Cancer is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality and a considerable burden for the health services. Progress in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease requires an understanding of normal and cancer cell biology. This module is concerned with understanding the cellular and molecular biology of cancer. During the module key features of cancer biology will be discussed, such as deregulation of pathways regulating cell division and cell survival, the genetic basis of cancer, invasion and cancer spread, and the importance of the tumour microenvironment. This module will also consider how recent advances in our understanding of the molecular and genetic basis of cancer have identified new ways of targeting cancers.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module the student should be able to:
Demonstrate understanding of the cellular and molecular processes which are involved in cancer formation and progression
Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and mechanisms underlying anti-cancer therapies
Critically evaluate the evidence underpinning current understanding of aspects of cancer biology
Communicate a complex scientific article to a non-specialised scientific audience
Assessment
21893-04 : News and Views Essay : Coursework (50%)
21893-05 : Examination : Exam (Centrally timetabled) - Computer based (50%)