39315 - Cyto-histopathology Techniques (BO)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course, the student will have acquired knowledge of the procedures for the preparation, setup, and observation of histological specimens for electron microscopy and other analytical techniques, including those with high resolution. The student will gain an overall understanding of the principles of biopsy sample preservation, such as fixation using physical and chemical methods; the principles of transmission and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray microanalysis, and scanning probe techniques; the preparation of samples, including embedding in epoxy and acrylic resins, ultramicrotomy; staining with heavy metals; analytical methodologies; and super-resolution and scanning probe microscopy.

Course contents

Principles of the construction and operation of transmission and scanning electron microscopes, and X-ray microanalysis.
General principles of Focused ion beam microscopy, super-resolution microscopy, and scanning probe microscopy.
Preparation and observation of histological specimens for electron microscopy and other analytical techniques, including those with high resolution.
Principles of biopsy sample preservation, such as fixation using physical and chemical methods.
Embedding of samples in epoxy and acrylic resins; ultramicrotomy; staining with heavy metals; drying methods; specimen coating (metal sputtering). Negative staining.

Readings/Bibliography

Microscopie in biologia e medicina di Cesare Scala, Gianandrea Pasquinelli e Giovanna Cenacchi, pubblicato da CLUEB

Teaching methods

The course will be conducted through lectures supported by slides, group work, laboratory activities using available instruments (TEM and SEM), and videos from the JOVE platform.

Assessment methods

There will be intermediate assessments that will not contribute to the final grade, as they are intended as self-evaluation tools.
The final assessment will consist of an oral exam with two questions. The evaluation, expressed on a scale of 30, will consider the accuracy and appropriateness of language, including the use of subject-specific terminology (up to 3/30), the coherence and organization of the response (up to 5/30), the depth of demonstrated knowledge (up to 18/30), and the ability to critically elaborate on the content (up to 5/30).
The final grade of the integrated course (IC) will be weighted together with the grades obtained in the other modules of the IC.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

Slides, scientific articles, videos, and hands-on field experiences

Office hours

See the website of Gianandrea Pasquinelli