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Programme & Unit Catalogues

Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Unit Catalogue 2007/08


BB30044 Molecular & medical neuroscience

Credits: 6
Level: Honours
Semester: 1
Assessment: EX 80%, PR 20%
Requisites:
Before taking this unit you must take BB10003 and take BB20028 or take BB20099

Aims & Learning Objectives:
Aims: An advanced review of the molecular and cellular processes underlying intercellular communication in the nervous system to provide an understanding of the neurochemical basis of brain disorders, their causes and treatments. After taking this course the student should be able to:
* understand the properties of the various classes of receptors and ion channels present in the CNS, and how these molecules interact to co-ordinate neuronal activity.
* describe a number of brains disorders in terms of their neurochemistry.
* comprehend the gross regional anatomy of the human brain
* read and comprehend the relevant scientific literature
Content:
Lectures: Receptors and ion channels- the existence of families and super-families. The structure of these various families of polypeptide. The functional consequences of this diversity and how it might be regulated at the gene and protein levels. Synthesis, release and uptake of neurotransmitters. Methods of studying human brain dysfunction. The altered neurochemistry of selected neurodegenerative and psychiatric diseases will be reviewed, with respect to neurochemical aspects of their causes, symptons, diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Video presentations will illustrate some of the clinical conditions.