Endocrine and Metabolism

Code School Level Credits Semesters
PHAR1019 Pharmacy 1 20 Spring UK
Code
PHAR1019
School
Pharmacy
Level
1
Credits
20
Semesters
Spring UK

Summary

This module considers:
Introduction to the human endocrine system and the body’s metabolic processes
The importance of nutrition – specifically the roles of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals
Hormonal control of metabolism
Introduction to common endocrine and metabolic diseases and their treatments
The fate of drugs within the body – specifically metabolism and the role of solute transporters in absorption and excretion
You will study human endocrinology and metabolism - processes essential for normal growth and survival. The effects of malnutrition and hormonal imbalance on health and homeostasis will be evaluated with specific referrals to metabolic and endocrine disorders. Pharmacological intervention strategies and the metabolism of therapeutics will be examined.

Target Students

MSci Pharmaceutical Sciences with a Year in Industry (Year 1) and BSc Hons Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Assessment

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

The module will provide an integrated approach to develop knowledge & understanding, practical/professional and transferable skills centred on the human metabolic and endocrine systems. Subject knowledge: You will obtain an understanding of the human endocrine system and its secretions - steroid, amine and peptide hormones. The body’s metabolic processes will be taught imparting understanding of the fate in the body of fats, proteins (amino acids) sugars, vitamins and minerals. The importance of macromolecules and micronutrients for survival and growth and during aging will be considered. You will gain knowledge of endocrine and metabolic diseases and, with reference to specific examples, be introduced to pharmacological therapies developed to treat and prevent disease. The fate of drugs within the body will be taught, with emphasis on the importance of drug metabolism and the role of solute transporters in absorption and excretion. You will obtain an understanding of safe working in a biochemical laboratory. You will gain numeracy skills and be able to carry out quantitative analysis of protein content. Critical evaluation of data generated, and basic statistical skills using Microsoft Excel will be undertaken. You will gain the skill required to write a critical scientific report including use of tables, graphs and appropriate references to the literature and other resources.

Learning Outcomes

After successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

A. Knowledge and understanding:
A4 Demonstrate a broad knowledge of normal physiology at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels and the pharmacological basis of therapy in the context of disease processes
A5 Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of concepts and analytical methods relevant for drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics

C. Professional/practical skills
C2 Undertake practical experimental work using appropriate materials, operating procedures and instruments;
C3 Undertake numerical tasks and carry out quantitative analysis relevant to pharmaceutical science;
C6 Apply and report scientific knowledge in an ethical manner.

D. Transferable/key skills
D1 Critically use information resources, including library and electronic sources;
D3 Communicate effectively in a variety of forms, including written, verbal and visual.

Conveners

View in Curriculum Catalogue
Last updated 07/01/2025.