Molecular Cell Biology

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Describe mechanisms of cell-cell interaction and formation of tissue;
• Describe the structure and function of the cell cytoskeleton;
• Present original literature in cell biology to a scientific audience.
• Describe the structure, diversity and function of cellular membranes;
• Describe elements of the cytoskeleton required for upkeep of cell structure and function;
• Describe vesicular traffic, as well as secretion and uptake mechanisms;
• Describe the function of phosphoinositol signalling;
• Describe ways in which proteins are targeted to their appropriate cellular locations within eukaryotic cells following synthesis;
• Interpret original literature in cell biology for publication in the form of a graphical abstract;
• Read and interpret original literature in cell biology;

This module describes the organisation of the eukaryotic cell and illustrates the upkeep of cellular structure and function. An understanding of he structure of the cell, the cytoskeleton, lipids and membrane proteins is crucial to understand compartimentalisation as an essential element in upkeep of cellular function. Cellular organelles are covered, with attention to molecular mechanisms for protein insertion into and crossing of membranes as well as targeting to intracellular compartments. Vesicular traffic that regulates secretion and uptake is required for survival and discussed in detail. Organization of cells into tissues requires integration of physical and chemical structures and signalling. Mechanisms of phosphoinositol signalling and control of cellular function are introduced. The cytoskeleton supports the upkeep of cellular function and is discussed along with the above topics.

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures and independent study. Coursework covers understading and interpretation of a recent research paper related to the topics presented in the module, in the form of a graphical abstract and oral presentation.

Assessment strategy

Lectures and independent study. Coursework comprising of (1) a one page graphical abstract of an agreed research article from the current literature and (2) an oral presentation of the above research paper. The article is selected from a reading list compiled from all sections of the module. Feedback is given on both the written and oral part.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.