2.34804 CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY II

This course is the continuation of 2.34803
The Clinical Biochemisty II covers Gonadal Function with reference to hormone-receptor interactions and the mechanism of action of lipophilic hormones (with special reference to Steroid hormones). Disorders of male and female sex hormones and its significance in endocrine investigation in the sub-fertile female. The clinical significance of diagnostic tests in assessing the adrenal insufficiency (adreno-corticol hypo-function). Significance of Synacthen test and prolonged Cosyntropin-stimulation (Rose) test. Review and overview of Nucleic Acid biochemisry and its relationship to DNA replication, transscription and protein synthesis. Use of PCR and its application as a diagnostic tool for Molecular Biology (restriction enzymes, DNA polymerase, DNA ligase, review transcriptase). Diagnostic Appliction (detection of infectious agents, genetic diseases, HLA typing, malignant genes/cells, forensic medicine). Usage of Tumor Markers such as Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG); Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) etc. and their role in detection of the origin and progress of tumour.Enzymes such as acid phosphatase (ACP); transaminases; alanine aminotransferase (ALT); aspartate aminotransferase (AST); alpha-amylase (AMS); alkaline phosphatase (ALP) etc their association The course aims to enable students to be able to identify and understand the significance of biochemical tests in diagnosing a disorder. At the end of the course, the student should be able to carry out basic biochemical tests; apply safety and quality control principles to laboratory procedures; and identify factors which influence results.

Assessment: Course work (assignments, tests, practical write-up, oral presentations) (60%), final exam (theory & practical) (40%).

Text:

Delvin, T. M., (Ed)., 2001, Textbook of Biochemistry with Clinical Correlations, 4th Ed., John Wiley & Sons, Sydney.