SMOA09007U Cellular Neuroscience

Volume 2013/2014
Education
BSc Programme in Molecular Biomedicine
Content
The goal of the course is to give the students an overview of methods used to study functions of the central nervous system. We provide an insight in signaling mechanisms in neurons and networks of neurons by describing how the molecular mechanisms of electrical and chemical signalling are adapted to serve synaptic transmission, synaptic integration and nerve impulse generation. The Course illustrates how experiments led to textbook knowledge and provide insight in experimental procedures, techniques and preparations.
The course includes theoretical and practical elements. The theory focuses on cellular and molecular properties of neurons and their implications in physiological functions.
In addition to basic subjects, the course highlights a) The role of the non-linear postsynaptic properties provided by voltage sensitive ion channels in dendrites.
b) Modulation of these properties by G-protein coupled receptors.
c) Functional specialization of cell types in particular brain regions and
d) Signaling networks in particular brain regions.
The Practical part includes demonstrations of preparations of nerve tissues in vitro, recording electrical activity from neurons with patch clamp techniques in slices preparations. Each student gets the opportunity to record from living neurons and to characterize some of the transmembrane currents responsible for firing properties by means of electrophysiological and pharmacological tools.
Learning Outcome

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Open to students in Molecular Biomedicine, Biochemistry, Nanotechnology, Pharmacy, the physical sciences with specialization in Biophysics, Veterinary school, Biology and Foreign European Universities that have passed relevant first and second year courses.
Classroom teaching, group discussions and laboratory exercises
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Class Instruction
  • 12
  • Exam
  • 0,5
  • Lectures
  • 14
  • Practical exercises
  • 12
  • Preparation
  • 167,5
  • Total
  • 206,0
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Oral examination
An oral presentation of one article on a self chosen subject within the course combined with a discussion, with participation of an internal or external examiner.
Exam registration requirements
The practical laboratory course must be approved to participate in the examination.
Aid
All aids allowed
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
More than one internal examiner
Exam period
Week 45, 2014
Criteria for exam assesment

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