The molecular processes taking place inside cells underlie life itself. Understanding these cellular activities enables us to appreciate the normal functions of living cells, to explain the molecular basis of diseases and inspires the development of new treatments. 

 

This course deals with the basic physiology of cells and the origins of disease, with a particular emphasis on membrane transport processes.  The proteins that control entry and exit to the cell provide the fundamental interface between cells and their surroundings, controlling such things as the electrical excitability of nerves, the secretion of hormones and the uptake of drugs. This course will cover the following topics: cell and membrane structure and function; membrane channels and transporters and their roles in nutrient uptake, ion homeostasis, cell signalling and drug resistance; the electrical properties of membranes; the cellular and molecular basis of the excitability of the nervous system; excitation-contraction coupling in muscle; signal transduction; the molecular structure and function of membrane transport proteins; the molecular basis of the action of a number of drugs; diseases involving transporter and channel defects. Specific examples include explaining the molecular origins of epilepsy and designing novel treatments for malaria.

 

Students will comprehend how molecular processes give rise to cellular function, and gain the ability to apply this knowledge to explain the basis of a range of human diseases. The course is designed to provide skills to those wanting to apply their chemical knowledge as well as those anticipating a future career in medical sciences. Students will learn to analyse and synthesise data to produce testable hypotheses that they can communicate to others.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but will be assessed separately.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Explain the cellular and molecular basis of the excitability of nerves and muscle;
2. Define the differences between channels and transporters and discuss in detail the role of these proteins in the uptake of nutrients and neurotransmitters, and in ion homeostasis and signalling;
3. Understand the molecular basis of a range of diseases and drug resistance mechanisms in which membrane transport proteins play a role;
4. Interpret, synthesise and critically analyse published literature, at a graduate level, in the area of cellular physiology and discuss this with their peers;
5. Apply knowledge and skills to explain new scenarios related to health and biology;
6. Evaluate data, create scientific hypotheses and design approaches to test them.

Research-Led Teaching

The course incorporates the latest research findings, and is lectured by research experts in each of the topic areas. Students will engage in scientific problem solving, developing and using research methods to answer topical questions in cell physiology and medical research. Students will learn to develop and test scientific hypotheses

Field Trips

None

Additional Course Costs

None

Examination Material or equipment

Calculator.

Recommended Resources

Cellular Physiology and Neurophysiology 2nd or 3rd Edition, Authors: Mordecai Blaustein; Joseph Kao; Donald Matteson; 2011/2019

Molecular Cell Biology, 9th Edition. Authors: Lodish et al; 2020

Recommended student system requirements 

ANU courses commonly use a number of online resources and activities including:

• video material, similar to YouTube, for lectures and other instruction
• two-way video conferencing for interactive learning
• email and other messaging tools for communication
• interactive web apps for formative and collaborative activities
• print and photo/scan for handwritten work
• home-based assessment.

To fully participate in ANU learning, students need:

• A computer or laptop. Mobile devices may work well but in some situations a computer/laptop may be more appropriate.
• Webcam
• Speakers and a microphone (e.g. headset)
• Reliable, stable internet connection. Broadband recommended. If using a mobile network or wi-fi then check performance is adequate.
• Suitable location with minimal interruptions and adequate privacy for classes and assessments.
• Printing, and photo/scanning equipment

For more information please see https://www.anu.edu.au/students/systems/recommended-student-system-requirements

Staff Feedback

Students will be given feedback in the following forms in this course:

• Online feedback on the quizzes
• Oral feedback (during lecture or tutorial) to the entire group after in-class tests
• Individual feedback in form of short written notes after presentations

Student Feedback

ANU is committed to the demonstration of educational excellence and regularly seeks feedback from students. Students are encouraged to offer feedback directly to their Course Convener or through their College and Course representatives (if applicable). Feedback can also be provided to Course Conveners and teachers via the Student Experience of Learning & Teaching (SELT) feedback program. SELT surveys are confidential and also provide the Colleges and ANU Executive with opportunities to recognise excellent teaching, and opportunities for improvement.

Class Schedule

Week/Session	Summary of Activities	Assessment
1	Membrane Diffusion
2	Bioelectricity	Online Quiz
3	Ion Channels and Action Potentials	Tutorial Assignment
4	Synapse and Muscle	Online Quiz
5	Secondary Active Transport	Tutorial Assignment
6	Sensory Transduction	Online Quiz
7	Primary Active Transport	Tutorial Assignment
8	pH regulation	Online Quiz
9	Volume regulation	Tutorial Assignment
10	Drug resistance	Online Quiz
11	Student Talks	Literature Assignment
12	Course Overview

