Course content

The course will introduce the student to methods for studying cellular and molecular mechanisms, including mechanisms of synaptic plasticity in relation to long-term potentiation and depression. The course will also deal with signalling events in brain, receptors and transport systems for important neuroactive substances, and the function of the various cell types in brain will be explained. There will be a particular focus on excitatory and inhibitory signalling and its importance in normal functioning. Some important neurological diseases will be presented and discussed in the context of basic neural mechanisms.

The course includes a project equivalent to 2.5 credits. The project involves writing an essay, usually under supervision and based on a literature search of a topic. The project is evaluated as passed/failed. The student must pass the project assignment before (s)he can take the exam.

Learning outcome

Provide an in-depth understanding of mechanisms related to neurotransmitter signalling and glial-neuronal interaction in health and disease.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and supervised project (essay based on literature search). The course is taught in the first half of the semester. The language of teaching and examination is English. If few candidates, alternative examination arrangements may be used.

Compulsory assignments

• Project (essay based on literature search)

Recommended previous knowledge

NEVR2010 (Introduction to Neuroscience) or equivalent background.

Course materials

To be announced.

Credit reductions