Catalog description: Principles of neural development and plasticity and homeostasis of the mature nervous system.
Pre-requisites: GMS 6007 or consent of instructor.
Course description: The objective of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the principles underlying the development and maintenance of the central nervous system. This course is a 5-week advanced module, and represents the first course of a three-course sequence. This three-course sequence is required for all IDP Neuroscience students and covers the principles of neuroscience that are common to all sub-specialties of this broad discipline.
Topics covered in this course
THE ORGANIZATION OF THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Basic Anatomy of the Central Nervous System
Cells of the Central Nervous System
DEVELOPMENT OF THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Induction and Pattern Formation of the Nervous System
Neurogenesis and Cell Migration
Cellular Determination and Differentiation
Axon Growth, Guidance and Target Selection
DEVELOPMENTAL HOMEOSTASIS
Activity and Experience Influence Nervous System Organization
Glial/Neuronal Interactions
Neuron Survival
and Death
Evaluation of student performance: Each student's final grade in the course will be determined by the following criteria: Attendance and participation, 25%; Discussion presentations and participation, 25%; Mini-grant proposal, 50%.
Course Director: Dr. Marieta Heaton will be the director of this course. She will be assisted by members of the Graduate Faculty of the College of Medicine in the presentation of material for this course.
Course Textbook: Although not required, it is highly recommeded by the Neuroscience faculty that students consider purchasing Principles of Neural Science by Eric R. Kandel et al. The most recent edition of this book (5th edition) is scheduled to be released June 30, 2006.This textbook provides an important reference book for graduate students in Neuroscience and will be used in all three Principles of Neuroscience course modules. A copy of the fourth edition (published in 2000) of this textbook will be placed on reserve for student use. Additional readings will be assigned from the primary research literature.