BI3BI8-Neurobiology

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Nandini Vasudevan
Email: n.vasudevan@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The aim of this course is to develop a comprehensive picture of the nervous system. This will be achieved by delivering a broad ranging course on neurobiology that covers molecular, cellular, systematic aspects of neurobiology.

Aims:
The aim of this course is to develop a comprehensive picture of the nervous system. This will be achieved by delivering a broad ranging course on neurobiology that covers molecular, cellular, systematic aspects of neurobiology.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of this course students should be able to:

1. Discuss key features of the cellular components of both the central and peripheral nervous system.


2. Discuss the structureÌýof the central and peripheral nervous system


3. Understand the basic cellular and molecular processes underlying neuronal connectivity.


4. Describe how selected sensory systems operate at the cellular and molecular level, in the context of disease.


5. Describe key features of central nervous system damage and the potential of repair mechanism.


6. Describe key features of neurodegenerative diseases and the effects of hormones on neurobiology.


7. Describe how neural stem cells can be used as mediators of brain damage repair.

Additional outcomes:
Students will enhance their teamwork, communication time management skills, through practical work. There will also be an emphasis on reading primary literature to help develop research skills.

Outline content:

The course is composed of four major themes:

• Anatomical and functional description of the nervous system


• Communication and specialization in the nervous system, at a cellular and organ level.


• A systems based description of how selected sensory systems operate in the context of disease.


• Neuropathology and development of strategies to repair cell damage/loss.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The course will consist of approximately 10x2 hour lectures, where core module content will be delivered. One 2 hour practical has been designed so that students can further their understanding of neuro-anatomy during a brain dissection, as well as their understanding of the brain at a cellular level. Comprehensive reading lists will be provided allowing students to study in their own time.