536-302 Molecular Neurophysiology

This subject is recommended for both BSc and BBiomedSc students specialising in neuroscience, molecular and cell biology, integrated systems biology or reproductive and developmental biology.

Formerly known as 536-302 Molecular Physiology of Neurons and Muscle and 536-302 Mammalian Cellular Physiology

Physiology 536-201 and 536-211.

BBiomedSc students: 521-213 and 536-250.

Either biochemistry 521-211, 521-212, and 521-221, or cell biology 606-205 and 606-206 are recommended. The Head of Department will consider other students on application.

This subject is based on the discipline of molecular neuroscience, but it also encompasses the physiology involved in interactions between neurons. Molecular neuroscience examines the molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie the functioning of the nervous system. Neurons and glial cells are unique and highly specialised cells that use sophisticated molecular mechanisms to interact in a network manner. The main objective of the course is that students master a core program of molecular neuroscience and neurophysiology. Specifically, students will be expected to demonstrate a high degree of knowledge and understanding of the following core topics: the cellularbiology of neurons and glial cells, synaptic structure and function at the molecular level, the diverse mechanisms of signalling between cells in the nervous system, channel activity of neurons and muscle cells at the neuro-muscular junction, long-term potentiation and its role in memory, axonal transport, neuronal plasticity, and neurodegeneration and regeneration. Additionally, the role of neurons in networks will be considered. Some of the lectures will be given by research scientists from the fields of neural control and circuitry. Another objective of the course, in parallel with mastery of the key concepts, is to equip students with the knowledge and ability to assess scientific reports insightfully and critically. These skills are required to keep abreast of new developments, as reported in the lay press and in the scientific literature. The scope and growth of molecular neuroscience is such that this is something that will be important for all, not only those who choose to do research in the field. On completion of the course, students should also have developed competencies of the transfer of skills to unfamiliar problems. and in strengthening their understanding via oral and written communication. Students will gain experience in analysing, evaluating and discussing key topics in neuroscience through the workshops.

A 2-hour end-of-semester examination (60%); workshop attendance and participation (25%); mid-semester examination (15%)