- Understand the basic architectures of cellular structures such as adhesion assemblies, cytoskeleton, nucleus etc.
- Explain the mechanisms of interactions between cells and their extracellular environment
- Understand general concepts of the buildup of membrane and membrane-less compartments
- Explain the dynamic mechanism of cell architectural assembly
- Learn the advanced methodologies used to study cellular architectures
- Understand the differences in molecular architectures involved in pathological processes
- Learn to communicate a scientific concept to the public
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Almost no cellular function is mediated by one individual protein! Most of the time, different proteins (but also lipids and sugars) dynamically assemble into complex architectures inside and outside the cells such as cytoskeletal filaments or extracellular matrices. Defects in these assemblies often lead to pathologies. This course will introduce you to the molecular processes that build the structures of key multi-molecular assemblies mediating cellular functions such as cell migration, phagocytosis and tissue organization, and will show you how these biomolecular architectures change over time in response to stimuli or in pathological conditions. Concepts like extracellular matrix organization, membrane and cytosol compartmentalization, cell mechanosensitive structures and nuclear skeleton will be explained and their relation to a number of human diseases revealed. Techniques that are commonly used to study these cellular and molecular processes will be discussed (fluorescence probes/proteins and microscopy). In addition you will interpret and present (poster) scientific literature illustrating cells "@work".
This course is divided in the following subthemes:
- Cell’s cytoskeleton
- Adhesion structures
- Extracellular matrix
- Nucleus architecture
- Chromatin organization
- Cell compartments
- Cell architectures in action (migration, cell division, phagocytosis, etc)
- Cell architectures in health and disease
Instructional Modes
Lectures (LE), self-study assignments (SSA), lab classes, literature assignment
6EC: 7 weeks(+3 weeks no new topics), 2 days/week;
4 LE/week (1HC:45min)>> 28 LE total (27-28th LE are Kahoot quiz to practice exam questions and general recap of topics)
- SSA (reading & question answering): In-depth study of lecture topics by guided questions/e-learnings
- Tutorials (RC) 6: interactive session with lecturers to address SSA and/or remaining questions
- Computer lab class
- Group assignment: develop a cartoon/graphical abstract with 1 A4 text to explain one biomolecular architecture of choice to high school scholars.
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Having followed the courses MOL127 and/or MOL158 is highly recommended.
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The examination consists of two parts:
- Final exam 85%
- Group assignment 15%
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