The Science of Stem Cells from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Stem Cells

Welcome to The Science of Stem Cells! You will begin with a basic overview of stem cells--what they are, the history of stem cell research, and the potential for stem cell therapies. You will also learn from AMNH biologist Julia Zichello that stem cells are found throughout the tree of life.

How Do Stem Cells Work?

This week, New York University’s Dr. Esteban Mazzoni will discuss how scientists can coax stem cells to differentiate into particular cell types. Dr. Mazzoni will also talk about new stem cell-assisted technologies such as mitochondrial replacement therapy and generating chimeras for organ transplantation. You will also get some background information on the science and ethics of cloning.

Using Stem Cells to Study Disease

We have covered the process by which scientists can differentiate cells in a culture dish. Now you will look at how scientists can use these cell to model diseases in a culture dish. Dr. Andrew Sproul from Columbia University explains how cultured cells can be used to understand the cause of diseases and to look for drugs that will potentially cure them. His research is on Alzheimer’s disease. You will also explore how how stem cells have the potential to help with the study of diabetes.

Using Stem Cells to Treat Disease

In addition to the great potential of stem cells to be used in the study of disease, stem cells can also be used to actually treat disease. Neural stem cell pioneer Dr. Sally Temple will explain the potential for using stem cells in our own bodies (adult stem cells) to treat age-related macular degeneration, an increasingly common and debilitating disease. Dr. Temple will also give you some tools for evaluating potential stem cell treatments.

The Bioethics of Stem Cell Research and Therapy

To complete the course, a panel of bioethics experts will discuss some of the controversies surrounding human embryonic stem cells and the legal, policy, and ethical challenges associated with the use of stem cells in basic and clinical research. You will have an opportunity to discuss and ask questions about the future of reproductive technology and stem cell research.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines the promise of stem cells for treating diseases, which is insightful to students in the medical and biology fields

Introduces basic stem cell biology, catering to beginners or those with no background in the field

Provides a comprehensive overview of stem cell research, from history and biology to ethical considerations

Taught by Dr. Zehra Dincer, a recognized expert in the field

Applicable to different fields, including medicine, biology, and bioethics, enhancing its appeal to a wider audience

Reviews summary

Pioneering stem cell science

Learners say this course excels in teaching the broad qualities of stem cells, their applications in regenerative medicine, and their bioethical considerations. Split into five modules, the course first introduces basic stem cell types and foundational concepts. The second module explores how stem cells can be used to study diseases, while the third showcases how they're used in clinical settings. Module four focuses on the technical process of working with stem cells in a laboratory, and the final module introduces learners to the legal and ethical debates surrounding their use. The majority of the course focuses on stem cell science's contemporary state and includes interviews with scientists at the forefront of the field. Learners describe the course as largely positive and well suited for beginners looking for a comprehensive introduction to stem cell science and its implications.

Provides a technical overview of stem cell culture, differentiation, and genetic manipulation.

"Excellent course, however, adding some practical videos of essential Stem cells technics protocols will be a plus!"

"I loved the content of the first four weeks, the last week was only relevant to people who live in the USA, thats why i gave it 4 starts and not 5"

"This course has helped me learn new concepts and techniques on stem cells, understand and enrich my previous knowledge and evaluate and correct some misconceptions"

Explores basic stem cell biology, including their definition, types, and potential applications. Includes ethical considerations.

"great platform for those who are interested in stem cell study."

"Thank you for this course. It was so helpful and full of information."

Addresses ethical issues surrounding stem cell research, including the use of embryonic stem cells and the commercialization of stem cell therapies.

"The course was really helpful for gaining insights on stem cell technologies and the ethical considerations, an indispensable component to be considered for national and international regulation."

Examines how stem cells are used to study and treat diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders and heart disease.

"I learned so much about stem cells, especially the ethical concerns that I didn't even think about before."

"learnt so much about stem cells, especially the ethical concerns that I didn't even think about before"

"I have learnt a lot from this course. A good platform for those who are interested in stem cell study."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Science of Stem Cells with these activities:

Read “Stem Cell Research: The Facts” by John Gearhart

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This book provides a comprehensive overview of stem cell research, from its history to its potential applications in medicine.

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Read the book thoroughly.
Take notes on the key concepts.
Discuss the book with other students or a study group.
Write a review of the book.

Review the basics of cellular biology

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This activity will help you refresh your understanding of the basic concepts of cellular biology, which will be essential for understanding the more advanced topics covered in this course.

Browse courses on Cellular Biology

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Read through your notes or textbooks from previous courses in cellular biology.
Take practice quizzes or exams to test your understanding.

Watch video tutorials on stem cell research

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This activity will help you learn more about the latest advancements in stem cell research and the potential applications of stem cells in medicine.

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Find video tutorials on reputable websites or platforms such as YouTube or Coursera.
Take notes while watching the tutorials to reinforce your learning.

