Teaching a biology laboratory course using Dictyostelium

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Biotechnology Education

Background:

• Undergraduate cell biology laboratories require adaptable and safe model systems.
• Dictyostelium discoideum presents unique advantages for educational settings.
• Existing teaching protocols may benefit from streamlined implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the utility of Dictyostelium discoideum as a model organism for undergraduate teaching.
• To present diverse laboratory course examples utilizing Dictyostelium across different educational environments.
• To provide practical guidance for instructors, both new and experienced, in using Dictyostelium.

Main Methods:

• Reviewing the biological safety and growth characteristics of Dictyostelium.
• Describing laboratory course structures and objectives in three distinct educational contexts.
• Compiling and referencing extensive protocols and tools for Dictyostelium research.

Main Results:

• Dictyostelium discoideum is biologically safe and grows at room temperature.
• Experimental induction, observation, and perturbation of cellular processes are readily achievable.
• The model system is amenable to a wide range of teaching laboratory situations and goals.

Conclusions:

• Dictyostelium discoideum is a highly suitable and effective model for undergraduate cell biology education.
• The provided resources and guidance facilitate straightforward implementation of Dictyostelium-based labs.
• Instructors can readily adapt these protocols to meet specific teaching needs and achieve learning objectives.