Course Details in 2025/26 Session

Module Title	LH The Biology of Ageing
School	Inst of Inflammation / Ageing
Department	Inst of Inflammation / Ageing
Module Code	01 33976
Module Lead	Prof J Lord. Deputy: Dr Carolyn Greig)
Level	Honours Level
Credits	40
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	It is a requirement that students achieve a mark of at least 35% in their summative exam
Exclusions
Description	This course covers key topics in the biology of ageing (biogerontology) and in life-style interventions as a measure to ensure healthy ageing. It includes evolutionary and mechanistic theories of ageing; the biology of caloric restriction (an inducer of life-span extension); cellular senescence, telomeres and cancer; ageing in major organs and the concept of frailty; age-related disease; prospects for treatments for the detrimental effects of ageing with a focus on exercise.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module, students should be able to: Demonstrate a broad understanding of the various facets of the ageing process and longevity Critically discuss and evaluate current theories on the molecular basis of ageing and research methods used to study ageing Demonstrate a detailed understanding of some of the major diseases of ageing and their ontogeny in the underlying biology of ageing Demonstrate a critical appreciation of how ageing leads to frailty, defined as a reduced ability to deal with stress Be able to demonstrate and apply a practical knowledge of methods used to assess frailty in humans Discuss how exercise and other interventions can prevent various aspects of frailty in humans
Assessment	33976-01 : Overall Module Mark : Mixed (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	The module is assessed by a combination of a 3 hour written examination (50%) and course work (50%) - experimental data interpretation Reassessment: Academic failure: If a student fails the module then they will be required to repeat the failed components only. Failure to submit: Submission of coursework is compulsory for the programme. Students are advised that failure to submit without justifiable reason could result in failure of the module. Students will be required to submit outstanding work to meet the module outcomes.
Other
Reading List