The overall objectives of this course are to demonstrate to students (1) the use of electron microscopy and related histochemical techniques in studying the disease process at the cellular level and (2) the use of electron microscopy as ancillary instrumentation in interdisciplinary medical research. Lectures (two hours per week) would cover current methods of sample preparations and examinations of tissue by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron diffraction, and freeze-fracture. Laboratory (6 hours per week) would involve individual sessions with the course director in relation to the individual’s specific research problem.

Gross morphology of the human body; names, relationships, and basic functions of body structures through original cadaver dissection observation supplemented by the use of texts, lectures, clinical correlations, radiographs, and informal discussion in groups.

Lecture and laboratory devoted to light microscopic and ultrastructural features of human cells, tissues, and organs. The correlations between structure and function are emphasized as well as the intimate relation of microscopic anatomy to biochemistry, physiology, and pathology.

This journal club style course will critically assess and evaluate cutting-edge literature in the cardiovascular field. Analysis of articles from high-impact journals are encouraged with weekly presentations with active discussion.

Advanced study of one region of the body with special emphasis on detailed anatomy, normal variation, surgical procedures, original research, embryology, and teaching methods.  Content varies by title and may be repeated a maximum of two times.

Advanced study of the essential features of human development, clarifying the gross anatomical features and giving emphasis to recent advances in human embryology. The clinical importance of embryology and the etiology of congenital defects are noted.

Advanced study of selected topics in microscopic anatomy.  Content varies by title and may be repeated a maximum of two times.

Histology to confocal microscopy. Through the combination of lecture and laboratory learning, students will leave this class understanding the scientific principles underlying the techniques as well as hands-on training for sample preparation, histology, confocal microscopy, and image analysis.

Molecular methods. Students will be introduced to and trained in molecular techniques that could be utilized in a proteomics or genomics laboratory, including cell culture, RNA isolation and quantification, cDNA synthesis, PCR (quantitative, real-time, and endpoint), in situ hybridization, and molecular cloning.

Electron microscopy. Through the combination of lecture and laboratory learning, students will leave this class understanding the scientific principles underlying the techniques as well as hands-on training for transmission electron and scanning electron microscopy sample preparation and imaging.

Advanced molecular methods. Students will be introduced to and trained in advanced molecular techniques that could be utilized in a proteomics or genomics laboratory, including SDS PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, and Flow Cytometry.

Mammalian reproductive systems at organismic, cellular, and molecular levels. Emphases on the structural, functional, and developmental aspects of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, testis, and ovaries.

An intensive consideration of topics of current interest in the neuroendocrine control of reproduction. Student presentation and small group discussion formats.

An intensive consideration of topics of current interest in male reproduction. Student presentation and small group discussion formats.

An intensive consideration of topics of current interest in female reproduction. Student presentation and small group discussion formats.

Mentored independent laboratory research.