Overview

Cancer genomics is transforming our understanding on the origins and complexity of cancer. Genome sequencing is providing detailed information that and allows diagnosis, targeted treatment and monitoring of disease. This module will introduce students to this fast evolving field.

Topics will be presented via lectures, seminars, study groups work-based learning and tutorials. The syllabus will include topics such as:

Genomic testing of solid tumours and haematological cancers and its relevance in terms of optimal treatment regimes

Methods and value of monitoring disease following treatment.

Molecular basis of germline mutations for cancer predisposition and its relevance to cancer risk for a person or members of a person’s family.

Tumour classification systems and the factors involved in tumour formation including the molecular mechanisms and role of microenvironment, molecular signatures & changing classification systems.

The cellular properties of tumours: growth, division, invasion, aberrant hormone or toxin production, immunogenicity

The characterisation of metastases including diagnosis, classification and the molecular mechanisms involved.

Approaches in identifying new genes involved in cancer.

Role of genomics in drug development and the role of clinical trials in treatment options.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -Pass (C- to C+) (range 50-59%)Primary criteriaA pass level demonstrates knowledge and comprehension of key areas & principles, with understanding of the main elements of the subject area, although gaps and weaknesses in the argument are evident. No real evidence of background study and wider reading is evident. Answers are focussed on questions but also with some irrelevant material and weaknesses in structure & argument. Answers have several factual/computational errors. Lack of originality and interpretation. No links between topics are described. Limited problem solving skills. Some weaknesses in presentation accuracy & delivery.Secondary CriteriaC+ Good within the class - Exceeds expectations for some primary criteria - Strong factual knowledge with some weaknesses in understanding - Ideas/arguments are limited but are well presentedC Mid-level - Matches all primary criteria - Moderate factual knowledge with some weaknesses in understanding - Ideas/arguments are limited presented with weaknesses in logic/presentationC- Meets requirements of class - Matches most but not all primary criteria - Moderate factual knowledge with several weaknesses in understanding - Ideas/arguments are limited presented with weaknesses in logic/presentation

-good -Merit (B- to B+) (range 60-69%)Primary criteriaGood students demonstrate strong knowledge & understanding of most but not all of the subject area. Limited evidence of background study. The answers are focussed with good structure. Arguments are presented coherently, mostly free of factual/computational errors. Some limited original interpretation. Well know links between topics are described. Problems are addressed by existing methods/approaches. Good presentation with accurate communicationSecondary CriteriaB+ Good - Exceeds expectations for most primary criteria - Command of subject but with gaps in knowledge - Some ideas/arguments originalB Mid-level - Meets all primary criteria - Strong factual knowledge and understanding - Ideas/arguments are well presented by few are originalB- Meets requirements of class - Meets most but not all primary criteria - Strong factual knowledge with minor weaknesses in understanding - Most but not all ideas/arguments are well presented and few are original

-excellent -Distinction (A- to A) (range 70-100%)Primary criteriaComprehensive knowledge & detailed understanding. Clear evidence of extensive background study & originality. Highly focussed, relevant and well structured answers. Arguments logically presented and defended with evidence and examples. Excellent presentation skills with very accurate communication.Secondary CriteriaA Outstanding - Exceeds expectations for most primary criteria - Complete command of subject and other relevant areas - Ideas/arguments are highly originalA+ Excellent - Exceeds expectations for some primary criteria - Complete command of subject - Ideas/arguments are highly originalA Good - Meets all primary criteria - Command of subject but with minor gaps in knowledge areas - Ideas/arguments are mostly originalA- Meets requirements of Class - Meets most but not all primary criteria - Complete command of subject but with some gaps in knowledge - Ideas/arguments are mostly original

Learning Outcomes

• Accurately interpret and critically analyse cancer biomarker and omics-based tests, in cancer diagnosis, treatment stratification and prognosis, and treatment monitoring

• Comprehend and accurately present understanding of the genetics of germline and somatic cancers, the identification of genetic risk factors, cancer drug development and clinical trials

• Demonstrate appropriate understanding of the classification, diagnosis, and specific biological properties of solid and haematological tumours