Early Electron-Microscopy laboratory attendance as an efficacious way of introducing medical students to scientific research

form a part of a substantially longitudinal approach to its integrated curriculum in "medical and scientific methodology"; this, in the light of the importance "evidence-based medicine" has assumed in recent years (1). In order provide (on an elective basis) first-year medical-degree students with early exposure to the reality of work in an ultra-structural research laboratory, we decided to offer them the chance of attending the "Pietro M. Motta" Electron Microscopy laboratory, in small groups. This elective activity was held between March and the end of June 2013; of the 120 students who applied, only those who passed their anatomy oral at the first 2013 exam session were admitted, for a total of 48. The students were divided into 12 groups (4 students per group) and attended the laboratory from Monday to Friday. At the end of this period, all the students involved answered an anonymous questionnaire aimed at assessing the educational usefulness of the experience; 5 students asked to extend the period of the laboratory experience and, as a result, were admitted to active research projects. The small group of students was guided and supported by a qualified researcher, a post-graduate student, a graduate student and a technical-staff unit. On the first day, the group visited the laboratory where the technicalities of the equipment were illustrated, a lecture on the methods used to prepare the biological samples for Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy held, and a procedure for the preparation of samples for Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy begun. On the second and third days, the preparation of the samples was completed and a guided discussion, led by the researcher, was held on issues relating to scientific articles concerning the samples being used in the experiments conducted in the laboratory (2,3). On the fourth and fifth days some semi-thin and ultra-thin samples were cut and observed using an optical and an electronic transmission microscope. The samples prepared for the scanning electron microscope were dehydrated, coated and observed through that microscope. At the end of the week, each student had not only observed, but also taken hands-on part in various stages of the preparation and analysis of the samples. The discussion with the researcher and the post-graduate doctors/students provided key concepts regarding scientific widely shared by the students, upon which to base and practice an ultra-structural type of biomedical research project. The students’ early exposure to the work and methodology characteristic of ultra-structural research may prove useful, not only when promoting in-depth understanding of microscopic anatomy, but also as a motivational core into which instill a correct approach to scientific research in future doctors.