| Unit name | Haemopoietic Stem Cell Therapies |
|---|---|
| Unit code | PANM30003 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | H/6 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Blair |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
None |
| Co-requisites |
3 from level 6/H lecture units and Research Skills unit. |
| School/department | School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine |
| Faculty | Faculty of Life Sciences |
The most tangible evidence of advances in genetic, protein and cellular sciences is seen in haemopoietic stem cell therapies. From early attempts at bone marrow transplantation, this has broadened to include the use of stem cells mobilised by growth factors from the donor's marrow into their bloodstream, cord blood and mesenchymal stem cells. Genetic advances have revolutionised the speed and accuracy of tissue typing, the assessment of engraftment and graft rejection, accurate quantitation of malignant cells and early detection of viral infections. Advances in antibody technology now allow the accurate selection of stem cells and of cells capable of fighting specific viral infections. This topic examines the biology of stem cells and the technology behind these advances, focussing particularly on how successful research in this School has been transferred from the laboratory to clinical application, bringing major benefits to clinical care. Lectures in weeks 17-20.
Aims:
To bilaterally teach scientists how basic scientific innovation can be translated rapidly to improve clinical care, and intercalating medical students the importance of collaborative research with scientists in areas which can readily translate. The Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children and members of the School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine have a wide-ranging and internationally renowned expertise in translational science. Once students have been taught the basics of haemopoietic stem cell therapies, this is used to enthuse them in the importance of translational science to best quality medical care.
Knowledge and Understanding of haemopoietic stem cell therapies, its history and its therapeutic potential. Knowledge of the scientific literature pertaining to stem cell transplantation and an ability to evaluate this literature critically.
Lectures, Data Handling Session
Where possible the unit will include a visit to the NHS - Blood and Transplant facilities in Filton.
Independent study: Students are expected to study the recommended literature.
Exam to include 2 essays, one essay to be chosen from each section containing three questions.
If this unit has a Resource List, you will normally find a link to it in the Blackboard area for the unit. Sometimes there will be a separate link for each weekly topic.
If you are unable to access a list through Blackboard, you can also find it via the Resource Lists homepage. Search for the list by the unit name or code (e.g. PANM30003).
How much time the unit requires
Each credit equates to 10 hours of total student input. For example a 20 credit unit will take you 200 hours
of study to complete. Your total learning time is made up of contact time, directed learning tasks,
independent learning and assessment activity.
See the Faculty workload statement relating to this unit for more information.
Assessment
The Board of Examiners will consider all cases where students have failed or not completed the assessments required for credit.
The Board considers each student's outcomes across all the units which contribute to each year's programme of study. If you have self-certificated your absence from an
assessment, you will normally be required to complete it the next time it runs (this is usually in the next assessment period).
The Board of Examiners will take into account any extenuating circumstances and operates
within the Regulations and Code of Practice for Taught Programmes.
