During this practical course students gain insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of the central nervous system in mouse and human. They learn about tools used in mouse genetics and cell programming strategies applied in human stem cell biology. In particular, they acquire knowledge on the generation of iPS cells and their genetic modification via genome editing. After successful participation, attendees should know when to apply these tools for experimentally addressing questions relating to mouse developmental biology, human stem cell biology and genome editing. (Bloom taxonomy: application).

Key skills qualifications:
Attendees perform immunohistochemistry and RNA in situ hybridization on mouse brain sections and analyze the specimens using advanced microscopy techniques. In addition, students get insight into transcription factor based fate programming, learn to establish 3D cultures and get to know the principles of image-based analyses of cellular phenotypes. A particular focus will be on the development of a project plan to address research questions in the area of neurodevelopment and/or stem cell biology. In this context the possibilities but also limitations of the applied techniques will be discussed with tutors and lectures.