Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2020 - BPK 408W D100

Cellular Physiology Laboratory (3)

Class Number: 4166

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2020: Mon, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 25, 2020
    Sat, 8:30–11:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    STAT 201 and BPK 305 for BPK Majors or BISC 305 for BISC Majors. Enrollment of non-BPK and non-BISC majors require permission of the instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An advanced laboratory course in cellular physiological techniques providing students with theoretical and practical training in cellular physiology laboratory techniques such as DNA and RNA manipulation and quantification, immunofluorescence imaging of protein expression, tissue contraction studies and recording of nerve action potentials and modulation. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is an advanced theoretical and practical laboratory course in cellular physiological techniques. The course will provide students with sound theoretical understanding and practical hands-on training in fundamental and current biomedical physiology laboratory techniques of DNA manipulation and quantification, fluorescence microscopy, bacteria and mammalian cell culture, bioassays of invertebrate smooth muscle and nerve tissue. The information learned in BPK 305 / BISC 305 is the starting point for discussions and students are encouraged to review their previous course notes and text prior to the start of the course.

13 weeks; 1 lecture hours and 4 lab hours per week
TOPICS

  • Microbiology & Microscopy 
  • Dilutions, aseptic technique, cell counts
  • Molecular and Cell Biology
  • PCR, subcloning, transformations, plasmid purification, restriction digests
  • DNA gel electrophoresis, gel imaging
  • mRNA quantification
  • Electrophysiology and myography
  • Final Project 
  • Scientific writing skill development  

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  1. Work independently in a laboratory setting, including adaptation of relevant protocols, safe and proficient handling of reagents, thorough record-keeping, and appropriate data collection techniques
  2. Use modern cellular/physiological lab methods to work appropriately with bacterial cells, mammalian cell culture, and whole organisms (annelids)
  3. Describe the process of gene transfection, and explain the impact in cultured mammalian cells on phenotype at the molecular and cellular level 
  4. Perform immunostaining, microscopy, and spectrophotometry to characterize mammalian and bacterial cells.
  5. Integrate knowledge to solve novel problems in cell biology, neurophysiology or skeletal muscle physiology, including experimental design.
  6. Use appropriate methods for quantitative and statistical analysis and graphical representation of data, and for interpreting results
  7. Collaborate with peers to design, carry out, and analyze results from an independent experiment, including proper controls, statistical treatment of data, and appropriate scientific communication 
  8. Develop coherent arguments supported by relevant and credible scientific evidence 
  9. Communicate effectively using oral, visual, and written communication, including writing for a scientific audience  

Grading

  • Lab Reports 40%
  • Lab Work 10%
  • Lab Book 5%
  • Pre-class and In-class Quizzes 10%
  • Final Quiz 15%
  • Final Project 20%

REQUIREMENTS:

Laboratory glasses, a laboratory coat, and a hardbound laboratory notebook are required for the first laboratory session.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

There is no required course text. Laboratory manual modules curated on CANVAS will contain suggested readings beyond material covered in class.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

It is the responsibility of the student to keep their BPK course outlines if they plan on furthering their education.

Missed Exam:

Students who miss examinations due to exceptional circumstances (such as serious illness or compassionate reasons) are required to obtain a physician's certificate, whereby the physician states that you were unable to write your midterm or final on the set date due to a medical condition beyond your control, or other supporting documents in order to obtain consideration in the course. Such documents must be filed with the Department Chair (via the Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology office) or Registrar within four calendar days of the date on which the examination was to have been written. Exceptional circumstances must be approved by the Undergraduate Program Committee in order for a student to receive consideration. Students must check the examination schedule when making course selections. Students are reminded that final examinations may be scheduled at any time during the examination period and that students should avoid making travel or employment arrangements for this period. In the event of a missed midterm or final examination the instructors reserve the right to give an oral examination of the material. Approximate midterm dates are provided, but may be subject to change.

BPK Grading Policy

For more information on the department's grading policy & guidelines go to:  
 
http://www.sfu.ca/bpk/undergrad_program/faqs.html

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS