Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

Students require basic knowledge of physiology of the cardiovascular system, equivalent to that taught in PSC1002 (Physiology).

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module aims to develop knowledge and understanding of the physiology of the cardiovascular system. This includes a thorough grounding on intrinsic and extrinsic factors influencing both cardiac and vascular function, incorporating mechanisms at the integrated systemic level and the cellular level. Consideration will be given to structure and function in different physiological conditions. Cardiovascular development, regeneration and ageing will be described. Specific malfunctions will be described at appropriate points within the module and the resultant pathophysiological conditions discussed.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module considers:

- the importance of structure and function of heart and blood vessels, including during development

- excitation-contraction coupling in cardiac and vascular muscle cells

- mechanisms regulating cardiac and vascular function

- remodelling of excitation-contraction coupling in exercise, ageing, pregnancy and disease states

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

On completion of this module students will be able to:

K1 Describe the main control systems involved in regulating blood pressure (at systemic and local levels)

K2 Describe the cellular mechanisms leading to the generation and regulation of cardiac action potentials

K3 Explain mechanisms involved in excitation-contraction coupling of cardiac muscle cells and vascular smooth muscle cells, and how these processes are controlled, particularly by the regulation of intracellular Ca2+

K4 Describe the development processes of the heart and great vessels and explain congenital and acquired defects that can occur during these processes

K5 Describe and interpret the consequences of remodelling of excitation-contraction coupling in cardiac and vascular tissues in exercise, pregnancy and disease states

K6 Outline the cellular and mechanisms controlling cardiomyocyte generation and describe how this may be altered in myocardial ageing and age-related disease

Intended Skill Outcomes

On completion of this module students will be able to:

S1 Perform simple cardiovascular tests, at a basic level of competence

S2 Analyse, present and interpret experimental data, using commonly available software

S3 Critically analyse and appraise literature relevant to the module

S4 Communicate effectively in a written format

S5 Produce and deliver a scientific oral presentation

S6 Work effectively within a team

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures provide the core information and an indication of the scope of the course as a basis for guided independent study.

The seminar sessions will encourage increased understanding of the material through discussion.

The practical class will provide experience in recording and analysing biological data to support the core knowledge, carrying out scientific calculations, computer-based presentation skills and working as part of a small team.

The oral presentation will encourage analysis and discrimination of the scientific literature at a deeper level than that presented in lectures, promoting individual creative work and also providing an opportunity to learn through collective study.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The Quiz assessment tests core knowledge and students’ understanding of taught material and additional reading. The scientific paper interpretation section of the examination will assess the students' ability to use their knowledge and understanding of the topics in the module to interpret and explain data presented in a scientific research paper.

The in-course assessment will judge the students’ ability to analyse and present experimental data in a scientific manner (using computer-based programs), critically interpret and evaluate scientific data and draw appropriate conclusions. Working on the practical will also test their ability to work effectively as a team and to develop their scientific thinking using verbal and written communication skills.

General Notes

N/A