International Master's Programme Molecular Medicine

The core modules of the programme: Module Human Genetics and Developmental Genetics The aim of this module is to understand the molecular basis of human genetics, mutation mechanisms and hereditary diseases. The module includes topics like mechanisms of hereditary, human cytogenetic and prenatal diagnosis, molecular mechanisms of tumour diseases, methods for identifying disease-relevant genes and evaluation of mutations, and the use of databases as well as ethical aspects related to the application of human genetics. Developmental genetics is the study of how genes control the growth and development of an organism throughout its life cycle. This module teaches students about vertebrate development before birth, including organogenesis, genetic functional analysis in different animal models, and the theoretical basics of stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Module Functional Genomics This module is divided into three sections; bioinformatics; high throughput technologies and systems biology; and population genetics. Specific topics covered include genomes and statistics, transcriptomics, and proteomics. The laboratory portion of the module consists of computer exercises, some of which students conduct individually, others of which are conducted in small groups, or by the group as a whole. Module Infections and Immune Response In this module, students concentrate on the molecular basis of interactions between pathogens and their hosts. They also focus on epidemiology. Molecular basics of virology, bacteriology, parasitology, and the immunology of infections are also part of this module. Module Cardiovascular Disease and Pharmacology This module covers the cellular and molecular mechanism of the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases and the basic principles of the therapeutic intervention of these diseases. This includes topics like anatomy and physiology of the heart, heart development, genetic of cardiovascular disorders, cardiac hypertrophy, atherosclerosis, gender-specific aspects, and the molecular pharmacology of the cardiovascular system. Module Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer Disease This module aims to provide the theoretical knowledge and experience of cellular and molecular biology and their application to human cancer. The course will focus on oncogenic signal transduction, angiogenesis, apoptosis, cell cycle regulation, selected tumour diseases like hematologic and solid tumours, and its clinical demonstration, tumour immunology. Module Maintenance and Integrity of the Endocrine System This module teaches the fundamental background of endocrinology and the potency and limitations of endocrine analysis. Further topics are feedback regulation, human ductless glands, hormone classes, biochemistry of hormone receptors, inherent endocrine diseases, endogenous rhythm, and gender differences. Beside the core modules with different research areas, four modules teaching scientific skills are offered: statistics, critical thinking in translational medicine, scientific writing, and experimental design. The programme includes also two laboratory rotations of 16 weeks each (20 hours per week) and a six-month Master's thesis research project.