BL4220 Molecular Mechanisms of Degenerative Diseases
(BL4220 online module handbook version )
Degenerative diseases, including ALS and SMA are life-limiting conditions, with few treatment options and no definitive cures. While the genetic causes are, in some cases, known, the molecular mechanisms leading to cellular damage are not understood. This module will focus on what is known about the cellular pathology of these conditions with an emphasis on the physical organisation of mammalian cells and RNA biology. Recently developed treatment options will be discussed. The module will also touch on the real-life experiences of people living with degenerative conditions or working directly with them.
*Credits: 15*
Semester: 2†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL3302 or pass BL2301 or pass BL2302*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4220: Assessment
Coursework = 100%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL4220: Contributing Staff †
BL4220: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL4220 successfully should be able to:
- ¢ Understand the aspects of cell biology affected in degenerative conditions
- ¢ Gain experience of critical evaluation of classic and current primary literature
- ¢ Gain understanding of personal experiences of degenerative disease
- ¢ Experience presentation of key scientific concepts to a lay audience
BL4220: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
Transferable Skills
- Conducting interviews
- Group discussion - leading
- Group discussion - participating
- Journal club
- Short group presentation on given topic (up to 15 min)
- Paper critique
- Critically evaluating sources/information
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Searching databases
- Sourcing figures/tables
- Ethical considerations
- Generating questions
- Peer assessment
- Reflective analysis
- Self assessment
- Problem-solving questions
- Data analysis
- Produce graphs/figures
- Critiquing experimental design
- Designing experiments
- Organising group work
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