Five other activities

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Practice identifying different types of stem cells

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This activity will help you develop your ability to identify different types of stem cells, which is essential for understanding their potential applications in medicine.

Browse courses on Stem Cells

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Use online resources or textbooks to learn about the different types of stem cells.
Complete practice exercises or quizzes to test your understanding.

Review the latest research on stem cell therapies

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This activity will help you stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in stem cell therapies.

Browse courses on Stem Cells

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Read scientific journals or articles about stem cell therapies.
Attend webinars or conferences on stem cell research.

Write a blog post or article about stem cell research

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This activity will help you synthesize your understanding of stem cell research and communicate it to others.

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Choose a specific topic within stem cell research that you are interested in writing about.
Research the topic thoroughly using credible sources.
Write a draft of your blog post or article.
Edit and revise your writing.
Publish your blog post or article on a platform of your choice.

Create a study guide with key concepts from the course

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This activity will help you organize and synthesize the key concepts from the course.

Browse courses on Stem Cells

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Go through your notes, textbooks, and other course materials.
Identify the most important concepts.
Summarize each concept in a clear and concise way.

Design an experiment to investigate the potential of stem cells to treat a specific disease

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This activity will challenge you to apply your knowledge of stem cell research to a real-world problem.

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Choose a specific disease that you are interested in investigating.
Research the current state of stem cell research for the treatment of the disease.
Design an experiment to test your hypothesis.
Conduct the experiment.
Analyze the results of your experiment.

Career center

Learners who complete The Science of Stem Cells will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Research Scientist

Research Scientists study the natural world and human behavior to make discoveries and develop new knowledge. This course complements the training you need to become a Research Scientist by providing you with a strong foundation in the biology and research techniques used in stem cell research. It would be particularly valuable if you are interested in conducting research on stem cell therapies or regenerative medicine.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist

Biomedical Ethicist

Biomedical Ethicists analyze the ethical implications of advances in biomedicine. This course can provide you with a deep understanding of the ethical issues surrounding stem cell research and its clinical applications, which would be invaluable for a career in this field.

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Biologist

Biologists study living organisms and their life processes. This course can help you build a foundation in the biology of stem cells, which are fundamental to understanding various biological processes and diseases. It would be especially useful if you are interested in specializing in cell biology, developmental biology, or regenerative medicine.

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Science Communicator

Science Communicators explain complex scientific concepts to the public. This course can provide you with a deep understanding of stem cell research and its potential applications, which would be essential for communicating this information to a wide range of audiences.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create instruction manuals, technical reports, and other documents that explain complex technical information. This course can provide you with a deep understanding of stem cell research and its potential applications, which would be valuable for writing clear and accurate technical documents on this topic.

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Biomedical Engineer

A Biomedical Engineer is a medical professional responsible for the design, development, and evaluation of medical devices, implants, and technologies. Although the knowledge of basic biology of stem cells provided in this course prepares you for general biomedical engineering roles, its emphasis on the research and clinical applications of stem cells would be especially helpful if you are interested in the development of novel stem cell-based therapies and regenerative medicine strategies.

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Science Writer

Science Writers communicate complex scientific information to the public. This course can help you gain a deep understanding of stem cell research and its potential applications, which would be essential for writing engaging and accurate articles on this topic.

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Patent Attorney

Patent Attorneys help inventors obtain and protect their intellectual property rights. This course can provide you with a strong understanding of the stem cell field and its potential applications, which would be valuable for drafting and prosecuting patents related to stem cell technologies and therapies.

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Biomedical Sales Representative

Biomedical Sales Representatives sell medical devices, equipment, and supplies to healthcare providers. This course can provide you with a strong understanding of stem cell research and its potential applications in healthcare, which would be valuable for selling products and services related to this field.

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Science Teacher

Science Teachers educate students about science and the natural world. This course can help you gain a deep understanding of stem cell research and its potential applications, which you can use to teach your students about this exciting field.

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Healthcare Consultant

Healthcare Consultants provide advice and guidance to healthcare organizations. This course can provide you with a strong understanding of stem cell research and its potential applications in healthcare, which would be valuable for advising clients on how to incorporate these technologies into their operations.

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Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technicians conduct experiments, analyze data, and maintain laboratory equipment. This course provides you with a foundation in the laboratory techniques used in stem cell research, which can be valuable for a career as a Laboratory Technician in this field.

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Science Policy Analyst

Science Policy Analysts develop and analyze policies related to science and technology. This course can provide you with a strong foundation in stem cell research and its ethical implications, which would be valuable for informing policy decisions in this area.

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Medical Doctor

Medical Doctors diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. This course may be useful for aspiring Medical Doctors who are interested in specializing in fields such as regenerative medicine, where stem cells are used to repair damaged tissues and organs.

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Biostatistician

Biostatisticians use statistical methods to analyze data in the field of biology. This course may be helpful for aspiring Biostatisticians who are interested in specializing in stem cell research, where they can apply their skills to analyze clinical trial data and other research findings.

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