Course content

The course contains:

1) The structure and function of the cell: including the structure of the cell membrane and transport across membranes, organelles of the cell, nucleus, cytoskeleton, intracellular transport and sorting of molecules, cell cycles and division, regulation of gene expression, cell signaling, cell contact, and the extracellular matrix, immunology.

2) Quantitative description of cellular processes. Transport: Diffusion, convection, ion flux, osmosis. Membrane potential. Mechanical stress. Cell kinetics.

3) Relevant experimental methods, in particular light/fluorescence microscopy and electron microscopy, as well as flow cytometry.

Learning outcome

After completion of the course, students should have:

Knowledge about:

1) The structure and function of the cell: including the structure of the cell membrane and transport across the membrane, cell organelles, the nucleus, cytoskeleton, intracellular transport and sorting of molecules, cell cycle and division, regulation of gene expression, cell signaling, cell contact, and the extracellular matrix, immunology.

2) Quantitative description of cellular processes such as: transport: diffusion, convection, ion flux, osmosis. Membrane potential. Mechanical stress. Cell kinetics.

3) Relevant experimental methods, in particular light/fluorescence microscopy and electron microscopy, and flow cytometry.

Skills: Through practical laboratory exercises be able to: culture cells, use a light microscope optimally, combine fluorescent dyes with appropriate laser wavelength and emission filters, measure electrical properties of the membrane, interpret flow cytometry histogram. Be able to apply achieved knowledge to formulate and analyze problems in cell biology.

General competence: Write a scientific report.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and mandatory laboratory exercises/demonstrations.

Compulsory assignments

• Mandatory laboratory exercises/demonstrations

Recommended previous knowledge

Introductory biochemistry corresponding to course TBT4102 Biochemistry 1 or equivalent background.

Course materials

Textbook: The world of the cell by Becker, Kleinsmith, Hardin, Bertoni.

Credit reductions