autumn 2026
MBI-3018 Advanced molecular cell biology in disease - 10 ECTS

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  3. Advanced molecular cell biology in disease

Type of 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.

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

Course overlap

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

Course content

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.

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.​

Language of instruction and examination

English

Teaching methods

The course will consist of lectures, seminars, micro-lectures and group work.

Schedule

Se timeplan

Examination

Examination: Duration: Grade scale:
Oral exam 1 Hours A–E, fail F

Coursework requirements:

To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements:
Presentation of minimum 2 microlectures Approved – not approved
Participation at seminars Approved – not approved
UiT Exams homepage

More info about the coursework requirements

Participation at seminars - minimum 80% participation to be approved

Re-sit examination

Students who do not pass the previous ordinary examination can gain access to a re-sit examination.
  • About the course
  • Campus: Tromsø |
  • ECTS: 10
  • Course code: MBI-3018
  • Tidligere år og semester for dette emnet