PATH40080 High Throughput Technologies

Academic Year 2022/2023

High-throughput technologies (HTTs) have become crucial to medical research areas, including drug discovery, genomics, and molecular biology.These technologies allow scientists and clinicians to carry out studies that are expected to transform medicine, and ultimately develop new medicines and therapeutic management strategies tailored to individual patients. This offers the ability to carry out high-throughput studies characterized by big data production. Indeed, the completion of the first human genome sequence and the availability of high-scale technological tools have made it possible to study genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and other -omic sciences at a previously unthinkable level. The integration of these disciplines is further increasing our understanding of the molecular bases of human diseases. This module aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of omic sciences and the potential of the datasets emerging from these technologies to diagnose, monitor, and target many common diseases. Students will learn from academic and industry experts on the fundamentals and applications of HTTs to address global health problems. Delivery of material is flexible and includes in-class and online sessions, laboratory demonstrations of HTTs by the experts, as well as group work presentations to learn more about the latest advances in HTTs.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able to:
1) Explain fundamental principles of genome, epigenome, transcriptome, proteome and metabolome biology.
2) Describe the various high-throughput technologies available to investigate biological systems in health and disease.
3) Outline the advantages/limitations of different omics approaches, and key factors underlying choice of biological material for studies.

Indicative Module Content:

This module aims to offer a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of omics sciences and the potential of the datasets emerging from these technologies to diagnose, monitor, and target many common diseases. Topics covered include introductory lectures to explore fundamental principles of the human genome, transcriptome, epigenome, proteome and metabolome. Applications/Technology lectures will cover practical consideration in biological sample sourcing, best practices, sample preparation, technological solutions and interpretation. Content will be delivered by UCD School of Medicine staff as well as invited expert lecturers with pharma experience.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

13
Tutorial

4
Laboratories

4
Autonomous Student Learning

122
Total

143
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures.
Viewing of videos explaining key scientific and technical concepts.
Online MCQ assessments delivered using Brightspace.
Self-directed learning using materials provided on Brightspace.
Student presentations and critical analysis of research papers.
Laboratory tours and demonstrations. 
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
Assignment: Assignments/Case study reports Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

30
Examination: 1 hour MCQ or short answer questions based exam 1 hour End of Trimester Exam No Graded No

50
Presentation: Groupwork journal club/presentation Unspecified n/a Graded No

20

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
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?

Individuals requesting one to one feedback can schedule appointments with the MC or lecturer at mutually agreeable times. Feedback on essays and group work will be provided prior to submission.

Name Role
Professor Walter Kolch Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Professor Brendan Loftus Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Vadim Zhernovkov Lecturer / Co-Lecturer