BMS3031

Hormones, health and disease

6 points · 3 lectures per week and 3 hours practical or equivalent · First semester · Clayton

Objectives This subject will provide students with a thorough understanding of the structure and function of the major endocrine systems of the body. The students will appreciate the types and mechanisms of action of hormones; the role of hormones in regulating homeostatic and adaptive responses of the body; the role of hormones in coordinating responses to stress; the control of metabolic responses and the control of growth. The students will learn about the central role of the pituitary gland in communicating between the central nervous system and rest of the body. Students will be provided with examples of the consequences of under- or over-production of hormones to emphasise the physiology of hormonal systems. In addition, the role of hormones in regulating the body's response to a variety of disease states, including cancer, will be examined by the students. This subject will also introduce students to the research and technological methodologies and approaches used in endocrinological research. This subject will prove invaluable to those students who wish to undertake further studies in endocrinology or integrated physiology, and those who wish to undertake vocationally directed studies in the health care sector.

Synopsis This subject will provide a detailed understanding of endocrine systems. The general principles of neuroendocrinology and the diverse functions of the anterior pituitary gland will provide an overall theme for students to consider a number of coordinating functions of the endocrine system. Practical sessions and correlation classes will emphasise and extend the theoretical information learnt in lectures, but will also provide students with a number of techniques for endocrine measurements. Students will have the opportunity to undertake a small research project under appropriate supervision, which will introduce students to current approaches to endocrine research.

Assessment Examination: 50% · Practical reports and presentations: 15% · Essay: 20% · Project involvement and report: 15%

Prescribed texts

To be advised

Back to the 1999 Medicine Handbook