1. Explain the nature of tumorigenesis including its contrast to normal cellular function and the examination of pre-disposing factors for cancers.
Knowledge and understanding

2. Review the treatments currently deployed in cancer therapy with attention to their mechanisms of action and challenges of resistance.
Enquiry

3. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the intrinsic and extrinsic factors important for stem cell renewal and differentiation
Knowledge and Understanding

4. Evaluate the clinical significance of stem cell research and the possible problems that need to be overcome
Analysis

5. Critically appraise the ethical issues and controversies in the field concerning the use of adult, embryonic and cancer stem cells and induced pluripotent cells
Application

Tumour biology will be studied under four broad headings, each one considering tumours on a larger scale. Molecular and Cellular Tumour Biology: Here we will study genetic changes associated with carcinogenesis including the effects of chemical and physical carcinogens, oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes and their relationship to DNA repair mechanisms and cell cycle progression. Changes in cellular morphology and behaviour associated with carcinogenesis will also be studied. Tumour Growth and Treatment. Within this section we will study the changes in tissue architecture associated with the progression from normality to malignancy and metastasis. We will also consider, in the context of tumour development, the effectiveness and mechanisms of currently used approaches of tumour therapy including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Whole Body Effects of Tumours: This section will include study of the effects that tumours may have on parts of the body distant from their site of growth due to either their physical growth e.g. through blockage of the alimentary tract, or their metabolic effects e.g. through the secretion of ectopic hormones. This section will also include screening and diagnostic tests for cancer. Tumour Epidemiology: Here we will consider the findings of large scale studies of the incidence tumours in populations. The balance between genetic, epigenetic and environmental influences will be evaluated together with an evaluation of the possible effectiveness of intervention strategies to reduce tumour incidence by changing behaviour and lifestyle.
The second part of the module considers the discipline of regenerative medicine and stem cell biology. You will study stem cell biology in depth and their application to regenerative medicine. You will study the molecular and genetic control of cell fate specification and differentiation., including stem cell niches, adult, embryonic and cancer stem cells. Induced pluripotency and the use of stem cells in therapy. Consideration will be given to existing and potential clinical use of stem cells and their derivatives, and of the ethical issues that this raises. As this is a rapidly developing field, strong emphasis will be placed on understanding the current research in this area.

In this module you will study two of the most exciting areas of current life science research: Cancer biology and regenerative medicine. We all know someone with cancer and many life scientists aim to put their skills towards uncovering greater understanding of this disease and in developing new treatments and therapies. WE will look at the very latest findings and analyse where the gaps in research lie. Stem cells – one of the most exciting new applications of recent decades. Now coming of age, our understanding and use of stem cells in revolutionary new treatments is beginning to bear fruit. IN this module, you will explore both of these areas to excite and enthuse your next career moves.

All sessions will begin with a tutor led context setting lecture and follow with discussion and workshop tasks.

Preparatory work will be set to assist you in getting ready for the time constrained essay tests, therefore attendance at all sessions is highly recommended. You will be required to read research papers for this module and some sessions will assist you in the Critical reading skill development. The module uses video and media resources which will be made available on Blackboard.

Suitable rooming for group work and discussion. Full IT facilities including screen casting.

1 Seen Essay Coursework (50%) 1500 words. L.O. 1 and 2.
2 Time constrained open book essay ¿ stem cells 50% 1 hour L.O. 3, 4 and 5

Full details of the essays will be provided in the module handbook and including detailed schedule of the preparatory sessions.