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BMOL10030

Academic Year 2024/2025

Biomedical Sciences: Understanding Human Disease. (BMOL10030)

Subject:
Biomolecular & Biomed Science
College:
Science
School:
Biomolecular & Biomed Science
Level:
1 (Introductory)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Dr Derek Costello
Trimester:
Spring
Mode of Delivery:
On Campus
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Letter grades

Curricular information is subject to change.

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.

About this Module

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
Specified Learning Activities

10

Autonomous Student Learning

64

Lectures

36

Total

110


Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Module delivery will involve a blended teaching strategy, combining traditional face-to-face lecture content delivery with online material and self-directed learning resources. 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 Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Exam (In-person): End of Trimester - MCQ Exam
Multiple Choice and True/False-style questions
End of trimester
Duration:
2 hr(s)
Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No
70
No
Exam (Online): Mid-trimester Assessment - Brightspace Quiz:
MCQ-style questions
True/False-style questions
Problem-based questions
Week 6 Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No
30
No

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
Dr Jennifer Mitchell Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Professor John O'Connor Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Niamh O'Sullivan Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Margaret Worrall Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Tadhg Ó'Cróinín Lecturer / Co-Lecturer

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
Spring Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Fri 10:00 - 10:50
Spring Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Mon 09:00 - 09:50
Spring Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Wed 09:00 - 09:50