BMS346   Epithelial Physiology in Health and Disease   (10 credits)

Description

This module examines the physiology and pathophysiology of epithelia, drawing on research to evidence how changes in the transport of ions and solutes leads to disease.  The majority of the module will focus on a detailed investigation of the molecular basis of epithelial ion secretion and absorption, examining diseases such as cystic fibrosis, and the impact of infections such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2.  Particular emphasis will be placed throughout these lectures on respiratory epithelial cells, although other epithelia will also be discussed. In addition, the controversial problem of water transport will be examined. This will include the importance of transepithelial transport routes and specific membrane transport proteins such as aquaporins and proposed water co-transporters and the role these proteins play in the movement of gases across cell membranes. The emphasis throughout will be to appreciate how experimental research informs our understanding of these issues, reflecting the university¿s mission statement to lead teaching by current research.

Reading List