Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Unit Catalogue 2006/07

BB30161 Systems and developmental neurobiology

Credits: 6

Level: Honours

Semester: 2

Assessment: EX80CW20

Requisites:

Before taking this unit you must take BB20028

Aims:
A) Systems: To provide an understanding of some holistic systems in neurobiology, to illustrate the integrated functioning of the nervous system
B) Developmental: To familiarise students with the concepts and vocabulary of developmental neurobiology; To give a conceptual grasp of how a nervous system (specifically in vertebrates) might be formed; To illustrate the advantages and limitations of specific vertebrate model systems for developmental neurobiological studies.
Learning Outcomes:
After taking this course the student should be able to:
* Explain the basic anatomy and connectivity of the adult mammalian central nervous system
* Describe a number of integrated neuronal systems in terms of their physiology, neurochemistry and/or phenotypic behaviour
* Outline and distinguish the major processes of nervous system formation
* Explain current models of the mechanisms of neural plate specification and patterning, neuronal cell type specification, neuronal cell survival and axon guidance
* Utilise studies of neural development in selected vertebrate model systems to model mechanisms in other vertebrates
* Extend their knowledge in these areas by reference to primary research articles.
Skills:
Learning & studying, T/FA, Written communication T/FA, Information handling & retrieval T/FA.
Content:
Human brain structure; lateralisation of brain function; examples of motor, sensory & limbic systems. Formation of the neural plate and neural crest; Specification of cell fate within the CNS - timing and position; Specification of cell fate within the NC; Proliferation of neuronal precursors; Neurotrophins and neuronal survival; Axonal guidance.

University | Catalogues for 2006/07