Course Details in 2024/25 Session

Module Title	LI Neuroscience and Endocrinology
School	Institute of Clinical Sciences
Department	Biomedical Sciences
Module Code	03 40309
Module Lead	Dr Karim Mustafa and Dr Sreepoorna Pramodh
Level	Intermediate Level
Credits	20
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-20 hours Tutorial-6 hours Practical Classes and workshops-7 hours Guided independent study-167 hours Total: 200 hours
Exclusions
Description	This module provides a basic understanding of central nervous system function and how body systems are controlled through neuronal and hormonal mechanisms. Disease states that relate to these systems are considered. This neuroscience component builds upon information given in Foundations of Neuroscience in Year 1. The module progresses from a detailed description of the properties and functioning of individual neurones and synapses through to a discussion of the mechanisms underpinning functional control of CNS systems and their roles in behaviour. The impact of brain pathologies on normal function is also given substantial focus. The topics covered include: Cell and molecular biology of neurones and synapses; Cellular basis of learning and memory; Pain transmission in the CNS; CNS control of motor function (especially, motor cortex, basal ganglia and cerebellum) Manifestations and cellular/molecular basis of neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Diseases; Mechanisms underlying disorders of cortical functioning such as Anxiety, Depression and Schizophrenia; Therapies for many neurological/psychiatric conditions;Cellular and molecular mechanisms of drugs of abuse;Cellular and molecular aspects of the responses to trauma in the CNS The Endocrinology component will provide a basic understanding of endocrine physiology. Information is delivered on the mechanisms of hormone biosynthesis, transport, interaction with receptors, action and control. Physiology will be put into context by describing diseases related to endocrine function. Early lectures will outline general features of endocrine physiology and these will be followed by more detailed lectures in which the function of each of the major glands will be dealt with in turn.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: 20.1 Neuroscience component: 20.2 Describe the topography of the CNS including aspects of its functional organisation. 20.3 Outline methodologies used to measure ion channel activity of neurones and explain how channel properties are deduced using these methodologies and how they predict cellular electrical activity. 20.4 Explain the mechanisms by which different classes of neurotransmitter receptors are able to regulate electrical activity of neurones. Describe the mechanisms leading to long-term changes in synaptic function. 20.5 Describe the involvement of higher brain centres in the control of motor function in terms of both behavioural control and neuronal network activity and distinguish the effect of CNS motor disorders on each aspect. 20.6 Describe the principle behavioural features of a variety of processes and disorders of the central nervous system (especially pain, schizophrenia, dementia, depression and anxiety) and relate the proposed pathophysiological mechanisms to each of these conditions. 20.7 Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms of action of the pharmacological agents used for a range of CNS disorders and conditions and relate these to an impact upon any or all of behaviour, network activity and cell function. 20.8 Explain the physical and psychological basis of drug dependence and withdrawal, including recall of the mechanisms of drug desensitization. 20.9 Describe the basic concepts of the responses to CNS trauma. 20.10 Critically appraise scientific information (the context in which this will be assessed, both summatively and formatively, is described below). 20.11 Endocrinology component: 20.12 Describe the basic anatomy of the major endocrine glands. 20.13 Explain and review the synthesis, secretion, physiological action and regulation of each of the hormones from all of the major endocrine glands. 20.14 Assess diseases which can arise due to endocrine malfunction and treatment of such diseases. 20.15 Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of hormones in homeostasis. 20.21 Describe and understand examples of how major body systems interact, with a knowledge of intrinsic control systems and the systemic response to drugs
Assessment
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: The module is assessed by a combination of a written examination and course work. Examination: 2 hour written unseen exam - 50% Course work: research paper interpretation- 50% 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