Course Details in 2025/26 Session

Module Title	LH Neuropharmacology
School	Institute of Clinical Sciences
Department	Institute of Clinical Sciences
Module Code	02 34294
Module Lead	Drs Z.Nagy
Level	Honours Level
Credits	40
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites	LC Foundation of Neuroscience - (02 33657)
Co-requisites
Restrictions	It is a requirement that students achieve a mark of at least 35% in their summative exam
Contact Hours	Lecture-25 hours Seminar-8 hours Tutorial-13 hours Practical Classes and workshops-17 hours Guided independent study-337 hours Total: 400 hours
Exclusions
Description	The aim of this module is to develop an appreciation of how current research into the neurotransmitter systems of the brain can further our understanding of normal brain function and dysfunction. The module starts by considering some of the experimental techniques used in neuropharmacological research from the molecular to whole animal level. Then the distribution and functional relevance of the major neurotransmitters will be considered. Finally, some of the disorders of the nervous system, such as anxiety, depression and pain are used to illustrate how the integration of neurotransmitter action is important in normal functioning and how researching this can lead to an understanding of how dysfunction arises and the possible identification of new therapeutic targets. The module is delivered by a combination of academic-led lectures to outline a topic to then enable students to undertake guided independent learning. The application of this knowledge to cutting-edge research is explored in the practical and demonstration sessions.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Demonstrate current knowledge of the functioning of the main neurotransmitter systems within the brainExplain how the dysfunctioning of these systems can lead to disease Recognise how these various transmitter systems can be integrated to produce coordinated responses Compare the different experimental approaches used to further our understanding of these neurotransmitter systems Design and conduct experiments to test hypotheses relevant to the field of neuropharmacology Analyse and interpret experimental data to enable conclusions to be drawn relating to the original experimental hypothesis
Assessment	34294-01 : Overall module mark : Mixed (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	The module is assessed by a combination of a 3 hour written examination (50%) and course work (50%) - experimental data interpretation Reassessment: Academic failure: If a student fails the module then they will be required to repeat the failed components only. Failure to submit: Submission of coursework is compulsory for the programme. Students are advised that failure to submit without justifiable reason could result in failure of the module. Students will be required to submit outstanding work to meet the module outcomes.
Other
Reading List