Cancer and clinical genetics

Code School Level Credits Semesters
LIFE2110 Biomedical Sciences 2 10 Autumn Malaysia
Code
LIFE2110
School
Biomedical Sciences
Level
2
Credits
10
Semesters
Autumn Malaysia

Summary

This module covers the molecular mechanisms for human diseases with a genetic component. The lectures will cover clinical features and the genetic basis of selected diseases. This also include discussion of mutation detection and genetic assessment methods to provide experience in interpreting genetic modes of inheritance and tests of inherited disorders. Another major focus of this module is the most recent developments in cancer genetics. It will include consideration of the biological mechanisms underlying specific cancer types, discussion of how recent genomic studies have led to the identification of genes that play important roles in cancer formation, and outline how molecular genetic techniques are facilitating rapid advances in this field. In addition, we will consider how these advances in the understanding of cancer are influencing the development of new treatments.

Target Students

Biomedical Sciences students

Classes

Assessment

Assessed by end of autumn semester

Educational Aims

To understand the genetic basis of various genetic disorders and cancers. To understand the assessments that are used to study the cell genome, epigenome, and transcriptome and how these tools can guide screening, diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of genetic diseases.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students should be able to:
1)     Describe the principles of Mendelian inheritance and the genetic basis and clinical features of selected Mendelian and non-Mendelian disorders and cancer subtypes                                                
2)     Describe mutation detection and how genetic assessments can aid in the screening, diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of genetic diseases                                                 
3)     Explain the multi-step development of cancer and the role of key regulators in these steps                                             
4)     Evaluate the experimental evidence used to elucidate disease pathways and inform treatment strategies    

Conveners

View in Curriculum Catalogue
Last updated 09/01/2025.