MSc CANCER CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (2008/9)

Transcription

1 Faculty of Medicine and Biological Sciences Department of Biochemistry MSc CANCER CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (2008/9) COURSE AIMS AND STRUCTURE Background The MSc in Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology is based in the School of Biological Sciences in the Adrian Building on the main University campus. The MSc is run by the Department of Biochemistry which is located in the Henry Wellcome Building (HWB). The 1 st course commenced in September 2005 and builds on the existing strengths of both the School of Biological Sciences and the Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine in the field of cancer research. The Biochemistry Department currently runs a highly popular third year module (BS3003) in Cancer Cell Biology and a highly successful second year module (BS2057) in Molecular Cell Biology has recently been introduced. In addition, the School of Biological Sciences runs three highly successful MSc courses in Bioinformatics, Molecular Genetics and Immunology. The MSc in Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology forms part of the existing laboratory-based MSc courses in Molecular Genetics, Immunology and Molecular Pathology & Toxicology (run by the University of Leicester Medical School) to share a common core curriculum, followed by specialised modules and research projects appropriate to each course. The course commences in September and is of 12 months duration (full-time) or 24 months duration (part-time). Entry requirements Candidates with a first, upper second or lower second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a biological science or related discipline will be considered. Graduates/non-graduates with several years appropriate industrial/professional experience are also encouraged to apply. Overseas students will be required to perform to the requisite standard in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or English Language Test Score (ELTS). Aims and Objectives The MSc in Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology aims to: Respond to the national and international need for trained cancer researchers. Familiarise students with the cellular and molecular biology of cancer cells. Teach the theoretical and practical analytical skills currently used in cancer 1

2 research. Provide a positive learning environment where students can actively participate in their academic development. Give students direct experience of research during a research placement project with either a collaborating industrial partner or equivalent research laboratory. Prepare graduates for employment as scientists in industry, academia or research institutes either by direct entry or following further study. Teach research skills to ensure that graduates are equipped to pursue a career in science. At the end of the course students should be able to: Show core knowledge of the molecular and genetic basis of cancer. Demonstrate an in depth knowledge of the molecular and cell biology of cancer cells. Use research skills including the ability to design experiments, use appropriate statistical methods, analyse and interpret data and critically review the scientific literature. Show good laboratory skills and an awareness of safe practices. Demonstrate effective use of transferable skills in oral presentations, report writing and the use of information technology. Demonstrate experience of research through a 9-month project placement with a collaborating industrial partner or equivalent research laboratory. Course Structure Pathways The overall structure of the MSc is as follows: Taught modules (3 months duration) 60 credits Research project (9 months duration)..120 credits All students will take five core modules (Modules 1-5). Successful completion of the five core modules will fulfil the requirements for a Postgraduate Certificate. Students studying for a Postgraduate Diploma will undertake a short (3 month) diploma project after successful completion of the core modules. Students taking the 2

3 MSc will undertake a long (9 month) Masters-research project upon successful completion of the core modules. Module Module Title Core / Optional BS7001 Introduction to molecular techniques BS7002 Research methods in cell biology Credit Rating Core 10 Core 15 BS7003 Research methods in cancer biology Core 15 BS7004 Advanced topics in cancer Core 10 biology comprising a programme of lectures # and tutorials BS7005 Data analysis comprising Core 10 three examinations BS7006 Masters research project Core* 120 BS7007 Diploma research project Core** 60 * Compulsory for MSc students only ** Compulsory for Postgraduate Diploma students only Students have the option of a 60-credit research laboratory placement or a 60-credit advanced library project. # In addition to the core lectures in the MSc course students should attend relevant seminars by external speakers organised by the various Departments within the School of Biological Sciences, the Medical School, and the MRC Toxicology Unit. The University of Leicester Cell Signalling Group also runs a regular and highly popular seminar series. Part-time students Full-time students will take the whole course in one year. Part-time students will have 2 years to complete the course. Completion dates for individual components for the part-time students will be decided on a case-by-case basis but a suggested approach will be to complete the taught modules in the first year and the research project component in the second year. Course Assessment Continuous assessment in the form of essays, tutorial work and short practical reports will be a major element of the course. A set of formal examinations takes place on the completion of the core modules. The examination consists of three papers that test your understanding of the key concepts underlying cancer cell 3

4 biology and your ability to analyse and interpret experimental data. A satisfactory attainment level is a pre-requisite to proceed to the research laboratory placement. Module Module Title Assessment BS7001 BS7002 Introduction to molecular techniques Research methods in cell biology Written laboratory report, Tutorials Written laboratory report, Tutorials BS7003 Research methods in Written laboratory report, cancer biology Tutorials BS7004 Advanced topics in cancer 3000-word research essay biology BS7005 Data analysis Three examinations. BS7006 MSc Research laboratory project The following aspects of the project will be assessed: Laboratory skills and project management Dissertation content Dissertation presentation Research seminar BS7007 Diploma level research report Report content Report presentation 4

