Module overview
The organisation of the eukaryotic cell has always fascinated researchers. This module illustrates the upkeep of cellular structure and function.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- understand the types and functions of cellular organelles and explain how they are integrated through contact sites
- understand the ways in which molecules are targeted to their appropriate cellular locations within eukaryotic cells
- understand mechanisms of cell-cell interaction and formation of tissue
- critically assess the function of phosphoinositol signalling
- understand how the cytoskeleton is linked to upkeep of cell structure and cellular function
- critically assess the structure, diversity and function of cellular membranes
- read and understand original literature in cell biology
- critically evaluate and present original literature in cell biology to a scientific audience
Syllabus
The cytoskeleton supports many cellular functions. An understanding of bio-membranes is essential as compartmentalisation and cell organelles work to spatially separate different functions, while organelle contact sites allow functional integration of cellular metabolism. Mechanisms of phospho-inositol signalling and control of cellular function are discussed. Finally, the module studies how organisation of cells into tissues requires integration of structure and signalling. The module contains lectures in form of a “journal club” to teach the reading of original literature.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures and independent study. Coursework and assignments cover critical understanding as well as interpretation and presentation of scientific literature related to the topics presented in the module.
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Guided independent study | 2 |
| Completion of assessment task | 30 |
| Lecture | 24 |
| Independent Study | 94 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Assessment
Assessment strategy
The module is assessed by written examination at the end of the semester. There will be coursework linked to each of the four sections of the module. Your reading and understanding of a scientific paper, published in a field relevant to the lecture course, will be tested in an assessment. The module specific assessment is based around a scientific paper, published in a field relevant to the lecture course. You will summarise the main finding of the paper in a graphical abstract and in a short presentation at the end of term.Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Critical article and verbal presentation | 35% |
| Coursework | 20% |
| Examination | 45% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Coursework | 20% |
| Critical article and verbal presentation | 35% |
| Written assessment | 45% |