Medical Genetics (MGEN217)

This course covers the basis of human traits with emphasis on genetic disorders and their modes of inheritance. Familiarization with the molecular and cellular basis of genetic conditions and the modalities available for treatment will be covered. Students will also learn about the genetic disorders that are particularly prevalent in the UAE population and their prevention strategies. Personalised medicines and the concepts of variability to susceptibility and resistance to infections and population genetics will be introduced.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Describe The Principles Of Population Genetics, The Types And Causes Of Genetic Variations And Factors Affecting Their Frequencies.
2. Describe The Strategies Employed For The Diagnosis, Prevention And Treatment Of Genetic Disorders.
3. Describe The Structure And Function Of The Genome, Chromosomes And Genes And The Principles Of Transmitting The Genetic Information From Parent To Offspring.
4. Describe The Various Types Of Pathogenic Genetic Abnormalities, Their Modes Of Inheritance, Their Exceptions And Risk Calculation.
5. Discuss The Interplay Between Genetics And The Environment In Health And Disease Including Susceptibility To Common Conditions And Response To Medications.

Molecular Biology of the Gene (MGEN600)

This course provides students with a comprehensive overview of fundamental principles in human molecular biology and molecular genetics, addressing various aspects. Students will explore the intricate molecular structures and characteristics of eukaryotic macromolecules, gaining insights into their functions. Additionally, the curriculum will cover the complex regulation of genes in eukaryotic organisms, spanning transcriptional, posttranscriptional, translational, and post-translational processes. Emphasis will be placed on understanding macromolecular interactions crucial for specific gene regulatory mechanisms. In this course students will refine their analytical skills by critically evaluating and summarizing recent research papers showcasing groundbreaking discoveries in human molecular biology.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Identify the molecular structure and properties of eukaryotic macromolecules.
2. Recognize complex eukaryotic gene regulation at the transcriptional, posttranscriptional, translational, and post-translational levels.
3. Assess macromolecular interactions involved in specific gene regulatory mechanisms
4. Critically evaluate research papers describing the latest findings in human molecular biology.

Human Genetics (MGEN601)

In this course, students will dissect the principles of inheritance of human traits with emphasis on genetic disorders and their exceptions such as reduced penetrance, genetic anticipation, variable expression, haploinsufficiency, genomic imprinting etc. The course will also cover the types and implications of genetic and genomic variations including the functional implications of genetic aberrations leading to disease states. Population genetics including Hardy-Weinberg principles as well as the concepts of variability in susceptibility and resistance to infections will be delivered.

Credit Hours : 2

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Dissect the various modes of inheritance with their exceptions and carry out risk assessment on the occurrence of genetic and genomic diseases.
2. Recognize, compare and contrast the various types of genetic and genomic aberrations and their biological and cellular implications.
3. Discuss the interplay between genetics and the environment in health and disease including susceptibility to common conditions and response to infections and medications
4. Evaluate the strategies employed for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of genetic disorders.
5. Calculate alleles and genotypes frequencies using the principles of population genetics as well as the Mendelian modes of inheritance with implication for risk evaluation
6. Retrieve genetic Information from genomic browsers
7. Critically evaluate the recent literature in the field of Human Genetics.

Molecular Basis of Human Diseases (MGEN602)

This course will introduce students to the central concepts of pathophysiology and genetic processes implicated in disease pathogenesis including molecular and cytogenetic pathogenic events leading to disease. Students will learn how abnormalities that occur at the molecular and cellular level manifest as pathologies affecting the structure and function of human tissues and organs. This course will discuss major discipline of pathologies explaining their pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and evaluation and treatment.

Credit Hours : 2

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Recognize fundamental concepts related to the mechanisms of human disease.
2. Identify the current understanding of selected major human diseases at molecular and cellular levels with resulted physiological consequences.
3. Judge the roles and interplay of molecules (such as DNA, RNA, proteins, metabolites, etc.) and environment in disease pathogenesis.
4. Inspect the role of epigenetics in human development and disease.
5. Connect pathologies to genomic aberrations.

