Overview: This course focuses on recent developments in the field of aging. It highlights advancements in our understanding of the cellular and molecular basis for aging in both experimental organisms and humans. Human diseases of aging (i.e. progerias) will be discussed, especially where underlying mechanisms have been elucidated. The content of the course is interdisciplinary in nature and students and faculty from other Colleges are welcome to participate.
Format: Lecture and small group discussion.
Student Evaluation: Grades will be based on participation in group discussions and an exam.
Reading Assignments: Reviews and papers from the original literature will be assigned.
Topics:
Cell senescence (e.g. Hayflick limit, telomeres, molecular basis for cell senescence)
Human aging diseases (e.g. Werner Syndrome, causative mechanisms, potential for intervention)
Lower eukaryote model systems (e.g. S. cerevisiae, D.
melanogaster, C. elegans)
Higher eukaryote model systems (e.g. rat and mouse)
General models for cellular aging