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The course focuses on the practical application of various microscopy techniques and their use in research and forensic analysis.
You will learn how to prepare samples for light, fluorescence, and electron microscopy, including fixation, staining, and techniques such as hand sectioning, squashing, or microtomy. Emphasis will be placed on the scientific method – from hypothesis formulation and experimental design to data analysis. You will learn to work with positive and negative controls, optimize parameters, and evaluate acquired images using quantitative methods. The course is based on hands-on work with microscopes and independent problem-solving in biological and forensic contexts.
Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (14.04.2025)
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Attendance is mandatory and will be monitored. Access to the laboratories is conditional upon independent preparation, which will be verified through e-learning tests. The independent completion and presentation of a project will take place after the laboratory and computer-based sessions at the end of the course block. Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (14.04.2025)
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Obligatory:
Recommended:
Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (16.04.2025)
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During the laboratory sessions, students conduct practical experiments both individually and in groups, following laboratory manuals and the instructor’s guidance. Throughout the experiments, they apply theoretical knowledge gained during their preparation for each session, which is verified through e-learning tests. Within their groups, students independently divide tasks and collaboratively work on more complex assignments based on provided instructions. They prepare lab reports or final summaries and present them, simulating a real work environment and fostering teamwork.
In the subsequent computer-based session (held jointly for all students), students are introduced to image analysis methods using software tools, and then independently process their own or model assignments. The results of their work are presented in final reports and summaries.
The final presentations take place during a joint session. Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (14.04.2025)
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The course will conclude with a graded credit based on the completion and presentation of a group project. 100% attendance at the practical sessions is required. Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (14.04.2025)
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Exercise 1: Introduction to Bright Field Microscopy and Sample Preparation Orientation in microscopes and lab safety (e-learning module) Preparation of biological samples: squashes, hand sections Basic staining techniques Observing plant and animal tissues Hypothesis generation and experimental design
Exercise 2: Fluorescence Microscopy in Cell and Tissue Analysis Principles of fluorescence and fluorophore selection (e-learning module) Fluorescent staining of cellular structures Sample fixation and mounting Comparison of fluorescence and bright field imaging Working with positive/negative controls
Exercise 3: Advanced Techniques – Microtomy and Differential Staining Microtome use and sample sectioning Multistep staining (DAPI, FITC, FM4-64) Observation of layered structures (e.g., bone, muscle, tissues) Longitudinal study option: repeat imaging over 7 days Replication of experiments
Exercise 4: Sample Preparation for Electron Microscopy (SEM and TEM) Theory of electron microscopy (e-learning module) Sample fixation protocols Dehydration and sputter coating Preparing samples for virtual SEM and TEM imaging Analysis of surface structure and forensic materials
Exercise 5: Computer-Based Image Analysis Training Image acquisition and file formats Data management and storage best practices Image processing: contrast, brightness, filtering Multidimensional image reconstruction (Z-stacks, overlays) Quantification: area, particle counting, labeling Creating figures and reports for scientific publication Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (16.04.2025)
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Students will acquire practical skills in the preparation of samples for light, fluorescence, and electron microscopy. They will learn how to fix and stain samples (including fluorescent staining), prepare hand sections and squash samples, and operate a microtome. For electron microscopy, they will also master specific procedures such as sample fixation and sputter coating.
The course also develops students’ ability to design biological experiments – from formulating hypotheses and setting up positive and negative controls to adjusting parameters and repeating experiments as needed. Students will learn to plan experiments that are reproducible and yield meaningful results.
A strong emphasis is placed on the analysis of microscopic images. Students will learn to effectively store and manage data, decompose and reconstruct multidimensional images, calculate surface areas and particle counts, and annotate images. This will provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the entire workflow – from sample preparation to final interpretation of results. Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (14.04.2025)
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General knowledge of biology, microbiology and biochemistry. Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (14.04.2025)
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základní znalosti biologie a mikrobiologie Last update: Lipovová Petra (20.05.2025)
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| Coursework assessment | |
| Form | Significance |
| Defense of an individual project | 50 |
| Continuous assessment of study performance and course -credit tests | 50 |