Bioinformatics and Genomics (MGEN603)

This course is composed 1CH lectures and 1CH computer-based practical. In this course, students will gain an overview of the principles of bioinformatics in the genomic field. The emphasis will be on the theoretical background of the bioinformatic and techniques employed in genomic analysis. The course will introduce the major components of bioinformatic: definition, application, and basic analysis. Furthermore, the course will assist students in developing the core concepts of the Interdisciplinary field of bioinformatic in the genomic concept. They will be familiar with principle and application of genomic analysis. Student will learn how to compare and analyze genetic data.

Credit Hours : 2

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Recognize the various bioinformatics tools and methods employed in genomic analysis.
2. Retrieve genomic information from various available genomic databases
3. Interpret the genetic variation in disease concept
4. Perform elementary prediction for variant pathogenicity
5. Conduct association analysis based on genotyping and sequencing data.
6. Construct phylogenetic trees based on sequence data
7. Critically compare bioinformatics tools and methods currently used to analyze genomic data.

Genetic & Genomic Diagnostics (MGEN604)

This course is a combination of lectures (2CH) and wet-lab practical sessions (1CH) that will cover good lab practice and the diagnostics processes involved in testing genetic disorders. The course will help students to understand the reasons for genetic testing referrals in medical genomics such as diagnostic testing, pre-symptomatic and predictive testing, carrier testing, new-born screening, prenatal testing and preimplantation testing. This course will provide students with real-life wet-lab experience on how to run genetic testing from sample handling to running basic and advanced techniques including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Sanger sequencing, and next generation sequencing emphasizing their application to clinical practice. By the end of this course students will be able to determine which test and technology are most suitable for a given clinical scenario recognizing their advantages and limitations.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Recognize the relevance, social and ethical implications of genetic and genomic testing in clinical practice.
2. Realize the recommendations for good laboratory practices for ensuring the quality of molecular genetic testing for genetic diseases
3. Identify reasons for genetic testing and commonly used methodologies
4. Compare between different genetic techniques and genomic technologies.
5. Independently identify which genetic test and technique should be used for a given diagnosis.
6. Critically evaluate genetic testing performance and results.

OMICS in Medicine (MGEN605)

This course is a combination of lectures (1CH) and computer-based practicals (1CH). In this course, students will gain an insight into the molecular intricacy of human variations at multiple levels beyond the genome sequence including transcriptome, epigenome, proteome, and metabolome as a crucial necessity for the comprehensive understanding of human health and diseases. Students will be introduced to OMICS technologies and basic knowledge of OMICS data analysis workflows. They will learn the difference between the genome and the transcriptome as well as the methodologies presently used to investigate sequence variations affecting gene expression mainly RNA sequencing and gene expression arrays. It will provide an overview of the structure and function of the epigenome, including the regulation of gene transcription and its relationship to the genome. It will also include an introduction to proteomics and metabolomics, which are important for the functional interpretation of genomic data and the discovery of disease biomarkers. In addition, this course will provide the students with first-hand experience of learning about the multiple steps of omics data experimental design, experimental steps, data analysis and interpretation.

Credit Hours : 2

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Recognize the role of the OMES in bridging the gap from genotype to phenotype.
2. Describe a range of up-to-date techniques and platforms used to explore the OMES.
3. Judge the role of transcriptomics, epigenomics, metabolomics and proteomics in the functional interpretation of genomic data.
4. Identify the approaches to the bioinformatics analysis and interpretation of OMICS data.
5. Apply appropriate analysis and quality control steps on OMICS data.
6. Critically evaluate the criteria of a great experimental design for different omics technologies and formulate an ideal omics experiment.

Translational Medicine: From Bench to Bedside (MGEN606)

This course provides opportunities for the students to learn the basic principles of translational science in medicine. It explains how to translate medical research findings into clinical treatment options, drug development and diagnostic biomarkers. The content covers the steps from benchside (research) to bedside (clinical) starting with identifying a biomarker for a disease and following on through drug development.

