There are two parts to this assignment. You are required to complete both parts. Word limit for the assignment is 1200 words.

Part 1:

Carol is 17 years old and was diagnosed with Type I diabetes at the age of 7 years. Carol has had a recent hospital admission for dehydration and high blood glucose. During the admission Carol was found to be 6 weeks pregnant. Prior to the admission she had been experiencing weight loss and changes in mood.

With reference to the above case study;

1. Explain the pathophysiology of Type 1 diabetes. Focus your answer on the following (suggest approx. 400 words):
◦What is the role of the immune system in the destruction of beta cells and development of Type 1 diabetes?
◦How does destruction of beta cells affect glucose regulation within blood?

2. The following are some acute effects that a lack of blood glucose control has had on Carol; she has experienced these signs and symptoms either shortly before or during her hospital admission. Explain the pathophysiology of these signs and symptoms (i.e. abnormal physiological processes due to the disease): (suggest approx 800 words):
◦Excessive thirst
◦Frequent urination
◦Increased appetite
◦Unexplained weight loss
◦Hyperglycaemia (raised serum glucose levels) – you may make reference to ketoacidosis but are not required to go into detail
◦Mood changes

3. Consider the potential effects on the developing embryo and foetus during the first trimester of Carol’s pregnancy. (suggest approx. 100 words):

Assignment

Part 2:

Explain the argument that there is a relationship between genetic susceptibility, obesity and the development of Type 2 diabetes (approx. 1200 words):

Your answer should include the following elements:
◦Definition – How would you define obesity? Consider classification based on BMI.
◦Epidemiology – What evidence is there of an association between obesity and Type 2 diabetes?
◦Genetic predisposition – It is generally accepted that there is a genetic susceptibility towards the development of Type 2 diabetes. Explain what this means and how it relates to the association between obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
◦Aetiology – Explain the effect of obesity on insulin receptor sensitivity of liver, muscle and adipose tissue; explain how lower insulin sensitivity can lead to Type 2 diabetes.

The deadline for Final Submission of your assignment is Monday 20th April 1pm to the ‘drop box’ on Moodle U43702/U43776

If you have any further questions please speak to Paul Ong (Oxford) Alazar (Swindon)

You will have the opportunity to discuss your assignment as part of your:
1.Peer support group work
2.Week 4 Seminar: Assignment Tutorial Part 1
3.Week 6 Seminar: Assignment Tutorial Part 2

You are required to submit a draft of Part 1 (Type 1 diabetes) of your assignment to ‘Turnitin’ for formative feedback by Tuesday 3rd March 1pm (week 5). Turnitin will then generate an ‘Originality Report’ which you will need to print off and bring with you to the week 6 seminar. Formative feedback will then be provided as part of the week 6 seminar which will include feedback from the seminar leader