BIO 314: Advanced Microscopy Techniques for Research

Term: Fall 2024

Instructor: Judith Wopereis

Description of course: Instrument specific course highly recommended for students interested in using state-of-the-art microscopy techniques in research (special studies, honors, SURF, etc.). Participants get exposure to basic and advanced light and electron microscopy techniques available at Smith. Mechanical and optical components are reviewed. Operational parameters for improving image quality and data collection using digital imaging and image analysis techniques are discussed. Emphasis is on the use of these exciting technologies performing quality and up-to-date research in many disciplines ranging from the live science and geology to art and engineering. Evaluation is through engagement in assigned activities. 400-level work cannot overlap with this course work. S/U only. Enrollment limited to 12.

Micrographs (#1-5) of various samples acquired by students in this course.

#1: Scanning Electron Microscope image of a Miliolid, a single celled organism characterized by its porcelaneous shell. Sample provided by professor Laura Katz research lab.

#2: Laser Scanning Confocal Microscope image of mouse small intestine: DAPI (cyan), WGA (magenta), Phalloidin (yellow). Image acquired during instrument demonstration.

#3: Scanning Electron Microscope image of a pitcher plant from the Sarraceniaceae family. Visible are the trichomes, hair like structures which extent from the epidermal cells. Sample provided by professor Jesse Bellemare research lab.

#4: Widefield Fluorescence Microscope image of human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (HT29); Nuclei (blue), Mitochondria (red), LDHA protein (green). Sample prepared and provided by Leo Giannini ’25, Hampshire College.

#5: Transmission Electron Microscope Image of damaged skeletal muscle. Notice the abnormal organization of sarcomeres visible on the right side of image. Sample provided by professor Stylianos Scordilis research lab.