Credit Hours : 2

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Define translational medicine basic concepts and definition
2. Describe the process of biomarker and drug development
3. Identify mechanisms and connections between basic bench science research and translational therapies in medical practice
4. Discuss real-world examples of translational medicine practices
5. Critically evaluate the reasons behind the success or the failure of translational research projects

Pharmacogenomics and Stratified Medicine (MGEN607)

Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is defined by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as “The study of variations of DNA and RNA characteristics as related to drug response”. Therefore, the premise of PGx and stratified health is to ensure that patients are offered the 'right treatment, for the right person, at the right time’. This is a lecture and demonstration based course that provides a comprehensive overview of the strategies used in PGx and stratified medicine (i.e. tailoring therapies to the individual’s genetic make-up or stratified groups). The students will learn the latest advances in PGx including the different types of genomic biomarkers and their predictive value for optimising drug responses and preventing adverse reactions. The course will start with an introduction to the types and diversity of genetic variation (SNPs, variability of short sequence repeats, haplotypes, DNA modifications; for example, methylation, deletions or insertions, copy number variants, RNA expression levels, RNA splicing, microRNA levels) among individuals then illustrate the various types of gene products that might influence response to medications (drug-metabolizing enzymes, drug targets etc.). In particular, the genomic basis of drug reaction and drug efficacy and how these are implemented in prescribing practice as well as allelic heterogeneity between different ethnic groups. These will also be illustrated through examples of genomic-targeted interventions and how to tailor drug treatments to improve a patient’s response. These examples will include biomarkers in the treatments of cardiovascular disease, psychiatric disorders, analgesics, oncology etc. Students will also learn about the various pharmacogenomics databases, guidelines and algorithms and how to translate genotypes to make clinical recommendations.

Credit Hours : 2

Prerequisites

• BMB602
• MGEN601

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of the basis of inter-individual variability in drug response and adverse effects.
2. Integrate and apply knowledge from the PGx and clinical sciences to evaluate the scientific literature in relations to drug action and potential therapeutic problems arising from interindividual genetic variability.
3. Demonstrate knowledge and deep understating of application of PGx in major human conditions such cardiovascular, psychiatric, oncology and others.
4. Use evidence-based and internationally recognized guidelines to formulate patient-specific medication recommendations based on PGx test results.
5. Interpret PGx genotyping results and make recommendations on optimal drug selection and dosing and communicate these recommendations to the health care team and patients.

Principles of Genetic Counseling (MGEN608)

Genetic counseling is a unique area of healthcare encompassing genomic knowledge, education, communication, and compassion. This fundamental course provides an overview of the profession, basic concepts covered in a genetic counseling clinical setting as well as the complexities of applying genomics to healthcare scenarios. Along with theory, case studies will provide practical opportunities for students to engage with discussions about use of language and personal styles of communication. Students will explore in depth specialty areas of Clinical Genomics. The program will enable students to begin their genetic counseling practice independently.

Credit Hours : 2

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the evolution of genetic counseling as a profession internationally, define what the genetic counseling process entails and describe the role of a genetic counselor in the clinic
2. Identify the areas where genetic counseling can impact on a family's experience of the genomics journey and recognize specific scenarios where genetic /genomic counseling has an important role.
3. Demonstrate the application of genomics in several specialty areas such as cancer, assisted reproduction and cardiovascular diseases
4. Demonstrate how to interpret complex genomic information and communicate it effectively to a targeted audience.
5. Utilize key counselling processes to assist clients appropriately with their responses to grief and personal loss in a clinical setting

Genomics and Society (MGEN609)

This course explores the impact genomic technology is having on society and the important role health professionals like genetic counselors play in ensuring the ethical, legal, and social implications of this technology are understood.

Credit Hours : 2

Corequisites

• MGEN601 with a minimum grade C

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Define the principles of informed consent in genomic testing in clinical and/or research environment.
2. Recognize areas in the mainstream media where genomics is communicated and comment on its impact.
3. Define the impact of genomics on ethical, legal, and societal issues.
4. Recognize the importance of purposeful involvement in communicating with the broader community to deliver reliable information and advocate for patient groups and health care professionals.
5. Demonstrate occasions to promote the health and well-being of patients/ clients/ community groups impacted by genetics and genomics.

