Animal embryos and embryonic stem cells 1400-226ZZKMZ-en
The subject is directed to students who are interested in animal embryology and the possible application of embryonic cells and in vitro cultured embryonic stem cells in biological studies. The course consists of practical classes, which will familiarize students with experimental models such as mouse oocytes and embryos (control of cell divisions during meiosis, fertilization, regulation of gene expression in the embryo, regulative capacities of the mouse embryo and derivation of primary cultures of embryonic and foetal cells). Each practical class will be preceded by a short theoretical introductory lecture illustrating the background of the performed experiment. Subsequently, students will be working individually following the instructions and guidelines of the instructors.
The following topics are covered during the course:
1. Regulation of meiosis in the mouse oocytes.
2. Fertilization of mouse oocytes
3. Epigenetic diversity of pronuclei in the mouse zygote
4. Transition from maternal to embryonic control of gene expression using transgenic mice expressing various fluorescent proteins.
5. Formation of the primary cell lineages in the mouse embryo.
6. Derivation, in vitro culture and application of mouse embryonic stem cells (ES cells) and establishment of mouse primary embryonic fibroblasts.
7. Regulative capacities of the early mouse embryo – the creation of aggregation chimaeras.
NOTE: The course will consist of 6 classes chosen from the 7 proposals listed above.
Type of course
Mode
Prerequisites (description)
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
KNOWLEDGE
K_W05 The student demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the principles and the molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms underlying animal embryonic development.
K_W06 The student is familiar with specialized terminology in the field of embryology and possesses knowledge of the relevant subject literature.
K_W10 The student is acquainted with a variety of research techniques and tools used in embryology and cell culture (e.g., oocyte and embryo isolation, chimera production, indirect immunofluorescence, establishment of cell cultures) and is able to appropriately plan their use for solving specific research problems.
K_W12 The student has knowledge of advanced laboratory, measurement, and imaging techniques applied in embryological research.
K_W13 The student understands the principles of research design and the execution of experiments using specialized methods applied in experimental embryology.
K_W17 The student knows and applies the principles of occupational health and safety (OHS) and ergonomics to ensure safe laboratory work.
SKILLS
K_U03 The student skillfully uses scientific and popular science texts related to animal developmental biology and the applications of embryos and stem cells in biology and medicine, in both Polish and English, and is able to communicate in English at the B2+ proficiency level.
K_U07 Under the supervision of a research mentor, the student is able to plan and carry out an experiment using learned embryological methods; can propose appropriate techniques for specific analyses, and evaluate the suitability and limitations of these methods for a given research material.
K_U08 The student is capable of critically analyzing a selected scientific problem based on literature data and the results of their own research, formulating independent opinions and conclusions.
K_U11 The student is able to prepare and deliver an oral presentation on a selected topic in the field of animal embryology or animal cell culture, in both Polish and English, in accordance with B2+ level language requirements.
SOCIAL COMPETENCES
K_K04 The student is able to work effectively as part of a research team, carrying out individual research tasks while co-organizing the work of the group.
K_K06 The student adheres to the principles of research ethics and is able to resolve dilemmas related to the use of animals in scientific research.
K_K07 The student is committed to continuous learning and professional development by regularly updating their knowledge using scientific and popular science sources related to embryology.
Assessment criteria
The final evaluation course will be based on:
• presence (at least 5 out of 6 two-day thematic blocks),
• student’s work and engagement during the classes,
• presentation prepared by two students and related to the subject of the course (the form of presentation and ability to interpret and discuss the results in the context of the current knowledge will be taken into account).
• knowledge of the issues presented by instructors during the introductory lectures.
Bibliography
„Developmental Biology” S.F. Gilbert, Sinauer Associates, Inc., Sunderland, Massachusetts USA
Notes
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Term 2024L:
None |
Term 2025L:
None |
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: