EXPERIMENTAL MODELS IN BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH

The learning objective of the course is to introduce the student, starting from the methodology of scientific research, to the themes of experimental modeling and provide a series of basic tools to define in silico, in vitro or in vivo models and their advantages, their fields of application, their validation and their limitations. Through an ontological historical path, the concept of the complexity of biological systems will be introduced, the concept of experimental model defined and the quantitative and qualitative evaluation parameters of an experimental model assessed. At the end of the course the student will acquire knowledge on the different models, their characteristics and fields of application in biological and biomedical research. The student will also understand the differences and will be able to identify the parameters for the validation of the various models. Through team work activities, the study of specific cases and the comparison on such cases, the student will develop critical and judgment skills and will acquire the relevant methodology for the identification and validation of the experimental model suitable to address the biological problem under study. In particular, examples from the scientific literature will be used that allow the student to make an ex post evaluative experience of the feasibility and validity of using an experimental model rather than another, paying attention to the validation parameters, scientific reproducibility and complementarity of the models. At the end of the course the student will therefore be able both to identify the suitable experimental model and to define how to validate a new model; in an autonomous way, she/he will therefore be able to confront and present her/his own considerations and evaluation to the scientific community, as well as to use the learned skills for the prosecution of own research and scientific activity.

The course is organized in 42 hours of lectures held entirely in English with the help of slides, films, webinars, documents and scientific papers provided in pdf. Insights on specific topics will be proposed as participation in seminars & webinars, with the teacher's guidance. During team work activities, specific case studies will be presented and critically discussed by the students, who will also propose alternative arguments in favor or against. Specifically, "Flipped classroom" methods will be used.

Knowledge of general biology, cell biology, molecular biology, and elements of genetics are indispensable. Notions of histology, anatomy, physiology, embryology and / or developmental biology are necessary, with particular reference to the central nervous system and excellent knowledge of the English language is indispensable as the entire course will be held in the language. For those who do not have the adequate knowledge of specific topics, texts or handouts useful for acquiring them will be indicated.

The frequency of the lessons, although not mandatory, is strongly recommended in order to acquire an adequate preparation in the discipline.

Should teaching be carried out in mixed mode or remotely, it may be necessary to introduce changes with respect to previous statements, in line with the programme planned and outlined in the syllabus. Learning assessment may also be carried out on line, should the conditions require it.

The concept and context of an experimental model in scientific research. Validation of an experimental model. In silico models. In vitro models: cellular, normal, and tumor cultures; normal and cancer stem cells; iPS cells and cell reprogramming. In vivo models: experimental animals. Models of developmental biology. Man as an experimental model: controlled clinical studies. The evolution and the future of experimental modeling. Embryoid, organoids, organ-on-chip, use of 3D printers. Ethics in experimental modeling. Experimental modeling in neurobiology and neuroscience: from the normal to neurodegenerative pathologies (Azheimer disease and Parkinson's disease) and to experimental therapeutic approaches.

There are no unitary reference texts available. The study material (lecture notes, scientific papers and teaching material) is provided by the teacher and made available on the Studium platform (http://studium.unict.it/).

Information for students with disabilities and / or SLD

To guarantee equal opportunities and in compliance with the laws in force, interested students can ask for a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and / or dispensatory measures, based on the didactic objectives and specific needs.
It is also possible to contact the referent teacher CInAP (Center for Active and Participatory Integration - Services for Disabilities and / or SLD) of our Department, Prof. Teresa Musumeci.