Offered
Clayton Second semester (extended) 2008 (Day)
Synopsis
This unit enables students to develop embryo handling skills, perform small trials, collate, analyse and report data. They will become proficient in in vitro maturation of oocytes, preparation of micromanipulation instruments, the handling of sperm after its extraction from ejaculates, epididymal or testicular biopsies for use in IVF, and the use of ICSI. The importance of molecular biology as a tool to study the genetic and epigenetic status of the embryo is covered. Students will develop essential skills for those involved with clinical human IVF in embryo biopsy, and fixation of biopsied material for use in the detection of genetic and developmental abnormalities using FISH and PCR.
Objectives
On completion of this unit students will:
- be familiar with the applications of the practical techniques to be learnt and the statistical methods used for analysis of the data generated by the application of these techniques;
- be familiar with the applications of micromanipulation instruments;
- understand the applications of FISH and karyotyping;
- have a practical knowledge of the techniques used for the treatment of male infertility and ICSI;
- be aware of the methods used for the preparation of sperm from ejaculates and testicular biopsy samples;
- demonstrate the extraction of DNA from cells and the skills required for carrying out PCR and genetic analysis;
- be competent in the handling and maintenance of in vitro embryonic stem cell lines;
- demonstrate the ability to carry out transgenesis and identification of transgenic clones;
- understand the methods used for pathenogenesis.
Assessment
Demonstration of practical competence in techniques: 100%
Contact hours
18 weeks (1.5 days laboratory session each week, 6 hours videos, discussions, technical demonstrations over the semester)
