This module is an introduction to cell biology. A cell is the unit of life, and is amazingly complex. However a living cell can be understood in terms of the different functions carried out by its organelles integrated by the exchange of molecules and information across cellular membranes. The module therefore begins by considering the diversity of cells and the biochemical and structural features of prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells. The specialised biochemistry of intracellular organelles will be discussed together with important adaptations of bacteria and fungi. The structure and properties of cellular membranes are then discussed together with the mechanisms that cells have devised to allow transport of molecules cross membranes. It concludes with an introduction to cell signalling, and the mechanisms by which cells receive chemical and hormonal signals and transduce their message as a cellular response.
Describe cellular diversity and the cellular and molecular interactions involved in the formation of tissues will be achieved by assessments: 02
Describe the basic mechanisms by which proteins are targeted to the secretory pathway and cytoplasmic pathway in eukaryotic cells will be achieved by assessments: 02
Discuss at an introductory level the structure and properties of biological membranes and describe the general mechanisms by which molecules are transported across them will be achieved by assessments: 02
Describe at an introductory level the different types of inter and intra cellular signaling systems in eukaryotic cells and the roles they play in coordinating cell behaviour will be achieved by assessments: 02
Carry out laboratory procedures to isolate and purify organelles and enzymes from a whole cell fraction and produce a laboratory report detailing the methodologies used will be achieved by assessments: 01
Demonstrate oral and visual presentation skills by delivering a short oral presentation to a small group using PowerPoint as a visual aid will be achieved by assessments: FORMATIVE
Demonstrate written presentation skills and group working appropriate to level 1 by presenting a group poster to the class will be achieved by assessments: FORMATIVE
laboratory classes 15 hours
skills workshops 18 hours
directed private study 20 hours
private study &assessment 75 hours
2h examination, essay style questions with a choice of 2 from 5
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