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More Than Just a Cough

Exploring the Role of the Cytoskeleton in Fertility

By Carly N. Jordan

More Than Just a Cough


 

Abstract

This interrupted case study explores the role of cytoskeletal structures on human health, specifically on respiratory function, sperm motility, and female fertility. It follows the story of a couple struggling to conceive a child and the doctors working to help them. Students are presented with clinical histories, narrative elements, documentary-style videos, and microscopic evidence in order to determine the cause of the couple's infertility. Along the way, they learn about the three types of cytoskeletal elements and the roles these play in cellular biology and human physiology. The use of videos makes it suitable for the "flipped classroom," allowing students to prepare outside the classroom for the case study, which they then complete in class. An original video by the author on the structure and function of microtubules, microfilaments, and intermediate filaments is included. The case was developed for an introductory level general biology course and could be delivered during a unit on the cell structure and function. The case could also be used in a cell biology course.

   

Date Posted

08/04/2015

Overview

Objectives

  • Compare and contrast the structure and function of cytoskeletal elements.
  • Describe the structure and function of cilia and flagella.
  • Explain the role that cilia and flagella play in human respiratory and reproductive health.

Keywords

Cytoskeleton; microtubules; microfilaments; intermediate filaments; cilia; reproduction; infertility; fertilization; Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia; PCD

  

Subject Headings

Anatomy
Biology (General)
Cell Biology

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Analysis (Issues), Directed, Flipped, Interrupted

 

 

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