In this module, the focus shifts to gene therapy. Professor Saltzman discusses methods to effectively deliver DNA into cells, utilizing viruses and cationic lipids. The physiological aspects of bacterial and mammalian cells are also covered, including how these cells contribute to tissue development and the importance of the extracellular matrix in supporting cellular functions and organism formation.
In this module, Professor Saltzman provides an introduction to the field of biomedical engineering. Students will learn about its various applications in everyday life, from medical imaging technologies to gene therapy. The syllabus and grading logistics are discussed, along with a comparison of historical and modern medical technologies. This foundational understanding sets the stage for further exploration into the field.
Continuing the discussion from the previous module, Professor Saltzman encourages students to reflect on their understanding of biomedical engineering. The core concepts are explored, focusing on human physiology and health improvement methods. Key terms such as homeostasis and cell membrane structure are introduced, providing a deeper insight into the biological aspects of the field.
This module covers the fundamental elements of DNA, which is crucial in genetic engineering. Professor Saltzman explains the molecular structure of DNA, including its backbone, base composition, and the processes of DNA synthesis and transcription. The module also highlights the importance of gene expression control, with a focus on techniques such as RNA interference, which is vital for developing new disease treatments.
Building on the previous discussion of DNA technology, this module delves deeper into genetic engineering techniques. Professor Saltzman discusses methods for controlling gene expression using RNA silencing techniques and molecular cloning. The practical applications of these techniques in protein production and detecting genetic mutations are examined, along with real-world examples of how genetic engineering can improve health outcomes.
In this module, the focus shifts to gene therapy. Professor Saltzman discusses methods to effectively deliver DNA into cells, utilizing viruses and cationic lipids. The physiological aspects of bacterial and mammalian cells are also covered, including how these cells contribute to tissue development and the importance of the extracellular matrix in supporting cellular functions and organism formation.
Continuing the exploration of cell culture engineering, this module discusses the processes of fertilization and embryogenesis. Professor Saltzman introduces stem cell classification and their potential in medical treatments. The challenges associated with stem cell therapies are addressed, alongside the mathematical modeling of cell growth, including the concept of "doubling time," which is vital for understanding tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
This module introduces the concept of cell communication, emphasizing ligand-receptor interactions that are vital for maintaining homeostasis. Professor Saltzman discusses various types of receptors, their interactions, and applications in drug development. The module also covers intracellular signaling mechanisms, including kinases and phosphatases, and categorizes cell communication signals, providing a foundation for understanding pharmacology and therapeutics.
Expanding on the previous module, this session delves into the nervous and immune systems' roles in cell communication. Professor Saltzman explains the mechanisms of signal transmission in neurons and introduces the innate and adaptive immune responses. This comprehensive overview highlights how immune cells interact with pathogens, setting the stage for understanding immunology in biomedical engineering applications.
This module focuses on the engineering aspects of immunity, particularly vaccine development. Professor Saltzman discusses the biological basis of vaccines, their historical significance, and how they interact with the immune system. The module also addresses challenges in vaccine distribution and the potential risks associated with bioterrorism, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research in vaccine technology.
Continuing the exploration of vaccines, this module addresses the immune response to pathogens and the mechanisms by which vaccines work. Professor Saltzman discusses the production processes of the Salk polio vaccine and modern approaches. The various bioengineering strategies for vaccine development are examined, alongside a cost analysis emphasizing public health benefits.
In this module, Professor Saltzman introduces pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics concepts. You will learn about dose-response relationships and how different drug administration routes affect bioavailability. The first-order rate equation and drug half-life calculations are also covered, providing a fundamental understanding of how drugs operate in the body.
This module builds upon the previous pharmacokinetics discussion, emphasizing the importance of maintaining therapeutic drug concentrations while avoiding toxicity. Professor Saltzman reviews controlled-release drug delivery systems and their clinical applications, illustrating how biocompatible polymers can enhance drug efficacy and patient safety.
In this module, students explore cardiovascular physiology, beginning with the biophysics of the circulatory system. Professor Saltzman discusses blood vessel anatomy, fluid dynamics, and the factors regulating blood flow. The relationship between pressure and resistance is examined, providing a foundation for understanding cardiovascular health and engineering applications.
This module continues the discussion on cardiovascular physiology, focusing on the electrical properties of the heart. Professor Saltzman explains how action potentials are generated and propagated, the role of ion channels, and how these processes lead to heart muscle contraction. The significance of electrocardiography in monitoring heart health is also discussed.
In this module, Professor Saltzman describes the blood flow dynamics through systemic and pulmonary circulations. The interrelationship between heart contractions, valve function, and blood flow direction is analyzed. Important concepts such as systole, diastole, and cardiac output are discussed, providing insight into cardiovascular function and health.
This module introduces renal physiology, focusing on kidney function and nephron structure. Professor Saltzman discusses filtration, secretion, and reabsorption processes and how they maintain homeostasis. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and its regulation are also explored, emphasizing the kidney's critical role in overall health.
Continuing the renal physiology discussion, this module examines nephron anatomy and its role in establishing concentration gradients for urine production. Professor Saltzman explains various transport processes and methods for measuring GFR, highlighting the nephron's importance in maintaining electrolyte balance and homeostasis.
This module introduces biomechanics and orthopedics, focusing on the material properties of elasticity and viscosity. Professor Saltzman explains experimental methods for measuring these properties and discusses their significance in the design of medical devices, such as prosthetics and orthopedic implants, thereby demonstrating the intersection of engineering and biology.
In this module, the focus shifts to motion and its importance in biomechanics. Professor Saltzman discusses various modes of motion, including walking, running, and swimming, emphasizing the forces involved and their impact on energy efficiency. The design considerations for artificial limbs, particularly hip implants, are also discussed, highlighting the role of biomechanics in engineering solutions.
This module covers bioimaging techniques in biomedical engineering. Professor Saltzman reviews the electromagnetic spectrum and its applications in imaging. The details of X-ray imaging, including its advantages and limitations, are discussed, along with Computed Tomography as an advanced imaging technique that provides three-dimensional visuals.
Continuing the discussion on bioimaging, this module delves into Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and ultrasound technologies. Professor Saltzman describes the principles behind these techniques, their applications in assessing tissue health, and recent advancements in nuclear imaging and light microscopy, highlighting their significance in medical diagnostics.
This module focuses on tissue engineering and its applications in healthcare. Professor Saltzman discusses how tissue engineering aids in healing, organ replacement, and drug delivery. Examples from current research demonstrate progress in tissue regeneration, emphasizing the importance of this field in future medical solutions.
This module examines the role of biomedical engineers in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Professor Saltzman discusses challenges in cancer therapy, including tumor angiogenesis and drug localization. The phases of drug approval by the FDA are outlined, illustrating the critical contributions biomedical engineers make to improve treatment outcomes.
In this final module, the discussion centers on artificial organs and the use of synthetic biomaterials. Professor Saltzman introduces the body's responses to foreign materials and examines various synthetic materials used in medical applications. The design and function of artificial organs, such as heart valves and dialyzers, are explored, along with the challenges faced in this innovative field of biomedical engineering.