Entry requirements

At least 180 credits in biology, bio-/medicine, pharmaceutical chemistry, medical science or similar international education giving relevant knowledge in bio-/chemistry, cell- and molecular biology as well as molecular genetics. English proficiency, normally attested by means of an internationally recognised test such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Learning outcomes

The course intends to provide advanced knowledge of the human genome and the importance of genetic factors for disease as well as of underlying molecular mechanisms.

After completing the course, the student should be able to

• account for molecular and cellular events at the origin, development and diagnostics of genetic diseases including cancer

• analyse, process and formulate scientific questions within the area and account for an overview of current research in genetics and cancer

• account for and evaluate current techniques for diagnostics and treatment

• be able to describe how to work with an ethical and scientific approach

Content

The course comprises genetic variation and causes behind genetic diseases as well as the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the origin and progression of cancer. Current clinical diagnostics and treatment of genetic diseases and cancer will be treated as well as methods and techniques. The course will also give an overview of the current research within genetics and cancer.

Theoretical parts and computer-based assignments will illustrate, how molecular factors behind a disease can be determined. Methods for mapping of genetic diseases, genotyping with microsatellites and SNP markers and analysis of genetic variation in populations will be treated together with current techniques for the analysis of the structure and function of genes. Application of DNA analyses in forensic genetic studies will be illustrated. Ethical aspects will be discussed.

General tumour theory and tumour classification followed by cellular and molecular mechanisms important for the origin and growth of tumours as well as the body's immune defence against cancer will be discussed. The course treats e.g. epigenetic mechanisms for cancer, carcinogenesis, genomic instability, angiogenesis, tumour virus, oncogenes, growth factors, signal transduction, tumour suppressor genes and clinical oncology. Practical parts can consist of demonstrations of histopathological aberrations in cancer. Also web-based material will be used. Seminars together with researchers will give the students the opportunity to discuss current problems within cancer research.

Instruction

Instruction is provided in the form of lectures, seminars, theoretical and practical laboratory sessions, demonstrations, problem-oriented exercises and presentations related to current research fields. Within the course, the students carry out a literature project. Joint seminars for Master programmes. Participation in literature project, seminars, theoretical and practical laboratory sessions, demonstrations, problem-oriented exercises and presentations are compulsory.

Assessment

Modules: Theory 11 credits; Literature assignment 4 credits. The theoretical module is examined through written examinations and in addition requires completed laboratory sessions that are presented in written form as well as active participation in seminars. The literature assignment is presented in writing.