Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Students require basic knowledge of physiology equivalent to that taught at stage 1 in the Physiology module PSC1002.

Co Requisite Comment

The pair of modules provides a comprehensive and integrated understanding of the physiology of the gastrointestinal tract using some cross referencing between the two modules.

Aims

This pair of modules (PSC3011 and PSC3013) on the Physiology of the Gastrointestinal Tract will give a broad grounding in many areas of gut function. The PSC3013 module (Physiology of the Gastrointestinal Tract 2) is designed to develop knowledge and advance understanding of the physiology and cellular physiology of:

•       host-microbe interactions: microbiome; pathogenicity; defence
•       gastric mucosal protection

Outline Of Syllabus

The module addresses and discusses the impact of microbial communities (oral, intestinal) and
host responses in health and disease. The physiology of gastrointestinal mucosal protection will be
described and the roles of aggressive and defensive factors in the physiological and
pathophysiological control of gastrointestinal barrier function discussed.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Upon completion of the module, it is expected that students will be able to:

• K1. Outline and evaluate the impact of host-microbiome interactions on oral and gastrointestinal
tract health and disease
• K2. Outline and assess the roles of host factors including antimicrobial peptides in mucosal
immunity and defence.
• K3. Outline and evaluate the key factors involved in the maintenance and breakdown of the
gastrointestinal mucosal protective barrier.

Intended Skill Outcomes

Upon completion of the module, the students should be able to:

• S1. Critically interpret and synthesise complex information relating to important physiological
functions of the gastrointestinal tract.
• S2. Analyse and interpret experimental data.
• S3. Communicate effectively in a written format (practical report).

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures and lecture materials are used to convey new information, core scientific material and key concepts in a concise manner (K1-K3, S1). Lectures and lecture materials are used to direct students towards important original sources of information in the study guides to provide a framework for guided independent study (K1-K3, S1-S2).
Lectures and lecture materials are used to aid the development of an understanding of current research and the
experimental basis of key concepts and core knowledge (K1-K3,S1-S2).

The practical provides laboratory experience and a practical demonstration to support the core material (K3,S2-S3).

The group feedback session provides critical feedback on the assessed in-course MCQ exam and provides an
opportunity to increase understanding by reflection and discussion (K1-K3, S1-S2).

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The written examination tests core knowledge and understanding of the subject under time-constraint conditions (K1- K3, S1-S2). The practical and written report test the capacity to perform laboratory work, problem solving and data interpretation (S1-S3). The practical report is prepared as a group report and thus encourages the development of team work and written scientific communication skills (S1- S3).

FMS Schools offering Semester One modules available as ‘Study Abroad’ will, where required, provide an alternative assessment time for examinations that take place after the Christmas vacation. Coursework with submissions dates after the Christmas vacation will either be submitted at an earlier date or at the same time remotely.

General Notes

Original Handbook text: