Integrated cellular and molecular biology [SVETB302]

3 credits
20h
2^nd quarter
Language of instruction: French / Français
Teacher: Muylkens Benoît

Learning outcomes

The objective of this course is to highlight the functional adaptation of the different cells that make up an organism in the face of the many challenges it faces. Through key events The student will be able to identify and understand the reactions of the cell from the programming of its genetic heritage to the observed phenotypes.

Objectives

- Understand the different scales in the functioning of an organism: system, tissue, cells, organelles, molecules - Understand the steps of gene expression in the completion of a cellular challenge: transcription, posttranscriptional modifications, translation, post-translational modifications. - Understand the importance of the regulation of genetic information for the functioning of an organism => application to various phenomena such as: inflammation, newborn immunisation, adaptive immunity, blood sugar regulation, milk production, susceptibility or resistance to disease, wound healing, development. - Distinguish between genomic capacity and regulated gene expression in cell differentiation. - To understand the importance of cell cycle regulation and cell differentiation in tissue homeostasis. - Molecular basis of cancer. - Elements of molecular virology to understand the involvement of viruses in tumour processes.

Content

This course aims to integrate a set of life sciences (cytology, histology, biochemistry, physiology, embryology, genetics, microbiology, immunology) in order to better understand the functioning of an animal organism. The latter is made up of differentiated tissues, themselves made up of cells. This ensemble is coordinated by a host of interactions. These include, but are not limited to, (i) cell-to-cell interactions; (ii) chemical, biochemical and cytokine signalling molecules and their corresponding receptors; (iii) the encounter of symbiotic or pathogenic microbial agents. The life stages of a cell are analysed by studying the elements that control its division, programming, differentiation, ageing, programmed death or cancerous transformation.

Teaching methods

Each theme (genetic control of gene expression, division, ageing, apoptosis, cancerous transformation, etc.) is introduced in the form of a concrete biological or physiological phenomenon. This approach aims to raise questions about the regulation of physiological systems necessary for the functioning of the animal organism. The theoretical aspect of the cellular and/or molecular regulation involved is then presented in the form of diagrams drawn on the board and explained in a dynamic and progressive manner. At the end of the presentation of the topic, various examples are developed on the basis of articles taken from the scientific literature published on the subject and of significant veterinary or biological interest.

Evaluations

The examination will cover the material taught in the auditorium sessions and illustrated in a syllabus made available to the students. The emphasis will be on the molecular and cellular biology concepts governing the life, fate and function of the cell, tissue and organism. The examination is oral. It consists of four questions. It is preceded by a written preparation of at least 90 minutes. A list of questions will be distributed before the examination session. The first three questions will be taken from this list. The last question will be presented in the form of a document (graphical result presented during the class sessions and included in the syllabus). It is used as a starting point for a walk through the heart of the cell or organism. This question calls on the student's ability to observe and interpret.

Language of instruction

French / Français

Location for course

NAMUR

Organizer

Faculté des sciences
Rue de Bruxelles, 61
5000 NAMUR

Degree of Reference

Undergraduate Degree

	Block	Credits
Bachelier en médecine vétérinaire	3	3