5 MSc Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology (Module Specification) Module BS7001: Introduction to Molecular Techniques (10 Credits) Module organisers: Dr. M. Leyland, Dr. K. Tanaka Other contributors: Dr. J. Basran This 3 week practical module will introduce students to the basic techniques in molecular biology and good laboratory practice. Techniques covered will include PCR, RT-PCR, DNA extraction, restriction endonuclease digestion, molecular cloning, agarose gel electrophoresis, RNA extraction and cdna synthesis Aims To provide an opportunity for the students to develop laboratory skills and apply basic cellular, molecular and immunological methods to investigate cellular function, genetic variation and gene expression Objectives By the end of the module students should be able to: Understand the theory and practice of key molecular techniques Plan experiments, prepare reagents accurately and use micropipettes Be aware of laboratory safety, COSHH regulations, risk assessment and safe handling of toxic reagents. Use a laboratory notebook, communicate scientific information in a written form and be aware of laboratory standards Isolate DNA and RNA from tissues or cultured cells Gain an insight into cell culture methods. Method of assessment A written practical report will be assessed. Module BS7002: Research Methods in Cell Biology (15 Credits) Module organisers: Dr. R. Patel, Dr. C. Pritchard, Dr. S. Prigent, Dr. M. Dickens This module comprises a three week practical course that covers a range of techniques used to study intracellular signalling pathways, cell proliferation, cell death and the intracellular localization of subcellular organelles and proteins. Techniques covered will include cell culture, transfection, immunoprecipitation, immunecomplex kinase assays, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, cell proliferation assays, flow cytometry, the use of Green Fuorescent 5

6 Protein (GFP) and other epitope tags, immunofluorescence microscopy, Tunel assay, caspase assays and annexin-v binding assay. Aims To apply cellular, molecular and immunological methods to investigate cellular function in cancer cells To develop knowledge of the experimental approaches used in cancer research. To develop skills in researching and reviewing the scientific literature To develop written and verbal communication skills Objectives By the end of the module students should be able to: Understand and apply the techniques used to assay activation of intracellular signalling pathways Understand the role of oncogenes in regulating intracellular signalling, cell growth and cell proliferation Understand the principles of light and fluorescence microscopy Use indirect immunofluorescence and GFP to study the intracellular localization of organelles and proteins Assay cell proliferation and identify the stages of mitotic cell division Apply Western blotting, immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry and agarose gel electrophoresis to assay cell death Demonstrate competence in data analysis and interpretation Prepare a logically-structured scientific report Method of assessment A written practical report will be assessed. Module BS7003: Research Methods in Cancer Biology (15 Credits) Module organisers: Dr. S. Prigent, Dr. C. Pritchard, Dr. R. Patel. Other contributors: Professor Felix Beck, Sue Giblett This module comprises a three-week practical course. It will explore some of the aberant properties of tumour cells and will examine how growth factors produced by tumours can influence the behaviour of endothelial cells lining blood vessels to permit tumour vascularisation. Techniques covered will include immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridisation, immunofluorescence microscopy, cell migration and spreading assays, in vitro endothelial cell tube formation assays and CAM assays. 6

7 Aims To enable students to examine the altered properties of tumour cells with respect to changes in gene expression, cell migration and adhesion. To appreciate the importance of angiogenesis for tumour growth and to use specialised assays for examining the effects of growth factors and inhibitors on endothelial cell differentiation and survival. To develop skills in researching and reviewing the scientific literature To develop written and verbal communication skills Objectives By the end of the course students should be able to: Understand theory and practice of key techniques for assessing altered protein and mrna expression in tumour samples Compare the migratory and adhesive properties of normal and transformed cells Observe how angiogenic growth factors and inhibitors can modulate the behaviour of endothelial cells in 3D cultures and CAM assays Method of assessment A written laboratory report will be assessed. Module BS7004: Advanced Topics in Cancer Biology (10 Credits) Module Organiser: Dr. R. Patel Other contributors: Dr. S. Prigent, Dr. A. Fry, Dr. C. Pritchard, Prof. M. Manson, Dr. E. Tulchinsky, Dr. M. Pinkoski, Dr. M. Browning, Prof. K. Mellon. Module Description This module comprises a lecture series that will provide a background to the molecular and cellular basis of cancer. Five introductory lectures will be given on the hallmarks of cancer as defined by Weinberg and Hanahan. This will be followed up by detailed lectures on specific aspects of cancer cells, with emphasis on growth control, apoptosis, angiogenesis, tissue invasion and immortalisation. The lecture series will end with a series of five lectures on cancer genetics, with particular reference to the development of breast and colon cancer, cancer prevention, diagnosis and drug development. Aims To give a detailed introduction to the key cellular and molecular alterations associated with the development of cancer. To develop students understanding of the molecular basis of tumour development and to provide background information on cancer diagnosis and drug development. 7

