Neurons and Glia
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| LIFE2070 | Life Sciences | 2 | 20 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- LIFE2070
- School
- Life Sciences
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
There are a limited number of places on this module. Students are reminded that enrolments which are not agreed by the Offering School in advance may be cancelled without notice. To provide students with an understanding of the mechanisms behind electrical conduction in neurones. The role of the membrane potential in establishing a voltage gradient against which action/synaptic potentials provide the primary means of signaling within the nervous system will be described in detail. The role of ion channels in providing the means by which trans-membrane currents can be generated and the role of myelin in accelerating conduction will be described. The role of astrocytes in maintain the appropriate environment for optimal neuronal function will be described, as well as the role of glial cells in metabolism, higher cognitive functions, and the disruption of ion homeostasis that characterize a variety of pathological conditions. The use of appropriate computer software will enable the development of computational skills as well as the application of theory knowledge.
Target Students
Compulsory for students taking degrees in Neuroscience. Optional for students taking other degrees in Life Sciences. This module will involve the use of computational programmes e.g. MATLAB which should be considered by those choosing this module as an optional module.
Classes
This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc
Assessment
- 60% Viva voce: 1x 10 minute viva per student in January.
- 40% Exam 1 (2-hour): ExamSys exam.
Assessed by end of designated period
Educational Aims
To provide students with an understanding of the mechanisms behind electrical conduction in neurones. The role of the membrane potential in establishing a voltage gradient against which action/synaptic potentials provide the primary means of signaling within the nervous system will be described in detail. The role of ion channels in providing the means by which trans-membrane currents can be generated and the role of myelin in accelerating conduction will be described. The role of astrocytes in maintaining the appropriate environment for optimal neuronal function will be described, as well as the role of glial cells in metabolismand the disruption of ion homeostasis that characterize a variety of pathological conditions. The use of appropriate computer software will enable the development of computational skills as well as the application of theory knowledge.Learning Outcomes
- To appreciate and understand the basics of electrical communication in the nervous system from the single protein to the network level.
- To develop computational skills within the boundaries of understanding electrical communication in the nervous system.