In this course students will gain an understanding of the fundamentals of biomaterials, gene therapy, cell therapy, and tissue engineering. We will cover chemical, structural, and biological aspects of therapeutic materials along with systemic literature reviews involving advanced therapy medical products (ATMPs) utilizing molecules, genes, cells, and tissues. We will also discuss synthetic polymers and biomolecules such as peptides, proteins, polysaccharides and oligonucleotides. No credit for students who have taken BIOT 897 "Top/Advanced Therapies".

Introduction to stem cells and how biomaterials are utilized in their applications involving biotechnology and biomedical engineering. Lab topics such as aseptic technique, stem cell cultures, biomaterials engineering, bioprinting, biocompatibility and bioactivity analyses will be covered. Lectures will focus on the current literature while the lab portion involves inquiry-based projects that will investigate how biomaterials and molecules modulate stem cell proliferation and differentiation.

The organization, expression, and control of RNA and protein-coding genes in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The focus of the course is on mechanisms of genetics at the molecular level and the application of modern techniques to laboratory biotechnology projects.

Advanced individual study under the direction of a faculty mentor. Content area to be determined in consultation with faculty mentor.