Reproduction
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MGEM2015 | Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine | 2 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- MGEM2015
- School
- Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
This module will introduce students to core concepts relating to human reproduction. The emphasis of the module will be on physiological mechanisms that underpin both male and female reproductive function, including pregnancy and birth. Students will also learn about factors contributing toreproductive/pregnancy disorders including infertility and the main pathophysiological mechanisms implicated , options available for treating infertility and the impact of the environment on reproductive outcomes. A combination of lectures, practical sessions and critical analyses will provide students with a strong foundation for the application of this knowledge.
Target Students
Students on Part I of the BSc in Medical Physiology and Therapeutics
Classes
This module will consist of lectures, tutorials & self-directed study. Students will undertake practicals to improve understanding of mechanisms and analytical skills. These will include assessment of physiological function & interpretation of biological measurements using simulations or practicals.
Assessment
- 50% Coursework 1: Hypothesis generation 2000 words
- 50% Exam 1 (2-hour): Multi-format (MFQ) and short answer questions (SAQ) online exam (ExamSys)
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
To provide students with key academic and transferable skills accompanied by anin-depth knowledge of the male and female reproductive system, reproductive pathophysiology, medical ethics and key influences in utero that shape adult health.Learning Outcomes
Recognise the main organs (anatomy) and the cellular structures (histology) comprising the male and female reproductive tract
List the main differences between male and female gametogenesis and to describe their regulation with reference to ovarian and testicular function
Describe the role of sex steroids and the main peptide hormones involved in reproductive function
Discuss the control of the male and female reproductive system through neuroendocrine feedback mechanisms in puberty and adulthood, encompassing menarche, the menstrual cycle, the menopause and anovulation
Explain the physiological processes involved in conception, fertilisation, pregnancy and parturition including specific maternal and fetal adaptations to pregnancy
Differentiate between the main disorders of pregnancy, the underlying causes of the dysfunction, awareness of disease management and new therapeutic targets
Describe the main causes of male and female infertility and outline approaches to treatment
Identify the factors in utero that contribute to health and disease in later life (epigenetics, developmental origins of disease)
Discuss and describe medical ethics with examples from the field of reproduction
Enable deeper analysis of clinical problems through laboratory (wet or dry; simulated) experimentation
Synthesise complex information reproduced in a succinct format
Interpret and analyse experimental/primary data
Demonstrate the use of IT in preparing and presenting data, applying statistics for data analysis and building a bibliography.
Demonstrate development of oral and written communication skills and their dissemination
Describe the role reproductive immunology plays in relation to reproductive function and disease
Engagement with the broader scientific and related literature in the discipline
Demonstrate engagement and teamwork through group discussion and activity