Biomedical Science
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences
Last Updated 20 January 2012

Principal Course Timetable Blocks 2


Biomedical Science Single Honours - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
LSC-10027 Metabolism: Major Metabolic Pathways C M 7.5 15
All living things are packets of energy and the challenge of life and living is how energy can be used and controlled effectively. Human beings derive most but not all of their energy from diet, the processing of all that we eat and drink. How we use and control energy is essentially described by our metabolism and this is the subject of this module. We find that the human body cycles and recycles energy more effectively than any machine or government energy policy. We are experts in using energy effectively, conservatively and creatively. Sometimes something goes wrong in our energy cycling and this leads to metabolic disorders including conditions as seemingly diverse as obesity and neurological disease and some examples of such are included in the module. Overall we will learn and appreciate just how important energy cycling is in the effective human being and indeed all life forms. There is little more important in biochemical science than this and that is why this module provides the basis for biochemistry and biomedical sciences at Keele.
LSC-10034 Natures Tools: Proteins & Enzymes C M 7.5 15
This module is all about proteins. Proteins are intimately involved in all cellular processes. They help to form and maintain cell structure, catalyse metabolic reactions, transport materials in and out of organelles, transduce signals and regulate gene expression. Great progress has been made in understanding the molecular structure of proteins, and we are now able to visualise many of them in great detail. Knowing the structure helps us to understand how a protein functions, and the content of the module reflects these two aspects. The first part deals with protein structure, and why proteins adopt a certain unique shape. The second part of the module explores how the function of some proteins, particularly enzymes, can be understood in terms of their structure. Concepts and ideas you encounter here underpin the remainder of the course, and and the relationship between protein structure and function will be developed in future modules at level 2 and 3.
LSC-10040 Introduction to human physiology C M 7.5 15
This module provides an introduction to the normal human anatomy and physiology of the digestive, nervous and neuromuscular body systems. It also provides a basic grounding in relevant practical techniques, including light microscopy and physiological recording.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
LSC-10030 Case Studies in Medicine C M 7.5 15
This module uses a Problem Based Learning (PBL) learning style, popular in many medical courses. Small group, problem based learning tutorials provide the opportunity for students to set their own learning objectives based on clinical scenarios, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS and food poisoning, and to discuss their research into the topics. Case studies that require students to identify the limits of their knowledge, formulate learning objectives and propose solutions to disease-based biomedical science problems form the basis of the syllabus. Cases are used that complement subject areas covered in other modules, including protein structure and function, mechanisms of enzyme action, nutrition, metabolism and homeostasis. In addition, the scenarios closely follow topics covered in Introduction to Medical Laboratory Sciences and entail exploring diagnostic methods from pathology discipline areas such as clinical biochemistry and medical microbiology.
LSC-10035 Introduction to Medical Laboratory Sciences C M 7.5 15
This module is an essential component of the Biomedical Science programme and provides a fascinating insight into the workings of a busy, modern pathology service in the NHS, showing how Biomedical Scientists are involved in the diagnosis, management and treatment of human disease. It examines the fundamentals of cellular pathology by introducing students to each of the different disciplines of the hospital pathology service (haematology &blood transfusion, medical microbiology, clinical biochemistry, histology, virology and immunology), and explores each of their roles in supporting clinical investigation and diagnosis. Practicing Biomedical Scientists from local hospitals deliver the course, providing up-to-the-minute expertise in their field.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
LSC-10036 Cells and Organelles : Biochemical Aspects of Cell Biology C M 7.5 15
This module is an introduction to cell biology. A cell is the unit of life, and is amazingly complex. However a living cell can be understood in terms of the different functions carried out by its organelles integrated by the exchange of molecules and information across cellular membranes. The module therefore begins by considering the diversity of cells and the biochemical and structural features of prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells. The specialised biochemistry of intracellular organelles will be discussed together with important adaptations of bacteria and fungi. The structure and properties of cellular membranes are then discussed together with the mechanisms that cells have devised to allow transport of molecules cross membranes. It concludes with an introduction to cell signalling, and the mechanisms by which cells receive chemical and hormonal signals and transduce their message as a cellular response.
LSC-10038 Information and Inheritance C M 7.5 15
This module, focusing on our genetic blueprint, aims to answer a number of questions: - What is the molecular structure of a gene? - How is this information inherited during cell division and during fertilisation of higher species? - How is this information read in order to make the proteins of each cell; how is this process controlled? - What role does gene mutation play in health and disease? It consists of lectures, hands on laboratory sessions, problem based small group tutorials and substantial KLE based learning resources. Laboratory practical sessions on molecular and microbiology techniques complement the theory. A Bioethics Case Tutorial provides an opportunity to become critically aware of the ethical and legal implications posed by using model organisms in the quest for knowing our genomes.
