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BIO303Sciences2 Unitsintermediate

General Cytology

This course introduces the fundamental principles of cytology, covering a range of topics from microscopy techniques to cell division and cytogenetics. Students will explore the structure and function of cells, including cell cycle control, growth, and differentiation. The course also delves into developmental cell biology and reproduction, providing a comprehensive understanding of cellular processes and their significance in living organisms.

Transform this course into personalized study materials with AI

39h
Study Time
13
Weeks
3h
Per Week
basic
Math Level
Course Keywords
CytologyMicroscopyCell DivisionCytogeneticsCell Biology

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
Math Level
Basic Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Microscopy Techniques

2

Cell Structure and Function

3

Cell Division and Reproduction

4

Cytogenetics

5

Molecular Basis of Cell Structure

6

Developmental Cell Biology

Total Topics6 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Basic Biology

General Chemistry

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (2 methods)

Tutor-Marked Assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Final Examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Research Scientist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Laboratory Technician

Apply your skills in this growing field

Medical Technologist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Biotechnologist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Genetic Counselor

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

PharmaceuticalsBiotechnologyHealthcareResearch InstitutionsAgricultural Science

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1:

2h

Unit 1: Light Microscope

2 study hours
  • Read Unit 1: Light Microscope, focusing on the discovery of the microscope and its components.
  • Identify the parts of a light microscope and understand their functions.
  • Solve problems related to the resolving power of the light microscope.
Week
2

Module 1:

2h

Unit 2: Phase Contrast and Darkfield Microscope

2 study hours
  • Study Unit 2: Phase Contrast and Darkfield Microscope, understanding the principles behind each.
  • Compare the advantages and disadvantages of phase contrast and darkfield microscopy.
  • Explain how phase contrast enhances visualization of transparent cell components.
Week
3

Module 1:

2h

Unit 3: Fluorescence Microscope

2 study hours
  • Review Unit 3: Fluorescence Microscope, focusing on the principle of fluorescence and the role of filters.
  • Understand how fluorescence microscopy enhances the detection of specific molecules.
  • Identify applications of fluorescence microscopy in biological research.
Week
4

Module 1:

2h

Unit 4: Autoradiography

2 study hours
  • Study Unit 4: Autoradiography, understanding the use of radioisotopes in visualizing cellular components.
  • Describe the autoradiography method and its applications.
  • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of autoradiography.
Week
5

Module 1:

2h

Unit 5: Electron Microscope

2 study hours
  • Read Unit 5: Electron Microscope, focusing on the history, principle, and types of electron microscopy.
  • Compare transmission and scanning electron microscopy.
  • Understand the advantages and disadvantages of electron microscopy.
Week
6

Module 2:

2h

Unit 1: History and Present Trends in Cell Biology

2 study hours
  • Study Unit 1: History and Present Trends in Cell Biology, focusing on key historical events and newer techniques.
  • Discuss the contributions of key scientists in the field of cytology.
  • Understand the applications of cell culture and viruses in cell biology research.
Week
7

Module 2:

2h

Unit 2: Introductory Cytogenetics

2 study hours
  • Read Unit 2: Introductory Cytogenetics, focusing on the history, chromosomal variations, and cytogenetic techniques.
  • Understand the different types of chromosomal variations and their effects.
  • Discuss the importance and applications of cytogenetics in medical diagnosis.
Week
8

Module 2:

2h

Unit 3: Molecular Basis of Cell Structure

2 study hours
  • Study Unit 3: Molecular Basis of Cell Structure, focusing on the molecular composition of the cell.
  • Understand the roles of water, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids in cell structure.
  • Discuss the importance of inorganic ions in cell metabolism.
Week
9

Module 2:

2h

Unit 4: Proteins and Nucleic Acids

2 study hours
  • Review Unit 4: Proteins and Nucleic Acids, focusing on their structures, functions, similarities, and differences.
  • Understand the central dogma of molecular biology.
  • Discuss the roles of DNA, RNA, and proteins in cellular processes.
Week
10

Module 3:

2h

Unit 1: Cell Cycles

2 study hours
  • Study Unit 1: Cell Cycles, focusing on the phases of the cell cycle and cell cycle control mechanisms.
  • Understand the roles of checkpoints and CDK proteins in regulating cell cycle progression.
  • Discuss the significance of cell cycle control in preventing cancer.
Week
11

Module 3:

2h

Unit 2: Reproduction and Cell Division

2 study hours
  • Read Unit 2: Reproduction and Cell Division, focusing on mitotic and meiotic cell division.
  • Compare the processes of mitosis and meiosis.
  • Understand the roles of cell division in reproduction and genetic continuity.
Week
12

Module 3:

2h

Unit 3: Cell Growth and Differentiation

2 study hours
  • Study Unit 3: Cell Growth and Differentiation, focusing on growth and differentiation in embryonic and plant cells.
  • Understand the processes of embryogenesis and plant cell wall formation.
  • Discuss the significance of cellular specialization in multicellular organisms.
Week
13

Module 3:

2h

Unit 4: Developmental Cell Biology

2 study hours
  • Review Unit 4: Developmental Cell Biology, focusing on the stages of embryogenesis and human fetal development.
  • Understand the roles of cleavage, gastrulation, and organogenesis in embryonic development.
  • Discuss the key events in human fetal development during pregnancy.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

Access PDF Material

Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Create detailed diagrams illustrating the stages of mitosis and meiosis, labeling key structures and events.

2

Develop flashcards for each microscopy technique, including its principle, advantages, and disadvantages.

3

Practice solving problems related to the resolving power of microscopes using the provided equations.

4

Create concept maps linking the different phases of the cell cycle and the regulatory mechanisms involved.

5

Review the key events in human fetal development, focusing on the critical milestones in each trimester.

6

Form study groups to discuss complex topics such as cytogenetics and molecular cell biology.

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