Level 4000 

Modules offered in Academic Year 2009/2010

Timetables for Level 4000 modules offered in Semester 1 will be uploaded as soon as they are confirmed. Please check this page regularly.

Brief description of modules
Overall Timetable Semester 1 AY 2009/2010

Module	Title	Semester	Module Coordinators	Dept(s)	Lectures (Days/Time)	Venue
LSM4199	Honours Project	I & II	Prof Ding Jeak Ding	Overall	-	-
Biomedical Science (BMS)
LSM4211	Toxicology	I	A/P Madhav Bhatia	Pharmacology	-	-
LSM4212	Pharmacogenetics and Drug Responses	I	Prof Edmund Lee	Pharmacology	-	-
LSM4213	Systems Neurobiology	I	Dr Wong Boon Seng	Physiology	-	-
LSM4221	Drug Discovery and Clinical Trials	II	A/P Tan Chay Hoon	Pharmacology	-	-
LSM4222	Advanced Immunology	I & II	A/P Lu Jin Hua (I) Dr Gan Yunn Hwen (II)	Microbiology Biochemistry	-	-
LSM4223	Advances in Antimicrobial Strategies	II	A/P Vincent Chow Dr Kevin Tan	Microbiology	-	-
LSM4224	Free Radicals and Antioxidant Biology	II	Prof Barry Halliwell	Biochemistry	-	-
LSM4225	Genetic Medicine in the Post-Genomic Era	II	Dr Caroline G Lee	Biochemistry	-	-
Molecular and Cell Biology (MCB)
LSM4231	Structural Biology	II	Dr He Wanzhong	DBS	-	-
LSM4232	Advanced Cell Biology	I	A/P Manoor Prakash Hande	Physiology	-	-
LSM4233	Chemical Biology	II	A/P Yao Shao Qin	DBS	-	-
LSM4241	Functional Genomics	I & II	A/P Maxey Chung	Biochemistry	-	-
LSM4242	Protein Engineering	I	A/P Pan Shen Quan	DBS	-	-
LSM4243	Tumour Biology	I & II	A/P Manoor Prakash Hande	Physiology	-	-
Biology (BIO)
LSM4251	Plant Growth and Development	I	A/P Yu Hao	DBS	-	-
LSM4252	Animal Development and Reproduction	I	A/P Hong Yuhan	DBS	-	-
LSM4253	Behavioural Biology	II	Dr Matthew Lim	DBS	-	-
LSM4261	Marine Biology	II	Dr Peter Todd	DBS	-	-
LSM4262	Tropical Conservation Biology	II	Dr Ng Ngan Kee	DBS	-	-
LSM4263	Field Studies in Biodiversity	IV	Dr Tan Heok Hui	DBS	-	-
LSM4264	Freshwater Biology	II	Dr Darren Yeo	DBS	-	-

Brief Description of Modules

LSM4199 Honours Project in Life Sciences (Essential 16MC) Pre-requisite : Fulfillment of the requirements of Life Sciences Major at B.Sc. level and obtained a minimum overall CAP of 3.50 on completion of 100 MCs or more. Workload : Two complete semesters Each Honours Student will select a project and work under the guidance of an academic staff as the main supervisor alone or together with another staff as co-supervisor. Projects are grouped under different areas of concentration: Biomedical Science (BMS), Molecular and Cell Biology (MCB), Biology (BIO) or a combination of two or all three, and it is clearly reflected in the project description. A student must choose a project of his/her own area of concentration, and complete the experimental work, poster presentation and thesis write-up towards the end of the 2 semesters. Students should read and understand the guidelines and instructions stated in the LSM4199 webpage (http://www.lifesciences.nus.edu.sg/modules/LSM4199.htm) before approaching potential and eligible academic staff for project opportunities.

LSM4211 Toxicology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3211 or LSM3221.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 24 tutorial/PBL hours

This introductory course is aimed at providing the basic principles and modern concepts of toxicology – adverse effects of chemicals on humans and the biosphere. The students will understand how to make quantitative risk assessments from exposure to hazardous compounds, how to extrapolate from animal data, and how to link adverse effects at the molecular level to overall toxic responses in humans. Lecture topics include health hazards from drugs, naturally occurring toxins, industrial chemicals, or environmental toxicants; toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics; cellular and molecular mechanisms of toxicity; organ-selective toxicity; and safety evaluation of drugs and other chemicals. The general concepts will be illustrated with a number of both classical and highly topical examples.

LSM4212 Pharmacogenetics and Drug Responses (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3211 or LSM3221.
Workload: 34 lecture hours + 15 tutorial hours + 1 CA hour

This module will examine the scientific bases for all aspects of human variability in clinical responses to drugs and other xenobiotics. The course will provide both the theoretical and technical know-how to conduct and interpret simple studies relating to intraindividual, interindividual as well as interpopulational differences in drug responses.