LSC-10039 Human physiology and pathology C M 7.5 15
This module provides a basic background to the physiological systems of the human body and the pathological changes that occur during relevant diseases. The systems covered are the cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, urinary and endocrine / reproductive systems. The module is taught using both lectures and practical classes.

Biomedical Science Single Honours - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ LSC-20003 Gene and Protein Engineering C M 7.5 15
This module covers one of the most exciting and innovative areas of biochemistry and will acquaint students with the theory, techniques and applications of genetic engineering. The course will describe advanced techniques of gene structural analysis, cloning, and expression in host organisms. The manipulation of gene and protein sequences will be discussed, along with recent developments in biotechnology and medical genetics.
# LSC-20010 Medical Laboratory Sciences I C M 7.5 15
This module is taught entirely by practising Biomedical Scientists from the hospital pathology service and illustrates the range of experimental techniques used in modern diagnosis. The course combines lectures with practical sessions to develop skills in analysis of pathological specimens and modern diagnostic methods.
+ LSC-20015 Molecular, Cellular and Structural Immunology C M 7.5 15
This module gives students a consideration of how the mammalian body copes with infection by various pathogens and includes an understanding of the cellular basis of the immune system and the generation and selection of the immune repertoire. It also provides a general qualitative overview of the methods and techniques of protein crystallography, followed by functional insights on immune protein structure.
LSC-20042 Biomedical Sciences - Study Abroad I EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
LSC-20043 Biomedical Science - Study Abroad II EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
LSC-20044 Biomedical Science - Study Abroad III EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
LSC-20045 Biomedical Science - Study Abroad IV EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
LSC-20050 Human Genetics O M 7.5 15
The field of Human Genetics is growing rapidly in the post genomic age and this module aims to sample some of the key topics. It will demonstrate the predictable behaviour of genes at the levels of the individual and the population (Mendelian and population genetics), whilst making students aware that the nature of human societies means that sometimes genes don't appear to behave as predicted! There will be an emphasis on medical genetics, showing how a person's genetic make-up can directly or indirectly affect their health and exploring some of the applications of molecular genetics in the study of, diagnosis of and treatment of genetic diseases. We shall also consider some of the ethical implications of advances in genetic technologies. A variety of teaching methods will be used including lectures, interactive problem solving workshop sessions, computer-based self research and tutorials. Topic 1 Inheritance Patterns in Humans. (Sessions 1 - 3) This topic includes revision of meiosis and classical mendelian genetics, molecular pathology (the basis for dominance and recessivity), genetic and environmental influences on phenotype, human genetic elements, and patterns of mendelian and non-mendelian inheritance in humans. Topic 2 Quantitative and Population Genetics (Session 4) This topic gives a brief introduction to population and quantitative genetics and includes the Hardy-Weinberg Law, calculation of gene frequencies and heritability. Topic 3 Clinical Applications of Genetics (Sessions 5 to 10) This topic examines the types of genetic diseases that affect humans (eg single gene, multigene, multifactorial, chromosome abnormalities and somatic disease) and how molecular genetics has revolutionised diagnosis and treatment in medical genetics.
LSC-20050 Human Genetics EP M 7.5 15
The field of Human Genetics is growing rapidly in the post genomic age and this module aims to sample some of the key topics. It will demonstrate the predictable behaviour of genes at the levels of the individual and the population (Mendelian and population genetics), whilst making students aware that the nature of human societies means that sometimes genes don't appear to behave as predicted! There will be an emphasis on medical genetics, showing how a person's genetic make-up can directly or indirectly affect their health and exploring some of the applications of molecular genetics in the study of, diagnosis of and treatment of genetic diseases. We shall also consider some of the ethical implications of advances in genetic technologies. A variety of teaching methods will be used including lectures, interactive problem solving workshop sessions, computer-based self research and tutorials. Topic 1 Inheritance Patterns in Humans. (Sessions 1 - 3) This topic includes revision of meiosis and classical mendelian genetics, molecular pathology (the basis for dominance and recessivity), genetic and environmental influences on phenotype, human genetic elements, and patterns of mendelian and non-mendelian inheritance in humans. Topic 2 Quantitative and Population Genetics (Session 4) This topic gives a brief introduction to population and quantitative genetics and includes the Hardy-Weinberg Law, calculation of gene frequencies and heritability. Topic 3 Clinical Applications of Genetics (Sessions 5 to 10) This topic examines the types of genetic diseases that affect humans (eg single gene, multigene, multifactorial, chromosome abnormalities and somatic disease) and how molecular genetics has revolutionised diagnosis and treatment in medical genetics.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
LSC-20040 Professional Relationships O C 7.5 15
This is year-long module for students undertaking the Applied Biomedical Sciences option, which aims to deliver training and education to meet partial fulfilment of the Standards of Proficiency issued by the Health Professions Council (HPC), as given in the IBMS Registration Portfolio, and to prepare students for their hospital-based practice placement. Students taking the Biomedical Science route may also take this module as an option.
