PHA-20036 - Module Specification
School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering
Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

Advanced cell biology is an in-depth examination of cell structure and functional mechanisms across core topics related to cell growth, identity, communication and death. Lectures will be supported by laboratory sessions focussed on exploring fluorescence microscopy techniques to observe cells and sub-cellular organelles. Assessment will be via a combination of examination and coursework tasks.
A firm understanding of advanced cell biology is key to the effective exploitation of cells in the development of the cell therapies, tissue engineered products and medical devices, underpinning the regenerative medicine field.

This module will provide in-depth coverage of the cell structures and functional mechanisms underpinning cell behaviour including cell growth and death, the control movement in and out of the cell, and how cells respond to signals from the environment.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Discuss how organelles common to eukaryotic cells contribute to normal function in healthy cells: 2,3
Distinguish the different molecular mechanisms by which the cell membrane acts as a semi permeable barrier to regulate the entry and exit of substances at the cell surface: 3
Relate how the structural and molecular changes cells undergo during their lifecycle (cell cycle, proliferation, differentiation and cell death) contribute to overall cell, tissue and organism function: 2,3
Compare the modes of action of cell receptors to different types of signalling events and explain the structural and molecular mechanisms of intracellular signal transduction result in altered cell function: 3
Evaluate the contribution of altered cell structure and function to disease presentation and progression in a named disease and propose a possible regenerative medicine therapeutic approach from information available in the scientific literature: 1,3
Interpret advanced microscopy images and differentiate between different imaging strategies: 2,3

Study hours

In situ lectures (24 hrs)
Tutorial (1 Hr)
Laboratory sessions (8 hrs)
Drop in session (1 hr)
Exam (2 hr)
Essay research and preparation (20 hrs)
Portfolio preparation (20)
Exam preparation/private study (74)

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment