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Developmental Neurobiology (NEUR30005)
Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)
About this subject
Contact information
Semester 2
Overview
| Availability | Semester 2 |
|---|---|
| Fees | Look up fees |
The human brain is, arguably, the most complex structure on earth. This subject examines how a simple sheet of cells in the early embryo is fashioned into a functioning brain -. You will learn how cells within the primordial nervous system are assigned different fates, how neural stem cells are stimulated to divide to produce the billions of cells that comprise the nervous system and how these cells differentiate into mature neurons. The subject will examine how neural circuits are established as newly-born neurons send out axons,making functional synaptic connections with specific target cells.
Intended learning outcomes
On completion of this subject, students should:
- appreciate the major processes involved in the development of the nervous system, including neural induction, neural patterning, neural and glial cell proliferation, determination of neural fate, neuronal migration, axon guidance, regulation of neuron survival and synaptogenesis;
- have gained some insights into the cellular and molecular basis of those processes and understand how disorders in developmental processes can lead to neural defects;
- be aware of the regenerative ability of the nervous system and the prospects for therapeutic treatment of neural injury and disease;
- be familiar with outstanding questions currently being addressed in research in neural development; and
- be familiar with modern experimental approaches used to investigate the development of the nervous system and appreciate their strengths and limitations.
Generic skills
On completion of this subject, students should have developed:
- The ability to critically analyse scientific research papers.
- The ability to carry out literature searches.
- A capacity for independent critical thought, rational enquiry and self-directed learning.
- The ability to plan work and use time effectively.
- The ability to synthesise apparently disparate types of knowledge.
Last updated: 7 September 2024