At the end of this course, you are able to

• explain in general terms the basic definitions of different types of mammalian stem cells in terms of potency and self-renewal as described in literature, and their difference to differentiated cells.
• evaluate experimental data discussed in the lecture or from similar experiments regarding the (epigenetic) regulation in pluripotent stem cells and reprogramming.
• explain the importance of stem cells in biomedical research for understanding development and disease based on the unique properties of stem cells.
• explain how stem cells and their derived cells can serve as cellular models for studying diseases, and analyze and interpret experimental data obtained from these studies.
• design experiments to identify mechanisms important for properties of different stem cells and relevant diseases using the molecular tools and technologies as discussed in the lectures.
• illustrate how various types of stem cells are currently used in the clinic, in clinical trials and/or in clinical studies.
• reflect on the most relevant ethical issues of using stem cells for research and therapies, and formulate and defend your opinions with arguments by means of oral presentation and scientific discussion.