PERS30020 Molecular Exercise Science

Academic Year 2022/2023

This module forms part of the core curriculum for the BSc degree in Health and Performance Science at Stage 3. It may be taken as an option for Biochemistry, Pharmacology or Physiology BSc students at stage 3 or 4. The molecular biology of exercise represents a new vista in the sport and exercise sciences, with an increasing acknowledgement that discoveries made on the bench-top have wide-ranging implications in the efficacy and application of exercise and training in health and disease. This module explores the molecular biology that underpins the many metabolic effects of exercise and adaptations to exercise. Beginning with an introduction to molecular exercise science and key concepts, the pathways that regulate the acute response to aerobic and resistance exercise and the nature of adaptation to training are then explored. Special reference is given to skeletal muscle, but other organs are also considered. This information is later discussed in relation to the relevance of these pathways in biological adaptation in health and disease, particularly in the context of insulin resistance and lifestyle-related chronic disease. In addition, genetics, sport and exercise and ‘omics’ strategies (nutrigenomics, metabolomics and proteomics) – a rapidly emerging multidisciplinary field - in health and exercise science are introduced.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this module students should be able to:

i. Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental molecular building blocks of muscle cells
ii. Describe key concepts and methods used in exercise biochemistry and molecular exercise physiology
iii. Critique the role of genetics in sport and exercise
iv. Critically analyse the effects of endurance and resistance training on gene transcription and translation in muscle
v. Synthesise the literature on the molecular effects of exercise in the context of promoting adaptation to exercise and/or reducing disease risk and development.
vi. Display an understanding of nutrigenomics, proteomics and metabolomics

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24
Specified Learning Activities

40
Autonomous Student Learning

60
Total

124
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
lectures; active/task-based learning; critical writing; case-based learning 
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
Continuous Assessment: Assignment on Key Topic Throughout the Trimester n/a Graded No

50
Examination: Exam Unspecified No Graded No

40
Multiple Choice Questionnaire: During Trimester MCQ Throughout the Trimester n/a Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No

10

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

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Recommended Text
Wackerhage, Henning. (2014) Molecular Exercise Physiology: An introduction. Routledge, London, UK.
ISBN-10: 0415607884/ISBN-13: 978-0415607889