NBIK14034U Molecular Neurobiology

Volume 2025/2026
Education

MSc Programme in Biochemistry

MSc Programme in Biology

Content

The course focuses on the molecular foundation of our nervous system. Beginning with an introduction to fundamental beurobiology, progresses to explore the protein structures and physiology actions of voltage-gated Na+, K+, Ca2+ channels.

We then examine the molecular mechanisms of synaptic transmission, including various neurotransmitters, their biosynthesis, release, stability and interaction with ligand-gated and G Protein-Couples receptors, the second messenger system and neurotransmitter transporters. We learn about different CNS disorders such as depression, Schizophrenia and Parkins's disease, along with the mechanisms of action of treatments like antidepressivants, neuroleptics, anxiolytics, sedatives, moodstabilizers, Viagra and other euphoriants. 

The course also covers topics such as neuroendocrinology, sensory systems(smell, taste, vision), pain perception and memory. Futhermore, the course offers insight into working at a pharmaceutical company (Lundbeck A/S), and may feature guest lectures from industry experts. 

Learning Outcome

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

Knowledge:

  • The most important proteins that steer nerve call membrane potential
  • The way neurotransmitters act on their ionotropic and/or metabotropic receptors
  • Structure, function and regulation of neurotransmitter transporters
  • How second messenger and proteins that are involved in their signaling cascades act
  • How CNS diseases are treated and how the most important neuroactive drugs act
  • The molecular basis of smell, taste, vision, pain and touch perception 
  • How the various neuroendocrine systems act
  • The neurobiological basis for learning and memory 


Skills:

This course will supply the student with up-to-date information of all the modules that build up our nervous system. The course will enable the student to read and understand scientific literature about the brain.

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.

All BSc and MSc students, provided that the candidate has passed a course comparable to the content of the book "Essential Cell Biology" (Bruce Alberts et al.) or passed a course in cell biology or physiology.
Lectures and tutorials
Attending all lectures and tutorials is strongly recommended
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Lectures
  • 35
  • Preparation
  • 163,5
  • Exercises
  • 7
  • Exam
  • 0,5
  • Total
  • 206,0
Oral
Continuous feedback during the course of the semester
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Oral examination, 20 minutes (no preparation time)
Exam registration requirements



 

Aid
No aids allowed
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
No external censorship
Several internal examiners
Re-exam

Same as the ordinary exam.

 

Criteria for exam assesment

For passing the examination, the student should demonstrate convincingly and accurately the knowledge, skills and competences described under Learning Outcome.