ELECTRON MICROSCOPY

Investigating a New Immunomodulatory Drug in a Mouse Model of Tumor Growth

Learning Objectives:

After the completion of the Laboratory activities students should be able to:

1. Descrive the basic functioning of an electron microscopy.

2. Explain the scientific rationale for using electron microscopy in investigating subcellular changes in tumor models.

3. Compare teh basic elements and uses of light and electron microscopes, linking these differences to their suitability for studying biological samples.

4. Identify the core components of a an electron microscope and explain how contributes to image generation.

5. Differentiate between Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and prioritize their applications based on research objectives.

Case Overview:

In this virtual lab, students explore how a novel drug, ImmunoBoost, may enhance T cell activity in a mouse tumor model. Through step-by-step lessons and interactive nodes, they learn why electron microscopy is essential for discerning subtle, subcellular alterations that might not be visible under conventional light microscopy. Using both SEM and TEM concepts, students discover how to differentiate between surface and internal structural imaging, follow correct specimen preparation procedures, and finally analyze preliminary micrographs suggesting potential immunotherapeutic benefits of ImmunoBoost.