Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module students will understand the mechanisms underlying haemostasis and thrombosis, the control of vascular intactness, the regulation of blood platelets, the clotting cascade, the fibrinolytic system and the role of the endothelium. Students will also be able to describe and discuss some clinically important disorders of haemostasis.
Indicative Module Content:
Components of blood and the structure of the vascular wall are revised. The biogenesis, structure and function of platelets are described. Molecular signalling networks including the nitric oxide and prostacyclin pathways, and the role of platelets in the separation of lymphatic and blood vessels are discussed. The clotting cascade and the fibrinolytic pathway and their regulation are outlined. Interactions between clotting factors, platelets, and the vascular wall are highlighted. The origins of various bleeding and thrombotic disorders are discussed. Methods to assess platelet, clotting, and vascular function are described. Thrombotic disorders of veins and arteries are presented. Original research papers are used to highlight recent advances and controversies in the field.