Course Overview: Molecular Mechanisms of Disease (HSS 2305 C00 HYBRID)

Introduction

This course, "Molecular Mechanisms of Disease," provides an in-depth exploration of the molecular and biochemical processes underlying human diseases. It is designed for second-year undergraduate students in health sciences, with prerequisites in introductory biology and microbiology/immunology. The course integrates concepts from molecular genetics, biochemistry, and cell biology to explain disease initiation, progression, and intervention strategies.

Instructor Information

• Instructor: Dr. Hadi Khalil, Ph.D.

• Affiliations: Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa

• Contact: Office at 451 Smyth Road (Room 4523), Phone: +1 613-562-5800 ext. 6990

• Office Hours: Thursday 12:00-1:00 PM (in-person and online via Teams/Zoom)

Course Logistics

• Course ID: 4593

• Format: Hybrid (in-person and online components)

• Credits: 3 units

• Location: 202 Henderson (HNN) 013

• Language: English

• Prerequisites: BIO 1140, HSS 1100 (prerequisite or corequisite)

Reference Textbook

• Primary Text: Molecular Pathology: The Molecular Basis of Human Disease by William B. Coleman and Gregory J. Tsongalis

• Access: Free download available (link provided in course materials)

Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes

• Understand the molecular and biochemical basis of human diseases.

• Analyze the initiation and progression of diseases at the molecular level.

• Integrate knowledge from genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry to explain disease mechanisms.

• Apply molecular concepts to real-world health problems and case studies.

• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills relevant to health sciences.

Course Structure and Expectations

• Active participation in lectures and discussions is encouraged.

• Students are expected to complete assigned readings and review lecture materials regularly.

• Office hours and online platforms (Teams/Zoom) are available for additional support.

• Surveys and interactive tools (e.g., Wooclap) may be used for engagement and feedback.

Class Code of Conduct

• Maintain a positive and productive learning environment.

• Show respect and courtesy to peers and instructors.

• Refrain from disruptive conversations during lectures.

Important Dates (Sample Table)

Academic Integrity and Policies

• Students are expected to uphold academic integrity and avoid all forms of academic fraud (e.g., plagiarism, data falsification, duplicate submissions).

• University policies on privacy, exam deferrals, and accommodations are strictly enforced.

• Use of proctoring software (e.g., Respondus Lockdown Browser) may be required for online exams.

Summary of Key Topics (from Module 1 Introduction)

• Molecular Genetics of Disease: Focus on genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac and other diseases.

• Cellular and Molecular Pathology: Understanding how molecular changes lead to disease phenotypes.

• Integration of Biochemistry, Genetics, and Cell Biology: Application of interdisciplinary knowledge to disease mechanisms.

• Case Studies: Real-world examples and clinical cases to illustrate molecular disease processes.

Additional info:

• This syllabus provides a foundational overview; detailed session topics and readings will be distributed throughout the course.

• The course is suitable for students pursuing careers in health sciences, medicine, or biomedical research.