Explore the clinical applications in patients with cancer, inherited diseases, and infectious diseases
Weigh the pros, cons, ethics, challenges, strategies, and public policy of personalized medicine
Comprehend how genetic variations could result in genetic disorders
About this course:
Variations in human DNA over generations result in evolution and beneficial adaptations. However, some changes in human DNA that cause genetic variation occasionally result in genetic disorders. The field of molecular diagnostics focuses on the development of tests that aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of disease, as well as predict disease risk. The information gained by this type of diagnostics can identify the abnormal molecules that signify the presence or potential for disease in individuals. As a result, clinicians can now prescribe drugs or other therapies that target the specific abnormal function. The emerging field of pharmacogenetics aims at predicting the drug response based on an individual's genetic profile, thus helping clinicians to tailor effective treatments. This course overviews the basic principles of molecular diagnostics and pharmacogenetics and the applications of the emerging technologies in personalized medicine. Students learn about the clinical applications of molecular diagnostic in patients with cancer, inherited disease, and infectious disease. The course concludes with detailed discussions on personalized medicine and the pros, cons, ethics, challenges, strategies, and public policy related to this emerging field.
Prerequisites
Introductory courses in Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Biochemistry, or equivalent coursework.
Enrollment deadline: January 10, 2025. Internet access required. Materials required.
Enrollment is typically reserved for adult students 18 years of age and older. Students under 18 years of age may receive consent to enroll based on special academic competence and approval by the instructor. If you are a student under 18 years of age, you must submit a request to enroll in the course 8 weeks before the course start date to hss@uclaextension.edu for your request to be considered.
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