Pharmacology BSc

In this module, you’ll explore the dynamic relationship between science and society, delving into how scientific advancements influence and are influenced by the world around us. You’ll examine the ethical frameworks that shape the practice of science in modern societies and consider the pathways by which discoveries are transformed into commercial or therapeutic applications.

You’ll also investigate how scientific knowledge is communicated to the public and its role in addressing pressing global and societal challenges of the 21st century. This module encourages a critical perspective on science's impact, offering valuable insights into its potential for both progress and controversy.

Primary objective of the module

To build on the detail and add further complexity to the drug discovery problems studied in year 2, with a focus on how the interpretation of quantitative pharmacology data can be dependent upon the signalling pathways measured.

Module Content

The lectures will be linked to a series of drug discovery problems. Topics covered include signal transduction, spare receptors, amplification, biased signalling, and molecular biology applied to pharmacology (biotechnological techniques, cloning receptors, recombinant proteins for therapy, gene manipulation in animals, mutants and their uses). Kinetics of drug binding, enzymology, ion channel pharmacology, non-GPCR targets, and mode of action of drugs targeting enzymes.

Primary objective of the module

This module will enable students to experience contemporary research methods.

Module content

Students will perform a laboratory based research project on a topic related to the interests of a member of the academic staff. They will produce a dissertation explaining what work was performed and a discussion of the results obtained.

Primary objective of the module

To cover the pharmacological treatment of disease, both current and future treatments, in detail.

Module content

This 3rd year module will look at mechanisms of drug action in further detail and complexity. Students will also be taken through the drug discovery process, including: overview of the drug discovery process (target identification- human genetics data; target-driven drug discovery, HTS strategies; target validation; QSAR); Target driven drug discovery. This will be linked to future/ novel targets for CVD, obesity, diabetes, immune diseases, Cancer, Respiratory disease, CNS disorders. Students will also be provided with an understanding of what is required to get a drug approved. Lectures from guest clinical speakers will put the pharmacology in a clinical setting.

 As part of this module, students will work in groups as part of a Virtual Drug Discovery simulator:

Students will be guided through the drug discovery process through identification of a novel drug for treatment of “X” with a combination of self-directed learning and workshops. Workshops will be linked in with lectures. Students will be expected to work in teams and drive the drug discovery process. They will be provided with data in workshops. The data they are provided with will depend on the decisions they make about what experiments or testing is required. They will start at target identification, do an initial screen, decide on which drugs to take forward and how to develop them into the clinical phase. They will then carry out a clinical trial and analyse the data.

In this module, you’ll explore the biological processes behind ageing and their impacts on human physiology, health, and frailty. You’ll delve into the molecular and cellular mechanisms of ageing, investigating how they affect the entire body and contribute to age-related conditions such as osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and liver diseases.

You’ll also examine how nutrition and exercise play critical roles in regulating metabolism and reducing disease risks. The module highlights their dual role in disease prevention, progression, and as therapeutic interventions. By evaluating strategies for promoting healthy ageing and managing diseases, you’ll gain valuable insights into supporting well-being throughout the ageing process.

This module delves into the genetic, biochemical, and pathophysiological foundations of neurological disorders, shedding light on how dysfunction arises in the brain and nervous system. You’ll explore key topics such as neuron-glial cell interactions, neurotransmitter systems, synaptic plasticity, neuroinflammation, and blood-brain barrier dysregulation. Additional focus will be placed on molecular mechanisms like protein misfolding, cellular stress, and synaptic dysfunction that contribute to neurodegeneration.

The module also examines interdisciplinary fields like neuroimmunology and neuro-oncology, investigating immune interactions in autoimmune diseases and brain cancers. Emphasising real-world applications, it highlights how scientific discoveries drive advancements in diagnostic tools, innovative treatments, and improved patient outcomes. By understanding these complex mechanisms, you’ll appreciate the pivotal role of research in addressing neurological disorders and shaping healthcare.

This module introduces students to the issues surrounding the use of complementary and alternative medicines. It covers topics including:

• mechanisms of herb-drug interactions
• traditional Chinese, Indian and African medicines
• nutritional supplements
• the placebo effect.

In the Biological Psychiatry module, you'll explore the science behind mental health, starting with the brain's structure and function, and the role of neurotransmitter systems in behaviour and mental well-being. You'll examine how early-life stressors affect brain development and mental health in later life, and critically discuss risk factors for psychiatric disorders, including genetics, the gut microbiome, and substance misuse. The module also covers traditional treatments like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and the latest in psychedelic pharmacology, as well as the non-medicinal use of brain-affecting drugs.

You'll delve into real-world applications and societal impacts, learning how biological insights can lead to improved treatments. By the end of the module, you'll understand the ethical considerations surrounding psychiatric treatments and gain a deep appreciation of the latest research driving the field forward. This comprehensive overview will equip you with a thorough understanding of the biological underpinnings of mental health and the advancements in psychiatric care.