BL4220 Molecular Mechanisms of Degenerative Diseases

Academic year

2024 to 2025 Semester 2

Further information on which modules are specific to your programme.

Key module information

SCOTCAT credits

15

The Scottish Credit Accumulation and Transfer (SCOTCAT) system allows credits gained in Scotland to be transferred between institutions. The number of credits associated with a module gives an indication of the amount of learning effort required by the learner. European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits are half the value of SCOTCAT credits.

SCQF level

SCQF level 10

The Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) provides an indication of the complexity of award qualifications and associated learning and operates on an ascending numeric scale from Levels 1-12 with SCQF Level 10 equating to a Scottish undergraduate Honours degree.

Planned timetable

To be arranged.

This information is given as indicative. Timetable may change at short notice depending on room availability.

Module coordinator

Dr J E Sleeman

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module Staff

Dr Juan Varela, Prof Gareth Miles and Dr Marcus Bischoff

This information is given as indicative. Staff involved in a module may change at short notice depending on availability and circumstances.

Module description

Degenerative diseases, including ALS and SMA are life-limiting conditions, with few treatment options and no definitive cures. While the genetic causes are, in some cases, known, the molecular mechanisms leading to cellular damage are not understood. This module will focus on what is known about the cellular pathology of these conditions with an emphasis on the physical organisation of mammalian cells and RNA biology. Recently developed treatment options will be discussed. The module will also touch on the real-life experiences of people living with degenerative conditions or working directly with them.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisites

BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST PASS BL3302 OR PASS BL2301 OR PASS BL2302

Assessment pattern

Coursework = 100%

Re-assessment

Coursework = 100%

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact

2 lectures (X3 weeks), 2 seminars (X8 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours

22

The number of compulsory student:staff contact hours over the period of the module.

Guided independent study hours

130

The number of hours that students are expected to invest in independent study over the period of the module.

Intended learning outcomes

  • Understand the aspects of cell biology affected in degenerative conditions
  • Gain experience of critical evaluation of classic and current primary literature
  • Gain understanding of personal experiences of degenerative disease
  • Experience presentation of key scientific concepts to a lay audience