Interdisciplinary Biomedical Studies II.
Module 1: This module dissects at the molecular level how extracellular signals initiate intracellular signaling pathways. Specific examples include G-protein signaling, signaling through tyrosine and serine/threonine phosphorylation as well as lipid and calcium mediated signaling. Finally, it will be discussed how growth factor signals communicate with the nucleus to promote cell cycle progression. The class includes two sessions in which primary research papers are discussed and one final written exam.

Module 2: This module dissects at the molecular level the biophysics of cell membranes and channels. Specific examples include the discussion of the architecture of cell membranes, and how cell volume and intracellular calcium levels are
controlled. Active and passive transport systems, their role
in mitochondrial function as well as the structure and
function of ion channels will be covered as well. The
molecular properties of channels and transporters are
discussed with respect to their effect on the electrical
properties of cells. The class includes two sessions in
which primary research papers are discussed and one written
final exam.
Module 3: This module dissects mammalian development at the molecular level and introduces the developmentally controlled mechanisms of the immune system that generates immune specificity and diversity. Examples for the first half of
this module include the specification of germ cells and sex
as well as the role of programmed cell death and its
mechanisms. The immunological component of the module
discusses immune system specific mechanisms of dna
recombination, the structure and function of antibodies and
their application in techniques used in the life sciences.
Finally, basic principles guiding the functions of lymphoid
cells and organs are discussed.
Module 4: This module applies interdisciplinary concepts of the life sciences to discuss the cause and therapy of human disease. Based on the relevance of genetics for the molecular
understanding and diagnosis of human diseas, the first
lectures explore yeast models for human disease. This bridge
the previous ibs coursework to the theme of this module.
The remaining sessions address topics ranging from stemcells
to molecular mechanisms of diabetes, aging and cardiac or
neurodegenerative diseases using primary literature. The
specific topics covering two to four lectures and discussion
will be announced. The students are graded based on their
composition of a 2-page essay, "news and views" format.

Our program requires registration for 3 modules as a minimum.

Key to Room abbreviations and locations:

GTR
RMSB
TBA
ARR

 
Gautier Bldg., Medical Campus
Rosenstiel Medical Science Bldg. Medical Campus
To Be Announced
To Be Arranged