Class Molecular Techniques for Diagnosis

 The Molecular Techniques for Diagnosis course aims to familiarise students with the molecular bases and principles of the techniques used in molecular diagnostics.  Students will have contact with different molecular diagnostic methods and the interpretation of data resulting from molecular diagnostic tests. In this course, innovation is emphasised, highlighting the importance of developing new techniques and methodologies associated with molecular diagnostics.  

Not applicable

1. Introduction to Molecular Techniques in Clinical Diagnosis. 2. Fundamentals of Genetics and Molecular Biology. Structure and function of DNA and RNA. Genetic mutations and clinical implications 3. Central Laboratory Techniques a. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) b. Exome sequencing c. Metagenomics d. Sanger sequencing e. PCR techniques. RT-PCR and digital PCR 4. Immunoassays in Molecular Diagnosis Principles of immunoassays Applications and limitations 5. Point of Care (POC) Approach and Near Patient Testing a. RT-LAMP Fundamentals and applications in rapid pathogen detection b. Lab-on-Phone Integrating molecular biology and mobile technology for diagnosis c. Advanced POC techniques Sensors, microfluidics and other innovations Advantages, challenges and future prospects 6. Regulation and Ethics in Molecular Diagnostics Quality and safety standards Ethical implications of genetic diagnosis 7. Laboratory Practices Hands-on experiments in highlighted techniques 8. Case studies

The following teaching and learning methodologies are intended to be applied in the Molecular Techniques for Diagnosis CU: 1. Interactive lectures: Introduction to each technique and its context. 2. Thematic Seminars: Invite experts in the field to share practical cases 3. Practical Laboratories: Hands-on experiences with techniques such as NGS, RT-PCR, and RT-LAMP. Simulation of clinical scenarios and interpretation of results. 4. Directed Study: Use of digital resources that allow students to explore techniques in simulated environments. 5. Group Work: Small group projects where students apply diagnostic techniques to hypothetical or real scenarios. 6. Formative Assessment: Presentations and laboratory reports will be used to assess student progress. 7. Debates and Role-playing: Discussions on ethics and regulation in genetic diagnostics. 8. Tutorials: Scheduled sessions where students can discuss doubts, clarify concepts and receive additional guidance.

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