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551-0372-00L 6 Credits BSC D-BIOL

Genome-wide RNA Interference, Imaging and Computational Image Analysis in Systems Biology

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Lucas Pelkmans
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:28:57

Abstract

We will introduce imaging of large populations of cells, RNA interference screening, and computational analysis of quantitative networks of cellular phenotypes and systems. We will analyze cell-to-cell variation in a population of adherent human cells, quantify population heterogeneity signatures, and use cellular heterogeneity (or biological noise) to create meaningful molecular networks.

Objective

The course will exist for 50% of wetlab work (at the bench), and for 50% of in silico work (at the computer) using computerized image analysis methods programmed in MatLab and R. Previous experience in computer programming is not required, but an affinity for (and eagerness to learn) mathematics, statistics, and computation is highly recommended. Goals: 1. To conduct a large-scale image-based siRNA screen 2. To learn the basics of MatLab, R, Cytoscape, and CellProfiler 3. To understand the concepts of biological noise, cell-to-cell variation, and heterogeneity signatures 4. To understand that heterogeneity signatures reflect the activity of cellular processes 5. To realize that population-averaged readouts of the activity of cellular systems, the activity of individual enzymes, and the expression levels of proteins, obscure many of the interesting and meaningful aspects of cell biology. 6. To design your own computational and statistics analysis pipeline to address points 3,4, and 5 in the system analyzed in point 1. 7. To create a network of host genes that link systems together by using the quantitative information on how they perturb heterogeneity profiles 8. To understand how one can reveal molecular design principles by which cells integrate cellular processes that establish a phenotype.

General Information

Language
German
Levels
BSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
graded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Genome-wide sRNA Interference
Permission from lecturers required for all students. Blockkurs im 4. Semesterviertel (beschränkt auf max. 15 Teilnehmende)
  • Tue 12:45-16:30 (HPT B 72)
  • Wed 07:45-16:30 (HPT B 72)
  • Thu 07:45-16:30 (HPT B 72)
  • Fri 07:45-16:30 (HPT B 72)
100 h semesterly

Offered In