Appropriate background knowledge at level 8 of biochemistry, genetics, physiology of disease, cell biology and comparative physiology

This module will build upon concepts and knowledge gained in your 1st and 2nd year modules to discuss the internal organisation of the cell and how it responds to intracellular and extracellular cues.

There will be 4 main overarching topics covered in this module: membrane function and receptors, cell signalling cascades, protein biochemistry, cellular structures and compartments.

In particular you will study membrane function; receptor based communication and their signalling networks; the importance of protein interactions and post-translational modifications in cell signalling pathways; their impact on protein function, targeting and turnover. These will be discussed in the context of the relevant cellular compartments and structures.

The course will discuss these concepts and mechanisms through major cellular processes such as cell division and cell death.

You will be taught through lectures, tutorials and workshops. You will also undertake practical activities in the laboratory and will be assessed on your ability to plan and execute these experiments and interpret and present the data you obtain. Within the workshops and tutorials, group work and face-to-face activities will be undertaken, to help you understand these cellular processes.

A substantial amount of time has been set aside for self-directed study to reflect the fast moving pace of this field and the need to consult the literature, to prepare for tutorials, workshops and practical classes. Group work and team study is encouraged.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to:

LO1: Draw on a range of sources to formulate a plan to solve a practical research question
LO2: Develop analytical and experimental laboratory skills in molecular cellular biology
LO3: Analyse, interpret and evaluate experimentally derived data and demonstrate scientific writing skills through laboratory reports
LO4: Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of cellular signalling mechanisms using specific examples
LO5: Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of cellular compartments and post-translational regulation and their importance in regulating protein structure, function, turnover and trafficking
LO6: Apply knowledge of cell signalling and protein biochemistry to multi-layered cellular processes such as cell division and death