Neuroscience

Code

MGEM2012

School

Medical Sciences and Graduate Entry Medicine

Level

2

Credits

20

Semesters

Autumn UK

Summary

This module aims to further develop students understanding of human neurobiology by building on the neuroscience introduced in the level one prerequisite module. The module provides an overview of the anatomy, physiology, molecular, and cognitive aspects of nervous system function. The pathology of nervous system disease and injury is taught alongside a wide range of practical neurodiagnostic techniques. With the exception of pharmacological treatment (covered in MGEM2016), current and developing therapeutic approaches are considered and students are encouraged to engage with the primary research literature in a field of their choice via a student centred learning exercise; to develop transferable, professional, and scientific skills in a problem based learning environment. To be used to introduce a deeper knowledge and understanding of specific aspects of human pathophysiology and to develop problem-solving and independent research skills.

Target Students

Students on Part I of the BSc in Medical Physiology and Therapeutics

Classes

Delivery will be blended, via a combination of lectures, tutorials and workshop/practical sessions. Online learning and directed components provide an approximate contact hourage of 50 hours. Activities may take place every teaching week of the Semester or only in specified weeks. Approx 150 hours independent study advised.

Assessment

• 50% Coursework 1: 1500 word essay and 10 minute associated presentation
• 50% Exam 1 (2-hour): Multiple Format (MFQ) and Short Answer (SA) end of module exam

Assessed by end of autumn semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Functional neuroanatomy (brain and spinal cord); including meninges, surface anatomy, key aspects of terminology, lobes, cranial nerves, brain vasculature, spinal tracts and autonomic nervous system

CNS histology, brain cytoarchitecture and the role of CSF
 

Reflexes and sensory processing (somatosensory and special senses: vision, olfaction, gustation, hearing, and balance). Consider how damage to the brain or spinal cord may interrupt normal sensory processing.

The role of sleep in brain health
 

CNS pathology and neurodegeneration
 

The neurobiology, diagnosis and non-pharmacological treatment of diseases affecting the CNS (including epilepsy, stroke, parkinsonism, and multiple sclerosis and dementia)

Systems neuroscience (neural circuitry) and cognition.

Mental health: neurobiology and psychosocial perspectives of common types of mental illness (including unipolar depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia)

Nociceptive neuroscience (pain processing, chronic pain, and non-pharmacological approaches to analgesia)

Outline how to perform a neurological examination (including simple reflex testing and selected components of a cranial nerve examination) and describe the principles of cranial nerve testing.
 

Maintain appropriate records for laboratory work and link theory to practice when designing or performing examinations and experiments
 

Independent study skills to support life-long learning and professional development including group working, self-directed learning and effective written and oral communication

Effective communication skills for work in a multidisciplinary environment
 

Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work with, and recognise professional boundaries in multidisciplinary teams
 

Academic writing skills
 

Experience in the statistical analysis of experimental data
 

The ability to search for relevant information from the scientific literature for independent, enquiry based learning
 

Measure conduction velocity in the given nerve (e.g. ulnar nerve) and describe the principles of somatic sensation

Motor processing: including key brain motor structures e.g. basal ganglia, cerebellum and motor cortex. Consider how damage to the brain or spinal cord may interrupt normal motor processing.

Conveners