Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Programme Admission Requirements Only

Co Requisite Comment

None

Aims

The module aims to:

1. To provide a framework to understand why ageing occurs in almost all organisms and why ageing is particularly slow in humans

2. To present details of the essential mechanisms of ageing as a basis to understand how organisms age

3. To inform students on the role of intrinsic and extrinsic stress in ageing

4 To provide a critical platform to judge the efficacy of potential interventions which include pharmacological, nutritional and physical

Outline Of Syllabus

This module aims to provides an overview on current thinking on why ageing is observed in almost all organisms, what factors influence the rate of ageing and the key mechanisms of ageing. The module will include an introduction to the role of intrinsic and extrinsic stresses in generating molecular damage within cells, the broad principles defining the network of cellular defences against stress-induced damage, and the current understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of ageing. As ageing involves multiple biochemical and cellular mechanisms affecting multiple tissues, the emphasis will be on building a thorough understanding of why adopting an integrative, systems approach is essential. The module aims to provide a critical platform to judge the efficacy of potential interventions which include pharmacological, nutritional and physical.

The module contents include:

1. Definitions of longevity and ageing

2. Ageing and the life cycle

3. Evolutionary theories of ageing

4 .Genetics of ageing and longevity

5. Stress, damage and repair

6. Mechanisms of stress

7. Mechanisms of ageing: damage to protein, lipid and DNA molecules; the associated maintenance and repair systems; and the consequences of the accumulation of un-repaired molecular damage.

8. A special focus on cellular senescence: the maintenance of telomeres; the role of mitochondria and oxidative stress; and stem cells

9. The insights gained from detailed study of caloric restriction

10. Age-associated changes in human organ/tissue integrity and function

11. Use of cell and animal model systems for ageing research

12. Measurement of ageing

13. Human population studies

14. Systems biology of ageing

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

By the end of this module students should be able to:

1. discuss why ageing occurs and the role of stress in its progression

2. display a clear understanding of the key mechanisms of ageing

3. discuss the limitations of potential interventions to slow the ageing process

4. discriminate between normal ageing and disease

5. display an awareness of the current areas of research in ageing

Intended Skill Outcomes

By the end of the module the students should be able to:

1. use their knowledge and critical appraisal skills to judge realistically the potential of possible interventions

2. suggest appropriate experimental procedures to address problems in biogerontology

3. give short oral presentations on the biology of ageing and stress to both lay and specialist audiences

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures and lecture material will provide the students with expert presentations of key information and as a platform for private study. Seminars (small group teaching) will build on the lecture materials to help consolidate the information gained and encourage a critical understanding.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The in-course written assignment will provide an in depth assessment of a student’s ability to extract essential information from diverse sources, and present a clear, well structured and well supported argument. The formative oral presentation will provide an opportunity for the student to enhance their ability to think on their feet and present ideas to peers and the public. The summative written examination will provide an assessment of broad knowledge and understanding of the biology of ageing.

General Notes

N/A