LSC-20040 Professional Relationships EP C 7.5 15
This is year-long module for students undertaking the Applied Biomedical Sciences option, which aims to deliver training and education to meet partial fulfilment of the Standards of Proficiency issued by the Health Professions Council (HPC), as given in the IBMS Registration Portfolio, and to prepare students for their hospital-based practice placement. Students taking the Biomedical Science route may also take this module as an option.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
~ LSC-20005 Endocrinology and Cell Signalling O M 7.5 15
This module will explore some of the ways in which cells transmit, receive and interpret signals. You will consider how information is encoded, secreted and transmitted to target cells and how incoming signals are recognised and transduced into meaningful information, to elicit the appropriate responses of target cells to signals. Specific details of a number of mammalian cell signalling pathways are used to illustrate principles and concepts and may include G-protein coupled receptor signalling, examples of second messengers, such as the inositol phosphates, insulin signalling as an example of receptor tyrosine kinase signalling and the regulation of gene transcription in mediating the actions of lipophilic hormones.
~ LSC-20005 Endocrinology and Cell Signalling EP M 7.5 15
This module will explore some of the ways in which cells transmit, receive and interpret signals. You will consider how information is encoded, secreted and transmitted to target cells and how incoming signals are recognised and transduced into meaningful information, to elicit the appropriate responses of target cells to signals. Specific details of a number of mammalian cell signalling pathways are used to illustrate principles and concepts and may include G-protein coupled receptor signalling, examples of second messengers, such as the inositol phosphates, insulin signalling as an example of receptor tyrosine kinase signalling and the regulation of gene transcription in mediating the actions of lipophilic hormones.
# LSC-20011 Medical Laboratory Sciences II C M 7.5 15
Continuation of LSC-20010.
+ LSC-20016 Metabolism in Health and Disease C M 7.5 15
This module will describe and explain the specialisation and interdependence of metabolism within the bodies of mammals and of man: homeostasis; adaptation to nutritional state; elimination of drugs and harmful substances and will explore the issues surrounding the changes in metabolism associated with inherited and acquired disease.
LSC-20046 Biomedical Science - Study Abroad V EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
LSC-20047 Biomedical Science - Study Abroad VI EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
LSC-20048 Biomedical Science - Study Abroad VII EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
LSC-20049 Biomedical Science - Study Abroad VIII EP C 7.5 15
This is a module that is automatically allocated to the records our Keele level II students who are going to Study Abroad at a partner University for a semester of their second year and cannot be selected by any other level II students.
LSC-20056 Research and Analytical Skills C M 7.5 15
This module looks at the skills and techniques used by scientists to collect, analyse and present scientific information to a specialist and wider audience. It includes specific skills such as writing, experimental design, data analysis and presentation within an ethical framework. In addition these skills will be invaluable for 3rd year projects and dissertations. Indicative content: - Analysis of the structure and content of scientific papers, with particular reference to the design and analysis of scientific experiments within an ethical dimension. - How data is arranged (tables, graphs, figures), presented using Word, Excel and PowerPoint, summarized (summary statistics) and compared. - Searching for scientific information on the internet, electronic databases, libraries and its collation and oral presentation in a seminar. - Statistical analysis of the data is a major component of the module with in-depth study of the most commonly used statistical analyses, including: T-test, ANOVA, regression, correlation, non-parametric tests, categorical data, linearity, cross-reactivity, sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and precision.

