Cellular and Systems Neuroscience

The course will introduce the student to key cellular, molecular, neural network, and systems level mechanisms relevant to central nervous system organization, structure, and function. These include fundamental biology of the neuron, synaptic transmission, axonal transport, axon growth and guidance, and basic brain microcircuit organization. Furthermore, the course will cover fundamental principles of neuroplasticity as well as key cellular and network dynamics determining nervous system function, but also responses to injury and neurodegenerative disease.

Learning outcomes

After completing the NEVR3001 course and passing the exam the student should be able to:

Knowledge

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the cell biology of the neuron, neuron-glia interactions, cellular neurophysiology, and signal integration across neuronal assemblies.
• Demonstrate a fundamental understanding of structural and functional connectivity, and key neuroplasticity mechanisms underlying nervous system organization and function.

Skills

• Understand scientific literature on cellular and systems neuroscience.
• Discuss fundamental concepts in cellular and systems neuroscience drawing upon lecture contents and relevant course literature.
• Demonstrate a good understanding of how molecular genetic and electrophysiology tools can be applied in the study of neural systems.

General competence

• Apply critical thinking and draw upon key concepts from the course to communicate a general understanding of how neural networks organize, acquire and maintain normal function, and also how they respond to injury or disease.

Lectures, team-based learning (TBL), and participation in group-based discussions

The course is taught in the autumn semester with a final examination in December. The language of teaching and examination is English.

This course has restricted admission. Students admitted to the MSc in Neuroscience programme are guaranteed a place. Other students must apply for a place by the given deadlines.