This module aims to provide students with a foundation in the basic principles of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell biology and its practical applications. Theoretical content will focus on establishing a basic knowledge of cellular structure, function and cell division including aspects of molecular cell biology, such as DNA and chromosome structure, subcellular architecture and the essential processes of cell division and replication. The practical content focuses on the use of light microscopy to guide students through exploration of cell biology.
Theory
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Characteristics of living organisms
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Classification of living organisms
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Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure
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Viruses and viral life cycles
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Principles of light and electron microscopy
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Structure and function of Eukaryotic cell organelles
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The endomembrane system
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Structure and function of the plasma membrane
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Structure and function of the cytoskeleton
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The role of proteins in transport processes
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Osmosis and diffusion
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Structure and function of biomolecules (lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids (DNA and RNA).
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DNA replication
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Eukaryotic cell cycle
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The processes of meiosis and mitosis
Laboratory sessions are closely aligned to theoretic concepts and will reinforce concepts to teach essential laboratory skills in cell biology. Indicative practical activities are listed below
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Essentials of microscopy
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Preparation of wet mounts and simple staining techniques
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Analysis of eukaryotic cell organelle ultrastructure.
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Demonstration of Osmosis in blood cells.
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Enzymology.
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Mitosis.
Lectures (24 h), tutorials (2h), practical laboratory sessions (14 h), online tools such as animations and videos, self-directed learning
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 70 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 30 |