Aims & Learning Objectives:
To familiarise the student with recent advances in the pharmacology of the central nervous system (CNS), to examine selected topics in greater depth and to practise cognitive skills. Knowledge gained from previous units in pharmacology will be built upon with more advanced and specialised treatment of specific topics. The tutorials are integral to the unit, allowing for open discussion of pertinent current research papers. After taking this unit, the student should demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of action and therapeutic uses of the major groups of centrally-acting drugs, an appreciation of the current understanding of disease processes in the brain, and an ability to interpret relevant research data in a logical and critical manner.
Content:
In-depth treatment of selected topics covering recent advances in CNS pharmacology, such as: chronobiology and chronopharmacology, the rhythmicity of pathological processes and drug responses, jet lag, shift work, seasonal affective disorder. Neuromodulators and neurotransmitters including tachykinins, pancreatic polypeptides, opioids, cholecystokinin, vasopressin and oxytocin, abnormal peptides in Alzheimer's disease.
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