Neurobiology and Cellular Neurophysiology

The objective of this course unit is the morpho-functional study of cells in the nervous system (neurons, glial cells), specifically: a description of the mechanisms involved in neuronal excitability (generation and propagation of the action potential) and neurotransmission (mechanisms of neurotransmitter release and synthesis, and the structure and function of neurotransmitter receptors). The concepts of synaptic plasticity are also explored.

-Knowledge:

At the cellular level: generation and propagation of the electrical signal, the concept of resting potential, properties of ion channels, and the action potential. Understanding the function of different types of glial cells.

               At the tissue level: Cellular communication (astrocyte-neuron / neuron-neuron), mechanisms of neurotransmission (release of neurotransmitters, types of receptors and their effects), mechanisms of synaptic plasticity.

-Expertise:

            Deduce the biophysical properties (conductance, ionic selectivity) of the ion channels involved in neuronal activity by constructing and analyzing current-voltage relationships.

            Understanding the value of, and how and when to use, “voltage-” and “current-clamped” recordings of cellular electrical activity in the study of neurophysiological phenomena.

-Interpersonal skills:

            Gain the necessary perspective to understand the place of neurophysiology and cellular neurobiology within the neurosciences, and appreciate their importance in advances in this field.

            To acquire a general understanding of neurophysiology in order to address, in the future, highly integrated phenomena such as motor function and sensory perception