Entry requirements

180 credits in biology, bio-/medicine, pharmaceutical chemistry, medical science or equivalent international education giving relevant knowledge in bio-/chemistry, cell- and molecular biology as well as molecular genetics. Proficiency in English.

Learning outcomes

The course aims to provide an in-depth knowledge of bioimaging settings from single molecules to man used in medical and research applications.

After completing the course, the student should be able to

* describe different types of imaging instrumentation and their applications

* account for different types of image analysis techniques and their applications

* understand the concept of fluorescence and how it is applied in the context of microscopy

* account for and evaluate current theories, methods and techniques within the research field, their practical execution and application

* compile, critically analyse and evaluate research results and present these both orally and in writing.

Content

The course aims to provide an insight into the current knowledge as well as the future use and development of bioimaging methods as analytical and diagnostic tools in research and health care.

Theoretical principles for different types of microscopy detection methods, e.g. fluorescence, confocal and multiphoton will be discussed and demonstrated. Electron microscopy will be discussed. Detection of single-molecules in situ using FISH will be illustrated and FRET (Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer) as well as FRAP methods will be discussed.

Cytochemistry and preparation of samples will be covered. Cellular analysis methods will be illustrated by analytical and preparative flow cytometry. Digital image analysis will be illustrated both theoretically and in practical exercises. Quantitative imaging as well as in vivo imaging or live cell imaging will be discussed.

Medical imaging analysis methods used in clinical diagnostics such as whole body analysis and Positron emission tomography (PET), a nuclear medicine imaging technique will be illustrated. Current methods as well as development of novel methods and technologies for clinical and research applications, will be discussed.

Instruction

The teaching is given in the form of lectures, seminars, demonstrations, literature assignments, presentations related to current research fields as well as theoretical and practical computational laboratory sessions. Participation in all the above-mentioned activities is compulsory.

Assessment

Modules: Theory and seminars 4.5 credits; Laboratory session 3 credits

The module laboratory sessions require completed laboratory practicals and related literature assignments. The theoretical module and seminars require active participation. An examination is given at the end of the course. To pass the requirements of the curriculum, all assigned tasks must be completed.

Other directives

Selection to course: 1. Students submitted to the Master programme in Molecular Medicine. 2. Other students.