This module is not currently running in 2024 to 2025.
This module focuses on the endocrine system, which in conjunction with the nervous system, is responsible for monitoring changes in an animal's internal and external environments, and directing the body to make any necessary adjustments to its activities so that it adapts itself to these environmental changes.
The emphasis will be on understanding the underlying principles of endocrinology, the mechanisms involved in regulating hormone levels within tight parameters in an integrated manner and the central importance of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.
During the lectures each major endocrine gland or functional group of glands will be explored in turn and specific clinical disorders will be used to illustrate the role of the endocrine organs in the maintenance of whole body homeostasis. The systems studied will include the following: thyroid gland, parathyroid gland and bone metabolism, adrenal gland, renal hormones (water and salt balance), pancreatic hormones, gut hormones and multiple endocrine neoplasia, gonadal function and infertility.
Consideration will be given to the methods available for the diagnosis of specific endocrine diseases, including the measurement of electrolyte and hormone levels, and the role of dynamic testing.
The role of the endocrine system in integrating metabolic pathways will be emphasised throughout the module and particular scenarios such as infertility, diabetes mellitus.
Total contact hours: 27
Private study hours: 123
Total study hours: 150
Test (10.5%) (1h)
Case Study (24.5%) (2500 words maximum)
Exam (65%) (2 hr)
Clinical Biochemistry Gaw, A., Cowan, R.A., O'Reilly, D.St. J.,et al (2013)
Clinical Biochemistry (2nd Edition) Churchill Livingstone. Ahmed, N (Ed) Clinical Biochemistry (2016) OUP
Endocrinology. Essential Endocrinology and Diabetes (2012), Holt, R.I.G & Hanley, NA (6th Edition), Blackwell Science
General Physiology Core Physiology texts recommended for first and second year modules, for example, Silverthorn.
Integrated metabolism Core Biochemistry texts recommended for second year modules, for example, Lehninger.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Have:
An understanding of the underlying principles of endocrinology at the cellular, biochemical and physiological level.
The ability to describe, using illustrative examples, the different control mechanisms at work within the endocrine system both in the maintenance of whole body homeostasis and in disease.
An understanding of the methods available for the diagnosis of specific endocrine diseases including the measurement of electrolyte and hormone levels, and the role of dynamic testing.
The ability to integrate clinical and biochemical data to evaluate the most probable cause of key endocrine disorders, including a rationale for the most appropriate treatment regimes.
The intended generic learning outcomes. On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Have a knowledge and understanding of:
Interpretation and retrieval of information (knowledge management).
Analysis and evaluation of data (problem solving).
Communication of understanding and analysis through a variety of approaches (group work, tests and written report).
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