Module BISS1222: CELLS AND TISSUES

Department: Biological and Biomedical Sciences (Biomedical Sciences) [Queen's Campus, Stockton]

BISS1222: CELLS AND TISSUES

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To introduce the structure and function of cells (and the organelles they contain) including their life cycle, division, self-replication and eventual death.
• To introduce the gross structure and ultrastructure of a range of normal cells and tissues.
• To introduce the preparation of cells and tissues for various types of microscopic examination.
• To introduce the principles and applications of visualisation and imaging techniques.
• To introduce the genetics, inheritance, structure and role of red cell antigens.
• To introduce the study of components of the immune system, their structure, function and mechanisms of action, including innate and acquired immunity.

Content

• Cell structure: membranes, organelles, cytoskeleton, cell adhesion, extracellular matrix.
• Section preparation, Microscopy and Imaging Techniques.
• Stem cells and cell lineages.
• Immunology.
• Haematology.
• Tissue organisation.
• Structure and function of nerve, muscle, gut, skin, special sense organs.
• Programmed Cell Death.
• Cell Transformation and Cancer.
• Cell Migration.

Learning Outcomes

• To describe how cell structure is adapted for function in a wide variety of cells (and organelles).
• Describe cell structure and function at the molecular level and be able to illustrate the molecular mechanisms involved in regulating homeostasis, eg cell communication, vesicle trafficking, protein synthesis, processing and targeting, cell cycle, and cell death.
• Demonstrate knowledge of microscopy and its applications.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and applications of visualisation and imaging techniques, including phase contrast, polarised light and scanning electron microscopy.
• Discuss the principles of a range of tissue preparation techniques.
• Discuss the principles and practice of microtomy, be aware of a range of microtomes, be able to discuss the principles and practice of section mounting and be able to understand the requirement for good quality sections.
• Discuss the principles of a wide range of routine staining procedures (including immunocytochemistry and immunofluorescence).
• Demonstrate sound knowledge of the structure and function of the gastrointestinal, nervous, integumental, muscular and skeletal systems of the human body.
• Have an introductory knowledge and understanding of innate and acquired immunity and of the regulation of immune responses.
• Explain the structure and function of blood cells and haemostasis.

• Be able to discuss the microscopic appearance of cells and tissues.
• Understand the principles of fixation and application of fixatives for optimal demonstration cells and tissues.
• Discuss methods for the preparation of cells and tissues and know when and when not to use them.

• Access and evaluate biomedical science information from a variety of sources and to communicate the principles both orally and in writing (eg essays, laboratory reports) in a way that is well-organised and topical.
• Have a secure and accurate understanding of the explanation of biomedical concepts at all levels of biological organisation ranging from molecules to intact organisms.
• Apply relevant advanced numerical skills (including statistical analysis where appropriate) to data.

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

• Lectures provide a solid foundation for knowledge and understanding, both practical and theoretical, and form a framework for students’ self-directed learning.
• Tutorials are used to enhance the acquisition of key skills.
• Laboratory sessions are used to reinforce the subject knowledge identified in other teaching and learning modes, but also serve to enhance subject specific skills.
• Workshops serve to encourage communication skills, team work and opportunities to extend subject specific knowledge.
• MCQs serve to examine theoretical knowledge.
• Essays assess key communication skills but are also used to examine a students learning of subject specific knowledge.
• Unseen examinations are a test of the range depth and sophistication of the students knowledge and understanding of the material in a module. They also test key skills in ability to present arguments and communicate them effectively in a concise written form.
• Data Handling provides an opportunity for the student to display an ability in bringing together of information and critical assessment of data, often in a clinical context.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Exam essay workshops. Practicals.

■ 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