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Cell and Molecular Neuroscience Syllabus Fall 2016 Lecture Time

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Cell and Molecular Neuroscience Syllabus Fall 2016 Lecture Time BIOL 3409: ST: Cell and Molecular Neuroscience Syllabus Fall 2016 Lecture Time: T, F 1:35 – 3:15 PM Lecture Location: Richards Hall 231 Instructor Information: Dr. Jennifer Ingemi Email: [email protected] Office Location: 380 Nightingale Hall, dial ext. 6510 to be let in Office Hours: M, F 10 AM- 12 PM or by appointment Course Description: At its core the principles that govern the communication between cells of the nervous system are determined by their molecular components. The molecular landscape defines the individual properties of a neuron and the function of neuronal networks as a whole. This new course will take an interdisciplinary approach, combining molecular biology, cell biology, pharmacology and genetics to address the fundamental molecular properties of neurons and neuronal networks. The course will focus on neuronal signaling through the function of ion channels and receptors, supramolecular mechanisms like synaptic transmission and axonal transport and the molecular mechanisms that underlie biological networks and neural coding of information. Throughout the semester we will use the fundamental understanding of molecular networks as a framework to explore the mechanisms that underlie neurological diseases and disorders. Additionally, we will discuss current treatments and therapies that rely on modulating neuronal signaling through molecular interactions. Prerequisites: BIOL 2301 Course Objectives: 1. Strengthen your knowledge of the molecular basis of neuron function 2. Gain an appreciation for the complexity of molecular interactions that comprises neural network function. 3. Refine your ability to think and write critically, using your knowledge of molecular processes to interpret primary literature, explain disease etiology and the drug treatment processes. Learning Outcomes: By the end of the course students will be able to: 1. Describe, in detail, the molecular mechanisms of neuronal communication 2. Identify molecules involved in each step of intercellular communication, information processing, and neuronal cell metabolism. 3. Explain how information is integrated and stored in the nervous system at the network and cellular level. 4. Describe how changes in molecular processes influence cellular function and lead to aberrant neuronal communication found disease sates. 5. Evaluate, in writing and orally, current theories and relevant scientific research on how pharmacological agents are used to affect molecular processes in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. Course Materials: Text (Recommended): Byrne, JH., et al. (2014). From Molecules to Networks: An Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience. (3rd. ed). London, UK: Academic Press., ISBN-13: 978- 0-12-397179-1. Additional readings from primary literature, supplemental handouts, videos, lecture slides and detailed assignment information can be found on the Blackboard site associated with this course. It will be your responsibility to check Blackboard often. Course Format: Although this course is based on a traditional lecture and discussion, it will challenge you to think beyond the “memorize and regurgitate” learning style. You will be asked to integrate basic concepts in cellular biology and genetics to discuss how molecular networks influence neuron function. Together, we will explore the literature to how changes in the molecular landscape of neurons influence disease and how current treatments aim to correct these changes. The ability to analyze literature and communicate your ideas effectively is critical for a scientist no matter what career path you choose. I hope that by challenging you to read, write and think critically that you will gain a solid base for developing these skills so that you can succeed as a scientist for the rest of your career at the level college and beyond. To that end, portions of the course will rely on your participation in class, so please come prepared to participate by keeping up with the assigned readings for each lecture. I encourage everyone to participate in the discussion while being respectful to your peers ideas and questions. If, at any time, we are covering a topic that is relevant or related to your co-op experience (or one you are planning to do), please share your experience and/or insight with the class. Lecture slides and corresponding textbook page references will be posted on Blackboard by 11 AM before class to help you with note taking. I will record my lectures via Tegrity (see “Tegrity Classes” on Blackboard) and make them available to you for your reference when studying or in the case that you miss class. This is NOT and online course, so watching recorded lectures in lieu of attending class on a regular basis is not advised. Unexpected computer issues might arise, and I cannot guarantee that each lecture will be recorded. If you miss class, Blackboard is your greatest resource to finding out what you missed and how