BCH3021 · Cellular organisation: Organelle structure and function in health and disease

Overview

You will develop an advanced understanding of the components, formation, function, and relationships of the organelles and structural elements that make up eukaryotic cells; and will learn how organelle dysfunction can cause disease. You will be introduced to and will apply modern experimental techniques and strategies used to study cells and organelles. You will be guided and encouraged to view the eukaryotic cell as a dynamic, flexible, semi-independent entity in constant contact and communication with the extracellular environment and other cells.

Areas of study: Biochemistry

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Explain our current understanding of the function and relationships of key organelles; and convey obvious gaps in our knowledge;
2. Outline how different organelles are formed, positioned, inherited and disposed of and how these organelles respond to a changing environment;
3. Use your understanding of the mechanisms that target and move proteins to the correct organelle to explain how protein mis-localisation and organelle dysfunction may lead to human disease;
4. Discuss how the application of fluorescence-based imaging and other technologies enhances our understanding of cells, organelles and cellular proteins;
5. Design, plan, organise and successfully execute laboratory experiments relevant to molecular cell biology, and analyse, interpret and clearly report the results in conventional scientific formats;
6. Conduct literature-based research, identify key knowledge and concepts and build coherent arguments and explanations either in writing or in oral presentations;
7. Work effectively as a pair or in a group to achieve academic tasks collaboratively with respect for each other.

Workload

• Three hours of laboratories; • Two hours of workshops and online activities and • Seven hours of independent study (including online lectures) per week

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.