BMOL10030 Biomedical Sciences: Understanding Human Disease.

Academic Year 2022/2023

This module will introduce students to Biomedical Science and the molecular basis of neuronal, cardiovascular, infectious, hormonal and immune diseases. Students will learn about fundamental metabolism, the structure and function of each affected organ or biological system, and how these may be disrupted to manifest into disease and clinical symptoms. The risk factors associated with each disease (e.g. genetic, environmental, diet/lifestyle) will be investigated, and current therapies and research efforts to prevent and cure the diseases will be discussed. The module provides a foundation for further studies in Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Neuroscience, Pharmacology and Physiology.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of this module the student should be able to: 1. Define the basic building blocks of life: DNA, Proteins, Carbohydrates and Lipids; 2. Describe the basic physiology of the organ/biological system associated with each major disease type; 3. Relate the clinical signs and symptoms to the altered cellular structure and function; 4. Explain the major risk factors associated with each disease; 5. Give a brief overview of the current treatment regimes and the on-going scientific research in the area; 6. Undertake self-directed library research and study; 7. Take personal responsibility for their learning.

Indicative Module Content:

Module content will address the basis of Biomedical Science, from fundamental elements to body systems. This will be provided in the context of human disease and will broadly cover the following main areas:
- Biochemical and genetic basis of disease
- Introduction to pharmacological principles and drug treatment strategies
- Cardiovascular system and disease
- Microbiology and infectious disease
- Neuroscience and neurological disease
- Introduction to cancer biology

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

36

Specified Learning Activities

10

Autonomous Student Learning

64

Total

110

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Module delivery will involve a blended teaching strategy, combining traditional lecture-style content delivery, online learning resources and student self-directed learning. Individual contributors to the module may also utilise a variety of media in their teaching. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Requirements:

Requirements: C3 or equivalent in Biology at Leaving Certificate Level or successful completion of BIOL00010 Fundamentals of Biology.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Incompatibles:
BIOC10040 - Topics in Bioc & Mol Biol, BIOL10120 - Cell Biology & Genetics (NUin), BMOL10020 - The Science of Human Disease, BMOL20010 - Molecular Genetics


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Examination: End of Semester Examination. 2 hour End of Trimester Exam No Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

70

Continuous Assessment: Combination of formative and summative assessments, online and other. Varies over the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

30


Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Online automated feedback

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Grades and correct answers will be provided to each student automatically following completion of online continuous assessment components. Students may also request specific feedback, and individual queries will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Name Role
Dr Derek Costello Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Jana Haase Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Caroline Herron Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Professor Madeleine Lowery Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Jennifer Mitchell Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Eoin O'Cearbhaill Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Professor John O'Connor Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Emmanuel Reynaud Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Margaret Worrall Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Tadhg Ó'Cróinín Lecturer / Co-Lecturer