Understanding Genetic Disorders: How DNA Influences Health (FutureLearn)

Explore the connection between genetics and health

It’s estimated that around 1 in 17 individuals – a significant proportion of the population – are affected by rare disorders, many of which are already known to have a genetic basis.

On this course, you’ll have the chance to study the molecular basis of specific inherited genetic conditions that show the main patterns of inheritance.

Learn how to calculate genetic risk

You’ll learn how to analyse a pedigree to identify the genotypes and phenotypes that predict how a trait will be passed on genetically, and build your knowledge of how to calculate genetic risk.

Discover the latest in genetics testing and technology

As access to DNA testing becomes more widely available, laboratories are able to use cutting-edge genetic technologies to identify the genetic variants leading to a specific condition.

You’ll explore these technologies in detail, and learn how a better understanding of the genetic basis of disease enables professionals to improve therapies to treat genetic disorders.

You’ll also consider ways clinicians can better support patients in understanding the implications of genetic disorders and the options they have.

What topics will you cover?

- The Genetic Basis of Disease

- Clinical Approaches in Genetics

- Genetics Laboratory Diagnostics Services

- Clinical Management of Genetic Conditions

- Living with Genetic Disease

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...

- Discuss the molecular basis of selected inherited conditions that illustrate the main patterns of inheritance

- Understand how to draw and analyse a pedigree and calculate genetic risk

- Describe how laboratories can use the latest technologies to identify genetic variants that have led to the patient's condition

- Explore how an understanding of the genetic basis of disease can facilitate improved management and therapies of genetic conditions

- Explore ways in which clinicians and genetic counsellors help patients to understand the implications of genetics for themselves and other family members and explore the options available to them

Who is the course for?

This course is designed for anyone interested in learning genetics and the clinical impact of differences in our DNA.

The course will be particularly useful for healthcare professionals, patients, and carer groups.