Course Details
Number of Credits: 2
Semesters Offered: Fall I
Course Director: Ji-Sun Kim
Pre-requisite: enrollment genetic counseling Master of Science program or permission from the program director
Course Director: Ji-Sun Kim
Course Description: This course will provide an overview of the process through which humans grow and develop, and how this applies to genetic counseling practice and beyond. The first portion of the course will review the normal development of the human embryo from the earliest stages to the time of birth. We will review reproductive physiology, description of the earliest stages of embryological differentiation then the
development of the individual organ systems. Students will develop an understanding of the pathophysiology of clinically important congenital abnormalities and malformation syndrome. Students will be introduced to the role of teratogens and the intrauterine environment, contribution of genetic factors on perinatal health. We will discuss several complex malformation syndromes to allow insight into the consequences of disrupting normal synergy between different organ systems during development. In the second half of the course, we will delve into prenatal genetic counseling indications and different testing strategies. Students will gain an insight into the purpose and goals of prenatal screening and testing and how this impacts pregnancy management. We will also touch upon the ethical and social components of perinatal management and genetic counseling throughout the course.
Course Goal: To inform learners the process through which humans grow and develop, and how this applies to prenatal genetic counseling practice and beyond