2020/21 Undergraduate Module Catalogue
BMSC2124 Neurotransmitters and Disease
10 creditsClass Size: 100
Module manager: Dr Samit Chakrabarty
Email: s.chakrabarty@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2020/21
Pre-requisite qualifications
Satisfactory completion of level 1 of a BMS programme, or equivalent.Pre-requisites
BMSC1210 | Biology of the Mind |
This module is mutually exclusive with
BMSC2118 | Neurobiology |
BMSC2123 | Sensory and Motor Neuroscience |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
Module summary
This module introduces the basic anatomy and structure of the brain and spinal cord and describes the process of neurotransmission, the criteria for molecules to be considered neurotransmitters and the synthesis, release and reuptake of a range of neurotransmitters in the body. Techniques used to visualise neurotransmitters, and record neurotransmission using electrophysiology will be introduced. The causes and pathologies of various neurodegenerative diseases will be introduced.Objectives
On completion of this module students will know:- The basic anatomy of the spinal cord and brain;
- The process of neurotransmission;
- The mechanisms of synthesis and role of a range of neurotransmitters;
- The techniques used to study neurotransmitter function;
- The core elements of a range of neurodegenerative diseases.
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
1. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the basic anatomy of the spinal cord and brain;
2. Describe the process of neurotransmission; understand and explain the criteria for molecules to be considered neurotransmitters;
3. Describe the synthesis, release and reuptake of a range of neurotransmitters in the body;
4. Describe the techniques used to visualize neurotransmitters, and the techniques available for recording neurotransmission using electrophysiology;
5. Describe the basis of a range of neurodegenerative diseases.
Skills outcomes
This module will allow students to develop their understanding of neurotransmission, and the CNS and its role in our interactions with the outside world. It will provide a foundation level understanding of neurodegenerative diseases which will allow students to study these topics at a higher level later in the year.
Syllabus
- Organisation of the brain and spinal cord
- Cell types and synapses;
- Synaptic communication - Chemical neurotransmission, synthesis, storage release, transporters synaptic connections;
- Resting membrane potential and electrophysiology techniques;
- Neurotransmitter receptors; ligand gated ion channels and G protein-coupled receptors;
- Neurotransmitters; Acetylcholine, Excitatory amino acids, Biogenic amines, Peptides, Serotonin, Inhibitory amino acids;
- Neuronal disease.
Teaching methods
Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
Class tests, exams and assessment | 1 | 1.00 | 1.00 |
Lecture | 18 | 1.00 | 18.00 |
Seminar | 1 | 1.00 | 1.00 |
Private study hours | 80.00 | ||
Total Contact hours | 20.00 | ||
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100.00 |
Private study
Students will be expected to spend time reading around the subject of lectures using textbooks, review articles and research papers. The in-course assessment essay will require extensive reading and preparation.Opportunities for Formative Feedback
Student progress will be monitored by an in-course MCQ.Methods of assessment
Coursework
Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
In-course Assessment | Open book problem-solving essay (timetabled) | 40.00 |
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 40.00 |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Exams
Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
Open Book exam | 48 hr 00 mins | 60.00 |
Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 60.00 |
BMSC2118 and BMSC2123 currently have overlapping papers.
Reading list
The reading list is available from the Library websiteLast updated: 19/02/2021
Browse Other Catalogues
- Undergraduate module catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate module catalogue
- Undergraduate programme catalogue
- Taught Postgraduate programme catalogue
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team.PROD