Leader: Dr Richard Kitching (Medicine MMC)

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit will concentrate on the pathobiological and biomedical basis of important human disease processes. Areas examined in this unit include immune and inflammatory diseases, (eg inflammatory renal and joint disease); cancer biology (focussing on mechanisms of tumour spread and tumour immunology); cardiovascular biology, (coronary artery disease); and human reproduction. Disease pathogenesis, including lessons gained from cell/molecular biology and disease models will be the major focus. To provide context and breadth other aspects of disease will be covered with varying emphasis, including epidemiological/clinical features of disease, current treatments and future treatment prospects.

Objectives

On completion of this unit student will be able to:

1. place understanding of biomedical processes in the context of the current understanding of the pathogenesis and, to a lesser degree, treatment of human disease;
2. comprehend relevant examples of human health and disease in the areas of immune/inflammatory injury, malignant disease, cardiovascular disease and human reproduction;
3. describe how the study of pathobiological processes relates to disease;
4. explain how experimental medical science, including cell biology, animal models of disease and human studies are important in defining the pathogenesis of disease and optimal treatment of disease;
5. appreciate how clinical features, epidemiological context, diagnosis and treatment (including pharmacological therapies) are relevant to disease;
6. discuss the impact that disease may have on the individual and society;
7. ) identify current inadequacies in knowledge and future challenges in disease pathogenesis and treatment by examining the biomedical literature;
8. develop skills in team work, communication and practical aspects of biomedical research;
9. enhance skills in assessing, summarizing and placing biomedical research in context.

Assessment

Examination (3 hours): 54%
mid-semester test: 10%
Satisfactory attendance and participation in seminars: 2%
Group seminar: individual component: 11%
group written assignment: 11%
Research experience, including editorial writing: 12%

Contact hours

6 hours per week plus 6 hours private study per week

Prerequisites

BMS2011, BMS2021, BMS2031, BMS2052