Stem Cells and the Brain

PSYCH 5603: Stem Cells and the Brain

Stem cells are an integral part of the brain from its embryonic beginnings through adulthood. However, what stems can do and how they can influence behavior varies depending on age, location, environment and disease. Stem cells hold great promise as therapies for many brain diseases but how do their changing characteristics in different places and at different ages affect their usefulness? This course will explore the biology, function and relevance of stem cells for brain and behavior from development through aging. Through lectures and primary research literature, we will discuss what it means to be a neural stem cell, how stem cells shape the brain and what the role of stem cells might be in brain disorders and mental health.
Prereq: A grade of C- or above in 3313, or Grad standing.
Credit Hours
3

Sample Topics:

  • Embryonic Stem Cells (ESC) & Society: ESC Research, IVP & Cloning
  • Embryonic Neural Stem Cells (NSCs): Neural Development
  • Embryonic NSCs: Timing of Neuro vs Gliogenesis
  • Embryonic NSCs: Molecular Mechanisms
  • Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
  • Adult Neural Stem Cells: History, Controversy, Discovery in Mammals, Function
  • Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis: Regulation by Stress, Exercise & Enrichment; Seizures, Depression
  • Therapeutic uses of Stem Cells in the Central Nervous System
  • Epilepsy
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Parkinson's Disease
  • Alzheimer's Disease
  • COVID and Stem Cells
  • Brain Organoids

Meets the following Psychology Major Goals: 

Knowledge Base in Psychology

  • Describe key concepts, principles, & overarching themes in psychology
  • Develop working knowledge of psychology's content domains
  • Describe applications of psychology

Scientific Inquiry & Critical Thinking

  • Use scientific reasoning to interpret psychological phenomena
  • Demonstrate psychology information literacy
  • Engage in innovative & integrative thinking & problem solving
  • Interpret, design, & conduct basic psychological research
  • Incorporate sociocultural factors in scientific inquiry

To find course availability and times, please visit the Ohio State Course Catalog and Master Schedule.