Experimental Oncology Graduate Study Courses

ONCOL 520 Tumor Biology (second term, 3-credit) 

Course coordinators: Dr. Andrew Shaw, Dr. Roseline Godbout

The course will provide and introduction to the basic science of oncology. Topics to be covered comprise: the genetic basis of cancer, including the role of proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes; mechanisms of carcinogensis and radiation-sensitivity, including DNA repair and cell cycle control; the molecular basis of tumor metastasis, including cell motility, tumor cell invasion, and extravasation; tumor immunology and angiogenesis. Course offered in alternate years.

2010-2012 Course Content Link

Prerequisites: BIOCH 203 and 205 or equivalent

ONCOL 521 Structural Organization of the Cell and Cancer (second term,3-Credit) 

Course coordinators: Dr. Michael Hendzel and Dr. Andy Shaw

This course explores the relationship between the structural organization of the cell and neoplastic behavior through in-depth evaluation of both original and review literature. The objective of the course is to make students aware of how concepts in structural organization affect understanding of cancer and to show students how to critically evaluate, organize and present scientific information. Students are evaluated through seminar presentations, intensive discussion, and a term paper.  Course offered in alternate years.

Prerequisites: BIOCH 203 and 205 or equivalent

ONCOL 535 Clinical Radiobiology (either term, 1.5-credit)

Course coordinator: Dr. Joan Turner 

An introduction to the physics, chemistry, and biology of radiation effects on cells and tissues. Concepts discussed are focused on those of relevance to the treatment of cancer with ionizing radiation.  

Prerequisite: Consent of Department

ONCOL 570 Directed Reading in Experimental Oncology (either term, 3-credit) 

Course coordinator: Dr. Gordon Chan  

Reading and discussion of current research literature on selected topics in experimental oncology under the direction of one or more faculty members. Topics presently available include cell adhesion mechanisms, cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, radiotherapy and suspectibility and resistance, oncogenes/tumor suppressor genes, and tumor cell metastasis.

NOTES:
1)   Grades will be based on participation in group discussions and/or written reports from assigned readings with emphasis on critical evaluation of the subject matter.
2)   Students in other graduate programs may register with the consent of instructors. 

Prerequisite: Consent of Department

ONCOL 620 Recent Advances in Caner Research (first term, 3-credit) 

Course coordinators: Dr. Joan Turner and Dr. Gordon Chan  

A directed reading and seminar course based on recent developments in the cellular and molecular biology of cancer. The students will critically review papers selected from the recent literature and give oral presentations.  Course offered in alternate years. 

Prerequisites:ONCOL 520 and consent of Department.

ONCOL 660 Current Topics in Cancer Research (two term, 1.5-credit)

Course coordinators: Dr. Roseline Godbout and Dr. Michael Hendzel

A general seminar/discussion course on recent advances in a wide range of topics related to cancer development and management. Selected topics include experimental therapeutics, molecular oncogenetics, tumor immunobiology, DNA repair, and cell cycle regulation.

NOTES:
1)    All graduate students in the Division of Experimental Oncology are expected to attend the seminars whether or not they are registered in the course. Students in their second year and beyond are expected to give a seminar each year whether or not they are registered in the course
2)    All graduate students in the Division of Experimental Oncology must register in the course in their second year (MSc or PhD), or in their third year (PhD students) and present a seminar based upon their research project.
3)    All graduate students registered in ONCOL 660 will write a paper on a selected top. 

Prerequisites: Consent of Department.