Membrane Transport and Signalling in Health & Disease

BIOL31621 Membrane Transport and Signalling in Health & Disease 10 Semester 1 Undergraduate Level 3 Elizabeth Fitzgerald Unit coordinator School of Biological Sciences 1 FHEQ level (Framework for Higher Education Qualifications) ' Last part of a Bachelors ' European Credit Transfer & Accumulation System Rating : 5.0 Building on Years 1 and 2, this unit explores in depth the pivotal roles of membrane transport proteins (ion channels, transporters and pumps) in cellular activity, and the impact of disturbances in their  normal activity arising from genetic aberration and disease. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological roles of these proteins, and their structure and function, to learn how they can be exploited to treat clinical conditions such as cancer, pain and dementia. Building on Years 1 and 2, this unit explores in depth the pivotal roles of ion channels and transporters in cellular activity, and the consequences of disturbance to normal activity resulting from genetic aberration and disease. Students will learn how understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological roles of these proteins, and their structure and function, can be exploited to treat clinical conditions such as cancer, pain and vascular disease. Ion channels and transporters have essential roles in the control of cellular activity. This unit aims to acquaint students with the roles of such proteins in clinical conditions, (e.g. cancer, pain, dementia) and the means to exploit them  as therapeutic targets.  Recognise the pivotal roles of ion channel and transporter proteins in normal cellular activity.Understand the consequences of disturbance to normal activity resulting from genetic aberration, disease, or drug action.Be able to link knowledge of ion channel/transporter structure and function to pathophysiology and approaches used for therapeutic intervention.Be able to review developing strategies for therapeutic intervention.  Recognise the pivotal roles of ion channel and transporter proteins in normal cellular activity.Understand the consequences of disturbance to normal activity resulting from genetic aberration, disease, or drug action.Be able to link knowledge of ion channel/transporter structure and function to pathophysiology and approaches used for therapeutic intervention.Be able to review developing strategies for therapeutic intervention.    Analytical skills Online research paper-based problem to develop skills in critical analysis, and data interpretation (supported by a Workshop). Analysis of research papers in background reading. Oral communication Students are encouraged to discuss and answer questions during lectures and workshops. Research Lecture content is research-led with an emphasis on current research, and students are encouraged to read around the subject. In addition to their own literature-based research, students are directed to suggested further reading to enhance and consolidate their learning. Written communication Revision/Exam Practice Workshops support students in developing critical writing skills and exam technique. Other Students will develop self-discipline and time management skills. Structural and functional diversity of ion channels/transporters: Advanced knowledge of diversity in ion channel/transporter structure-function and its physiological and therapeutic relevance.  Ion channel trafficking: Principles of ion channel trafficking, targeting and distribution, in relation to disease and therapeutic exploitation.  Pain: Physiological roles of ion channels in pain transmission and how pain related channelopathies arise from genetic mutations. Exploration of drugs currently in use and their limitations. Advances in developing improved strategies for treating chronic and neuropathic pain are also explored.Dementia: Physiological roles of vascular ion channels in regulation of cerebral blood flow, and the consequences of vascular ion channel dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease and vascular dementia.Calcium Signalling and Disease: Physiological roles of ion channels and transporters involved in diseases arising from disrupted calcium signalling, e.g. calcium overload (stroke), genetic mutations (Alzheimer’s disease).Cancer: Roles of calcium and sodium channels and transporters in cancer. How calcium impacts on key cancer hallmarks, e.g. proliferation, migration and how sodium transport promotes invasion and metastasis. Potential of the calcium signalling machinery and sodium channels as therapeutic targets.   0 Other 20% 1 Written exam 80% Online research paper-based problem (SAQs) 20%Written exam (essay Qs) 80%    Online formative quizzes on core lecture material – written feedback for each Q via CanvasOnline research paper-based problem – individual and general written feedback via CanvasWorkshops – verbal feedback in sessionsSubmitted essay plans (optional) – written feedback via emailOnline discussion - written responses to student Qs via Canvas    BIOL21321 Membrane Excitability: Ion Channels & Transporters in Action Pre-Requisite Compulsory BIOL21321 is a mandatory pre-requisite for BIOL31621 N References specific to each lecture topic will be recommended by individual lecturers. Assessment written exam 2 eAssessment 6 Lectures 18 0 74