Drug Targets and Pharmacodynamics (20 Credits)
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| PHAR4033 | Pharmacy | 4 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- PHAR4033
- School
- Pharmacy
- Level
- 4
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
This module covers an in-depth overview of the major molecular targets of drugs in current clinical usage. The module also introduces the concepts involved in early drug discovery.
As such, this module considers the following key areas:
Experimental Design and Analysis;
The Diversity of Molecular Drug Targets;
Cell Signalling Modalities and Their Relationship with Tissue and Organismal Behaviours;
Pharmacotherapy of Major Human Diseases and Disorders.
Target Students
MSc Drug Discovery and MSc Drug Discovery with Industrial Training (2 year).
Classes
Note that the following is an estimate only: 30 hours contact time, 34 hours directed learning, 136 hours self-directed study, revision and assessment. Total = 200 hours.
Assessment
- 40% Coursework 1: Coursework in the form of a Target Product Profile submitted at the end of the term. (2,000 words).
- 60% Exam 1 (3-hour): Written exam at end of semester.
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
The module will use combinations of lectures, workshops and e-learning packages to provide a comprehensive assessment of current classes of clinical drug targets and consider how additional targets are to be exploited in the future.Drug classes to be considered include those targeting:G protein-coupled receptorsLigand-gated ion channelsVoltage-gated and other ion channelsNuclear hormone receptorsCatalytic receptorsTransportersEnzymesHormones and cytokinesAtypical drug targets.The second part of the module is formed of case studies on the major human diseases and disorders, identifying the background (epidemiology and pathology), as well as current and future therapeutic options to treat:AgeingCancerCardiovascular disordersRespiratory disordersPain and inflammationLearning Outcomes
By the end of the module the student will be able to:
CC1.1 - Critically evaluate and understand modern and historic approaches to drug discovery, demonstrating awareness of the future development of the subject.
CC1.3 - Critically evaluate and employ techniques applicable to advanced scholarship in the study of drug discovery.
CC1.5 - Critically evaluate and present material related specifically to the pre-clinical and clinical development of medicines/devices.
CC2.1 - Exercise the skills of critical reasoning in relation to the application of core scientific disciplines in the drug discovery process.
CC3.2 - Organise and implement a programme of self-directed learning through reflective study.
Conveners
- Dr Chloe Peach
- Dr Stephen Paul Hilary Alexander