In this module you will study the central concepts relating to the disciplines included within the Cellular Sciences such as: cellular biology, pathology, immunology and reference to the clinical disciplines of cellular pathology and clinical immunology. It begins by revising the basics of cell biology and cellular cycles, growth, cell differentiation and specialisation. It examines cell migration, cell trafficking including vesicular biology and some elements of cell signalling and communication. Following on from study of ‘normal’ you will investigate abnormal developments and cellular pathogenesis. Tumour cell biology and development, appearance, structural change and preparation of cells for examination including the techniques used within cellular pathology. Stem cell biology and its potential in regenerative medicine is explored. You will understand malignancy and how this appears in histological and cytological samples. Diagnosis and treatment of key conditions such as example common cancers.The normal functioning of the innate and adaptive immune system are studied along with inflammation and the principles of the measurement of effectors if the immune system. Clinical immunology and the study of immunopathological conditions is included. Consideration of immunisation, vaccine production and immunological memory together with disorders of the immune system including hypersensitivities, immune deficiencies and autoimmunity. Rejection of transplanted organs and tissues will also be considered, with tissue typing, blood group antigens and the safe supply of biologics in treatment. Cutting-edge therapies such as immunotherapy will be explored. You will undertake a range of cellular and immunological practical sessions, enabling. Finally, the organisation of cellular pathology laboratory services including the services available from reference laboratories, the role of different staff groups in reporting cellular pathology results and other important aspects such as the regulations and guidelines relating to the use, storage and disposal of human tissue will be covered.

The module runs for 10 weeks and is comprised of:
10 x 1 hour lectures associated with 10 x 3 hour practical classes or workshops. The latter may contain material delivered by the tutor in shorter mini-lecture style.
Independent Study – 110 hours:
Preparation for workshops - one hr per week, in advance - 9 hours
Data analysis from the practical sessions - 10 hours
Preparation for assessments - 10 hours
Extension of material in lectures and workshops and work related to assessment 81 hours

The following texts are available in the Library and guidance can be given with respect to purchase. These will be useful in Level 5, 6 and 7 (as appropriate).

Todd, I and Spickett, G (2010) Immunology 6th Ed WileyBlackwell

Delves, P.J;Martin, J;Burton, D.R. and Roitt, I (2011) Roitt's Essential Immunology. 12th Ed. WileyBlackwell.

Cross, S. (2013) Underwood’s Pathology: A Clinical Approach 6th Edition. Churchill Livingstone 9780702053382

Shambayati, B (2011) Cytopathology (Fundamentals of Biomedical Science) 1st edition. Oxford University Press 978-0199533923

Orchard, G and Nation, B. (2011) Histopathology (Fundamentals of Biomedical Science). 1st Edition. Oxford University Press. 978-0199574346

Optional additional material;

Young, B et al. (6th Edition) Wheater s Functional Histology. Churchill Livingstone.
Bancroft, JD. Theory and Practice of Histological Techniques. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Other resources as directed during the module

Access to specialist laboratory facilities and equipment
Assistance of technical skills specialists in relevant practical sessions
University support for appropriate licensing in respect of use of human tissue for practical sessions
Access to suitable rooms for technology enhanced group work for workshops

Study of Bioscience Concepts and Practice at level 4

1. KNOW AND UNDERSTAND THE FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTS AND PROCESSES OF CELLULAR BIOLOGY Knowledge and Understanding

2. WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF CELLULAR PATHOLOGY, EVALUATE NORMAL AND ABNORMAL CELLULAR FUNCTIONING
Application

3. KNOW AND UNDERSTAND HOW THE INNATE AND ADAPTIVE IMMUNE SYSTEM FUNCTION INCLUDING UNDERLYING CONCEPTS AND RELATED BIOLOGICAL PROCESSES
Enquiry

4. WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY, EVALUATE NORMAL AND ABNORMAL IMMUNE SYSTEM FUNCTION
Learning

5. SAFELY AND COMPETENTLY PERFORM SELECTED CELLULAR AND IMMUNOLOGICAL PRACTICAL PROCEDURES AND APPROPRIATELY INTERPRET FINDINGS BY ANALYSING EVIDENCE IN PUBLISHED SCIENTIFIC LITERATURE
Problem Solving
Reflection

The module is assessed by:

Assessment 1: In-class tests. A series of 4 short tests related to both the theoretical and practical components of the module designed to evaluate understanding of both lecture and laboratory sessions, as well as analysis of laboratory data and experimental techniques. (12.5%/12.5%/12.5%/12.5%) (LOs 1 – 5)

Assessment 2: Practical Case-based Discussion. A viva-style discussion based on a final practical case simulation. This is the FINAL assessment. (50 %) (LOs 1 – 5)