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Course Outlines

BIOCHEM 3235 - Cancer, Stem Cells & Development III (Biomed Sc)

North Terrace Campus - Semester 2 - 2025

This Capstone course combines lectures and tutorials with cutting edge research-based practical exercises. The lecture material is given by research experts in this field and covers major conceptual and technical advances, focusing on two principle themes: 1. Molecular Basis of Cancer: topics include the molecular mechanisms of cell-cell communication, signal transduction pathways and their control, genetic mutations, oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes, clonal selection, the hallmarks of cancer and metastasis, dysregulation of cell cycle checkpoints, DNA damage, replicative senescence, telomere shortening and genomic instability, control of cell proliferation and apoptosis, cancer-specific metabolism and oncometabolites. Specific examples are included of current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for cancer. 2. Stem Cells and Development: topics include the embryonic and adult stem cells, cellular reprogramming and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS), stem cells in cancer, the use of CRISPR/Cas9 and other techniques to generate animal models and genetic screens, with medical and other applications. The practical component in the first seven weeks of the semester involves a research-based practical project using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to achieve targeting genome editing in cultured cells. This practical complements the lecture material, and is followed by problem-based learning activities around biochemical research in the final five weeks of the semester.

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  • General Course Information
    Course Details
    Course Code BIOCHEM 3235
    Course Cancer, Stem Cells & Development III (Biomed Sc)
    Coordinating Unit Molec & Biomedical Science
    Term Semester 2
    Level Undergraduate
    Location/s North Terrace Campus
    Units 6
    Contact 3 x 1 hour lectures per week, 1 x 1 hour tutorial per week, 3 x 5 hour practical per fortnight or PBL for the Semester (total 11.5 hrs/week)
    Available for Study Abroad and Exchange N
    Prerequisites (BIOCHEM 2500 and BIOCHEM 2501) or (BIOCHEM 2502 and BIOCHEM 2503)
    Incompatible BIOCHEM 3001, BIOCHEM 3520
    Restrictions Available to BSc (Biomedical Science) students only
    Assessment Exam on lecture material, practical reports, PBL/Tutorial exercises and online assessment
    Course Staff

    Course Coordinator: Associate Professor Dan Peet

    Course Timetable

    The full timetable of all activities for this course can be accessed from .

  • Learning Outcomes
    Course Learning Outcomes
    1 Understand key theoretical aspects of the regulation of cellular signalling, proliferation and differentiation in the context of embryonic development, stem cells and diseases such as cancer.
    2 Understand and apply advanced experimental techniques required to solve specific biochemical problems, and understand of the ethical implications of this research.
    3 Plan, perform, interpret, and quantitatively analyse biomedical research using a variety of modern experimental techniques
    4 Find, interpret and critically analyse relevant scientific literature and apply it to specific problems in biomedical research.
    5 Work in teams and communicate scientific outcomes
    University Graduate Attributes

    This course will provide students with an opportunity to develop the Graduate Attribute(s) specified below:

    University Graduate Attribute Course Learning Outcome(s)

    Attribute 1: Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth

    Graduates have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of their subject area, the ability to engage with different traditions of thought, and the ability to apply their knowledge in practice including in multi-disciplinary or multi-professional contexts.

    		 1, 2, 3

    Attribute 2: Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving

    Graduates are effective problems-solvers, able to apply critical, creative and evidence-based thinking to conceive innovative responses to future challenges.

    		 3, 4, 5

    Attribute 3: Teamwork and communication skills

    Graduates convey ideas and information effectively to a range of audiences for a variety of purposes and contribute in a positive and collaborative manner to achieving common goals.

    		 4, 5, 6

    Attribute 4: Professionalism and leadership readiness

    Graduates engage in professional behaviour and have the potential to be entrepreneurial and take leadership roles in their chosen occupations or careers and communities.

    		 5, 6

    Attribute 5: Intercultural and ethical competency

    Graduates are responsible and effective global citizens whose personal values and practices are consistent with their roles as responsible members of society.

    		 6

    Attribute 7: Digital capabilities

    Graduates are well prepared for living, learning and working in a digital society.

    		 3, 4, 5

    Attribute 8: Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

    Graduates are self-aware and reflective; they are flexible and resilient and have the capacity to accept and give constructive feedback; they act with integrity and take responsibility for their actions.

    		 4, 6
  • Learning Resources
    Required Resources