Histology Module
This module was originally designed by Dr. Sunita Nadella (School of Interdisciplinary Science). It has been revised by Ms. Devon Jones (lead), Mr. Ryan Belowitz and Dr. Ana Tomljenovic-Berube in the School of Interdisciplinary Science.
module Overview
If you need a reminder of the course structure (lectures, labs and tutorials) click HERE
In this Histology Module, we will use the integumentary system (skin) to introduce you to the field of histology and the techniques used in the preparation of tissues for observation and image acquisition using light microscopy, and subsequent analysis of these images using software. The lecture will provide general background information on histological techniques, the components of different tissues, the structure of skin, and age related effects on skin structure. In the lab you will learn about anatomical planes and explore how information about the tissues you are studying can be gained or lossed depending on which anatomical plane you are observing. You will then apply this concept by cutting (sectioning) food along its different planes and making observations. You will also use a virtual microscope and histological slide database to observe tissues and learn about their structures. In the tutorial you will be introduced to ImageJ, an image analysis software. You will make research quality figures, use ImageJ to analyze images of skin tissue of different ages and construct a graph from this data, and describe the results from your graph. For the group project, your group will finish and submit the team contract (checkpoint #1), be assigned an anti-aging topic/product, and start researching your topic.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, students should be able to:
- Describe the different sectional planes and the various internal views achieved with each plane.
- Explain why accurate representations of tissues and their structures is important for histology, and how various factors can change normal tissue appearance.
- Use ImageJ to analyse images of mouse skin tissue which are provided to you.
- Create a publication quality figure
Module Task List
| Task | Due Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Watch module lectures. | Before starting module activities. We recommend you get into the habit of watching lectures before your scheduled lab time. | Lectures are available on Echo360, which can be accessed through Avenue to Learn. |
| Read module outline. | Before your virtual lab starts. | |
| Attend virtual lab and complete lab activities. | Attend during your scheduled lab time. The TA will be available during this time to help you. | Join your lab/tutorial section team on MS Teams. The first part of lab is an overview of the activities. The remainder of the lab time will be used to complete the lab activities. |
| Histology Individual Assignment | We recommend you start working on the assignment (click HERE) immediately after completing the lab activities. If you encounter any difficulties, you can pause and wait until after the tutorial presentation, where there is opportunity to ask the TA questions. Assignment Due dates are HERE |
We recommend setting aside the same block of time every week for completing individual assignments in Life Sci 2L03. Assignments are submitted on Avenue to Learn. Click HERE for details. |
| Attend online tutorial | Attend during your scheduled tutorial time. | Join your lab/tutorial section team on MS Teams. The first part of tutorial is an overview of the assignment from the TAs. The remainder of the tutorial time will be used to work with your group on the group project. |
| Complete Histology Tutorial Reflection | Submit before the end of tutorial. | The reflection will be completed in the OneNote app which is accessed through your lab/tutorial section team on MS Teams. The TA will release a page in your notebook to complete your reflection. You are only able to complete the reflection during the allocated tutorial time. |
| Group Project | Anti-aging topic/products assigned Finish team contract (checkpoint #1) Start researching topic Click HERE for group project deadlines |
Click the item below to be directed to the instructions: Anti-aging topic/products Team contract (checkpoint #1) |
Missed work
If you miss the lab, tutorial or any work associated with this module, click HERE for details on accommodations.