8 Objectives By the end of the course students should be able to: Understand the molecular and cellular basis of cancer cells Describe how signalling pathways are de-regulated in cancer cells Fully understand how oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes operate within a cell Describe the key molecular changes that take place during the progression of a cell from normal to malignancy, with the ability to quote specific examples of human tumour progression. Understand how anticancer targets are identified and drugs developed Have some background knowledge of cancer diagnosis and prevention Method of assessment This module will be assessed by the 3000 word research essay and an MCQ (multiple choice question) examination in December. Module BS7005: Data Analysis (10 Credits) Module organiser: Dr. R. Patel Other contributors: Dr. C. Pritchard, Dr. S. Prigent This module comprises two written examinations in December. The first paper (1 hour duration) will comprise short answer questions and will examine both the practical and theoretical aspects of the taught course. The second paper (1 hour duration) will specifically examine the students ability to analyse and interpret experimental data. Module BS7006: Research Laboratory Project (120 Credits) Module organiser: Dr. R. Patel Other contributors: Dr. S. Prigent, Dr. C. Pritchard This module comprises an eight-month research project placement either within the University, Medical School, an Industrial research laboratory or a Cancer Research Institute. The students will select a project according to their interests that will provide them with the experience of working in a research group. 8

9 Aims The aim of this module is to provide students with the opportunity to complete a major research project within either an industrial or academic research laboratory. Objectives On completion of this module the student should be able to: Demonstrate experience of a placement in a research laboratory Perform background research relevant to a research project Design and execute their experiments Interpret and analyse their data Prepare a major scientific report Prepare and deliver an appropriate oral presentation of their data Assessment The following aspects of the project will form the basis of the assessment: Laboratory skills and project management Dissertation content Dissertation presentation Research seminar Module BS7007: Diploma Level Research Project (60 Credits) Module organiser: Dr. R. Patel Other contributors: Dr. S. Prigent, Dr. C. Pritchard This module comprises a three-month Diploma-level research project that may be either library-based or based in a research laboratory within the University. Aims The aims of the Diploma-level laboratory-based project are to give students some experience of research work including appropriate background reading, obtaining and analysing experimental results and the preparation of the dissertation. The aims of the Diploma-level library-based project are to give students experience in the extraction, assimilation and evaluation of information on a specific topic from appropriate sources and the preparation of a 12,000 word dissertation. Objectives On completion of the Diploma-level project students are expected to be able to: Demonstrate experience of a placement in a research laboratory (laboratorybased) Perform background research relevant to a research project (laboratorybased) Design and execute their experiments (laboratory-based) 9

10 Interpret and analyse their data (laboratory-based) Conduct an in-depth study to answer a specific question (library-based) Undertake appropriate literature searches (library-based) Assimilate information from a range of sources and prepare their own synthesis of this information (library-based) Analyse and interpret the information critically (library-based) Prepare a major scientific report (laboratory and library-based) 10

11 2011/12 College of Medicine, Biological Sciences and Psychology These regulations cover this cross-college taught postgraduate programme run within the College of Medicine, Biological Sciences and Psychology. Curriculum: In addition to the taught modules candidates for the Masters degree also undertake a dissertation or project on an approved topic. Assessment: The pass mark at postgraduate level is 50%. The details of the assessments for individual modules are set out in the relevant s. All programmes within the College of Medicine, Biological Science and Psychology follow Scheme B of the Postgraduate Scheme of Assessment. Qualifications Awarded: (i) Candidates who accumulate 120 credits from the taught modules and satisfy the examiners in each of the modules will be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma. (ii) Notes: (i) (ii) Candidates who accumulate 180 credits, satisfy the examiners in each of the modules and submit a satisfactory dissertation/project will be awarded a Masters degree. Candidates may only be awarded the Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma or the Masters degree. No candidate may be awarded more than one of the above qualifications. The Masters degree may be awarded with merit or distinction in accordance with the relevant scheme of assessment. Department of Biochemistry M.Sc./Postgraduate Diploma in Cancer Cell and Molecular Biology Period of Registration: One year full-time or two years part-time Entry Requirements: Candidates should have at least a second class honours degree, or equivalent, in Biological Sciences. Candidates who do not have a second class honours degree but have several years appropriate industrial experience may be considered. Where a candidate s first language is not English, applicants will be required to provide evidence of appropriate language skills (e.g. IELTS 6.5). Module Code Module Title Credits Compulsory MB7001 Introduction to Molecular Techniques 10 MB7002 Research Methods in Cell Biology 15 MB7003 Research Methods in Cancer Biology 15 MB7004 Advanced Topics in Cancer Biology 10 MB7005 Data Analysis 10 For Masters Award: MB7006 Masters Research Project 120 For Diploma Award: MB7007 Diploma Research Project 60