5 ECTS credits
125 h study time
Offer 1 with catalog number 4002191ENR for all students in the 1st semester at a (E) Master - advanced level.
(1) This part has a focus on two major topics: preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and epigenetic safety after ART. The topic of PGT is discussed in all of its aspects: basic genetics of monogenic disorders and chromosomal aberrations, patient flow for PGT treatment, genetic counseling, embryo biopsy procedures, technologies, ethics, follow up, designer babies. This topic also includes some exercises on genotyping of embryonic samples. The topic of epigenetics is discussed more generally: the basic modifications such as DNA methylation and histone modifications are reviewed at the molecular level and more specific epigenetic phenomena such as genomic imprinting are discussed more in detail. Finally, the epigenetic life cycle is discussed, as well as the questions about the epigenetic safety of children born after IVF/ICSI. (by M. De Rycke)
(2) The aim of this part is to gain insight into normal folliculogenesis, follicular and oocyte development, ovulation and oocyte maturation in vivo and in vitro, and to discuss the diagnostic and therapeutical approach of abnormal ovarian function. The mechanisms of primary ovarian insufficiency and polycystic ovary syndrome, common clinical syndromes of abnormal follicular function/development, will be discussed in more detail. Furthermore, an overview of the current practice of female fertility preservation will be presented.
(3) The module 'spermatogenesis' builds on the knowledge of embryology and physiology educated in the Bachelor years. After an introduction of the histological and physiological aspects of spermatogenesis, an overview will be given of the different types of male infertility. Special attention will be given to fertility loss at young age. Furthermore, environmental and lifestyle factors affecting spermatogenesis will be discussed. The module is concluded by discussing fertility preservation strategies.(by E. Goossens)
(4) A general introduction on early sexual differentiation and human fertility/infertility is given. The main part focuses on the genetic causes of male infertility including chromosomal aberrations, microdeletions of the Y chromosome, congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens and hormonal defects. Application of new technologies (array comparative genomic hybridization, next generation sequencing) for the detection of unknown causes is discussed. Consequences of application of artificial reproductive technologies are also discussed. (by K. Stouffs)
(5) The part Female reproductive endocrinology will review the normal physiological aspects of the menstrual cycle and the regulation of folliculogenesis and ovulation. The most important pharmacological aspects of female infertility treatment will be indicated on the background of dysregulation of the hypothamamo –pituitary-ovarian axis. The state of the art on female fertility preservation including follicle culture will be presented. (by E. Anckaert)
Studymaterial
(1-5) Course notes and slides
The aim of the class is to provide insight in early human development concerning sexual differentiation, gamete production, epigenetic reprogramming, embryo development and implantation in natural cycles and stimulated cycles. In addition, genetic causes of male infertility are discussed and preimplantation genetic diagnosis as a mean to avoid transmission of genetic diseases or as a mean to improve the outcome of artificial reproductive technology, is explained.
The final grade is composed based on the following categories:
Oral Exam determines 100% of the final mark.
Within the Oral Exam category, the following assignments need to be completed:
Oral exam; split into two parts: the genetical aspects of the course (1) and (4) and the reproductive aspects of the course (2)(3)(5) will be examined separately. One final mark (the average) is given. For each of the two parts a score of at least 8/20 must be obtained. If not, the lowest point will be the final point.
This offer is part of the following study plans:
Master of Biomedical Sciences: Management and Business (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Biomedical Sciences: Clinical Biomedical Sciences (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Biology: Education (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Biology: Molecular and Cellular Life sciences
Master of Biomedical Research: Standaard traject
Master of Teaching in Science and Technology: biologie (120 ECTS, Etterbeek) (only offered in Dutch)
Master of Teaching in Health Sciences: standaard traject (120 ECTS, Etterbeek) (only offered in Dutch)