PATH40060 Precision Oncology

Academic Year 2023/2024

The Precision Oncology module outlines i) the scientific basis for precision oncology research, and ii) precision oncology tools (e.g., diagnostic molecular tests) available in routine clinical settings and in development. We will discuss the current genomics and other -omics technologies used for precision oncology; and how the genetic, genomic and molecular information generated aid the screening, diagnosis, classification, treatment selection, risk stratification, treatment response, and monitoring of cancer.
Seminars/Webinars are grouped around the major topics of molecular basis of tumorigenesis, cancer genomics, molecular oncology and network biology which will be accompanied by tutorials. The course is delivered by scientists, bioinformaticians, pathologists, and clinicians, reflecting on the multidisciplinary approach to personalized patient care. Students will also have opportunity to observe multidisciplinary team meetings (MDT) and molecular MDTs which are crucial to the successful translation of the molecular data into true benefit for patients.
Assessment is based on group projects, presentations, and portfolio throughout the year.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

Following the completion of this module you will be expected to:

1. Understand how precision oncology helps doctors to select the right targeted treatment in the right dose at the right time for each patient based on the genetic and molecular understanding of their individual disease.
2. Develop a multidisciplinary mindset to understand precision oncology research, and to be able to translate it into the clinic.
3. Understand the basic concepts of the technologies/platforms (e.g., genomics, proteomics etc.) used in precision oncology.
4. Be able to interpret the genetic, genomic, and other molecular data generated; and recognize actionable targets, predictive and prognostic markers.
5. Identify the main molecular diagnostic tests currently used in clinical practice; and be aware of molecular tests coming down the line.
6. Understand the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in patient care; understand the diagnostic work-up of a cancer patient, the role of the pathologist and bioinformatician in making a precise diagnosis; the impact of this diagnosis on the subsequent treatment of the patient.

Indicative Module Content:

Tumour Biology
Cancer Genomics
Molecular Oncology
Network Biology

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Tutorial

7
Seminar (or Webinar)

25
Specified Learning Activities

15
Autonomous Student Learning

85
Total

132
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Online and/or face-to-face seminars and tutorials; active/task-based learning; group work; reflective learning; case-based learning; student presentations.
 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Portfolio: Each student will keep a log tracking their progress over the weeks on what they have learnt (including personal reflections on each block), and record their contribution to the group projects. Unspecified n/a Graded No

20
Presentation: Mock molecular tumour boards by group of students or presentations around a patient case which appreciates the contribution of molecular pathology and genomics to patient management. Unspecified n/a Graded No

30
Group Project: By a group of students; includes collecting and interpreting publicly available genomic/proteomics datasets for precision oncology (e.g., designing a cancer panel, setting up treatment). Unspecified n/a Graded No

50

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Remediation Type Remediation Timing
In-Module Resit Prior to relevant Programme Exam Board
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Peer review activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
 
Spring
      
Tutorial Offering 1 Week(s) - 21, 24, 32, 33 Fri 10:00 - 12:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Mon 16:00 - 16:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 23 Mon 16:00 - 16:50
Tutorial Offering 1 Week(s) - 32 Thurs 12:00 - 13:50
Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 Wed 11:00 - 11:50
Spring