scientific literature (including preclinical and clinical studies) in this field. Specifically, the course will examine the structure, optimization, and delivery methods of viral and non-viral vectors; the analysis of potential unintended or adverse effects resulting from gene transfer; and the primary biomedical applications of gene and cell therapy—extending beyond genetic diseases to areas such as oncological and cardiovascular conditions.

Basic concepts of cell biology and molecular biology.

Classroom lectures will be supported by the screening of videos designed to facilitate the learning process. Students will work on problems in class that require the application of concepts and tools introduced during the lectures. There will also be practical exercises. To support students in their studies and preparation for the final exam, assignments will be given throughout the course; these will contribute a small portion to the final grade.

Ongoing learning assessment is conducted through interactive in-class tests using the Wooclap platform. Students with disabilities, Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), or Special Educational Needs (SEN) may request specific services and tools tailored to their requirements by contacting the "Student Career Development and Coordination and Student Services" staff and by consulting the dedicated page on the University website: https://uniupo.it/it/servizi/servizi-studentidisabili-e-dsa. Once they have established contact with the University staff, students with disabilities, SLD, or SEN may reach out to the course instructor to discuss the specific arrangements for examinations and other didactic aspects.

Written examination and assessment of assignments (preparation of scientific posters and presentations) based on the scientific articles assigned to students during the course.

Please refer to the syllabi for the individual modules

By the end of the course, students will have gained an in-depth understanding of the principles of molecular biology, gene therapy, and cell therapy that underpin regenerative medicine. They will be able to apply this knowledge to interpret tissue repair and regeneration processes, as well as to evaluate the gene/cell transfer methods used in preclinical research and clinical trials. Furthermore, students will develop the ability to critically analyze scientific literature in the field, assessing the potential, limitations, and practical implications of various regenerative and therapeutic approaches.