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Title Non-coding RNAs, microRNAs and their role in human diseases
Course number 2772
Programme Cellbiologi och genetik
Language English
Credits 1.5
Date 2017-12-04 -- 2017-12-08
Responsible KI department Institutionen för cell- och molekylärbiologi
Specific entry requirements
Purpose of the course To introduce the participants into the world of non-coding RNAs. Participants can learn about their modes of action, biological functions and the methodology to investigate their roles in disease context.
Intended learning outcomes After the completed course the student students should be able to
- explain the term microRNA, differences and similarities between them and ordinary genes and siRNAs,
- summarize the relevance of microRNAs in development and diseases
- relate microRNAs to ""real-world"" situations such as basic biological functions and major human diseases
- discuss the role of small RNAs in the diagnosis (biomarkers) and treatment of disease
- demonstrate a scientific way of thinking about the possible roles of microRNAs in their own research field.
- critically think about advantages and disadvantages of methods used in microRNA research
- use some of the most commonly used computational algorithms to predict microRNA targets, microRNAs targeting their gene of interest, microRNAs, which are co-expressed with targets in tissues, predict microRNA-target gene networks.
Contents of the course The course provides an overview about key concepts about microRNAs and other types of non-coding RNAs and methods used in microRNA research. The roles of these molecules in human diseases and cellular processes will be covered. Lectures and seminars will be given by invited speakers from Karolinska Institutet and other universites in Sweden. Moreover, scientists from abroad will provide a comprehensive overview of their respective fields. Students will work in a computer room and learn how to predict miRNA targets and analyze miRNA function using different computational algorithms. Students will work in groups to present original papers relevant to the content of the course.
Teaching and learning activities Structured lectures and seminars accompanied by discussions, group-work, problem-based learning, student presentation, computer work in the bioinformatics lab.
Compulsory elements Active participation in group discussions and in preparation and presentation of the student presentations are mandatory. Participation in the bioinformatics-lab-work is mandatory. Absence from the lectures needs to be compensated according to an arrangement with the course organizers.
Examination For the final examination, the students will be divided into groups and assigned an article relevant to the topic of the course. The students will then present the article for the whole group of students, with specific focus on the technologies used, background and implications of the findings. Every student will be assessed individually and according to the intended learning outcomes of the course.
Literature and other teaching material The rise of regulatory RNA. Kevin V. Morris, & John S. Mattick, Nature Reviews Genetics 15, (2014).
MicroRNAs in Stress Signaling and Human Disease, Joshua T. Mendell & Eric N. Olson, Cell 148, ( 2012)
Number of students 8 - 16
Selection of students Selection will be based on 1) the relevance of the course syllabus for the applicant's doctoral project (according to written motivation), 2) date for registration as a doctoral student (priority given to earlier registration date)
More information The course takes place at the Eugeniahemmet (T3) in Solna.
Additional course leader The course director is Andor Pivarcsi, andor.pivarcsi@ki.se
Latest course evaluation Course evaluation report
Course responsible Matti Nikkola
Institutionen för cell- och molekylärbiologi

Matti.Nikkola@ki.se
Contact person -