Biomedical Science Single Honours - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
+ LSC-30001 Behavioural Neurobiology O M 7.5 15
This is a multidisciplinary module whose aim is to develop an understanding of animal (including human) behaviour in terms of the function of the nervous system. This module concentrates on the brains of mammals, especially humans, and on sub-cortical systems. There are occasional references to lower vertebrates and even invertebrates where the study of shared mechanisms in simpler animals is useful. Modern neuroscience is an interdisciplinary study, and this is reflected in the syllabus in that it draws on information from anatomy and microanatomy, physiology, neurochemistry, neuropharmacology and neuroendocrinology to bring about an understanding of behaviour. Lectures are supported by a series of student-led seminars based on recent research publications. Topics covered include pleasure and pain, fear, stress and sleep all linked through the pervading theme of learning and memory. There are no pre-requisites, but students who have done little or no neuroscience before are likely to find it difficult and would be well advised to read Part 1 of the main recommended text, Bear Connors and Paradiso: Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain (Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, 3rd edition 2007) before taking the module.
~ LSC-30009 Clinical Pathology O M 7.5 15
The majority of staff that contribute to the module are employees of the University Hospital of North Staffordshire (UHNS). In these cases, their principle responsibilities are towards patient care and well-being. These staff, therefore, hold significant posts across a spectrum of clinical and clinical related areas. Students will benefit from lectures and expertise in Clinical Diagnostic Pathology,Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Genetics and Inflammatory Diseases. Students will gain insight how patients from their initial presentation at the UHNS are managed from the perspective of diagnosis and treatment. The course will cover both standardised testing options and the development of new diagnostic procedures with a particular emphasis on genetic and epigenetic aspects of disease. Student will also gain an appreciation of the cost benefit of particular routes for diagnosis and treatment and the importance of identifying false positive and false negative results. Finally, the students will have the opportunity to perform their own extensive literature review of a disease related topic that is not covered by the course through formal lectures.
# LSC-30016 Structural Biology & Macromolecular Function O M 7.5 15
Advances in biotechnology, biology and biomedicine, and their impact on the quality of life, the economy, medicine and health care increasingly depend on the application of structural biology which provides detailed three-dimensional structural information at the atomic level of the proteins which are central to all life processes. While structural biology includes a variety of different techniques such as crystallography and electron microscopy, this module concentrates on the outcomes of these techniques rather than the techniques themselves, with in-depth analysis of how proteins, enzymes and viruses recognise and bind their targets, and how detailed structural information is used to intervene in or enhance these processes. An important aspect of health and well being in all forms of life is the ability to prevent, resist, fight and recover from infection and disease, and much of the course concentrates on how an increased understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved provides a unique opportunity for the design of potential diagnostic and therapeutic agents and strategies.
+ LSC-30020 Neurobiological Basis of Brain Disease O M 7.5 15
The lectures in this module will review the occurrence, cause, aetiology and neuropathology of a number of common neurodegenerative diseases and neurobiological conditions. The lecture material will be complemented by a number of Clinical Presentations which will stress the clinical aspects of neurodegenerative disease.
LSC-30038 Double Applied Life Sciences Placement - ISP O C 15 30
A double placement research project is an opportunity for students to carry out a substantial piece of meaningful research at a host industrial, governmental or academic partner either within the UK or another European State. Students will get a taste of what it is like to work in a real research environment and obtain substantial employment skills whilst on placement and during their report preparation. Students will work independently on a research project under the supervision of a member of academic staff from the School of Life Sciences and the host partner. Research topics are offered in a range of subject areas and incorporate training in generic and specialised scientific skills.
Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# LSC-30008 Research Project 1 - ISP O C 7.5 15
In the first two years of the course, students have developed a range of technical and analytical skills by following established protocols in large laboratory classes. In the final year project, students will get a taste of what it is like to work in a real research environment by working on their own specific research topic under the supervision of a member of academic staff from the School of Life Sciences or the Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine (ISTM). The topics are set by the supervisors and are designed to allow the students to expand their portfolio of technical expertise and to apply that expertise to investigate a research question. The very varied list of topics reflects the diversity of reseach interests within the School and ISTM. Students will be expected to spend the equivalent of 1 day per week, which may be spread over several days, working in the laboratory during semester 1. In semester 2 they will write a report where they present and interpret the results of their experiments and place them in context with existing literature in the field.
+ LSC-30014 Biochemistry Research Project (non-experimental) - ISP O C 7.5 15
This module aims to introduce students to some of the key non-experimental research skills that are routinely used by biochemists and biomedical scientists, such as in depth literature searching, analysis of experimental data and the use of a computer as tool for both reseach (bioinformatics) and dissemination of information (web page construction). The student will research the literature on a specific topic, using library and web based resources and will produce a written review. In addition, the student will either process and interpret some raw experimental data provided to them or complete a computer task such as using bioinformatics programmes or producing a web page.
