Neurophysiology

A.Y. 2018/2019
6
Max ECTS
48
Overall hours
SSD
BIO/09
Language
Italian
Learning objectives
The course will cover the most modern and advanced aspects of the physiology of the neural system. Particular focus will be placed both on the functional principles in relation to the homeostatic processes of the entire organism, and on the specific molecular and cellular events responsible for the electrical aspects of the impulse conduction and integration.
Expected learning outcomes
Undefined
Single course

This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Responsible
Course syllabus
GOALS
The course will cover the most modern and advanced aspects of the physiology of the neural system. Particular focus will be placed both on the functional principles in relation to the homeostatic processes of the entire organism, and on the specific molecular and cellular events responsible for the electrical aspects of the impulse conduction and integration.

PROGRAM
Principles of the development of the Central Nervous System: molecular mechanisms governing the processes of neural induction and differentiation, experiment of Mangold and Spemann.
The motor system: anatomical and functional organization of the neural circuits, feedback and feedforward control, reflexes, and locomotion. The cerebellum and its anatomical and functional organization, cellular types and their connections. The basal ganglia, and their anatomical and functional organization, cellular organization and connections.
Molecular and cellular aspects of the neuron and of glial cells,
Voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels, analysis of electrical aspects of neurons, RC circuit, electrotonic properties, time- and space-constants, temporal summation and spatial summation. The structure and function of synapses and synaptic plasticity (LTP, LTD).
Molecular aspects of learning and memory: analysis of different types of memory, experiments in animal models (Aplysia). Genes and circadian rhythms

REFERENCE MATERIAL
Kandel, Schwartz, Jessel, Siegelbaum, Hudspeth, Principles of Neural Science, Mc Graw Hill implemented by articles and reviews.

PREREQUISITES AND EXAMINATION PROCEDURES
Basic concepts of human (or comparative) anatomy and general physiology are required. The final exam will consist of written test which normally includes: a set of multiple-choice questions and essay questions. The oral examination will take place when the written test is not recognized as sufficient to determine the level of knowledge reached by the student. Students that attend the course will have the opportunity to take dedicated multiple-choice tests in the middle and at the end of the course.

TEACHING METHODS
Traditional lectures supported by interactive material (powerpoint presentations).
Attendance is required.

LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION
Italian

RECOMMENDED PREREQUISITES
To have successfully completed the following courses: "Principles of Physiology" and "Human Anatomy and Neuroanatomy"

PROGRAM INFORMATION
Additional information is available upon request
BIO/09 - PHYSIOLOGY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours
Professor: Baruscotti Mirko
Professor(s)
Reception:
Wednesday from 11:00AM to 12:00AM by appointment
Via Celoria 26 - VI° Piano Torre A Edifici Biologici