Description
This module provides a background to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other related complex diseases and outlines how genetics contributes to the development of these common disorders. The study of both polygenic and monogenic forms of the diseases is outlined as well as how genetics may assist in CVD risk prediction and personalised drug treatment in the future.
In addition to lectures, the module includes exercises (Journal Club presentations, abstract review, grant writing) designed to help students develop key academic skills and acquire invaluable experience for their future career.
Learning Objectives
After taking this module you should:
- Understand the principles of Cardiovascular Genetics and Epidemiology and their role in health and disease
- Have acquired a systematic understanding of current knowledge and problems/insights related to CVD and its research
- Have developed critical thinking skills in terms of evaluating methodologies and results
Indicative lecture topics (based on 2023/24 syllabus)
- Epidemiology of Cardiovascular Disease
- Genome-wide association studies and CHD
- Genetic architecture of LDL-C: The major CHD risk factor
- Genetics of sudden death: inherited cardiomyopathies
- Monogenic Forms of CHD
- Mendelian Randomisation – using genetics to determine causality
- Genetic testing for CVD
- Genetics of mitochondrial disease
- Next generation molecular treatments for cardiovascular disease
- Genetics of iron metabolism and cardiovascular disease risk
- 100,000 genomes project
- Genetics of obesity
- Genetics of sudden death: inherited arrhythmias
- Statistical analysis of complex disease phenomenon
- Genetics of Type 2 Diabetes
- Future of genetics in medicine
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
Ìý