2025/26 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

MEDM5131M Animal Models of Disease

15 creditsClass Size: 50

Module manager: Dr Elizabeth Valleley
Email: e.m.a.valleley@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2025/26

Pre-requisite qualifications

See programme entry requirements.

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module will provide insights into the role of animal models in biomedical research, including the contribution that they have made to our understanding of human disease. Particular areas covered will include an overview of the types of animal models used for human disease modelling and translational research, their advantages and disadvantages, ethics, the legislation underpinning animal research in the UK and the guiding principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Refinement and Reduction). Alternative models will be described including cell lines, organoids and organ-on-a-chip, etc. and their contribution to research will be discussed, particularly in the context of the 3Rs and the work of the NC3Rs in the UK. The aim is for students to gain an insight into the pros, cons and complexity of using animal models and/or alternative, cellular models for the study of human disease.

Objectives

To develop graduates who have knowledge and understanding of:

- The roles and limitations of animal models in investigating human diseases or genetic disorders, and for development of novel therapies.
- Ethical considerations associated with conducting animal research
- The legislation underpinning animal research in the UK and the Principles of the 3Rs in animal research.
- The advantages and limitations of alternative models and experimental approaches to the use of animals; particularly in relation to the 3Rs and including the work of the NC3Rs in the UK.

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:

- LO1 Demonstrate in depth knowledge of the use of animal models and/or alternative models, as well as an understanding of the ethics and complexities involved in their use for biomedical and translational research.
- LO2 Critically evaluate methods used for creating animal models or alternative models of human disease, the importance of selecting appropriate models for biomedical and translational research, their benefits and limitations.
- LO3 Critically appraise, assemble and evaluate scientific information from a range of sources relating to the use of animal models and/or alternative models of human disease, to explain ideas, develop and defend personal interpretation of research.
- LO4 Communicate knowledge and findings related to animal and alternative models of human disease accurately and effectively through developing and creating own work.

Skills Learning Outcomes

- SLO1 Demonstrate proficiency using various search engines to gather relevant data and information related to biomedical research, as well as using software to analyse data and produce diagrams illustrating concepts for inclusion in written reports and oral presentations. (working, academic, digital skills)
- SLO2 Demonstrate critical evaluation of literature relevant to biomedical research and the ability appraise key concepts related to experimental approaches in biomedical research. (academic skills)
- SLO4 Demonstrate efficient time management in the preparation for tutorials, reading and critique of primary research papers, analysis of data, synthesising written work, generating digital presentations, and adhering to deadlines to submit the assessments.  (working, academic skills)
- SLO5 Demonstrate the ability to present information in a clear, concise, and structured manner, both in a verbal and written form, and the ability to use visual aids appropriately to support written work and oral presentations.  (working, enterprise and academic skills)
- SLO6 Demonstrate the ability to use the correct scientific language appropriate to their level of studies and good academic practice, including referencing and using their own language instead of plagiarizing. (academic skills)

Syllabus

- Animal Models of Disease (Rodents, Zebrafish, Amphibians, Higher mammals) and alternative, non-animal models
- Strengths/weaknesses of specific animal models and alternative models
- Generating genetically altered models
- Techniques used in animal model research
- Disease-specific models
- Experimental design and reporting of animal studies
- The Principles of the 3Rs and ethics

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Supervision	1	1.00	1.00
Lecture	4	2.00	8.00
Lecture	12	1.00	12.00
Seminar	1	4.00	4.00
Seminar	5	2.00	10.00
Private study hours			115.00
Total Contact hours			35.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			150.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

As the assessment for the module is negotiated, it is expected that the student will take a proactive role in assembling their work and actively seeking feedback on specific aspects of their work from their tutor, from peers and engage in self-evaluation during the learning process.

The students will receive formative feedback in a tutorial session on study design. Students will be required to submit a draft essay plan for individual, written formative feedback. Four tutorials (in person), including preparatory work, will support student learning for preparation of summative assessments. Group discussions of tasks (e.g. pre-reading of research papers; critique of a study design) in tutorials will provide opportunities for additional, formative feedback.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Coursework	Formative - Draft plan of the essay	0.00
Coursework	Formative - Study design exercise	0.00
Coursework	1 x 15 minutes (12min + questions) Oral presentation	40.00
Coursework	1 x 2000 word Essay	60.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

Students will be required to submit a draft essay plan during the module, on which students will be given written, formative feedback. In person tutorials with background reading, formative tasks and group discussions will support both assessments. There is no compensation between assessments for this module, students must pass each individual assessment in order to pass the module.

Reading list

There is no reading list for this module

Last updated: 23/01/2025

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