LSM4213 System Neurobiology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3213.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 12 tutorial hours +12 self-directed learning (SDL) hours

The primary goal of this module is to understand how (a) neurons, assembled into circuits, mediate behavior and (b) pathophysiology of neurons leading to dysfunctional cellular and molecular processes and behavior.  This course draws on basic knowledge of the cell biology and physiology of neurons.

LSM4221 Drug Discovery and Clinical Trials (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3211 or LSM3221.
Workload: 32 lecture hours + 6 group work hours + 8 project/seminar hours + 4 self-directed learning (SDL) hours.

This module will cover the stages that a drug that is developed for clinical use goes through before it is marketed: discovery/synthesis, preclinical studies, clinical drug trials, registration and post-market surveillance. The different phases of clinical drug trials and the guidelines for ethics and good clinical practice will be discussed. Students are also divided into groups to design clinical trials. At the end of the course the students will have an overview of the processes involved in bringing a drug from the laboratory to the market.

LSM4222 Advanced Immunology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3223.
Workload: 28 lecture hours + 22 tutorial hours

This objective of this course is to provide students with a current and up to date view of immunology. Breakthrough areas will certainly vary from year to year, but the broad subject matter will remain. Among the highly competitive areas of immunology research focuses on innate immunity, dendritic cell biology, antigen processing and presentation, lymphocyte development and differentiation, induction of tolerance, mechanism of autoimmunity and allergy, and vaccine development.

LSM4223 Advances in Antimicrobial Strategies (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3232 or LSM3225.
Workload: 16 lecture hours + 8 team presentation hours + 21 practical hours + 5 tutorial/consultation hours

An advanced course in the study of infectious diseases of man with emphasis on new and emerging infections as well as those of major clinical/economic importance. Core topics include understanding the principles and practice of Medical Microbiology, the nature and emergence of antimicrobial resistance, changing epidemiology of infections and laboratory diagnosis using classical diagnostic techniques and current molecular approaches.  Seminars will be conducted as team presentations to explore current topics on infectious diseases in depth. A strong practical component is included.

LSM4224 Free Radicals & Antioxidant Biology (Elective 4MC)
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 10 presentation hours + 14 self-directed learning/preparation hours

This module examines the role of free radicals and antioxidants in human health and disease, with a focus on molecular and cellular aspects. Topics covered include free radical chemistry, antioxidant defences, their role in normal metabolism, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and the ageing process. At the end of this module students should be able to evaluate critically current literature in this area.

LSM4225 Genetic Medicine in the Post-Genomic Era 
Prerequisites: Pass LSM2102, LSM3244 and LSM3224.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 24 presentation/self-directed learning/preparation hours

This module is intended to provide a good foundation and stimulate students' interest in specialized topics in Genetics and Genomics related to translational research. The module will provide students with knowledge of current practices in Genetic Medicine. Students will also know how gene identification, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are formulated and performed. They will also be expected to show how to translate new genetic and genomic discoveries into novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Major topics covered are gene identification, genetic diagnosis, and gene therapy. Ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI) in genetic medicine will also be covered.

LSM4231 Structural Biology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisites: Pass LSM2103 and LSM2104/CZ2251.
Workload: 28 lecture hours + 8 practical hours + 14 tutorial hours

This module provides an overall view on the structure determination of protein molecules, protein complexes, protein–DNA complexes and viral assemblies. Topics will include the theory and practice of the three major methods: electron microscopy (EM), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and X-ray crystallography.

LSM4232 Advanced Cell Biology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM2103.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 8 tutorial hours + 10 journal discussion hours + 6 hours for 2 CAs, 1 report

This module will explore the changes that occur in animal cells as they grow, mature, differentiate, and either senesce or renew themselves. Insights into the mechanisms that govern how and when particular developmental alterations occur will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the cellular molecular mechanisms that lend themselves to experimental manipulation.

LSM4233 Chemical Biology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisites: Pass LSM1101 or LSM1401, and CM1121.
Workload: 34 lecture hours + 16 tutorial hours

This module provides an overall view on an emerging new discipline that blends chemistry with many fields of biology to unravel the complexities of life at the interface of chemistry and biology. This course illustrates how biological processes are explained in chemical terms. The key objective is to highlight the basic principles of chemical biology to show its important linkages to life sciences.

LSM4241 Functional Genomics (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisites: Pass LSM2104 and LSM3231.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 24 tutorial hours

This module aims to introduce selected topics on functional genomics. Areas covered include : the assignment of functions to novel genes following from the genome-sequencing projects of human and other organisms; the principles underlying enabling technologies: DNA microarrays, proteomics, protein chips, structural genomics, yeast two-hybrid system, transgenics, and aspects of bioinformatics and its applications; and to understand the impact of functional genomics on the study of diseases such as cancer, drug discovery, pharmacogenetics and healthcare.