Assessment Summary

Assessment task	Value	Due Date	Return of assessment	Learning Outcomes
Online Quiz	5 %	07/08/2023	09/08/2023	1,2,3,5
Tutorial Assignment	5 %	14/08/2023	20/08/2023	1,2,3,5,6
Online Quiz	5 %	21/08/2023	23/08/2023	1,2,3,5
Tutorial Assignment	5 %	28/08/2023	03/09/2023	1,2,3,5,6
Online Quiz	5 %	04/09/2023	06/09/2023	1,2,3,5
Tutorial Assignment	5 %	25/09/2023	01/10/2023	1,2,3,5,6
Online Quiz	5 %	02/10/2023	04/10/2023	1,2,3,5
Tutorial Assignment	5 %	09/10/2023	06/10/2023	1,2,3,5,6
Online Quiz	5 %	16/10/2023	18/10/2023	1,2,3,5
Literature Assignment	15 %	24/10/2023	10/11/2022	4
Exam	40 %	14/11/2023	*	1, 2, 3, 5, 6

* If the Due Date and Return of Assessment date are blank, see the Assessment Tab for specific Assessment Task details

Policies

ANU has educational policies, procedures and guidelines , which are designed to ensure that staff and students are aware of the University’s academic standards, and implement them. Students are expected to have read the Academic Integrity Rule before the commencement of their course. Other key policies and guidelines include:

• Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
• Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure
• Special Assessment Consideration Guideline and General Information 
• Student Surveys and Evaluations
• Deferred Examinations
• Student Complaint Resolution Policy and Procedure
• Code of practice for teaching and learning

Assessment Requirements

The ANU is using Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the Academic Skills website. In rare cases where online submission using Turnitin software is not technically possible; or where not using Turnitin software has been justified by the Course Convener and approved by the Associate Dean (Education) on the basis of the teaching model being employed; students shall submit assessment online via ‘Wattle’ outside of Turnitin, or failing that in hard copy, or through a combination of submission methods as approved by the Associate Dean (Education). The submission method is detailed below.

Moderation of Assessment

Marks that are allocated during Semester are to be considered provisional until formalised by the College examiners meeting at the end of each Semester. If appropriate, some moderation of marks might be applied prior to final results being released.

Participation

Course will involve 3 lectures each week plus a tutorial each week.

To pass the course you must attend the compulsory tutorials, and a proportion of the student talks (a role will be marked). A passing grade is a minimum of 50%.

Examination(s)

Please note, that where a date range is used in the Assessment Summary in relation to exams, the due date and return date indicate the approximate timeframe in which the exam will be held and results returned to the student (official end of Semester results released on ISIS). Students should consult the course wattle site and the ANU final examination timetable to confirm the date, time and venue of the exam.

Assessment Task 1

Online Quiz

Test composed of true/false; multiple choice or “missing word” questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 3 days of quiz deadline

Assessment Task 2

Tutorial Assignment

Week long assignment comprising a mixture of problem solving questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 2 weeks assignment deadline

Assessment Task 3

Online Quiz

Test composed of true/false; multiple choice or “missing word” questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 3 days of quiz deadline

Assessment Task 4

Tutorial Assignment

Week long assignment comprising a mixture of problem solving questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 2 weeks assignment deadline

Assessment Task 5

Online Quiz

Test composed of true/false; multiple choice or “missing word” questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 3 days of quiz deadline

Assessment Task 6

Tutorial Assignment

Week long assignment comprising a mixture of problem solving questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 2 weeks assignment deadline

Assessment Task 7

Online Quiz

Test composed of true/false; multiple choice or “missing word” questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 3 days of quiz deadline

Assessment Task 8

Tutorial Assignment

Week long assignment comprising a mixture of problem solving questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 2 weeks assignment deadline

Assessment Task 9

Online Quiz

Test composed of true/false; multiple choice or “missing word” questions

Value: 5%

Estimated return date: Results available within 3 days of quiz deadline

Assessment Task 10

Literature Assignment

The aim of this assignment is to introduce you to a specific research topic in cell physiology, while increasing your research and communication skills.   

The objectives of this assignment are to:

· Enhance the student’s ability to source and critically analyse research papers on a specific topic.

· Develop the student’s skills in reading, evaluating and synthesizing research methods and data. 

· Provide an opportunity for the student to further their writing and scientific communication skills.

Assignment descriptor:

Students source three (3) current, scientific research papers related to a specified topic. The papers are of your choice, but you should focus on one sub-field of research that interests you

The topic of research will be given in Week 5. There will be 2 tutorials just for teh masters students to help your get the most from the assignment

ASSIGNMENT MARKING SCHEDULE

Out of a total of 20 marks:

Introduction: 3 marks

General summaries of the papers: 6 marks

Detailed summary of methodology: 4 marks

Compare and contrast papers: 7 marks

Assessment Task 11

Exam

Final exam will be carried during the examination period. It will be composed of multiple choice questions and short answer questions.

