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Description
This module provides an introduction to the generation, transmission and integration of signals within the nervous system and will provide essential background for advanced modules like PHOL0009 Cellular Basis of Brain Function, and for literature-based and experimental projects based on cellular neurophysiology topics and methods.
The first third of the module introduces the more biophysical aspects of neuroscience. The middle group of lectures concerns neurotransmission and neurotransmitter systems. At the end of these students should know about the major classes of neurotransmitter molecules and their actions at synapses. The last third of the module consists of lectures on different topics of current interest in cellular neuroscience, such as for example optogenetics.
Indicative lecture topics:
Introduction to electricity
Techniques for studying ion channels and membrane currents
Structure and molecular biology of ion channels
Bioelectricity I: Diffusion, equilibrium and membrane potential
Bioelectricity II: Electrical signals and passive membrane properties
The action potential
Active transport in the nervous system
How neurones communicate: Gap junctions
Glial cells and homeostasis of the extracellular space
Neuronal calcium signaling
Synaptic transmission I - Presynaptic Mechanisms & II - Quantal release, Diffusion & Removal
Synaptic transmission III - Postsynaptic mechanisms
Modulation of Synaptic Transmission
Synaptic plasticity (2 lectures)
Optogenetics (2 lectures)
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 8th April 2024.
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