COURSES

BIO 310 Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
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Molecular level structure-function relationships in the nervous system. Topics include: development of neurons, neuron-specific gene expression, molecular mechanisms of neuronal plasticity (e.g. in learning and memory), molecular biology of neurological disorders, and molecular neuropharmacology. Prerequisites: BIO 230, BIO 234, or BIO 236 and two semesters of chemistry. Laboratory (326) must be taken concurrently. Enrollment limited to 20.

4 credits
Offered Spring
MWF 10:00-10:50


BIO 311 Molecular Neuroscience Laboratory
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This laboratory initially uses tissue culture techniques to study the development of primary neurons in culture (e.g. extension of neurites and growth cones). The rest of the laboratory involves the Xenopus oocyte expression system to study molecular structure-function. Oocytes (frog eggs) are injected with RNA/DNA encoding a variety of ion channels. The second half of the semester includes a lab project using the expression system to investigate channel characteristics or pharmacology. BIO 325 must be taken concurrently. Enrollment limited to 20

1 credit
Offered Spring
W/Th 1:00-4:00


BCH 380 Topics in Biochemistry - Biochemical Bases of Neurological Disorders
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Following the decade of the brain there has been a surge in understanding of the biochemical and molecular bases of neurological disorders. This seminar will explore the underlying mechanisms of a number of neuronal diseases, such as Mad Cow disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease and brain tumors. Prerequisite: either BIO 230, 256, 325 or 330. Enrollment limited to 12.

3 credits
Offered Fall (Alternate)
Th 1-2.50


NSC 312 Seminar in Neuroscience – General Anesthesia
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This seminar will explore the history of general anesthesia, current anesthetic practices and primarily focus on the molecular mechanisms of anesthetic actions in the mammalian brain. Prerequisite: either BIO 230, 256, 325 or 330. Enrollment limited to 12.

4 credits
Offered Fall (Alternate)
Th 1-2.50

PSY 210/ NSC 210 Introduction to Neuroscience

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An introduction to the organization and function of the mammalian nervous system. An in depth exploration of the brain using multiple levels of analysis ranging from molecular to cognitive and behavioral approaches. An appreciation of how brain cells interact to orchestrate adaptive responses and experiences will be gained. Seniors require permission of the instructor. This course has no prerequisites.

4 credits

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