The date range in the Assessment Summary indicates the start of the end of semester exam period and the date official end of semester results are released on ISIS. Please check the ANU final Examination Timetable http://www.anu.edu.au/students/program-administration/assessments-exams/examination-timetable to confirm the date, time and location exam.

Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is a core part of the ANU culture as a community of scholars. The University’s students are an integral part of that community. The academic integrity principle commits all students to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support, academic integrity, and to uphold this commitment by behaving honestly, responsibly and ethically, and with respect and fairness, in scholarly practice.

The University expects all staff and students to be familiar with the academic integrity principle, the Academic Integrity Rule 2021, the Policy: Student Academic Integrity and Procedure: Student Academic Integrity, and to uphold high standards of academic integrity to ensure the quality and value of our qualifications.

The Academic Integrity Rule 2021 is a legal document that the University uses to promote academic integrity, and manage breaches of the academic integrity principle. The Policy and Procedure support the Rule by outlining overarching principles, responsibilities and processes. The Academic Integrity Rule 2021 commences on 1 December 2021 and applies to courses commencing on or after that date, as well as to research conduct occurring on or after that date. Prior to this, the Academic Misconduct Rule 2015 applies.

 

The University commits to assisting all students to understand how to engage in academic work in ways that are consistent with, and actively support academic integrity. All coursework students must complete the online Academic Integrity Module (Epigeum), and Higher Degree Research (HDR) students are required to complete research integrity training. The Academic Integrity website provides information about services available to assist students with their assignments, examinations and other learning activities, as well as understanding and upholding academic integrity.

Online Submission

You will be required to electronically sign a declaration as part of the submission of your assignment. Please keep a copy of the assignment for your records. Unless an exemption has been approved by the Associate Dean (Education) submission must be through Turnitin.

Hardcopy Submission

For some forms of assessment (hand written assignments, art works, laboratory notes, etc.) hard copy submission is appropriate when approved by the Associate Dean (Education). Hard copy submissions must utilise the Assignment Cover Sheet. Please keep a copy of tasks completed for your records.

Late Submission

Late submission not permitted. If submission of assessment tasks without an extension after the due date is not permitted, a mark of 0 will be awarded.

Referencing Requirements

The Academic Skills website has information to assist you with your writing and assessments. The website includes information about Academic Integrity including referencing requirements for different disciplines. There is also information on Plagiarism and different ways to use source material.

Returning Assignments

After assessments, in-class tests will be available for pick up from BTLC

Extensions and Penalties

Extensions and late submission of assessment pieces are covered by the Student Assessment (Coursework) Policy and Procedure. Extensions may be granted for assessment pieces that are not examinations or take-home examinations. If you need an extension, you must request an extension in writing on or before the due date. If you have documented and appropriate medical evidence that demonstrates you were not able to request an extension on or before the due date, you may be able to request it after the due date.

Resubmission of Assignments

Not permitted

Privacy Notice

The ANU has made a number of third party, online, databases available for students to use. Use of each online database is conditional on student end users first agreeing to the database licensor’s terms of service and/or privacy policy. Students should read these carefully. In some cases student end users will be required to register an account with the database licensor and submit personal information, including their: first name; last name; ANU email address; and other information.
In cases where student end users are asked to submit ‘content’ to a database, such as an assignment or short answers, the database licensor may only use the student’s ‘content’ in accordance with the terms of service – including any (copyright) licence the student grants to the database licensor. Any personal information or content a student submits may be stored by the licensor, potentially offshore, and will be used to process the database service in accordance with the licensors terms of service and/or privacy policy.
If any student chooses not to agree to the database licensor’s terms of service or privacy policy, the student will not be able to access and use the database. In these circumstances students should contact their lecturer to enquire about alternative arrangements that are available.

Distribution of grades policy

Academic Quality Assurance Committee monitors the performance of students, including attrition, further study and employment rates and grade distribution, and College reports on quality assurance processes for assessment activities, including alignment with national and international disciplinary and interdisciplinary standards, as well as qualification type learning outcomes.

Since first semester 1994, ANU uses a grading scale for all courses. This grading scale is used by all academic areas of the University.

Support for students

The University offers students support through several different services. You may contact the services listed below directly or seek advice from your Course Convener, Student Administrators, or your College and Course representatives (if applicable).

• ANU Health, safety & wellbeing for medical services, counselling, mental health and spiritual support
• ANU Access and inclusion for students with a disability or ongoing or chronic illness
• ANU Dean of Students for confidential, impartial advice and help to resolve problems between students and the academic or administrative areas of the University
• ANU Academic Skills and Learning Centre supports you make your own decisions about how you learn and manage your workload.
• ANU Counselling Centre promotes, supports and enhances mental health and wellbeing within the University student community.
• ANUSA supports and represents undergraduate and ANU College students
• PARSA supports and represents postgraduate and research students