Neurobiology is a fascinating and rapidly-growing field and the goal of this course is to introduce students to the challenges and excitement of one of the last great frontiers in science. Biology of the Brain provides students with a detailed foundation of contemporary neuroscience that includes the electrical properties and unique signaling abilities of neurons, the organization of sensory and motor systems, the regulation of cognitive and emotional functions, and the neural circuitry of disease states. This course examines the biology of the brain from historical and modern perspectives, building an understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for the formation and plasticity of the neural circuits that underlie sensory, motor, and higher-level functions.

Questions that will be addressed include:

• How do changes in neuronal excitability lead to epileptic seizures?

• Is synaptic plasticity the cellular basis for learning and memory?

• What is the role of unconventional neurotransmitter systems, e.g. endogenous cannabinoids

• What is the relationship between the basal ganglia and Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease?

• How does the structure of sensory systems shape our perception of the world?

• How does the limbic system regulate emotional behavior?

• What is the link between neuronal electrical activity and Alzheimer’s disease?

Satisfies: PNB major, Neuroscience Minor

Prerequisites: One 2000 level course in PNB or consent of instructor; open to juniors or higher

Required Text:  Augustine, et al., Neuroscience 7th Edition (2023)

Grading: 2 exams - multiple choice and short answer questions