PHY3012 · Integrative neuroscience

Overview

The major focus of this unit relates to neuronal plasticity associated with nervous system function in health and disease. Structural and functional changes in the nervous system occur throughout development, adulthood and in disease states associated with neural dysfunction and brain disorders. In this unit you will focus on specific examples of plastic changes to the nervous system; identify the mechanisms that contribute to neuronal plasticity and explore how these regulate higher brain function such as learning and memory. You will also evaluate how disruption to and dysfunction of certain neural networks contribute to neurological and psychiatric disorders. You will use research projects to reinforce lecture content and to develop and refine your analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.

Areas of study: Physiology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Analyse and evaluate the fundamental mechanisms underlying neuronal communication and plasticity via synaptic and non-synaptic routes;
2. Evaluate and apply the knowledge of molecular, cellular and neural circuit components to how these contribute to higher brain function;
3. Evaluate and analyse how neural responses to brain injury and to the ageing process contribute to the pathogenesis of disease states;
4. Analyse information on the functional operations of different neural circuits and apply it to devise novel therapeutic approaches targeting neurological disorders.
5. Critically evaluate published literature from scientific databases, develop sound scientific experiments to investigate brain disorders and communicate this in a written report or in an oral or poster presentation;
6. Work collaboratively and cohesively as a team.

Workload

Up to 12 hours per week consisting of: • 5 hours of directed learning (2 lectures, 1 tutorial and 1 workshop) and • 7 hours of self-directed study

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.