The course provides in-depth exposure to the cellular mechanisms utilised by neurones in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Emphasis will be put on the following areas: the role of different classes of ion channels in affecting neuronal excitability, the mechanisms involved in electrical and chemical transmission, how transmitted signals are integrated by the neurons and across networks, and how different forms of synaptic plasticity may underly learning and memory. Where possible insights will be provided into disease states such as epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease. Students will visit research laboratories at the John Curtin School of Medical Research to gain an exposure to research topics pursued by their lecturers. In addition, there will be a short library-based project critiquing an original research article.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students should

1.   know how the excitability of neurones is determined and how it is modulated by various ionic currents;

2.   understand how electrical and chemical transmission is achieved at synapses;

3.   be cognisant of the different receptor types involved in iono- and metabotropic excitatory and inhibitory transmission;

4.   recognise how transmitted signals are integrated in neurones and networks;

5.   be familiar with the mechamisms involved in some forms of synaptic plasticity;

6.   be able to identify how such mechanisms may be altered in some disease states; and

have started to develop an ability to rationally critique a scientific paper.

Assessment will be based:

• Lab reports (~40%)
• Submitted critique of a named scientific paper (~10%)
• Final exam (~50%)  

Three lectures per week, a number of two-hour laboratory sessions including laboratory visits, tutorials, plus a critique of a scientific paper.

BIOL2174, or a combination of PSYC2007 and 12 units of first year PSYC or BIOL units

BIOL3001

Recommended texts (choice of two):

“From Moleculres to Networks. An Introduction of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience” by J.H. Byrne & J.L Roberts. 2^nd ed. 2009, Academic press. ISBN 978-0-12-374132-5

“Neuroscience” by D. Purves et al. 4^th ed. 2008, Sinauer Assoc. ISBN 978-0-87893-697-7