Introductory description

The module will allow students the opportunity to study the fundamental principles of medical genomics. The primary aim is to present these fundamental principles in a way that is accessible to students from relatively diverse backgrounds. This will be achieved by detailed consideration of case studies published in primary literature.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

This module will present the fundamental principles of genomics for medicinal gain. Consideration will be given to proven exploitation examples whilst also addressing the limitations and ethics of novel genomic technologies applied to human health.

Students will obtain a thorough grasp of the statistical and computational tools currently used for analysis for biomedical genomics analyses together with a good understanding and ability to analyse and interpret data.

We will discuss a wide range of strategies for the use of medical genomic information for the design of novel pharmaceutical products and targeted medical treatments. A significant component of the syllabus will be the use of case studies to identify the route to successful exploitation of medical genomics data. These will incorporate not only the genetic and epigenetic principles that underline human diseases but also consider the importance of pathogen genomics to human health.

Several of the case studies will be presented and discussed by experts in genomic analyses.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Have a broad, integrated knowledge of scientific principles on which medical genomics is based and how medical genomics relates to industry and medical treatments. .
• Demonstrate a working knowledge of the basic principles of statistical and computational analysis associated with medical genomics.
• Interpret medical genetics research and demonstrate a systematic approach to data bases for genomic information analysis.
• Identify, analyse and resolve issues with respect to experimental design, data analysis and applications for drug design.
• Present both oral and written reports giving a wellargued critique of selected subject.

Indicative reading list

Human Genetics and Genomics, by Bruce R. Korf, Mira B. Irons · Wiley

Essentials of Medical Genomics, by Stuart M Brown. Wiley-Blackwell

View reading list on Talis Aspire

Subject specific skills

Demonstrate a working knowledge of the basic principles of statistical and computational analysis associated with medical genomics.

Transferable skills

Present both oral and written reports giving a wellargued critique of selected subject