Set of Diploma Courses I: Biology and Biochemistry of the Visual System Field of study: Physics
Programme code: W4-S2FZ19.2025

The module focuses on education in the field of biology and biochemistry of the visual system, covering issues related to the functioning of the eye, processes occurring in the visual system and biochemical and neurobiological mechanisms related to vision. Participants of the module gain knowledge about the structure of the eye, physiology of the visual system, biochemical processes related to vision and processing of visual stimuli by the nervous system. Laboratory classes enable practical application of this knowledge, including experiments related to the assessment of the influence of various factors on the cells of the visual system and analysis of histological preparations. Training content: 1. Eye anatomy – the structure of the eye, including the cornea, lens, retina, choroid, vitreous body, and optic nerve. 2. Physiology of the visual system – processes occurring in the eye, such as light refraction, colour perception, accommodation, and the mechanisms of transmitting light stimuli to the brain. 3. Biochemistry of the visual system – chemicals and enzymes involved in the vision process, such as rhodopsin in photoreceptor cells, and the role of vitamins (e.g. vitamin A). 4. Neurobiological mechanisms – how the visual impulse is processed by the nervous system, from photoreceptors in the retina to analysis in the visual cortex of the brain. 5. Vision diseases and disorders – including retinal degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and cancers related to the visual system. The module is in the form of lectures and laboratory exercises. During the lecture, students will become familiar with theoretical aspects of the biology and biochemistry of the visual system. Laboratory classes allow for gaining practical skills in the analysis of the influence of various factors on the visual system, including: 1. Evaluation of the effect of axorbitan on oxidative stress and cell viability. 2. Analysis of UV radiation-induced DNA damage. 3. Assessment of cell response to proinflammatory factors – gene expression analysis. 4. Evaluation of histological preparations of the eye. After performing the experiment, the student presents a report, which is assessed and includes a theoretical introduction to the problem, methodology, description of the study, analysis of results and their interpretation. To obtain a positive assessment, the student must present a well-developed report, demonstrating the correctness of the experiment and the ability to analyze the results and draw conclusions. The module ends with a graded assessment based on a test or assignment.