Spring Quarter:听 March 18 鈥 April 9, 2024
滨苍蝉迟谤耻肠迟辞谤蝉:听Jennifer Morgan听补苍诲听Joshua Rosenthal听(惭叠尝)
UChicago Course Number: NSCI21510
Course Description:
In this course, students will learn about the fundamentals of synapses, from molecular analysis to structure and function. Marine and aquatic models have historically provided a unique opportunity to investigate synaptic function due to the large size of their neurons, including the synaptic connections. Today, these synapse models are used to study basic principles of neuron-to-neuron communication (synaptic transmission), as well as disease mechanisms. In addition to lectures and discussions of key literature, this course will feature hands-on laboratory-based exercises in molecular genetics, imaging and physiology of synapses, as well as independent "discovery" projects to explore new topics in synapse biology.
The course will feature brief morning lectures followed by student led discussions of primary research articles, which will include both classics and recent literature. After a lunch break, students will return to the laboratory for the afternoon. During the first week, students will engage in 3 lab rotations, which will provide a series of demonstrations and exercises on synapses from marine and aquatic organisms using molecular, physiology and imaging techniques. During the last 2 weeks, students will use these preparations to carry out independent projects in small groups, guided by the instructors and teaching assistants. The course will end with a symposium where the student groups will give oral presentations describing the major goals of the project, methods, and any results obtained.
Learning Objectives and Outcomes:
At the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of synapse biology, including: excitability, synaptic transmission (presynaptic and postsynaptic mechanisms), synaptic plasticity, and disease mechanisms. Additionally, students will also have gained hands-on laboratory experience and scientific writing in the field of synapse biology.