It’s widely known that some diseases run in families. The discovery of the structure of DNA and the unravelling of the genetic code has led to a deeper understanding of such diseases. We now know more about the genetic basis of cancer and how cancer cells are formed and reproduce. On this course you’ll explore the structure of DNA, its processes and learn how genetic disease results from DNA alterations. You’ll look closely at the nature of these changes, causes and risk factors – this is vital in the case of cancer, as prevention has proved to be an effective way of managing this disease.

• The chemical structure of DNA, genes and chromosomes.
• The importance of DNA in understanding the causes of genetic diseases.
• DNA replication and cell reproduction.
• The role of genes and proteins in controlling the activities of the cell and the cell cycle.
• How genes and chromosomes can be permanently altered when mistakes happen during DNA replication.
• The wide variety of different agents that can cause cancer.

 

Who will you learn with?

Phil Burns

I am a senior lecturer in the School of Medicine at the University of Leeds. I have a strong interest in medical education and cancer research.

 

 

Who developed the course?

University of Leeds

As one of the UK’s largest research-based universities, the University of Leeds is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and a centre of excellence for teaching.