MF9135 – Biomarkers in clinical research
Course description
Schedule, syllabus and examination date
Course content
The purpose of the course is to introduce the use of biomarkers in clinical research today and tomorrow, as well as presenting the principles for their quantification in selected analyses. Such understanding is fundamental for the selection of appropriate choice of analysis and interpretation of data obtained.
Biomarkers can be molecules in various biological materials, embedded in extra- or intracellular compartments. Additionally, digital biomarkers are increasingly relevant, as examplified by next generation sequencing data, images, sensory output.
The lecturers are typically clinicians leading clinical research projects, spanning from pediatric studies to forensic medicine; from laboratory medicine to quality assessment in primary health care.
The one-week course provides a rapid presentation of most relevant biomarkers used in clinical research, with various technologies presented in a clinical relevant background.
Learning outcome
The candidate will achieve competence in biomarkers and corresponding relevant analysis tools for clinical research project. Emphasis is given to emphasize how analyses of selected biomarkers depend on proper choice of method and proper sample preparation. The course is aimed to critically be able to judge the robustness of the data from the choice of method.
This course will give you knowledge about:
- The definition of a biomarker and different types of biomarkers.
- Examples of biomarkers from urine, tear, blood, feces and relevant disease states.
- Biomarkers for different types of cancer (prostate, colon), asthma and allergy, neurodegenerative disease, cardiovascular disease, viral infection, dietary intervention, drug abuse and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics.
- Conditions that determine value of biomarkers (preanalytic factors, analyses, statistical tool)
- Pros and cons of quantification of biomarkers by mass spectrometry, PET, flow cytometry
Admission to the course
Applicants admitted to a PhD programme at UiO sign up for classes and exam to this course in StudentWeb.
Applicants who are not admitted to a PhD programme at UiO must apply for a right to study before they can sign up for classes and exam to this course. See information here: How to apply for a right to study and admission to elective PhD courses in medicine and health sciences
Applicants will upon registration receive an immediate reply in StudentWeb?as to whether a seat at this course is granted or not.
Recommended previous knowledge
The student should hold a MSc, MD or similar and be enrolled in the PhD program.
Overlapping courses
- 5 credits overlap with MEDFL5135 – Biomarkers for clinical research.
Teaching
The course will run for five full days and mainly based on lectures and group work.
The compulsory literature will be provided after registration, and include a mixture of hand-outs, published literature and web-based resources.
You have to participate in at least 80 % of the teaching to be allowed to take the exam. Attendance will be registered.
Examination
Home exam. There will be 1-2 days of preparatory.
Language of examination
The examination text is given in English, and you submit your response in English.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a pass/fail scale. Read more about the grading system.
More about examinations at UiO
- Use of sources and citations
- Special exam arrangements due to individual needs
- Withdrawal from an exam
- Illness at exams / postponed exams
- Explanation of grades and appeals
- Resitting an exam
- Cheating/attempted cheating
You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.