This module will be taught as 5 one hour theory classes over 12 weeks.
Classes may take the form of formal lectures or tutorial-type sessions. A range of teaching techniques will be used as appropriate, including discussion of case studies, worksheets, PowerPoint and other presentations. Students will be encouraged to learn through questioning and group discussions.
Module Aim:
To give the student a sound background in the structure, functions and metabolism of various biomolecules as well as a basic introduction to the principles of pharmacology and immunology.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Describe the structure, functions and metabolism of various biomolecules.
LO2
Explain basic concepts of immunology.
LO3
Explain basic concepts of pharmacology
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
None
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Proteins
Structure of amino acids. Classification and chemical properties. Essential amino acids. Protein structure, properties and function. Enzymes; classification and properties such as heat and pH sensitivity, specificity, rate of reaction.
Lipids
Structure and function of lipids. Glycerides, saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, essential fatty acids, phospholipids and cholesterol.
Carbohydrates
Sugars and polysaccharides. Structure and function of the chief monosaccharides and disaccharides. Structural and storage polysaccharides.
Micronutrients
Function of water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins and of minerals.
Metabolism
Catabolic and anabolic metabolism. Metabolic control; location, compartmentation, hormonal control and feedback mechanisms.
Glycolysis and tricarboxylic cycle. The electron transport chain, proton pump and ATP generation.
Molecular Biology
Structure of DNA and RNA, DNA replication, transcription and translation.
Transport and Signalling
Cellular transport mechanisms, ligands, cellular receptors and signal transduction, agonists and antagonists.
Immunology
Basic immunology concepts such as cells and mechanisms involved in the immunologic response, innate and adaptive immunity, humoral and cell mediated immunity. Infection and immunologic response, strength of the immune response.
Pharmacology
Introductory pharmacology: Factors involved in the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of drugs. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Drug delivery and novel dosage devices. Dose calculation and clearance rates.
Basic Mechanism of Drug Action: The drug-receptor complex. Multipharmacy - antagonism and synergism.
Introduction to the properties and use of various classes of drugs.
Assessment Breakdown
%
Continuous Assessment
30.00%
End of Module Formal Examination
70.00%
Special Regulation
Learners are required to achieve a minimum grade (35%) in CA and Final Examination
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Examination
1 hour examinations
1
30.00
n/a
No Project
No Practical
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type
Assessment Description
Outcome addressed
% of total
Assessment Date
Formal Exam
n/a
1,2,3
70.00
End-of-Semester
SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment