Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit reinforces basic concepts in molecular biology and cellular biology

and will provide a framework for the understanding of more complex diagnostic modalities covered in subsequent units. Emphasis will be on the basic science underpinning molecular dysfunction. The precepts will be expanded to cover the molecular mechanisms and tools that can be used for diagnostic and prognostic assessment.

Topics will include DNA, RNA, protein structure in healthy humans, chromosome structure, function and abnormalities, regulation of gene expression in health and disease.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of DNA and chromosome structure and function; (2) demonstrate an understanding of basic gene regulation and structure; (3) describe the implications of altered gene structure; (4) demonstrate an understanding of basic cellular processes and dysfunction; (5) describe examples of metholodologies used in molecular medicine; (6) demonstrate analytical skills in the interpretation of data; (7) demonstrate skills in accessing informatic databases; and (8) demonstrate an understanding of genetic and cellular information related to cellular and molecular dysfunction.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) final examination; (2) continual assessment test; and (3) practical sessions. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Amber Boyatzis
Unit rules
Prerequisites
SCIE1106 Molecular Biology of the Cell
or SCIX1106 Molecular Biology of the Cell
or
IMED1001 Form and Function
and IMED1002 The Facts of Life
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours
practicals or tutorials: 3 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.