In this Capstone unit, students will apply their previously obtained knowledge of molecular and cellular Biology to explore the molecular processes of multifactorial diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. This knowledge will be integrated into investigations of recent advances in molecular medicine including targeted therapies and diagnosis. Consolidation of molecular techniques utilized in molecular biomedicine will underpin this unit. Students will develop both theoretical and laboratory skills essential for becoming successful professionals in both research and clinical based biomedical science.

Unit details

Location:
St Albans
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
HBM3204

Prerequisites

RBM2133 - Cell and Molecular Biology

HBM2106 - Human Genetics

Contact us

Find a different unit

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Critically review current knowledge of molecular mechanisms resulting in human diseases and the impact of these diseases in both an individual and global context;  
  2. Critically assess the use of current and emerging molecular biotechnology techniques to determine the molecular mechanisms of diseases and the design of targeted therapies;  
  3. Ability to critically review and apply molecular and biotechnology methodologies;  
  4. Collaborate constructively within small groups in the planning, development and implementation of teamwork tasks;  
  5. Report on and elucidate on research data and scientific ideas.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Test Two (2) Topic Tests (30 mins each) 10%
Laboratory Work Four (4) Practical Reports (2,000 words total) 25%
Case Study Team presentation (1000 words) 15%
Examination Multiple choice & short answer questions (2000 words) 50%

Required reading

Molecular Pathology: The Molecular Basis of Human Diseas 1st ed.
Coleman. W.B., & Tsongalis. G.J., (2009)
Elsevier

In addition to the above texts, students will utilize articles from primary scientific literature and recommended online readings.

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

You can choose to study this unit as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to structure your course to include this unit.

Course Study as part of
Bachelor of Biomedical Science Molecular Cell Biology - Major

Study a single unit

This unit may be available as a single unit of study.

Find out more about how to apply for single units of study at VU.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.