SubjectsSubjects(version: 982)
Course, academic year 2026/2027
  
   
Microscopy Seminar and Laboratory - B320025
Title: Seminář a laboratoř mikroskopie
Guaranteed by: Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology (320)
Faculty: Faculty of Food and Biochemical Technology
Actual: from 2026
Semester: summer
Points: summer s.:4
E-Credits: summer s.:4
Examination process: summer s.:
Hours per week, examination: summer s.:1/1, MC [HT]
Capacity: unknown / unknown (unknown)Schedule is not published yet, this information might be misleading.
Min. number of students: unlimited
State of the course: taught
Language: Czech
Teaching methods: full-time
Level:  
Note: course can be enrolled in outside the study plan
enabled for web enrollment
Guarantor: Leonhardt Tereza Ing. Ph.D.
Class: Základní laboratoře
Examination dates   Schedule   
Annotation -
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)
Course completion requirements -

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)
Literature -

Obligatory:

Recommended:

  • Kota Miura, Nataša Sladoje. Bioimage Data Analysis Workflows ‒ Advanced Components and Methods. : Springer Nature, 2022, s. ISBN 978-3-030-76394-7.
  • Alan Gunn. Essential Forensic Biology, 3rd Edition. : Wiley, 2019, s. ISBN 978-1-119-14140-2.
  • Peter W. Hawkes, John C. H. Spence. Springer Handbook of Microscopy. : Springer Nature, 2019, s. ISBN 978-3-030-00069-1.

Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (16.04.2025)
Teaching methods -

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)
Requirements to the exam -

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)
Syllabus -

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)
Learning outcomes -

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)
Entry requirements -

General knowledge of biology, microbiology and biochemistry.

Last update: Leonhardt Tereza (14.04.2025)
Registration requirements - Czech

základní znalosti biologie a mikrobiologie

Last update: Lipovová Petra (20.05.2025)
Coursework assessment
Form Significance
Defense of an individual project 50
Continuous assessment of study performance and course -credit tests 50

 
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