LIFS 1010 Introduction to Biological Sciences

As a living being, you are a part of the biological world. Biological Science is the study of life. It’s the truest way to understand the world around you and answer existential questions. This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and principles, ranging from the origin of life, the genetic basis of evolution and biodiversity, the chemical basis of life, cell structure and organ functions in humans, conservation, ecology and behavioral biology. How Chinese medicine views life and aging in humans will also be discussed briefly. Examples and case studies will be illustrated to enhance students’ understanding and application of relevant knowledge. Students without HKDSE qualifications may seek the instructor’s approval for enrolment.

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 1901, LIFS 1902, Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1/2x Biology OR in HKDSE 1x Biology, a passing grade in HKCEE Biology OR HKAL Biology

Summer Course

LIFS 4910 Independent Study

The course will cover review topics restricted to life sciences. Enrolled students will conduct research project or literature review exercise on a mutually agreed topic under the supervision of a faculty member. For third year LIFS students and visiting interns only. Approval of the course instructor is needed for students to enroll in this course. Graded P or F.

Credit(s): 1-4

LIFS 4882 Investigative Pharmacology

This experiential learning course offers a comprehensive exploration of applying cell-based systems for analyzing the pharmacological characteristics of various herbal extracts and compounds, particularly in relation to Chinese medicine theory. Students will understand essential pharmacological concepts and gain hands-on experience with experimental techniques employed in pharmacological studies. Subsequently, students will collaborate in groups to design experiments and evaluate the pharmacological properties of herbal extracts or compounds of interest. For BIOT (Applied Bioscience Track) students only.

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 4888 Development and Registration of Pharmaceutical Products

An introduction of the development and registration of pharmaceutical products in Hong Kong and the Mainland markets. Registration of pharmaceutical products (drugs, medical devices, food supplements) is a comparatively new biotechnology‐business model, which has evolved from governmental regulations to public health through the assurance of safety and efficacy of pharmaceutical products. This course emphasizes the essential components of pharmaceutical development; discusses the key stages and decision points in the process; and gives a detailed analysis on the quality control and regulatory requirements. The technological and financial requirements of the development of pharmaceutical products are also covered. Professional training in these disciplines, lacking in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area, is crucial for students who plan to pursue further studies or develop their career in the biotechnology sectors.

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 2070

LIFS 4884 Application of RNA Technology to Human Diseases

Many ribonucleic acids (RNA)-related technologies, including gene-editing and gene-silencing, are essential for research and clinical applications. In addition, mRNA vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 have been successfully developed, making RNAs more exciting and crucial material to learn. The success of making mRNA vaccines encourages scientists to develop mRNA-based drugs to treat different diseases in the future. This experiential learning course focuses on applying several essential RNA-related technologies in diagnosing and treating human diseases. The course introduces the basic knowledge of RNAs, fundamental principles on RNA-related technologies, and experimental practices for RNA technologies. After learning the basics of RNAs and the principles of six RNA technologies, students will work in teams to develop their projects, and design experiments to make their RNA-related products. By the end of the course, each team will conduct experiments, collect the data, and present and discuss their results at the end of the course. For LIFS/BIBU students in their third or fourth year of study and students with instructor’s consent only.

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 1904 AND LIFS 2210

LIFS 3580 Bioinformatics

Previous course code: LIFS 4580
An introduction to bioinformatic analysis in life science. Students will learn about the principles and approaches used in working with genetic, genomic and proteomic data. Applications to basic science and translational research will also be introduced. No experience in computer programing is required.

Remarks: BCB and BIOT elective

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 3140

LIFS 4800 Epigenetics and Chromosome Biology

Chromosome biology and epigenetics is an important field highly relevant to human health. This course will cover recent advances in the fields of epigenetics and chromosome biology.

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 2210

LIFS 4550 Biochemistry of Nutrition

The biochemistry of major food ingredients including proteins, oil, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals; functional and nutritional properties will be emphasized.

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 4540 Structure and Function of Proteins

Determination of protein sequences and three-dimensional structures; relationship between structure and function; principles of protein design and engineering; molecular, biochemical and genetic approaches to study protein function and regulation.

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 2210

LIFS 4380 Pharmacology and Toxicology

[LIFS 4380 is offered in every other year.]
Fundamental concepts of drug action and toxicity; clinically useful agents in central and peripheral disorders; toxicology of drugs and agents that are hazardous to living organisms.

Credit(s): 3

LIFS 2040