NBIA04066U Molecular Neurobiology

Volume 2013/2014
Education
MSc Programme in Biology
Content

The course describes the molecular basis of our nervous system. Basic knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology is needed to be able to follow this class. The course starts with an introduction of basal neurobiology. We then discuss the protein structures and physiological actions of the Na+, K+, Ca2+ and Cl- channels. Subsequently, we discuss the biochemical aspects of synaptic transmission: exocytosis/endocytosis, the various neurotransmitters, their biosynthesis and break-down, neurotransmitter transporters and neurotransmitter receptors, and the different second messenger systems. Neuropharmacology: How do neuroleptica, anxiolytica, sedativa, mood lifters, viagra, and the various euphoric drugs act? Furthermore, topics like neuroendocrinology, smell, taste, and vision and, finally, consciousness (who am I?) are discussed.

 

Learning Outcome

After the course the student will be able to understand and apply the following:

Knowledge

  • The most important proteins that steer action potentials
  • The way neurotransmitters and their receptors act
  • How neurotransmitter transporters act
  • How second messenger and proteins that are involved in their signaling cascades act
  • How the most important neuroactive drugs act
  • The molecular basis of smell, taste, and vision
  • How the various neuroendocrine systems act


Abilities

After this course you will be able to read scientific literature about the nervous system in journals like Nature (“News and Views”) and Science (“Perspectives”). 

Competences

By participating in this class, the student will gain up-to-date knowledge about molecular neurobiology. This knowledge can be applied on many occasions, for example if you want to study psychology, or want to start a research project on animal behavior, or if you are just interested in the way your own brain and body function.

 

Lectures
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Exam
  • 0,5
  • Lectures
  • 42
  • Preparation
  • 163,5
  • Total
  • 206,0
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Oral examination, 20 minutes
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Exam registration requirements
Attendance at minimum 80% of the lectures is mandatory
Marking scale
passed/not passed
Censorship form
No external censorship
Criteria for exam assesment

For passing the examination, the student should be able to:

  • describe the most important proteins that steer action potentials
  • describe all neurotransmitters (including their biosynthesis and degradation), their receptors, and actions
  • describe neurotransmitter transporters
  • describe second messengers and the proteins that are involved in their signaling cascades
  • explain the way neuroactive drug act
  • describe the molecular basis of smell, taste and vision
  • explain how the various neuroendocrine systems act