06551 - Neurophysiology

Learning outcomes

The course will survey the neurophysiological bases of brain functions; in particular the anatomical and functional bases of behaviour will be discussed.

Our behaviours are produced by changes in neuronal activity, which we can evaluate as biochemical, molecular or neurotransmitter changes. The activation of specific neuron populations produces specific behaviours; this is true not only for very simple behaviours (such as motor activity), but also   for cognitive functions, that we consider peculiar to human beings. In order to facilitate the comprehension of neuronal bases of cerebral functions, first of all general notions of neurobiology will be described, including membrane cell physiology and synaptic communication. Then the organization of sensitive and motor systems will be illustrated, and finally we will study systems controlling visceral functions, homeostasis and instinctive behaviours.

Course contents

Introduction to Neuroscience

Neurons and Glia

Genes and Behaviour

Functional Anatomy of the Nervous System

The Neuronal Membrane at Rest

The Action Potential

Synaptic Transmission

Neurotransmitter Systems

The Eye

The Central Visual System

The Auditory System

The Somatic Sensory System

Spinal Control of Movement

Brain Control of Movement

Chemical Control of Brain and Behaviour

Readings/Bibliography

Neuroscience: Exploring the Brain by Mark F Bear, Barry Connors, and Michael Paradiso, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2nd edition

OR  

Principles of Neural Science,  by E Kandel, JH Schwartz, TM Jessell, McGraw-Hill Companies, 4 edition

Teaching methods

The course is based on lectures. However, students are expected to take an active role in discussion.

Assessment methods

Written test with open-response questions.

Teaching tools

Slides (PowerPoint). Reading material for this course will be made available on the course website.

Links to further information

http://servizi.psice.unibo.it/docenti/index.asp?pagina=scheda_docente_info.asp&IDdocente=92

Office hours

See the website of Giovanna Zoccoli