This course aims at developing knowledge and understanding in several key areas of Neurophysiology: a) Advanced comprehension of biological processes and interpretation of experimental data with reference to neurophysiology. b) Profound understanding of the methods and experimental techniques employed within the field of neurophysiology. c) Ethical awareness on animal research in the area of neurophysiology. Furthermore, the course aims to cultivate the ability to apply this knowledge and understanding effectively by advancing students’ ability to: a) Critically evaluate applications in experimental settings in the area of neurophysiology. b) Critical thinking, analytical, and synthetic reasoning skills in the area of neurophysiology.
Prerequisiti
The course prerequisites include a basic knowledge of cellular biology and physiology, and the gross anatomy of the central nervous system. Prospective students should be familiar with the fundamental concepts in these fields to effectively benefit from the course and learning materials.
Metodi didattici
The course will be made up of lectures, integrated with seminars, and group discussions on scientific journal papers.
Verifica Apprendimento
The exam will be a written examination with 3/4 open-ended questions. The total grade will be between 0-30. The exam duration is 60 minutes. The exam will cover the material and topics explained and discussed during the lectures. The students' grades will be determined by the accuracy and clarity of their answers, as well as their ability to explain and critically apply the concepts taught throughout the course.
Testi
Reference textbook: Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain Bear, Connors, Paradiso Fourth ed Wolters Kluwer
Supplementary materials will be provided during the course, including the slides used during the lessons and the links to websites and videos used during teaching.
Advices of optional further readings (e.g., papers and books) will be provided during the lessons.
Contenuti
A general outline of the course is:
- Introduction and history of neuroscience - Cellular neurophysiology (including glia, neurons, membrane potentials, ion fluxes, membrane excitability, action potentials, synaptic transmission, neurotransmitter, neuromodulators) - Anatomy of the nervous system - Sensory and motor systems - Autonomous systems - Neuromodulatory systems - Motivation - Emotion - Brain rhythms (including sleep and wakefulness) - Consciousness - Mental illness - Learning and memory