Neuroscience
Among life science disciplines, neuroscience is a young and expanding research field. Recent technological breakthroughs, in areas ranging from physics to biochemistry, have accelerated our understanding on how the brain works, and might in time allow medical applications that were previously deemed not reachable.
The general objectives of this course is to offer a comprehensive status of the current knowledge in neuroscience, while describing ongoing research. After an introduction on the general organization of the nervous system, we will describe the anatomy and function of an individual neuron, and the interactions between connected neurons through synapses. We will explain how developmental mechanisms shape the precise connectivity of the mature nervous system.
We will then move on to consider how the activity of single neurons embedded in neural networks can give rise to sensory perception, motor control, and learning and memory. Finally, we will discuss recent developments in sensory and motor brain-machine interfaces.
The course will include a presentation of the novel technological tools adapted from other disciplines, such as imaging techniques as well as genetic manipulations that allow observation and manipulation of specific classes of neurons.
Required level: At least one Biology class in year 2.
Course language: English
ECTS credits: 4
- Teaching coordinator: Ego-Stengel Valérie
- Teaching coordinator: Nicol Xavier