Module BIOL3421: BIOLOGICAL IMAGING

Department: Biological and Biomedical Sciences

BIOL3421: BIOLOGICAL IMAGING

Prerequisites

• Level 1: Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology (BIOL1072) and Level 2: Cell Structure and Function (BIOL2211).

Corequisites

• Cell Signalling and Protein Targeting; Development 2; Molecular Basis of Disease.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• Field Course.

Aims

• To provide advanced training in the theory and practice of advanced imaging techniques for biological specimens.

Content

• Theoretical content: The principles of transmission electron microscopy;
• Sample preparation for transmission electron microscopy;
• The principles of high resolution scanning electron microscopy;
• Sample preparation for transmission electron microscopy;
• The principles of epifluorescence and confocal microscopy;
• Sample preparation for light microscopy;
• FRET, FRAP and FLIP to measure protein behaviour in live cells.
• Practical content: Project to provide team based investigation of a protein component or a multiprotein complex of a cellular structure or organelle at both the light and ultrastructural level.

Learning Outcomes

• By the end of the module the student should be able to: Understand the principles and use of microscopy in current cell biology research;
• Understand how ligands and dyes can be used to investigate protein function in fixed and living cells;
• Understand how sample preparation influences the results of an experiment;
• Demonstrate competence in the use of microscopical techniques;
• Acquire, interpret ad critically analyze experimental evidence and present results effectively.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Taught Component: Teaching and learning in the component is primarily through the means of lectures and seminars. Additionally students will be provided with literature for an in depth case study. This mode of teaching and learning is important and efficient in acquiring knowledge and promotes understanding.
• Practical Component: Teaching and learning in this component will be through a week long project in which the student will prepare and examine specimens using at least one advanced microscopic technique and compile and present data in the form of a poster. This form of teaching and learning ids important in acquiring competence and skills and advancing understanding by practical experience.
• Knowledge will be formatively assessed through the use of MCQs and written tests and summatively by means of an extended essay.
• Competence in the use of microscopy; recovery and interpretation of data will be assessed by means of written report and poster presentation.
• Understanding will be assessed by means of an extended essay.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

MCQs.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University