- Level Professional
- Duration 10 hours
- Course by American Museum of Natural History
-
Offered by
About
What promise do stem cells hold for the treatment of medical conditions? In this five-part online course you will explore the history and basic biology of stem cells, learn about new research techniques, and find out how stem cells could lead to cures for diseases and to individualized medicine. You will hear from Museum scientists, medical researchers at the frontiers of the field, and a panel of bioethics experts who will address the ethical implications of stem cell research and therapy. Learn what has already been accomplished, what challenges remain, and what medical breakthroughs may lie ahead.Modules
Introductory Materials
2
Videos
- Welcome to The Science of Stem Cells
- Introduction to the Course
2
Readings
- Syllabus
- Related Resources
Course Resources
1
Assignment
- Module One: What do you know?
4
Videos
- How Stem Cells Differentiate
- History of Stem Cells
- Why are Stem Cells Important?
- Stem Cells in Other Organisms
1
Readings
- Stem Cell Glossary
Test Your Knowledge
1
Assignment
- Module One: What have you learned?
Course Resources
1
Assignment
- Module Two: What do you know?
3
Videos
- Introduction to Module Two
- Cell differentiation, Therapeutic Cloning & Chimeras: Part One
- Cell differentiation, Therapeutic Cloning & Chimeras: Part Two
1
Readings
- Cloning and Genetic Engineering: How and Why?
Test Your Knowledge
1
Assignment
- Module Two: What have you learned?
Course Resources
1
Assignment
- Module Three: What do you know?
3
Videos
- Introduction to Module Three
- Reprogramming and Genome Editing for Disease Modeling
- Stem Cells: Developing New Cures
1
Readings
- Diabetes in a Dish: Using Stem Cells to Study Disease
Test Your Knowledge
1
Assignment
- Module Three: What have you learned?
Course Resources
1
Assignment
- Module Four: What do you know?
3
Videos
- Introduction to Module Four
- Stem Cells in the Adult Human Retinal Pigment Epithelium and Their Therapeutic Potential
- Myths About Adult (Somatic) Stem Cells
1
Readings
- Developmental Neuroscientist Dr. Sally Temple Wants to Help Prevent Blindness—and Looks to the Future
Test Your Knowledge
1
Assignment
- Module Four: What have you learned?
Course Resources
1
Assignment
- Module Five: What do you know?
3
Videos
- Introduction to The Bioethics of Stem Cell Research and Therapy and Conclusion
- The Bioethics of Stem Cell Research and Therapy: Part One
- The Bioethics of Stem Cell Research and Therapy: Part Two
Test Your Knowledge
1
Assignment
- Module Five: What have you learned?
Auto Summary
Unlock the potential of groundbreaking medical advancements with "The Science of Stem Cells," a comprehensive online course offered by Coursera. This professional-level program delves into the fascinating world of stem cell research, exploring its history, foundational biology, and the innovative techniques driving the field forward. Guided by esteemed Museum scientists and cutting-edge medical researchers, participants will gain insights into how stem cells could revolutionize disease treatment and pave the way for personalized medicine. The course also features a panel of bioethics experts who will thoughtfully examine the ethical considerations surrounding stem cell research and therapies. Spanning five detailed parts over approximately 600 minutes, this course is ideal for professionals and enthusiasts eager to understand both the achievements and challenges within this dynamic domain. Available through a flexible Starter subscription, "The Science of Stem Cells" offers a rich, engaging learning experience designed to inspire and inform. Join us to explore the transformative potential of stem cells and the future of medical breakthroughs.

Dr. Zehra Dincer