MPS5102 · Target identification and validation

Overview

This unit outlines the relationship between pathophysiology and the rational design and use of drugs. You will be introduced to the physiological basis of disease, highlighting the causal connections between cell biochemistry, body function at the tissue, organ and system level, and human health. You will study the relationship between ligands (endogenous and exogenous) and the activation of specific cellular responses, and will explain how the selection of a relevant therapeutic target is based on a thorough understanding of biochemistry, physiology and pharmacology, and the impact of the disease process on optimal function. Upon completing this unit, you will understand how aberrant signalling may be modified through identification and validation of appropriate protein, lipid or DNA targets, and be prepared to take these targets to the next stage in the process: drug design and optimisation.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the processes by which disease states can alter homeostatic and physiological functions (pathophysiology), explaining the relationship between disrupted function/s and observed signs and symptoms
2. Explain in detail how drug treatments target the pathophysiology disease states, identifying the drug target and cellular target relevant to the disease state
3. Articulate the process of target identification and validation using selected disease states as case studies, and explain how emerging technologies are integrated into the process of target identification and validation and their advantages.
4. Define the characteristics of an ideal drug target and use a systematic approach to evaluate whether exemplar therapeutics reflect these properties, proposing a rationale for why deviating from accepted drug target might be acceptable and/or necessary in certain situations
5. Use effective teamwork and collaborative skills, and research skills to develop a set of target identification and validation dossiers
6. Demonstrate oral and written communication skills appropriate for master’s students.

Workload

• 18 hours online modules (discovery) • Twelve 3-hour workshops • 55 hours of team-based collaborative work • 45 hours of independent study

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.