QBS 132 Molecular Biologic Markers in Human Health Studies
Epidemiologists are rapidly evolving from traditional observational data collection to incorporating molecular markers of exposure, disease, and susceptibility. As technologies advance, integrating molecular targets adds complexity to epidemiological study designs. This course provides a comprehensive overview of biomarkers applications in molecular epidemiology.
The first half of the course covers historical background, basic definitions, and principles, including the use of biomarkers, statistical and bioinformatic challenges, identifying susceptible populations, exposure assessment, dose-response, molecular classification of phenotypes, and evaluating study compliance and efficacy.
The second half focuses on applications in various fields, such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, infectious diseases, and cardiovascular diseases, with topics selected based on student interests. Each week, students will explore the challenges and tools in molecular epidemiology. They will take turns to discuss subjects such as biomarker study designs, biomarker validation, or biobanking. Students are encouraged to choose topics relevant to their research.
(1 unit)
Instructor
Dr. Lucas Salas
Prerequisite
No prerequisites are needed for this course; however, the students are encouraged to co-enroll in QBS 130.