HUBS3403Neuroscience

Course handbook

Description

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with a broad understanding of neuroscience. In covering cellular, behavioural, and pathological aspects of neuroscience, the student is introduced to some of the most challenging issues in the field today, along with the most advanced research tools used to probe these issues. Students will gain knowledge of neuroanatomy, molecular and physiological features of the nervous system through exposure to one or more of lectures, tutorials/workshops/discussions and laboratory classes. The course is divided into 4 major blocks: 1. Basic Organisation and Function of the Nervous System 2. The Sensorimotor Systems 3. Neurobiology of Aging and Neurodegeneration 4. Neurobiology of Mental Health Disorders Particular emphasis will be placed on neuronal function, plasticity and degeneration, on important neurotransmitter systems, on the organisation of the central nervous system and methods to study the nervous system. Students will be introduced to some of the most relevant, unanswered questions and the latest research evidence in neuroscience. Students will be expected to apply the basic knowledge developed above to understand processes involved in major diseases and disorders of the central and peripheral nervous systems and to begin to think and critically analyse recent research in neuroscience.

Availability2024 Course Timetables

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Recall & understand the basic anatomical (gross and cellular) organisation of the brain, spinal cord, and how these developed (neurodevelopment) and evolved (neuro-evolution).

2. Recall & understand the anatomical, biochemical and physiological features of neural transmission. Understand the principles of plasticity and appreciate the importance of plasticity to cognition and behaviour.

3. Apply the knowledge developed in learning outcomes 1 and 2 to understand processes involved in major nervous system functions, pathologies, and disorders.

4. Understand and critically analyse recent research in normal nervous system function, related pathologies, and disorders. This includes, for example, the potential for drugs (cannabinoids), prostheses (retinal implants and vagal nerve stimulation.

Content

1. Neuroanatomy and Neurodevelopment: a basic review of brain and spinal cord anatomy and development. Cellular make up and organisation of the nervous system.

2. Neurotransmission: neurotransmitter synthesis and release. Post-synaptic receptors and signal transduction. Synaptic plasticity.

3. The sensorimotor system: Sematosensation - touch, proprioception and pain. Special Senses - inner ear and the auditory and vestibular systems.The somatic motor system.

4. Neurobiology of aging-related disorders, Alzheimer's dementia and stroke. Overview of techniques used to study nervous system structure and function.

5. Neurobiology of mental health disorders: sleep and sleep disturbances, stress/anxiety/depression, schizophrenia, decision making, reward disorders, experience-driven plastic changes in brain.

Assumed knowledge

Successful completion of Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Newcastle) Year 1 or equivalent

Assessment items

In Term Test: In Semester Test 1
Compulsory Requirement: Submit assessment item - Must submit this assessment to pass the course.

In Term Test: In Semester Test 2
Compulsory Requirement: Submit assessment item - Must submit this assessment to pass the course.

In Term Test: In Semester Test 3
Compulsory Requirement: Submit assessment item - Must submit this assessment to pass the course.

In Term Test: In Semester Test 4
Compulsory Requirement: Submit assessment item - Must submit this assessment to pass the course.

Contact hours

Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan

Course outline

Course outline not yet available.