LSM4242 Protein Engineering (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3244.
Workload : 26 lecture hours + 24 tutorial and discussion hours

This module will familiarize students with the technologies that can be used to produce and engineer various proteins for basic biological research and biotechnology applications. The fundamental principles for manipulating protein production as desired and the common expression systems will be presented. The emphasis will be on the experimental strategies and approaches to improve protein properties and to create novel enzymatic activities. The topics include gene expression and protein production systems, uses of gene fusions for protein production and purification, directed molecular evolution and DNA shuffling, and engineering of proteins and enzymes for improved or novel properties. Some specific examples in protein engineering will be highlighted.

LSM4243 Tumour Biology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM2103.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 6 journal discussions hours + 18 tutorials/student assignments/CAs hours

This module deals with the understanding of processes that regulate cell growth and proliferation, and the intricate mechanism(s) that result in abnormal proliferation and oncogenesis. Molecular basis of immortalization and the acquisition of the neoplastic phenotype, namely oncogene activation, immune evasion, potential for local and distant spread, and resistance to cell death etc. will be discussed. Role of DNA damage/repair, telomere/telomerase in genome instability and tumourigenesis will be examined. A brief session on target therapies including gene therapy approaches will also be included. Tumour immunology role of inflammation in tumours will be discussed.

LSM4251 Plant Growth and Development (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3253 or LSM3244.
Workload: 30 lecture hours + 20 term paper presentation hours

Growth and development of higher vascular plants through their life cycles. Discussion in t his module include selected topics in gamete development, fertilization, embryo development, seed germination, development of various plant organs and flowering, the role of plant growth regulators, and the cellular, physiological and molecular basis of plant morphogenesis. The molecular basis of various stages of plant development will be discussed using developmental mutant analyses.

LSM4252 Animal Development and Reproduction (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3233.
Workload: 30 lecture hours + 12 tutorial/presentation hours + 8 assignment/reading hours

This module covers the events and mechanisms leading to the development, growth, maturation of an individual, and eventually to the reproduction and propagation of a new generation. Use of animal models and selected topics to highlight the current trends in animal development and reproduction.

LSM4253 Behavioural Biology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3251 or LSM3261.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 24 tutorial, group project and/or term paper hours.

In-depth coverage of the relationships that organisms have with each other and with the environment. Key concepts in organismal interactions illustrated with examples from general diverse animals and ecological systems. Focus on ultimate and proximate explanations of animal interactions and other life history characteristics. Students are provided with an opportunity to assimilate and critically evaluate contemporary literature on relevant current issues. Simple experimental studies may be designed for students to execute, analyse and intercept to augment their understanding of controversial issues.

LSM4261 Marine Biology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3251.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 24 tutorial hours

Main focus on the understanding and appreciation of marine environment, the diversity of marine life, and the constant interaction between man and the sea. Marine biology as the scientific study of marine animals and the marine environment. Fundamentals of oceanography. The range of marine environments and variety of organisms inhabiting them. Benefits of the marine environment and its resources to humans. The impact of exploitation and human activities on the oceans.

LSM4262 Tropical Conservation Biology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3251.
Workload: 26 lecture hours + 24 tutorial/Discussions hours

Conservation and the loss of biodiversity and natural ecosystems are currently regarded as one of the most pressing problems facing mankind. The course will highlight the impact of habitat loss on biodiversity and the basis for formulation of effective conservation management strategies. The course will also introduce students to the theory of current conservation biology as illustrated by applications in tropical areas, species conservation issues, ecological challenges, role of zoological gardens, legal challenges etc. Conservation of tropical biota, management of local and regional environmental problems, appreciation and consideration of the socio-economic issues will also be treated. Conservation priorities and developmental needs at the national level will also be discussed, with emphasis on Singapore and SE Asia. The course will have guest lecturers from overseas as well as managers and conservation-players from the local environment. It will also involve a special round-table discussion on specific conservation issues.

LSM4263 Field Studies in Biodiversity (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: For Life Sciences Honours students or by departmental approval.
Workload:  12 lecture hours + 8 field practical hours + 7 day field course 

LSM4263 will introduce students to field biology, the basic techniques involved, sampling design and basic data gathering and data management. From field practicals, students will experience and encounter tropical environs and habitats, namely coastal, mangrove, primary and secondary forest. A 6 day field course is incorporated and will be conducted in Pulau Tioman, Malaysia. There students, who will be divided into small groups, will conduct 4 mini-projects in 4 separate habitats, under the supervision of experienced field-orientated teaching assistants. This module will involve overseas university students as well as NUS Life Sciences students.

LSM4264 Freshwater Biology (Elective 4MC)
Prerequisite: Pass LSM3251.
 

Freshwater is essential to life, yet constitutes less than 3% of Earth’s total water. With many freshwater ecosystems
under threat, understanding the biology of freshwaters is fundamentally important to their management, conservation and restoration. This module introduces the study of inland waters, with emphasis on aquatic ecology, structure and function, and aquatic conservation. Topics discussed will include diversity and ecology of freshwater habitats and aquatic organisms, and aquatic conservation issues including policies, regulation and management of freshwater resources in local and international contexts.