2023/24 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

BMSC2118 Neurobiology

20 creditsClass Size: 130

Module manager: Dr Clare Tweedy
Email: c.tweedy@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2023/24

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

BMSC2123	Sensory and Motor Neuroscience
BMSC2124	Neurotransmitters and Disease

This module is approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module introduces the micro and macroscopic structure of the human nervous system and explains the central nervous system control of a range of physiological processes. Following a fundamental exploration of neuroanatomy and biophysics, the module will explore the process of neurotransmission, the role of major neurotransmitters, and the receptors and pathways involved in the sensory and motor systems. Many aspects of this module will be framed in the context of diseases and disorders of the human nervous system.

Objectives

The aim of this module is to gain an understanding of the structure and function of the nervous system followed by exploration of 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 visualize neurotransmitters, and record neurotransmission electrophysiologically will be introduced. The sensory receptors and pathways responsible for the sensation of pain, touch, audition, smell and vision will be described along with the pathways responsible for voluntary movement. The module will also explore the mechanisms for maintaining balance and upright posture, and the sensory receptors involved.

Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
- demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the micro and macroscopic structure of the human nervous system;
- predict how changes to micro and macroscopic structure may lead to disorders of the human nervous system;
- describe and explain the central nervous system control of a range of physiological processes through the study of CNS anatomy and physiology;
- describe the process of neurotransmission; understand and explain the criteria for molecules to be considered neurotransmitters;
- compare and contrast the synthesis, release and reuptake of a range of neurotransmitters in the body;
- describe the techniques used to visualize neurotransmitters, and the techniques available for recording neurotransmission electrophysiologically;
- compare and contrast the sensory receptors and pathways responsible for the sensation of pain, touch, audition, smell and vision;
- describe the pathways responsible for voluntary movement, the motor hierarchy and the control of voluntary movement;
- explain the mechanisms for maintaining balance and upright posture, and describe the sensory receptors involved.

Syllabus

Unit 1:
- Organisation and anatomy of the brain and spinal cord;
- Anatomy and physiology of the cerebral cortex, midbrain and diencephalon, spinal cord and hindbrain, and the hippocampus;
- Neuroimaging techniques to investigate function and pathology;
- Fundamental biophysics including the resting membrane potential and electrophysiology techniques.

Unit 2:
- Synaptic communication including neurotransmitter synthesis, storage, release, transporters, and synaptic connections;
- Neurotransmitter receptors; ligand gated ion channels and G-protein coupled receptors;
- Neurotransmitters; Acetylcholine, Excitatory amino acids, catecholamines, Peptides, Serotonin, Inhibitory amino acids, Gasotransmitters;
- Neuroplasticity on the level of molecular, synaptic, and dendritic changes and neurogenesis.

Unit 3:
- Physiology of the visual and auditory systems;
- Taste and olfaction pathways;
- Physiology of the somatosensory system;
- Pathways of pain and nociception
- Physiology of motor systems including voluntary movement and balance/posture.

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Group learning	10	1.00	10.00
Lecture	30	1.00	30.00
Practical	1	2.00	2.00
Seminar	7	1.00	7.00
Independent online learning hours			3.00
Private study hours			148.00
Total Contact hours			49.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			200.00

Private study

Independent online learning: a range of resources will be provided as well as formative MCQ tests based on each unit. 148 hours designated for private study (including reading before and after lectures, preparation for tutorials, and exam preparation).

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Students have the opportunity to gain feedback by completion of formative MCQ exams available throughout the module. Students will also practice case study work in the introductory session.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Group Project	Anatomy Case Study	25.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		25.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated.

Exams

Exam type	Exam duration	% of formal assessment
Online Time-Limited assessment	2 hr 00 mins	50.00
Online MCQ	0 hr 40 mins	25.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)		75.00

BMSC2123 and BMSC2124 currently have overlapping papers.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 28/04/2023 14:47:37

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