Advanced molecular cell biology in disease
About the course
The course is a course for students accepted to the Master´s program in Biomedicine, but is also open for single course students who meet the admission requirements.
The course provides an in‑depth knowledge of molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying human diseases such as cancer, genetic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as the biological processes of aging. By the end of the course, students will be able to explain genetic and cellular disease mechanisms, critically assess molecular data, and present complex topics within this field clearly. The course focuses on scientific knowledge, communication skills, and collaborative competence. The students learn to apply molecular cell biology concepts in biomedical and translational research.
Admission requirements
The course can be taken as a singular course by students with a Bachelor´s degree in Biomedicine or similar (180 ECTS).
Recommended prerequisites: Basic knowledge at University Bachelor level in cell and molecular biology and genetics.
Application code: 9371
The minimum average grade requirement is:
C - for bachelor's degree or equivalent issued in Europe, Canada, USA, Australia and New Zealand
B - for bachelor's degree or equivalent issued in all other countries
Objectives of the course
Knowledge
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Explain the molecular and genetic foundations of disease, including genome organization, gene mutations, and noncoding RNA.
- Describe principles of medical genetics and molecular cytogenetics, including inheritance patterns and chromosomal abnormalities
- Explain mechanisms of DNA repair and genomic instability and their implications in disease.
- Discuss key cellular processes such as autophagy, cell death, senescence, cell cycle and differentiation, and their roles in health and disease.
- Explain intercellular communication mechanisms, including signaling pathways, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis, in the context of disease progression.
Skills
Students will develop the ability to:
- Interpret and critically assess current knowledge in molecular cell biology in disease.
- Apply current concepts, ideas and terminology in molecular cell biology in disease through oral presentations.
General Proficiency
Upon completion, students will demonstrate:
- Advanced knowledge in molecular cell biology in health and disease and its application to biomedical research.
- Communication skills in presenting and discussing advanced biomedical concepts.
- Collaborative competence by contributing effectively to group discussions.
Credit reduction
If you pass the examination in this course, you will get an reduction in credits (as stated below), if you previously have passed the following courses:
- MBI-3004 The biology of cancer 5 ects
- MBI-3013 Human molecular genetics: medical and forensic genetics 4 ects
Teaching methods
Language of instruction and examination
EnglishRecommended reading/syllabus
Du kan se og få tilgang til deler av pensum via Leganto.
Pensumliste for MBI-3018 - Advanced molecular cell biology in disease (HØST 2026)Schedule
The schedules are normally finalized and published well in advance of the start of the semester, often a few weeks beforehand. This gives students the opportunity to organize their studies and prepare for upcoming activities.
It is recommended to check the schedule regularly, as changes may occur.
Examination
| Oral exam | Date: 09.12.2026 –10.12.2026 Duration: 1 Hours |
Grade: A–E, fail F |
To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements
| Presentation of minimum 2 microlectures | Grade: Approved – not approved |
| Participation at seminars | Grade: Approved – not approved |
Everything you need to know about before, during, and after the exam; registration, absence, appeals, and diplomas: UiT Exams homepage
