B8799 - In vitro Models

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, the student is familiar with cellular models, based on established cell lines or primary culture isolation, and their use as screening platforms and as alternative methods to animal experimentation; understands and is able to apply the principles for designing an in vitro experiment, exploring increasingly complex cultures—from standard monolayers to organoids—including advanced models based on co-cultures, microfluidics, and organ-on-chip systems, along with their corresponding readouts.

Course contents

The program is structured as follows:

Theoretical lectures:

1. Introduction to regenerative medicine

2. Stem cell biology

3. Embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent cells

4. Adult stem cells and stem cell niches

5. Isolation, characterization, and expansion

6. Applications in regenerative medicine

Exercises:

Reading and understanding scientific publications with analysis and discussion of the results

Readings/Bibliography

The teaching material is available on the Virtual Platform (https://virtuale.unibo.it/).

Scientific publications provided by the professor

Bagnara GP, Cellule Staminali, eds: Laura Bonsi, Francesco Alviano, CELLULE STAMINALI, III Ed.2025, Società Editrice Esculapio

Teaching methods

The course includes both theoretical lectures and practical/laboratory sessions.

Considering the types of activities and teaching methods adopted, attendance for this course requires the successful completion of Modules 1 and 2 via e-learning, and Module 3 on health and safety training in study environments. Information about the schedule and access to Module 3 is available in the dedicated section of the Degree Program website.

Participation in practical and laboratory sessions requires wearing a lab coat and appropriate footwear. Suitable personal protective equipment (PPE), such as disposable latex gloves, will be provided as needed.

Assessment methods

Assessment of learning for course B8806 - STEM CELLS includes an oral exam integrated with course B8807 - BIOMATERIALS.

The learning verification consists of an oral exam. Assessments will focus on conceptual aspects rather than rote knowledge, and aim to evaluate fundamental knowledge, critical thinking, the ability to learn independently, and the ability to communicate scientific concepts.

Average duration of the exam: 20 - 30 min

The exam is divided into two parts:

1. A 10-minute presentation supported by slides on a scientific article chosen by the student.

2. Assessment of preparation with specific, reasoning-oriented questions on the course material.

Evaluation criteria will include the choice of the article to present (relevance to the topics covered, critical selection of the study), the presentation (timeliness, clarity of explanation and slide organization, scientific language proficiency, ability to critically comment on the study), mastery of course topics, and ability to apply them in scientific reasoning.

 

In evaluating the exam and assigning the final grade, the instructor refers to the following "learning assessment scale," which outlines descriptors for each grade level to make the meaning of each assigned grade clear and shared.

Mark: <18 (Fail) – Lacks knowledge on key topics, poor choice of study for presentation, superficial and incorrect presentation of the study’s essential aspects, lack of scientific language proficiency.
Mark: 18 - 20 – General content knowledge with limited depth, difficulty applying theoretical concepts, superficial or partially incorrect presentation of the study, weak scientific language skills.
Mark: 21 - 23 – Basic content knowledge, limited ability to apply theoretical concepts, simple but not fully appropriate presentation for a scientific context, limited depth.
Mark: 24 - 25 – Appropriate content knowledge, coherent study choice, some weaknesses in preparation or presentation, limited application of theoretical concepts.
Mark: 26 - 27 – Complete content knowledge, coherent study choice, good application of theoretical concepts, proficient technical-scientific language.
Mark: 28 - 29 – Comprehensive and in-depth content knowledge, coherent and critical study choice, good application of theoretical concepts, proficient technical-scientific language.
Mark: 30 - 30 cum laude – Complete and thorough content knowledge, coherent and critical study choice, excellent application of theoretical concepts, excellent presentation and technical-scientific language proficiency.

The exam is considered passed when the student scores a minimum of 18/30, the threshold for minimal learning objectives.

The final grade will be published on the AlmaEsami platform (https://almaesami.unibo.it/?lang=en) within 5 working days of the date of the exam.
Students may reject the final grade 2 times by informing the course examiner via email within 5 working days.
The designated course contact for this course is Luciana Giardino

Students can register for exams through the AlmaEsami platform (http://almaesami.unibo.it/). Exams are scheduled during the designated periods in the academic calendar. Additional sessions are available for students beyond the standard program duration.

Students with learning disorders and/or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

With regard to the learning assessment, the use of AI is prohibited. Any use of AI constitutes a breach of academic integrity.

Teaching tools

PowerPoint presentations in PDF format, scientific publications in specialized journals, websites, videos.

If students struggle to understand the material, the instructor is available for meetings after class or by appointment via email. Additional resources will be provided if necessary.

Office hours:

See the website of Luciana Giardino

Office hours

See the website of Luciana Giardino

See the website of Corinne Quadalti