This module explores modern concepts of molecular biology and cutting-edge tools at the forefront of diagnosis, monitoring and therapy of human diseases. Students will examine topics ranging from the molecular basis of major disorders and the use of molecular imaging to single-cell transcriptomics, genome editing and regenerative medicine. The curriculum also addresses ethical and societal considerations in translational research.

Major human diseases and their molecular background Frequent diseases discussed in an integrative approach, with diagnostic strategies and current treatment options and their limitations.
Molecular basis of infectious diseases A focus on the role of micro-organisms in human health and disease and the growing importance of virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance.
Molecular mechanisms of disease: from bench to bedside Understanding the underlying molecular pathways driving various diseases and their implications for targeted therapies.
Proteomics and metabolomics in biomarker discovery Application of protein and metabolite profiling to discover novel markers for early detection and monitoring of diseases.
Molecular imaging techniques for translational medicine Advanced imaging technologies and their role in visualising disease processes, guiding interventions, and evaluating treatment efficacy.
RNA-based therapies and genome editing Discussing recent academic success and clinical approvals, examples of causative therapies using innovative tools of molecular biology will be presented.
Single-cell transcriptomics in disease diagnosis and research Exploring how single-cell RNA sequencing enables the identification of cellular heterogeneity in diseases and informs personalized medicine.
Regenerative medicine: translating molecular discoveries into therapies Stem cell and tissue engineering approaches for repairing or replacing damaged tissues and organs.
Nanotechnology in molecular biology and medicine Use of nanoparticles and nanoscale devices for drug delivery, diagnostics, and molecular imaging.
Ethical, legal and societal implications of modern molecular biology Ethical dilemmas and approaches are essential for recent and future developments in molecular biology. Recent discussions in the UK and elsewhere, the legal framework and the importance of molecular biology for health care systems will be investigated.

For this Assessment, each student will select a human disease case from a provided list and demonstrates both depth of research and effective communication skills. The assessment will consist of:

Written Assignment: Should provide a comprehensive overview of the biological background, molecular mechanisms, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and future perspectives based on state-of-the-art molecular biology approaches for the selected disease.

Reflective Discussion: will be focussing on critical evaluation of a selected genetic disorder and effectively communicate the implication, the challenges and propose alternative tools for accurate diagnosis and management strategies.

The written assignment will be due for submission during teaching week 10. The Reflective Discussion will be scheduled to take place at the end of the semester.

Teaching for this module will be delivered through a blend of face-to-face lectures, interactive tutorials, hands-on workshops, and seminar classes. Lectures provide the foundational knowledge and contextual understanding of key concepts in translational molecular biology. Tutorials encourage active learning through group discussions, problem-solving exercises, and case study analyses. Workshops focus on practical skills including digital tools, and data analysis relevant to modern molecular biology.

Seminars offer opportunities for students to engage with current research, present findings, and debate ethical and clinical issues with peers and academic staff. This varied approach ensures students develop theoretical knowledge, practical expertise, and critical thinking abilities essential for translational research and professional practice.

1. Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of academic research at the forefront of molecular genetics and genomics, particularly in relation to human disorders, by integrating information from diverse sources and conducting rigorous research.

Knowledge & Understanding, Research Skills

2. Critically evaluate the complex roles of molecular genetics and genomics in clinical diagnosis and treatment of human diseases, communicate effectively about their implications, and reflect on gaps and biases in current knowledge.

Communication, Reflection, Critical Reasoning & Collaboration

3. Apply your understanding and analytical skills to real-life, transdisciplinary challenges, employing appropriate methodologies including digital tools to address academic, professional, and transferable competency needs.

Personal Development & Entrepreneurship, Research Skills

Students will require access to an appropriate computer with accompanying software, including Office 365 (MS Teams, OneDrive, Word, and PowerPoint). Core reading materials and scientific literature will be available through the University of Staffordshire library resource page. Necessary online resources are freely available through a browser at public institutions such as NCBI, EBI, and elsewhere.

1. Alberts, B., et al. Molecular Biology of the Cell, 7th edition, 2022. WW Norton. ISBN 9780393884821 Comprehensive, up-to-date foundational text on cell and molecular biology.
2. T. Strachan & A. P. Read, Human Molecular Genetics, 5th edition, 2019. Garland Science. ISBN 9780815345893 Key reference for genetics, genomics, and disease mechanisms.
3. Strachan, T., & A. Lucassen. Genetics and Genomics in Medicine, 2nd edition, 2023. CRC Press, ISBN 9780367490812 Focuses on the medical and clinical aspects of genetics and genomics.
4. Read, A., & D. Donnai. New Clinical Genetics, 4th edition, 2020. Scion Publishing Ltd, ISBN 9781911510703 Modern case-based introduction to medical genetics covering major diseases strongly building on authors’ own, vast experience in the field.
5. Volpi, E., & L. Tinworth. Medical Genetics and Genomics. 1st edition, 2025. Oxford University Press, ISBN 9780198834724 Introduction to real-life applications of medical genomics in diagnostics and treatment, with a focus on recent developments in the UK. Supported by the IBMS.

This module offers an in-depth exploration of the latest advances in molecular biology and their application to human health and disease. You will learn how novel molecular and genomic technologies are driving innovation in disease diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. Teaching is delivered through a dynamic mix of face-to-face lectures, interactive tutorials, hands-on workshops, and seminar classes. The module is ideal if you are seeking to bridge the gap between laboratory science and clinical practice as it prepares you for further academic research and careers in biomedical science, translational medicine, and other related fields.