UaebI Science Of Aging And Life Extension In CElegans

AY2015/2016 Semester 2

In this workshop, students will study the genetics of aging and longevity using various long-lived and short-lived worms carrying mutations of genes in the first life-extension pathway discovered in C. elegans. They will learn how the rate of aging is regulated hormonally by insulin and IGF-1 endocrine systems. Further, students will learn about the importance of protein homeostasis in aging and neurodegeneration using a worm model for polyglutamine (polyQ) disease. Students will perform assays for determining lifespan, motility, stress resistance, protein aggregation phenotype and toxicity using different biochemical, cell biology and imaging (light and fluorescent microscopy) experimental techniques. In line with Technology-Enabled Learning (TEL), the course will develop a series of video lessons or App to cover the seminars and lab experimental preview and setup for online learning. There is also plan for developing an online interactive platform to facilitate team-based learning amongst the students.