Neural Science (NEURL-UA)

Introductory lecture course covering the fundamental principles of neuroscience. Topics include principles of brain organization, structure and ultrastrucIntroductory lecture course covering the fundamental principles of neuroscience. Topics include principles of brain organization, structure and ultrastructure of neurons, neurophysiology and biophysics of excitable cells, synaptic transmission, neurotransmitter systems and neurochemistry, neuropharmacology, neuroendocrine relations, molecular biology of neurons, development and plasticity of the brain, aging and diseases of the nervous system, organization of sensory and motor systems, structure and function of the cerebral cortex, and modeling of neural systems.

A lecture course that provides students with broad exposure to current questions and experimental approaches in cellular neuroscience. Lectures are organized into three areas: cell structure and organization of the vertebrate central nervous system, mechanisms underlying neural signaling and plasticity, and control of cell form and its developmental determinants.

A laboratory course that provides students with broad exposure to experimental approaches in cellular neuroscience. Laboratories are organized into two areas: cell structure and organization of the vertebrate central nervous system, and mechanisms underlying neural signaling and plasticity. Laboratory instruction is given in anatomical, physiological, and biochemical methods for investigating the biology of nerve cells.

Lecture and laboratory course that focuses on how the brain uses both sensory and stored information to generate behavior. Lectures and laboratories cover four main areas: sensory process, learning and memory, motivational and attentional mechanisms, and the motor system. Laboratories employ a range of electrophysiological techniques, lesions and pharmacological manipulations, and various behavioral techniques to examine the integrative processes by which the brain governs behavior. Note: Neural science majors on the Honors track must register for both the lecture and the laboratory (6 points), but the two need not be taken synchronously; nonmajors and non-Honors track NS majors may register for the lab, but a grade of B or better in V80.0100 and permission of the instructor are required for entrance.

A laboratory course that address the physiological and anatomical bases of behavior. Laboratory experiments will emphasize mammalian sensory, motor, regulatory, and motivational mechanisms involved in the control of behavior, and higher mental processes such as those involved in language and memory.

Intended for honors-track seniors currently conducting research towards their honors thesis. Covers both practical and theoretical aspects of succeeding in science with topics such as scientific writing, authorship and publication practices, navigating mentorship relationships, and oral presentation skills. Structured as a weekly seminar class with active participation, including student presentation of journal articles and varying length presentations of students' own research projects.

Seminar providing in-depth treatment of an area of current interest in neuroscience. Lectures present background material and address current problems in the area. Students read and discuss review articles and current literature on the topic. Course content is determined on a semester-by-semester basis.

The development of the nervous system is a unique field of study because it requires us to synthesize information from most areas of biology. These include everything from genetics through animal behavior. The course begins by considering the maturation of behavioral milestones that we seek to explain at the level of neural mechanism. The nervous system emerges from a stem cell population which ultimately creates an enormous diversity of neuron and glial cell types. In mammals, approximately 1011 neurons come to be precisely connected to one another as growing neuronal process are guided to their correct targets by a series of molecular cues. Even after these specific connections are attained, there occurs a dramatic change in their function and connectivity. During this period of developmental plasticity, the nervous system is influenced by environmental experiences, and this process can shape adult behavioral abilities. Finally, we will consider how normal developmental mechanisms can be disrupted, leading to severe neurological disorders that last a lifetime.

This course combines lectures, discussions, and experimental work. Topics vary, but may include neurogenetics and computational neuroscience. Projects vary but may include designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and writing and presenting results.

Independent study with a Center for Neural Science faculty member. Open to advanced neural science majors with permission of the director of undergraduate studies.

Independent study with a Center for Neural Science faculty member. Open to advanced neural science majors with permission of the director of undergraduate studies.