Molecular Diagnostics and Therapeutics (20 credits)

Code

LIFE3130

School

Life Sciences

Level

3

Credits

20

Semesters

Autumn UK

Summary

This module covers the application of various biochemical and molecular biology-based techniques employed in clinical diagnosis, as well as the most recent development in molecular therapies. This will help students to develop an understanding of modern biochemical and molecular diagnostics and of the development of new molecular therapies. This module will involve diagnostic and therapeutic approaches such as:
- biochemical assay for clinical testing
- the use of antibodies as biochemical reagents
- proteomics analysis using mass spectrometry 
- gene expression measurements using qRT PCR
- immunodetection of protein in cells and tissues
- RNA sequencing and quantification 
- miRNA and CRISPR-mediated gene editing
- Therapeutic targeting of pathological proteins and protein aggregates
- Exosomes and drug re-purposing
- Gene therapy and the use of adeno associated viruses 
- immunotherapy and small molecule-drugs
- the human microbiome as new therapeutic target 
 

Target Students

Available to all students registered for a Single Honours degree in Biochemistry with or without another subject. Available to JYA/Erasmus students. Students from other degree courses need the module convenors’ permission in writing to select this module and may be removed from the enrolment without this.

Classes

This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc

Assessment

• 50% Coursework: Essay (1,500 words).
• 50% Exam (1-hour): Examsys based exam

Assessed by end of designated period

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Understand the scientific basis behind a variety of molecular medical diagnostics 

Understand the scientific basis behind the development of novel molecular medical therapies

Appreciate and be conversant with the methodology available

Understand the limitations of the technology

Conveners

• Dr Sebastien Serres