module specification

This module explores the classification, structure and function of tissues within the Human body, and provides in-depth coverage of the fundamentals of the science of pathology, exploring the underlying genetic, molecular and cellular perturbations that lead to pathological tissue states incurred by inflammation, infection, trauma and neoplasia. Students will also gain practical experience of modern laboratory techniques used to investigate and diagnose tissue samples within a biomedical setting.
This module aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the structure and functional of different cell and tissue types, and the genetic, molecular and cellular factors underpinning the pathogenesis of selected human diseases.
The module aims to review the basic the basic techniques of gene analysis and tissue identification.

This module will cover the classification, structure and function of tissues and provide an In-depth analysis of cell and tissue pathology, including aspects of pathogenic infection, inflammation, local and systemic responses to trauma and stress, modes of cell death (apoptosis and necrosis), neoplasia, cell and tissue ageing. Review the types of microscopy and their applications. LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4, LO5
The syllabus also provides an analysis of gene structure, genome organisation and the contribution of genetic defects and epigenetics to disease states. The molecular biology aspects of the manipulation of nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) so that genes can be isolated, sequenced or mutated. LO2
Laboratory classes will provide training in current diagnostic pathological techniques in the investigation of disease at a genetic, molecular and cellular level. Practical exercises will involve the preparation of cells and tissues for microscopic examination, and basic and specialised staining techniques.  LO3, LO4

Student learning and understanding of the module content will be developed through an integrated programme of lectures, practical sessions and supporting tutorials.  Lectures (44 hours) will be used to provide a conceptual framework and introduce students to fundamental aspects of tissue science and pathology.  Tutorials (17 hours) will be used to expand knowledge into more applied areas of genetics, molecular biology and pathology.  Practical sessions (10 hours) are intended to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of current histolopathological techniques and to emphasise the need to record experimental data rapidly and accurately, and to produce and interpret results obtained from the sessions and to present material in a clear and appropriate scientific style in the form of assessed practical reports.
A web based VLE is available to support, reinforce and test student understanding through the use of on-line quizzes and access to additional learning resources.  Students would be expected to use the on-line resources for assisted study.

On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate an understanding of normal cell and tissue types
2. Describe how genetic, molecular and cellular lesions might lead to named disease states
3. Demonstrate  an understanding of diagnostic histopathological techniques in the investigation of disease
4. Demonstrate an understanding of molecular biological techniques such as gene analysis and recombinant DNA.
5. Compile and analyse analytical data and present laboratory findings in an appropriate scientific  format

In order to pass the module, students are required to obtain a minimum aggregate mark of 40%.  The module will be summatively assessed by means of a seen essay (30%)(1500 words),  an end of semester one exam (20%)(1.5 hours), a practical report(30%)(1000 words), and an end of semester two exam (20%)(1.5 hours).

To pass the module, students need to achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 40%.  There will be an attendance requirement for the practical sessions.

Component                                         Marks                      Learning outcomes          
Practical report (1500 words)          30%                        1,2,3                         
Written exam (1.5 hours)                  20%                        1,2,3,4
Practical write-up (1000 words)      30%                         3,5
Written exam (1.5 hours)                  20%                        1,2,3,4

Alberts B., Bray D., Lewis J., Raff M., Roberts K. and Watson J.D. (2014).  Molecular Biology of the Cell, Garland, London, New York.
Bancroft J.D. and Gamble M. (2007).  Theory and Practice of Histological Techniques (6th ed). Churchill Livingstone.
Carton J, Daly R and Ramani P (2007). Clinical Pathology. OUP.
Hartwell L.H., Hood L., Goldberg M.L., Reynolds A.E. and Silver L.M. (2011)
Genetics: From Genes to Genomes (4th edit). McGraw-Hill.
Kumar V, Abbas A, Fausto N and Aster J (2014).  Pathological Basis of Disease (9thed) Elsevier Saunders. (Core)