LSC-20016 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

In this module you will explore the specialisation and interdependence of metabolism within the bodies of mammals, and of man, exploring the issues surrounding the changes in metabolism associated with inherited and acquired disease (including obesity, diabetes and cancer). The module is taught through a combination of lectures, laboratory classes, tutorials and private study. In the practical component of the module you will develop a more independent, enquiry-based approach, developing skills in experimental design in the form of a mini-project.

To describe and explain the specialisation and interdependence of metabolism in the body; homeostasis, adaptation to nutritional states, elimination of drugs and harmful substances and to explore the issues surrounding the changes in metabolism associated with inherited and acquired disease.

Intended Learning Outcomes

describe the metabolic relationships of the various tissues and organs of the mammalian body and discuss the responses of tissues to altered nutritional states and specific diseases/conditions: 1
discuss the specialised metabolic requirements of muscle, fat, liver and nervous tissue with respect to their normal function and in specific disease states: 1
explain the digestion, absorption and excretion of nutrients and other substances: 1
explain the role of hormones in the integration and regulation of metabolism, and the maintenance of homeostasis: 1
describe the routes by which xenobiotics are processed in the liver and discuss the importance for pharmacology and pharmacokinetics: 1
communicate the results of an experimental project effectively in written form in the style of a scientific research paper: 2
design and conduct an experimental study, analysing and interpreting data using statistical packages and appropriate statistical tests: 2
2
locate and retrieve information from scientific literature:

Study hours

22 hours of tutorials/discussion activities supporting asynchronous content
8 hours of IT workshops and/or tutorial content related to the report assessment
9 x 4 hours engagement with asynchronous content
2 hours class test/online tasks
36 hours independent study; preparation for in-course assessment (report)
46 hours independent study; revision and engagement with directed/wider reading to support end-of semester class test.

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment