Course Description
• The program concentrates on advances in cell biology, the clinical and linked characteristics to bioprocessing of stem cells derived from adipose tissue, and other stem cell-based protocols. Based on medical research that emerged in the late 20th and early 21st centuries to give rise to stem cell therapies, this is a new form of medical treatment in which cells and tissues are used as healing elements, not only to supplement or replace deficient cells, but to induce regeneration and restoration of a lost biological order during the development of a disease or injury.
• Successful completion of the course will allow you to capitalize on opportunities in areas such as research, law, clinics and industry. You will study in a supportive and collaborative online environment where you will be supported by an e-tutor. The course will cover the latest exciting advances in stem cell science and equip you with the skills to critically analyses these discoveries not only during the course but during your future career.
The course consists of three modules (40 credit points).
I. The first module in Basic Stem Cell Biology:
Up to date knowledge on various topics such as sources of stem cells e.g. adult, embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells, pluripotency, current and future uses of stem cells and bioethics.
This module also introduces you to the skills which will enable you to evaluate future advances in stem cell research following the end of the course.
II. The second module in Evidence Based Healthcare Practice:
Allow you to evaluate how stem cells are currently used and inform future practice in this area.
III. The third module is practical module: Consists of :
1) Laboratory Techniques in Stem Cell Biology:
a) Stem Cell Separation (BM, Adipose Tissue & Warton Jelly).
b) Stem Cell Characterization.
c) Stem Cell Transdifferentiating.
2) Scaffolds biotech’s.
3) Research skills & statistics.
This module will equip you with the knowledge & skill required to pursue a career in the rapidly expanding field of stem cell biology & to design experiments involving stem cells.
Maximum of 15 students will make up groups who will occupy individual biological work stations, study electron microscopy, flow cytometry, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and faculty-arranged resources to make this international diploma program a recognized leader worldwide for the training of specialists in the field of stem cell medicine.
The course will include practical, hands-on training during which students will apply stem cell harvesting and implantation techniques learned in the laboratory, quantify cell counts, weigh comparisons and ultimately experience stem cell therapy in all its dimensions, to use in different areas.
Teaching Methods and Assessment:
• The course is delivered as a series of online lectures designed by a range of experts and multimedia resources in the various areas of stem cell biology. The flexible nature of the course allows you to study at your own pace.
• The course will be supplemented by online discussions with e-tutors, access to specialist online talks and interactive quizzes.
• The course will be followed by evaluation & assessment exams.
Program structure core units:
• Introduction to Stem Cells and Regeneration
• Molecular Tools in Stem Cells and Regeneration
• Cell Signaling
• Biomaterials
• Bioethics & Biorisk management
• Stem Cells in:
Neurodegeneration & Peripheral Neuropathy and Spine
Ophthalmic Disorders
Liver disease
Cardiac system
Dermatology & reproductive system
Musculoskeletal & orthopedics
Certification:
The Diplomat in Cell Therapy and Tissue Engineering program will begin in 2018, with a first phase designed to carry it through 2019.
Joint certification from ESPCR and Faculty of Medicine-Asuite University (Tissue Engineering Unit).
