Course Details in 2024/25 Session

Module Title	LI Stem Cells and Genetic Inheritance
School	Institute of Clinical Sciences
Department	Biomedical Sciences
Module Code	02 37723
Module Lead	Dr Laura O’Neill and Dr Roger Grand
Level	Intermediate Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 2
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 module begins with an introduction to the fundamental concepts within stem cell biology and their application to regenerative medicine with reference to the molecular and genetic control of cell fate specification and differentiation. Understanding of the regulation of cell stemness by master transcription factors, the stem niche and the potential for phenotypic plasticity/transdifferentiation will be introduced. The module will provide an overview of how embryonicstem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells and adult (postnatal) stem cells are isolated, generated and maintained and how signalling mechanisms, maintenance or alteration of gene profiles during this differentiation process underpins how current cell therapies have evolved. The module then leads into the key biological responses caused by DNA damage. This will develop from knowledge of chromatin structure to epigenetic modifications involved in the cellular response to DNA damage. There will also be an account of inherited human diseases resulting from deficiency in DNA damage signalling proteins. In addition, lectures on modern molecular biology techniques, such as bioinformatics, proteomics and metabolomics, are included, as well as a discussion on molecular evolution and the use of animal models. The module will use a number of integrated learning environments: (i) Lectures will focus on cellular, molecular events, and will build on previous discussion of development, gene expression and cell signalling in Year 1 modules. A specific number of lectures focus on adult stem cells, DNA damage response, bioinformatics and act as an introduction to these areas in semester 2 and Year 3. (ii) SGTs will reinforce lecture topics including data analysis, where focus will be on data interpretation linked to the practical elements delivered in the module. We will introduce critical thinking on research articles via a journal club format, and debate bioethics in a group format. iii) Laboratory practicals will focus on key technologies used in the field and will act as a forum for discussing experimental design and data interpretation.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Describe the fundamental principles of development and select examples to illustrate specific concepts. Explain the origin of stem cells and how a niche is maintained in vitro and in vivo. Demonstrate an understanding of the role of stem cells in cell differentiation processes, and outline how experimental manipulation of these cells may lead to cell based therapies. Summarize how differentiated cells can be reprogrammed outlining the methodology employed and evaluate its effectiveness. Demonstrate an understanding of the practical techniques and data interpretation related to epigenetic and gene regulation in specialised cells. Demonstrate an understanding of how mutations arise, the germline mutation rate and the role of mutations in evolution. Demonstrate an understanding of genetic methodology and how quantification of heritable traits in families and populations provides insight into cellular and molecular mechanisms. Demonstrate an understanding of the different pathways and chromatin modifications in the cellular response to DNA damage. Apply your knowledge of the DNA damage response pathways to explain the role of their deficiency in different disorders in humans. Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of human chromosome disorders, particularly those arising from chromosomal non-disjunction and their consequences for the individual
Assessment	37723-01 : Overall Module Mark : Mixed (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessments: Module assessment will consist of a combination of a 2 hour written unseen exam paper and a single in course assessment. In-course assessment consists of a group report with an individual component built in. Each group will develop an Experimental strategy on a given specific research question within the field of stem cells and development and genetic inheritance. The group will complete a report template for the in course assessment and a peer assessment component will be integrated to calculate the final mark to reflect group participation. Examination: 50% In Course Assessment: 50% Reassessment: Academic failure: If a student fails the module then they will be required to repeat the failed components only. If the failed component is In course assessment, the student will have to submit an individual report on an experimental design to an assigned question. 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