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Module Title Human Reproductive Biology and Development
SchoolSchool of Bioscience
Department School of Biosciences
Module Code 03 21189
Module Lead
Level Honours Level
Credits 20
Semester Semester 2
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions None
Contact Hours Lecture-22 hours
Seminar-1 hours
Practical Classes and workshops-6 hours
Guided independent study-171 hours
Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description

This course concentrates on the dramatic advances that have taken place in reproductive and developmental biology in the last 20 years. These include the introduction of IVF and ICSI technology, in vitro storage & maturation of reproductive tissues and gametes, a functional genetic understanding of developmental processes and their relation to human congenital disorders and the therapeutic use of stem cells. The emphasis of this module is on human reproduction and development as it relates to human disease process and the possible treatment of patients. However, data from animal studies is presented to aid understanding. In addition to the physiological, molecular and biochemical basis of the subject, students will get a solid grounding in the ethical and moral challenges of the field.
Topics covered:
The production of sperm and eggs (gametogenesis)
Gamete maturation and transport
Fertilisation
Early embryo development
Contraception
Pre-implantation embryo screening
Infertility
Reproductive technologies and controversies
Ethical issues and regulatory issues associated with assisted and applied reproduction
 

Learning Outcomes By the end of the module the student should be able to:
  • Recognize, recall and define terms relevant to the study of human gametogenesis, fertilisation, diagnosis and treatment of fertility.
  • Describe and explain the process and mechanism of development of human gametes and early embryos
  • Describe the process of human fertilization (e.g. transport and maturation of the sperm in the female tract and interaction of the sperm with the oocyte) and discuss the mechanisms underlying these processes.
  • Explain and discuss the causes and diagnosis of infertility.
  • Describe the current and proposed treatment options for infertility and discuss their advantages and limitations.
  • Describe and discuss the regulatory, ethical and moral issues related to intervention in human reproduction.
Assessment 21189-01 : Continuous Assessment : Coursework (35%)
21189-02 : Sessional Examination : Exam (Centrally Timetabled) - Written Unseen (65%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions Assessments: In-course assessments 35% comprising: Structured paper analysis identification of key features, strengths/weaknesses of a scientific paper relevant to the module (17.5%);At a glance article (group work) preparation of a short review and summary poster outlining key features of an important/topical area of reproductive biology. (17.5%) 3 hour written examination in May (65%).
Other
Reading List