1051. Fundamentals of Neuroscience (3 s.h.)

One of the last frontiers in science is the brain. Neuroscience is one of the fastest growing domains in all of science - and a good bet for a future career path. Neuroscientists investigate brain function from the level of molecular genetics, to cellular dynamics, to brain anatomy and physiology, to relations between brain, behavior and cognition, to brain development and aging, to diseases of the brain. In this course, we will touch on knowledge about the brain at all of these levels. The major course goal is to introduce you to neuroscience and its multidisciplinary dimensions.

2121. Development/Plasticity/Repair (3 s.h.)

Prerequisite: Neuroscience 1051.

The major aim of this course is to present the neurobiology of development from conception to birth and neurological and behavioral development in infancy and childhood. The initial emphasis is on embryonic and fetal development of the central nervous system and emergent behavioral plasticity. Sensory and motor developments in the fetus are examined. Postnatal development of the cerebral cortex and behavioral outcomes are explored in the context of environmental effects that can amplify or inhibit adaptive capacity. Biological (e.g., genetic) and environmental (e.g., parenting) influences on brain development of emotion and cognition are addressed. The tremendous plasticity of the brain is emphasized. Plasticity is the ability of the nervous system to respond to change. Neural malleability is maximal in early development, but the capacity for change and repair in the nervous system is maintained throughout life.

2122. Cellular & Molecular Neuroscience (3 s.h.)

Prerequisite: Neuroscience 1051.

An exciting scientific frontier is the molecular genetics and cellular dynamics of brain function. This course addresses phenomena at a cellular and molecular level that underlie brain plasticity and function. The cellular basis of the nervous system, some genetic factors involved in neural cell division and proliferation, proteins enabling neural receptor function, and molecules that comprise neurotransmitters will be covered. The molecular cascade that is initiated by glutamate release and responses of AMPA and NMDA receptors that results in genetic changes and structural formation of synapses is one example of molecular mechanisms to be addressed in this course.

2222. The Neurobiology of Disease (3 s.h.)

Prerequisite: Neuroscience 1051.

Advances in basic neuroscience research have the potential to lead to understanding, treatment, and even cures for major nervous system disease. This course will provide students with state-of-the-art knowledge about applied neuroscience – the causes and treatment of some major diseases of the central nervous system. There is an emphasis on neuropathologies at all points of the life span – from diseases in infancy such as Phenylketonuria and Tay Sachs disease, to diseases in adulthood such as Multiple Sclerosis, AIDS and forms of demyelination caused by the JC virus, to neurodegenerative diseases of old age such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

3087. Techniques in Neuroscience (1 to 3 s.h.)

Prerequisite: Neuroscience 1051, 2121, 2122, 2222.

A major reason that neuroscience is such a dynamic and rapidly advancing field is that it relies on cutting edge technology. Throughout the history of neuroscience, advances have come with the development of new techniques. In this course, students will learn about a variety of traditional techniques in basic and clinical neuroscience as well as newly developed techniques driving the field to new insights. Methods to be discussed will be selected from among: genetic assays, genotyping, histology, immunohistochemistry, stereotaxic surgery, electrophysiology (patch clamping, single and multiple unit recording, EEG), behavioral assessment of animals, neuropsychological assessment in humans, human electrophysiology, transcranial magnetic stimulation, MRI and fMRI. From among identified neuroscience techniques, students will select one and prepare a demonstration or video.

4182. Independent Study in Neuroscience 1 (1 to 4 s.h.)

Prerequisite: Neuroscience 1051.

Neuroscience majors are encouraged to gain first-hand experience with research as provided by Independent Study. This course is available in the laboratories of neuroscience faculty members at Temple University listed on the Neuroscience web site: www.temple.edu/cla/neuroscience. Students will carry out supervised neuroscience research by observing and participating in ongoing research in the laboratory. This course requires the student to spend 3-4 hours per credit per week of a 14-week semester in the lab.

4197. Capstone in Neuroscience (4 s.h.) S. RCI: WI.

Prerequisite: Neuroscience 1051, 2121, 2122, 2222, 3087 and a major in Neuroscience.

The focus of this capstone is a topic important to many domains in neuroscience. Different topics will be covered in different semesters. This course has two major components: (1) instruction and practice on scientific writing of research papers and proposals, and instruction and practice on oral presentations; (2) Integration of content in basic and clinical neuroscience. The course will allow students to follow issues in neuroscience from cellular and molecular levels to translation and application in human life. The emphasis is on synthesis and application of material learned in the neuroscience major.

Note: This course is limited to neuroscience majors in their senior year.

4282. Independent Study in Neuroscience 2 (1 to 4 s.h.)

Prerequisite: Neuroscience 1051.

Neuroscience majors are encouraged to gain first-hand experience with research as provided by Independent Study and may take up to 8 independent study credits. Independent Study in Neuroscience 2 follows Neuroscience 4182, Independent Study in Neuroscience 1, and can be taken in the same laboratory or in another lab of a neuroscience faculty member at Temple University. Faculty members sponsoring this course are listed on the Neuroscience web site: www.temple.edu/cla/neuroscience. Students will carry out supervised neuroscience research by observing and participating in ongoing research. This course requires the student to spend 3-4 hours per credit per week of a 14-week semester in the lab.