Universität Wien

300517 VU Theory and Application of Confocal Microscopy (2025S)

5.00 ECTS (3.00 SWS), SPL 30 - Biologie
Continuous assessment of course work
Moodle

Registration/Deregistration

Note: The time of your registration within the registration period has no effect on the allocation of places (no first come, first served).

Details

max. 12 participants
Language: German

Lecturers

Classes (iCal) - next class is marked with N

We will start with a kick-off event at the end of March 2025 (Thu 27.3.2025, 15:00 - 20:00), Fri 28.3.2025 9.45 - 18:00) at the University of Vienna, Biology Building (UBB), Djerassiplatz 1, 1030 Vienna, Austria. We will go through the basics of theory and alternate with practical parts on the confocal microscope . On these days we will also fix the dates for 2 further sub-blocks (1.5 days each).
A first practice phase (approx. 6 hours) takes place in small groups (approx. 4-6 students).
In a second exercise phase (special application training), small groups (2-3 students) work for a whole day (approx. 9 hours) with a special test object on the CLSM. A protocol is also written in the group. There is also a written examination. After submission of the group protocol, a final seminar (max. 3 h, on an afternoon or evening) will be anounced.

  • Thursday 27.03. 15:00 - 16:30 Seminarraum 1.6, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.011, Ebene 1
  • Thursday 27.03. 16:45 - 20:00 Seminarraum 1.4, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.013, Ebene 1
  • Friday 28.03. 11:30 - 14:45 Seminarraum 1.6, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.011, Ebene 1
  • Friday 28.03. 15:00 - 18:15 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1

Information

Aims, contents and method of the course

After rapid development, the Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope (CLSM) became the most important imaging tool in both organismic and molecular biology. In this course, we present the theoretical background of CLSM, its application in cell biology, molecular biologiy e.g. for structure analysis, for measurement and quantification of physiological parameters like membrane potential, enzyme activities as well as current special techniques. In a hands-on-training, we will apply the following techniques: localisation and identification of structures with organelle specific fluorescent dyes, 3D-reconstruction and animation, 4D analysis, ratio imaging, spectral dye separation. Positive examination of this lab course is a prerequisite for independent work on the CLSM of the Cell Imaging and Ultrastructure Research Unit.

Assessment and permitted materials

Active participation in the lab course (30 %), written evaluation of the knowledge aquired in the lectures (35 %), protocol (35 %). A final seminary will be part of "active participation";
50 % in sum are required for a positive evaluation;
AI is not permitted for the written examination and for the preparation of the written group protocol.

Minimum requirements and assessment criteria

The participants know the theoretical background, the possibilities and the limitations of confocal laser scanning microscopy. They are able to work with a modern CLSM and they are familiar with techniques for sample preparation and the evaluation of results. The minimum score for a positive evalutation is 50 points/50%.

Examination topics

Lectures on the theoretical background of CLSM, application as a "Hands-on-training" in small groups with provided samples (fixed specimen as well as living cells inculding staining). Independent application in a more intensiv "special application training" in extra small groups at the Confocla Microscope.

Reading list

A diverse literature on confocal microscopy will be provided in the course.
Lectures support material and the presenting slides are written in English language and offered via Moodle. The oral lecture is held in German language. Practical part of the course will be either in German or in English (on demand).

Association in the course directory

MBO 5, MZO2

Last modified: Tu 08.04.2025 14:26