Oncology
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| PHAR2032 | Pharmacy | 2 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- PHAR2032
- School
- Pharmacy
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
This module provides:
An introduction to signal transduction networks using examples related to oncology
An introduction to the process of cell division
An introduction to the `Hallmarks of Cancer
An introduction to the roles of oncogenes, tumour suppressor genes and genes involved in eukaryotic gene regulation, DNA replication, recombination and repair
Pharmacology of cytotoxic and molecularly targeted chemotherapy
Introduction to nanoformulations and biopharmaceuticals such as monoclonal antibodies and their use in the treatment of cancers
Using examples related to oncology, you will explore signal transduction networks, eukaryotic gene regulation, DNA replication, recombination and repair.
You will examine in detail receptor-mediated signalling, and study how drugs perturb signalling cascades.
You will also learn about processes involved in cell division, and with examples, how conventional cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents target DNA and halt cell division.
Development of nanoformulations and production of biopharmaceutics (monoclonal antibodies) in eukaryotic cells will be considered.
Target Students
BSc Pharmaceutical Sciences and MSci Pharmaceutical Sciences with a Year in Industry (Year 2)
Assessment
- 30% Coursework 1: Electronic submission of a completed workbook containing questions related to material covered in the module including practical sessions, workshops and lectures.
- 70% Exam 1 (2-hour): ExamSys in person.
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
The module provides an integrated approach to develop knowledge and understanding, as well as practical and professional transferrable skills, centred on oncology.Knowledge and understanding:To gain knowledge of eukaryotic gene expression and DNA replication, recombination and repair. To recognise the complexities of the cell cycle and signal transduction cascadesTo understand molecular mechanisms underlying pathogenesis of malignant phenotypes and to recognise the impact on the cellular function and the whole organismTo understand the pharmacological basis of exemplar anticancer therapies and their molecular targets in the context of disease pathogenesisTo understand the rationale for, and the challenges and opportunities associated with, use of nanomedicines in cancer therapy.To appreciate the influence of hypothesis-driven experimentation in furthering knowledgeProfessional/practical skills:To learn how to conduct practical experimental work using appropriate materials, operating procedures and instruments. Learn how to organise sampling with appropriate ‘controls’Gain ability and confidence in experimental designTransferable skills:Skills that will be exercised and developed throughout this module include: Time-management, teamwork, individual study, critical use of electronic and library information resources; Attention to detail (particularly of relevance in practical skills), numerical skills, data analyses, logical and critical thought, integrative and cross-disciplinary understanding.Effective communication and information dissemination in a number of ways e.g. oral, visual and written.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
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.