Advanced Communication and Genetic Counseling Skills (MGEN610)

This advanced genetic counseling subject builds on student skills gained in semester 1. Students will explore more complex concepts covered in a genetic counseling clinical setting as well as the of applying genomics and bioinformatics to healthcare. Problem based learning (PBL) is an active learning technique which will be utilized in this subject. Students will participate in role plays using scenarios which mirror those they may encounter in clinical practice. This subject will challenge students to use self-reflective practice and further develop their ability to competently tailor counselling to the client’s needs. Using a variety of counselling skills established in the first year of study, students will further learn how to remain flexible and ensure client focused care is consistently achieved

Credit Hours : 2

Prerequisites

• MGEN608 with a minimum grade C

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate reflective practice to continually assess personal responses to client interactions and improve skills.
2. Interpret psychosocial responses to situations and facilitate the best outcome for clients.
3. Identify specific factors which may impact on a client’s ability to process and interpret information. These may include cultural systems and/or religious beliefs
4. Recognize ethical issues and respond accordingly when working with colleagues and clients.
5. Utilize a number of skills to listen, communicate and ensure individual style is adapted to suit the client’s needs.

Practical Genetic Counselling-Practicum I (MGEN661)

This subject exposes students to the day to day working of a clinical, laboratory, research or community service working with clients impacted by genetics. A minimum number of supervised hours will be undertaken observing and participating in placements. It includes Community and Clinical Placement (15 days) where students will be mainly observing and familiarising themselves with the multidisciplinary team.

Credit Hours : 3

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Apply the principles and policies fundamental to undertaking professional practice in several health workplaces
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the nature of a clinical, laboratory, research or community service working with clients impacted by genetics.
3. Identify the roles and contributions of the members of the multidisciplinary team.
4. Define the interpersonal relationship between a supervisee and supervisor.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the multidisciplinary nature of the genetics setting and the role genetic counselors play.

Practical Genetic Counselling-Practicum II (MGEN662)

This subject exposes students to the day to day working of a clinical, laboratory, research or community service working with clients impacted by genetics. A minimum number of supervised hours will be undertaken observing and participating in placements. It includes Community and Clinical Placement (15 days) where students will begin to take on an active role providing genetic counseling under supervision of clinical geneticist and licensed genetic counselor.

Credit Hours : 3

Prerequisites

• MGEN661 with a minimum grade C

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Recognise and comply with the professional policies of the health service where they are participating.
2. Demonstrate the skills required to undertake a full genetic counseling intake and family health history.
3. Contribute to the planning and case discussions for clinic.
4. Under supervision, communicate effectively with patients and clients to assess their needs and provide information to assist with support or decision making as required.
5. Contribute to case notes using professional language.
6. Under supervision, provide a written summary of the genetic counseling interaction for the patient and/or referring health professional.

Practical Genetic Counselling-Practicum III (MGEN663)

During year 2 placements, students will take a more hands on approach and further develop their skills working independently as well as part of a multidisciplinary team. Includes Community and Clinical Placement (25 days) in 15 weeks.

Credit Hours : 4

Prerequisites

• MGEN662 with a minimum grade C

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate the way in which case management is undertaken both independently and within a multidisciplinary team.
2. Competently undertake a full intake of family and health history, collect relevant charts and education literature.
3. Complete several genetic counselling sessions (with supervision) where they are undertaking most of the case interaction and the needed follow up.
4. Evaluate different counselling strategies and provision of support and resources
5. Recognize ethical issues including autonomy, confidentiality, and value of informed consents.

Practical Genetic Counselling-Practicum IV (MGEN664)

In this final placement, students will be undertaking independent case management with supervision to support their completion of training. Includes Community and Clinical Placement (25 days)

Credit Hours : 4

Prerequisites

• MGEN663 with a minimum grade C

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Complete several genetic counselling sessions (with supervision) where they are undertaking the majority of the case interaction and follow up.
2. Participate fully in the role of a genetic counselor being observed by supervisor undertaking most of the face to face and follow up of clients.