260.618.01
Fluorescence Microscopy: Principles and Cell Biological Applications
Location
East Baltimore
Term
3rd Term
Department
Molecular Microbiology and Immunology
Credit(s)
2
Academic Year
2024 - 2025
Instruction Method
In-person
Tu, Th, 9:00 - 9:50am
Auditors Allowed
Yes, with instructor consent
Available to Undergraduate
No
Grading Restriction
Letter Grade or Pass/Fail
Course Instructor(s)
Contact Name
Frequency Schedule
Every Year
Resources
Fluorescence microscopy has become one of the most powerful tools in the biomedical sciences and is uniquely suited for the exploration of biomedical problems at the cellular and molecular level, including in living cells. The repertoire of advanced fluorescence microscopy technologies is rapidly growing, transforming imaging from a predominantly observational tool into a sophisticated bioanalytical system. This course is designed for individuals who are looking to start incorporating fluorescence microscopy into their own research.
Provides a fundamental understanding of the underlying principles and cell biological applications of fluorescence microscopy, using lectures and in-class activities. Emphasizes high-resolution widefield and confocal fluorescence imaging (fixed and live cells), with topics ranging from immunofluorescence, fluorescent probes, 3D and time-lapse imaging to advanced techniques for measuring dynamics (e.g., FRAP, FLIP) and molecular interactions (e.g., FRET, BiFC), and fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). Introduces image processing and single-cell resolved quantitative image analysis using open-source software. Presents super-resolution imaging techniques and emerging technologies. Offers practical examples with a focus on organelle biology, cell signaling, and infectious disease.
Learning Objectives
Upon successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
- Explain underlying principles of fluorescence microscopy techniques
- Evaluate potential sources of error and best practices
- Design and implement fluorescence microscopy experiments to elucidate molecular and cellular mechanisms in mammalian cells and microbes
- Create image processing and analysis workflows using open-source software
- Produce fluorescence microscopy figures for use in theses, presentations or publications
- Assess fluorescence microscopy derived conclusions in scientific literature
Methods of Assessment
This course is evaluated as follows:
- 25% Participation
- 25% In-class Exercises
- 50% Homework