you should prepare for the next class. Getting Help: Students who need additional help with the course should see the instructor as soon as possible. I am available during office hours or by appointment to answer questions or provide extra help in person. I am also happy to answer questions via email and will respond within 24 hours of receipt of your message. Until you receive a response from me, assume I have not received your email. Do NOT wait until the end of the semester to seek additional help. Course Agenda: Below is a list of the topics we will hopefully cover and dates for exams, quizzes and assignments that will occur during the semester. Additional readings for in class discussion will be assigned to you during the semester. These assignments will be announced in class and the materials posted to Blackboard in advance. In the event there is a class cancellation, all due dates (exams, quizzes, homework, readings, etc.) will be shifted to the next class period. Week Topic Chapters/Readings Introduction to Molecular 1 Neuroscience/Review of Cellular Chapter 1 Sept. 9 Components of Nervous Tissues Regulation of Neuronal Gene Expression Chapter 5 2 Neurogenesis and Subcellular Organization Sept. 13 & 16 Chapter 2 of the Nervous System: Axons v. Dendrites Subcellular Organization of the Nervous System: Molecular Transport Chapter 2 3 Sept. 20 & 23 Sept. 23: Quiz 1 Chapter 3 Energy Metabolism in the Brain Molecular Properties of Ion Channels Chapter 11 4 Sept. 27 & 30 Membrane Biophysics: Membrane Chapter 12 & 13 Potential and Voltage-Gated Ion Channels I Oct. 4: EXAM I 5 Oct. 4 & 7 Oct. 7 – Class Cancelled Biophysics of Voltage-Gated Ion Channels Chapter 13 6 II Oct. 11 & 14 Membrane Biophysics: Action Potential Chapter 12 & 14 Neurotransmitters: Classical and Non- Chapter 8 Classical 7 Oct. 18 & 21 Release of Neurotransmitter: Stimulus/ Secretion Coupling I Chapter 15 Oct 21: Group Project Proposals Due Oct. 25: Quiz 2 Release of Neurotransmitter: Chapter 15 8 Stimulus/Secretion Coupling II Oct. 25 & 28 Neurotransmitter Receptors: Ionotropic v. Chapter 10 metabotropic Intracellular Signaling Pathways I Chapter 4 9 Nov. 1 & 4 Nov. 4: Exam 2 Intracellular Signaling Pathways II Chapter 4 & 6 10 Nov. 8 & 11 Nov. 11 – Veteran’s Day, No Class Nervous System Damage: Axon Degeneration and Repair 11 Nov. 15 & 18 Gap Junctions Chapter 9 Postsynaptic Potentials and Synaptic Chapter 16 12 Integration Nov. 22 & 25 Nov. 25 – No Class: Happy Thanksgiving! Nov. 29: Quiz 3 Chapter 17 13 Information Processing in Dendrites Nov. 29 & Information Processing In Neural Networks Chapter 19 Dec. 2 Dec. 2 - Group Presentations Synaptic Plasticity 14 Dec. 6 - Group Presentations Chapter 18 & 20 Dec. 6 Dec. 6 – Final Reports Due Dec. 9 - 16 EXAM III – TBD (FINALS WEEK) Grading and Evaluation: Performance in the course will be graded according to the breakdown listed below. Exams I-III: 60% Exam I: 20%, Tuesday, October 4th Exam II: 20%, Friday, November 4th Exam III: 20%, during finals week date TBD Group Project: 20% Quizzes: 20% Exams: Throughout the course there will be three, closed-book, closed note, unit exams (this includes your final exam). Each exam will cover primarily the material that is covered in that unit. However, knowledge of fundamental concepts covered earlier in the semester will be assumed as we progress through more advanced topics. In total, exams account for 60% of your final course grade Exams will consist of: o Multiple choice o Matching o Problem solving o Short answer Final Examination: The final exam schedule is announced by the University well in advance of finals. Do not purchase airplane tickets, etc. until you know the date of your final exams including this course. If you find that you have a scheduling conflict between the final for this course and another course, it is your responsibility to complete and submit the final exam conflict form available through the Registrar’s Office online at URL: http://www.northeastern.edu/registrar/form- finex-conflict.pdf Quizzes: There will be three quizzes throughout the semester. The purpose of the quizzes is to encourage you to review your lecture notes and study, as well as to monitor the effectiveness the lectures. They will be given at the beginning of the class period and should take no more than 30 minutes to complete and consist of multiple choice, short answer and/or fill in the blank. They will account for 20% of your final course grade. Quiz 1: Friday, September 23rd Quiz 2: Tuesday, October 25th Quiz 3: Tuesday, November 29th Exam and Quiz Make Up Policy: Make up exams and quizzes can be scheduled should you have an unavoidable health or personal emergency. Only ONE make up quiz or exam will be allowed per student for the semester. Please contact me as soon as possible if you have a conflict with a quiz or exam so we can make the appropriate considerations. Drug Advertisement Group Project: During the semester you will be given the opportunity to apply your understanding of the mechanisms and principles underlying molecular interactions and neuron function and present your ideas to the class.
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