This course provides students with an introduction into the basic molecular and genetic principles underpinning human variation and disease susceptibility. The course also introduces the concepts of gene therapy, molecular medicine and pharmacogenomics.

Lectures weekly during the second semester.

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Coursework - short answer and multiple choice online coursework focussing on lecture content and independent learning (20%)

Final written exam (80%)

The aims of this course are to:

■ allow students to develop critical understanding of the basis for genetic and molecular variation within humans as a basis for disease susceptibility

■ explain some of the research techniques commonly used in this field

■ introduce students to the fields of molecular and gene therapy and pharmacogenomics.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

■ Demonstrate a critical understanding of how nucleic acids function to produce proteins.

■ Evaluate methods and laboratory techniques used to study nucleic acids.

■ Discuss in depth the theories and principles of monogenic and polygenic inheritance.

■ Identify and critically discuss the principles and concepts underlying the genetic dissection of molecular mechanisms of human disease.

■ Discuss and critique fundamental principles of pharmacogenomics.

■ Discuss and critique fundamental principles of gene therapy.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.