# LSC-30019 Applied Life Sciences Placement - ISP O C 7.5 15
Issues in the biological sciences are an area of growing importance in all sectors of work and professional development. Students on this module will gain experience of applying understanding of practical techniques within a professional business, and/or research environment. Students will be supported in developing effective professional/research practices through training in leadership and project management. They will also develop independent reflective learning practices to enhance their continuing professional development. The practical work carried out during the period of employment prior to the beginning of the student's final year will take the place of the experimental project. During the first semester of the final year the student will write a report on this practical work which will be submitted before the end of the Autumn Term.
LSC-30035 Double Biochemistry Research Project - ISP O C 15 30
In the first two years of the course, students have developed a range of technical and analytical skills by following established protocols in large laboratory classes. In the final year project, students will get a taste of what it is like to work in a real research environment by working on their own specific research topic under the supervision of a member of academic staff from the School of Life Sciences or the Institute for Science and Technology in Medicine (ISTM). The topics are set by the supervisors and are designed to allow the students to expand their portfolio of technical expertise and to apply that expertise to investigate a research question. The very varied list of topics reflects the diversity of research interests within the School and ISTM. Students will be expected to spend the equivalent of 2 days per week, which may be spread over several days working in the laboratory during semester 1. In semester 2 they will write a report where they present and interpret the results of their experiments and place them in context with existing literature in the field.
Semester 2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
+ LSC-30005 Neurobiology of Vision and Hearing O M 7.5 15
Vision and hearing are arguably the two most important human senses. In this module, we will examine the neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of vertebrate visual and auditory systems, from sensory transduction in the retina and cochlea to cortical processing and integration of sensory information within specific brain regions. The module is taught as a series of lectures linked with interactive tutorials. The tutors have active research programmes in this area of neuroscience, and recent relevant research papers are discussed during the module. Assessment is via a scientific paper comprehension test and end of module exam.
LSC-30010 Biochemistry in Practice: Acquisition, Analysis and Communication of Information C M 7.5 15
The module aims to develop the skills needed to effectively communicate scientific knowledge. It begins with a hands-on mini project involving the acquisition of sequence information from remote databases and the subsequent analysis using bioinformatics tools. This is followed by advanced training in the skills required for communicating scientific information verbally, visually and in writing and culminates in student verbal and visual presentations. Also included is training and practice in the analysis of published information, a skill of particular importance, even for those entering careers that do not involve practical experimental work.
# LSC-30015 Biology of Disease - ISP C C 7.5 15
This module gives students the opportunity to investigate a specific disease topic from a range of options provided and is designed to allow the students to adopt a self-learning approach in which they will conduct their own research on a defined topic in consultation with the module manager. The module consists of the preparation of an independently researched critical appraisal, in the form of a 4000-5000 word essay, of the current level of understanding of a particular disease along with tutorials based on student-centred learning. The tutorial sessions provide a forum for addressing problems, for assessing and monitoring progress, and for developing the required skills. Tutorial sessions include topics on information and retrieval, improving essays and discussion of their essay outlines.
# LSC-30018 Biochemistry and Therapy of Disease O M 7.5 15
This module is intended to describe and promote understanding of the molecular basis of therapeutic intervention in a range of diseases, including bacterial, neurodegenerative, parasitic and neoplastic pathologies. It will also address the questions arising from the failure of disease therapies and describe the molecular events underlying resistance to therapy. 2 lectures
# LSC-30026 Case Studies in Biomedical Sciences O M 7.5 15
This module aims to give you an understanding of the UK health trends and the factors that affect these trends. Through clinical case studies and small group tutorials, you will explore why the UK has some of the highest incidences of certain diseases and conditions in Europe and consider what factors contribute to making them some of the most common and/or rising health problems faced by this country. This will include understanding the relevant socioeconomic factors as well as understanding the bioscience of the disease process and its diagnosis and management. You will also focus on what is being done by Government and the NHS to tackle these major health problems.
C Compulsory Core Module
O Optional Core Module
EP Programme Elective Module
EA Approved Elective Module
EF Free-Standing Elective Module
M Mixed Assessment e.g. a mixture of essay(s) and examination, with the latter's weighting below 90%.
E Examination, providing 90% or more of the mark.
C Continuous Assessment e.g. essay(s) or practical work (as appropriate).
+ Available to qualified non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students but there may be a restriction on the number of places available
~ Specific pre-requisite(s) needed by non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students wishing to take these modules
# Not normally available to Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students (except by prior negotiation with Departmental Tutor)
Note: Modules not marked with a # are available to suitably qualified Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students.