Molecular Biology of Cancer

Recommended Prerequisites

BSc in Life Sciences (Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy), or minor in Biology. English spoken and written.

Teaching Methods

Lectures

Practical lectures

Laboratory classes.

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the carcinogenic process, as well as the foundations of the strategies used in the treatment of the disease.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

The carcinogenic process: theories

Cancer onset and proliferation

Mutations, epimutations;

Oncogenes, oncogene addiction;

microRNAs, siRNAs and riboswitches;

Survival pathways;

Metabolic reprogramming

Cellular counterattack

DNA repair mechanisms;

Tumor suppressors;

Cellular senescence.

Tumor outgrowth

Tumor stroma dynamic interactions;

Paracrine, mechanical, hormonal interactions;

Immune system and adipose tissue roles;

Angiogenesis

Metastases formation theories

Tumor dormancy;

Random and genetically determined processes;

Pre-metastatic niche

EMT & MET

Concept;

Molecular players and pathways;

Wnt/TGF-b/Notch/Hedgehog pathways interplay

Cancer stem cells

Features;

Emergence;

Therapeutic implications

Tumor biobanks

Biopsies collection;

Establishment of primary cultures, propagation and characterization of the cultures

In vitro studies

Immunocytochemistry;

FACs;

Arrays;

Chemo & Radioresistance

 In vivo studies

Xenografts, orthotopic models

Humanized models;

Advantages and disadvantages

Head Lecturer(s)

Maria Carmen Martins de Carvalho Alpoim

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Laboratory work or Field work: 15.0%
Other: 30.0%
Exam: 55.0%

Bibliography

Robert Weinberg. The Biology of Cancer. Taylor & Francis, Inc., 2006.

Scientific reviews and original papers