ILAS Seminar-E2 :Physiological Neuroscience
| Numbering Code | U-LAS70 10002 SE50 | Year/Term | 2022 ・ First semester | |
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| Number of Credits | 2 | Course Type | seminar | |
| Target Year | Mainly 1st year students | Target Student | For all majors | |
| Language | English | Day/Period | Wed.5 | |
| Instructor name | RAUDZUS，Fabian (Graduate School of Medicine Assistant Professor) | |||
| Outline and Purpose of the Course | How does our brain work? How is it possible to think, to see, to hear, and to move? The seminar “Physiological Neuroscience” introduces the principles and functions of our major control center. In the first few seminars, the fundamental structure of the brain as well as the basic properties of neurons will be examined. Based on this, we will have a closer look at neurons, especially their membrane proteins, such as ion channels and receptors. Subsequently, we will examine how the membrane is crucial for establishing ion gradients and how these gradients can be turned into an electrical signal. After understanding these important mechanisms, we will consider how the propagation of these signals leads to neuronal communication. Seminars in the later part of the course will focus on how the brain develops, and how neurons establish the proper "wiring". In the last three seminars, we will examine the functions of more complex structures and specialized neurons that enable us to see, to hear, and to sense, for example pain. In every seminar, you will learn about the basic properties and functions of the brain, and work on disturbances mediated by various diseases, medications, narcotics, or toxins, and thereby deepen your understanding of the brain and acquire the necessary tools to comprehend related issues. | |||
| Course Goals | After the successful completion of the seminar, you will have acquired the knowledge to understand the structure and functions of neurons, as well as their interactions, such as the transduction of signals. In addition, a consideration of related medical and biological issues will strengthen your understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms in neuroscience. Finally, you will acquire the necessary skills to understand and discuss novel issues in neuroscience. | |||
| Schedule and Contents |
1. Introduction to neuroscience 2. What is a neuron? 3. The important role of ion channels 4. How can a neuron sense an external signal? Receptors 5. A matter of concentration: ion gradients and the membrane potential 6. Time for action: the action potential 7. Worksharing within the neuron: neuronal polarity and subcellular specialization 8. Neuronal chatter: how do neurons communicate? 9. How is the message delivered from one neuron to the other? Neurotransmitter 10. The development of the brain: neurogenesis 11. How to connect the wires? Axon guidance and neuronal regeneration 12. From the eye to the brain: the visual system 13. Can you hear me? The auditory system 14. "Doctor, Doctor, it hurts!" How we sense pain 15. Exam 16. Feedback |
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| Evaluation Methods and Policy |
Class/video meeting attendance and active participation: 20% Quizzes and assignments: 40% Final presentation: 40% |
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| Course Requirements | The course is open to all students but a basic understanding in biology is recommended. | |||
| Study outside of Class (preparation and review) |
Preparation and review is strongly recommended for every seminar. Attending the seminar "Disorders of the Nervous System" is recommended to get further insights into neuroscience. |
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| Textbooks | Textbooks/References |
Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain, Mark F. Bear, Barry W. Connors, Michael A. Paradiso, (Jones & Bartlett Learning), ISBN:9781284211283, Enhanced 4th Edition (English Edition)
purchasing is not mandatory but is very helpful for the preparation and revision of the classes |
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| References, etc. | Additional literature and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) will be introduced during the seminars. | |||
