Cellular & Molecular Basis of Diseases

Catalog description

Cellular and Molecular Basis of Disease focuses on the underlying cellular and molecular basis of disease and is a critical component of a larger subject commonly known as Pathology. In its simplest terms, Pathology is the study of the structural, biochemical and functional abnormalities that develop within cells, tissues and organs resulting in the signs and symptoms of (i.e., clinical manifestations) disease. Traditionally, Pathology is divided into general and systemic pathology. General pathology focuses on the main causes of disease; specifically, the reactions of cells and tissues to abnormal stimuli and to inherited defects. Systemic pathology examines these same reactions as they apply to specific organs. The disease process forms the core of pathology and includes: etiology, pathogenesis, lesions (which may be biochemical and/or structural) and clinical manifestations. Common to all disease is an “initiating” event known as etiology which may be genetic or acquired. Virtually all disease develop through a process (or pathogenesis) that involves one (or more) of six basic mechanisms: inflammation, vascular disturbances,immune-mediated, abnormal growth (neoplasia), genetic defects and infection. General pathology is typically presented in the context of these six pathogenic mechanisms. Cellular and Molecular Basis of Disease will focus on the mechanisms by which cells may be injured and the relationship between cellular injury and the disease process. We will also study three (of six) pathogenic mechanisms: vascular disturbances, inflammation, and infectious diseases. The concepts presented in this course will prepare the student for understanding specific diseases as they apply to the various organ systems.