Ateneo - UPO

The course aims to provide knowledge on the main cyto-histochemical techniques.

Manuale pratico di Citochimica ed Istochimica – F. Mannello - Edizione Quattroventi
Istologia e Anatomia Microscopica, Wheater, CEA
Istologia funzionale, Kerr, CEA

The aims of this course is to provide the knowledge about the key techniques for in situ identification of the major bio-molecular components, both in isolated cells and in tissues during physio-pathological conditions.

Basics of histology, anatomy and cell biology
Principles of biochemistry

Lessons in class

Discussion of the topics in class. The course is supported by material available for students

The exam consists only of an oral test. The oral exam has the dual purpose of verifying the level of knowledge and understanding of the course contents and of evaluating the autonomy of judgment, the ability to learn and the ability to communicate.
To pass the test, the student must demonstrate that he understands at least the fundamental concepts and the most important results related to them; moreover, adequately stimulated, he must demonstrate that he is able to recognize the errors committed and therefore identify the correct ways; finally, he must be able to explain the topics in a comprehensible way. To achieve sufficiency it is necessary to know the basics of cytochemistry and histochemistry and to be able to demonstrate the fields of use of the discipline.
To achieve a high grade, the student must demonstrate an autonomy of judgment and a critical sense related to the topics covered, exposing their conclusions in a clear and logical way.
The evaluation is expressed in thirtieths (minimum mark 18).

Definition of discipline and field of study. Applications in biomedical diagnosis and environmental monitoring.
The principal methodologies in cytochemistry: from fixation to staining of a biological sample. Alternatives to chemical fixation (cryofixation).
Immunocytochemistry: antigens and antibodies, and monoclonal antibodies; labeling of antibodies: fluorochromes, enzymes, etc..; direct and indirect methods.
Immunocytochemical methods.
Technique of freeze-etching and freeze-fracture. Autoradiography.
Scanning confocal laser microscopy. Transmission electron microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy. Principles and application of image analysis systems.
FACS analysis in cell biology. "TMA" (Tissue Microarray) and microdissection techniques. Analysis of nucleotide sequences: FISH and types of hybridization.
Nanotechnology applications.
Preparation and modification of antibodies.
Cell culture techniques (classical and three-dimensional cultures).

Knowledge and understanding:
Acquisition of autonomy in areas related to the interpretation of experimental data and the setting of strategies for the application of cytohistochemical techniques
Knowledge and understanding skills applied:
At the end of the course, the student must associate experimental approach and instrumentation, recognize tissues and cells based on their structural and functional characteristics, use an appropriate scientific vocabulary.
Autonomy of judgment:
Ability to critically analyze the elements related to cytochemistry and histochemistry, autonomy of judgment in the field of cytohistochemical applications
Communication skills:
Use an appropriate scientific vocabulary; describe scientific topics related to cytohistochemical techniques, with a logical and rational approach.
Learning ability:
Ability to use the teaching material for a critical and reasoned study