Second level courses

Cancer Biology, 15 hp

The course will enable you to deepen your knowledge of the molecular basis of cancer. Particular emphasis is given to the first stage of the process: how genetic changes lead to the formation of a tumour cell. You will learn a great deal about cellular signalling and how it is regulated, and you will learn about the later stages in the process of cancer, promotion and progression. There is no practical work in this course. Course period: November–January.

DNA Damage: Signalling and Repair, 15 hp

This course concerns the origin and emergence of DNA damage and its subsequent repair. Signalling after insult to the genetic code and what these signals yield in terms of cellular response are central concepts for the course, together with mechanisms for repair of damaged DNA. Different types of damage, how and from what sources they arise and the results of these processes such as mutations, and subsequently tumours and cancer disease is a main theme throughout the course. Furthermore, procedures for risk assessment and evaluation concerning cancer incidence in humans are discussed. No animal tests are included.

Infection Biology, 15 hp

This course gives a deeper understanding of the processes during microbial infection. The course covers microbe-host interactions, induction of host cell responses, intracellular survival, immune evasion mechanisms, antibiotic resistance and alternative treatments of infections. Microbial infection is a important global problem that increases over time due to multi-resistance to antibiotics. The course is given in the period March–June.

Molecular Genetics, 15 hp

This course provides the opportunity to deepen your knowledge within molecular genetics by studying some genetic processes in more detail. Comparisons between eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms is given a large weight. Viruses of these organisms are also dealt with. You will learn about the replication and repair of the genetic material, the exchange of DNA between cells, mapping unknown genes, and you will study gene replication at all levels. The course is given in the period Janaury – March in 2011 and March – June in 2012.

Radiation Biology, 15 hp

The course focuses on how humans are influenced by ionising radiation and other radiation in their surroundings, such as that from mobile telephones. Repair mechanisms at the cellular level are described, and how the repair of damage can be coupled to the occurrence of cancer and other age-related diseases. Dosage concepts, measurement methods and risk assessment are all described, as is the medical use of radiation. The course includes a major laboratory exercise. The course is given in the period March-June.