Molecular Neurobiology
Course content
The course describes the molecular basis of our nervous system. Basic knowledge of biochemistry and molecular biology is needed to be able to follow this class. The course starts with an introduction of basal neurobiology. We then discuss the protein structures and physiological actions of the Na+, K+, Ca2+ and Cl- channels. Subsequently, we discuss the biochemical aspects of synaptic transmission: exocytosis/endocytosis, the various neurotransmitters, their biosynthesis and break-down, neurotransmitter transporters and neurotransmitter receptors, and the different second messenger systems. Neuropharmacology: How do neuroleptica, anxiolytica, sedativa, mood lifters, viagra, and the various euphoric drugs act? Furthermore, topics like neuroendocrinology, smell, taste, and vision and, finally, consciousness (who am I?) are discussed.
MSc Programme in Biochemistry
MSc Programme in Biology
After the course the student will be able to understand and apply the following:
Knowledge:
- The most important proteins that steer action potentials
- The way neurotransmitters and their receptors act
- How neurotransmitter transporters act
- How second messenger and proteins that are involved in their signaling cascades act
- How the most important neuroactive drugs act
- The molecular basis of smell, taste, and vision
- How the various neuroendocrine systems act
Skills:
This course will supply the student with up-to-date information of all the modules that build up our nervous system. The course will enable the student to read and understand scientific literature about the brain.
Competences:
By participating in this class, the student will gain up-to-date knowledge about molecular neurobiology. This knowledge can be applied on many occasions, for example if you want to study psychology, or want to start a research project on animal behavior, or if you are just interested in the way your own brain and body function.
Lectures
Academic qualifications equivalent to a BSc degree is recommended.
- ECTS
- 7,5 ECTS
- Type of assessment
-
Oral examination, 20 minutes, without preparation
- Type of assessment details
- ---
- Aid
- Without aids
- Marking scale
- 7-point grading scale
- Censorship form
- No external censorship
Several internal examiners/co-examiners
Criteria for exam assessment
For passing the examination, the student should convincingly and accurately demonstrate the knowledge, skills and competences described under Learning Outcome.
Single subject courses (day)
- Category
- Hours
- Lectures
- 42
- Preparation
- 163,5
- Exam
- 0,5
- English
- 206,0
Kursusinformation
- Language
- English
- Course number
- NBIK14034U
- ECTS
- 7,5 ECTS
- Programme level
- Full Degree Master
- Duration
-
1 block
- Placement
- Block 2
- Schedulegroup
-
C
- Capacity
- 120
The number of seats may be reduced in the late registration period - Studyboard
- Study Board for the Biological Area
Contracting department
- Department of Biology
Contracting faculty
- Faculty of Science
Course Coordinator
- Cornelis (Cok) Grimmelikhuijzen (17-6a6e797074746c7370726f7c7071816c754769707635727c356b72)
Teacher
Cornelis Grimmelikhuijzen, Frank Hauser
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