Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Unit Catalogue 2007/08 |
BB30161 Systems and developmental neurobiology |
| Credits: 6 |
| Level: Honours |
| Semester: 2 |
| Assessment: CW 20%, EX 80% |
| Requisites: |
| Before taking this unit you must take BB20028 |
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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. |