Extracellular Matrix Metabolism in Angiogenesis
BMS 690 - Special Topics in Biomedical Sciences
Section 003 - Course Description

Spring 2010
2 credits

Course coordinators:
Peter Brooks, Ph.D., brookp@mmc.org
Calvin Vary, Ph.D., varyc@mmc.org

Login for Review and Discussion Materials

Meeting time:
Wednesdays, 10:00 am till noon; (MMCRI students meet in Room 5)

Course description:
Each class, we will discuss and critique recent research articles, which will be supplemented with review articles. The papers and discussions will emphasize the role that the extracellular matrix plays in the regulation of angiogenic processes. In particular, we will address the following general areas:

• ECM composition
• Integrins and ECM ligands
• Integrin adhesion and its regulation
• Adhesion and detachment pathways
• Cell junction biochemistry and morphology
• Cytokine-mediation of cell adhesion
• MMPs and inhibitors, and vascular remodeling

Critique overview - Review considerations should include: 1) Is there new information or concepts that advance knowledge in the field? 2) Are objectives and background relevant to the work clearly stated? 3) Do the data support the conclusions? 4) What limitations and 5) future directions are indicated.

Discussion overview - One student will provide an overview. From that overview will follow the discussion by all students. We wish to emphasize questioning the data adequacy and limitations, whether conclusions are supported, alternative approaches, and future directions.

Grade criteria - There will be: pass/fail grade for the critiques, which are to be submitted by the day of class (by email to C. Vary), as well as adequacy of preparation for discussion leader. Final grades will be based on handed-in critiques, participation in discussion, and a final exam, administered at the end of class.