Please note

This document only provides information for the academic year selected and does not form part of the student contract

School:

School of Applied Sciences

Credit Rating:

20

Level (including FHEQ):

I (FHEQ Level 5)

Graded or Non Graded:

Graded

Version Valid From:

2023-09-01

Module Leader:

Kirsty McLean

Version Number

2023.03

Learning Methods

Seminar
Lecture
Practical Classes and Demonstrations
Guided Independent Study

Synopsis

The module will start with an overview of fundamental concepts in pharmacology including the absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs (ADME). The module will then explore the molecular aspects of drug action, with detailed examples of various targets (including receptors, ion channels, enzymes and transporters). Students will investigate the … For more content click the Read More button below. As the largest family of proteins targeted by drug discovery methods, the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are of fundamental importance to pharmacology. Individual case studies of GPCRs will be used to highlight the fundamental concepts covered in the first term. The case studies will highlight the therapeutic relevance of GPCRs with details of their molecular properties, kinetic models of action, and receptor oligomerization. In the latter part of the module, students will learn about biopharmaceuticals and gene therapy. The module will include consideration of the drug discovery and development process and technologies involved (chemical screen libraries, assay development), including high throughput screening. The stages of development of a new drug with details of initial lead-finding, optimization, pre-clinical development, phase I, II, III trials and regulatory approval will be discussed.

Learning Strategy

Lectures will be used to deliver the material, supported by seminars, workshops and practicals. Seminars will reinforce salient points in lectures and develop problem solving and investigative skills.  Seminars will also be used to support their oral and presentation skills and directed study time will ensue thorough preparation. The student … For more content click the Read More button below.

Outline Syllabus

The fundamentals of absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs.Drug targets: receptors, ion channels, enzymes and transporters.The biochemistry of protein-ligand interactions.G-Protein Coupled Receptors as pharmacological targets.Biopharmaceuticals including proteins, peptides and monoclonal antibodies and their industrial value.The safety issues, recent successes and future potential of gene therapy (gene delivery mechanisms, gene … For more content click the Read More button below.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will
1.
be able to understand the concept of binding affinity and the equilibrium dissociation constant-KD.
2.
be able to understand the concept of intrinsic activity and illustrate this with relevant examples.
3.
be able to understand the relevance of biopharmaceuticals.
4.
be able to relate knowledge of the intermolecular forces involved in ligand-binding to the problem of structure-based drug design.
5.
be able to illustrate with examples, the biology of GPCRs and how therapeutic intervention may prevent or reduce disease symptoms.
6.
be able to discuss the ethical issues surrounding gene therapy.
7.
be able to critically evaluate in vitro and in vivo models used to test drug actions.
8.
be able to discuss recent advances and current challenges in pharmacological drug discovery and development.
9.
be able to use both one-compartment and two-compartment pharmacokinetic models to investigate absorption, distribution and excretion kinetics.
10.
be able to apply knowledge of the principles of drug action in simulated or real laboratory procedures to investigate pharmacological phenomena.
11.
be able to undertake structured problem solving and show accuracy in calculations.
12.
be able to investigate the dose response of drugs on living tissues/whole organisms.

Formative Assessment

Assessment 1: Written assignment (coursework)
Assessment 2: In-Class Test

Summative Assessment

Assessment 1: Written Assignment
Assessment 2: Exam

Assessment Criteria

The module handbook will provide additional guidance for students on the specific assessment criteria and marking schedules applied to individual pieces of work.

My Reading

Reading List