Accessibility statement

Ageing & Regenerative Medicine - BIO00079H

« Back to module search

  • Department: Biology
  • Module co-ordinator: Prof. Paul Genever
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2022-23

Module summary

This module will cover the basic mechanisms underlying the ageing process and how age-related degenerative diseases emerge. A fundamental understanding of these processes has helped to stimulate the field of Regenerative Medicine; new therapies based on the use of molecules, cells and engineered tissues to effect repair and regeneration of old and worn out tissues.

Related modules

Pre-requisite modules

Co-requisite modules

  • None

Prohibited combinations

  • None

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Autumn Term 2022-23 to Summer Term 2022-23

Module aims

The aims are to acquire an advanced understanding of the mechanisms underpinning cell specialisation and tissue function; to examine how dysregulation of these mechanisms as a result of ageing and environment can result in degenerative disease; to appreciate the systems level cooperation of different cellular pathways/processes for determining the outcomes of cell specialisation and pathologies; to consider how applications of molecular, cell and tissue engineering research can provide new strategies for restoration of health through regenerative medicine. This module aims to equip students with the skills to undertake a research career or other analytical career path.

Module learning outcomes

1. Explain the mechanisms underlying cellular and organismal ageing

2. Interpret the impact of ageing and environment on the development of degenerative disease and mechanisms thereof

3. Identify and explain the clinical need for regenerative medicine-based therapies and the challenges that must be overcome.

4. Evaluate with examples how cell function can be regulated by exogenous factors and cell engineering techniques.

5. Synthesise and critique a range of examples of how different cell types interact to form functional tissue structures

6. Formulate a methodological strategy using cell and tissue research techniques for chronic disease.

7. Comprehend and criticise key publications related to the field.

 

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Ageing & Regenerative Medicine		 N/A 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Essay/coursework
Ageing & Regenerative Medicine		 N/A 100

Module feedback

Cohort-level feedback will be provided on performance in closed exams and made available via the VLE. Histograms of module marks will be posted on the notice boards outside the Biology Student Services office. Individual marks will be made available to you and your supervisor via e:vision. Exam scripts will be made available at the end of either the Spring or Summer terms. You should take the opportunity to discuss your marks and feedback with your supervisor.

 

During the teaching of the module you will receive feedback that may be at a whole class or individual level. Forms of feedback may include: model answers and discussion of workshop questions, summaries of performance in practicals, VLE-based quizzes, individual spoken comments during workshops, individual written comments on formative work.  

Indicative reading

These are available through the VLE module site.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.