Unit 3125: Neuroscience and Nervous System Function

1. Neurons and Neurotransmission

1.1 Structure of Neurons

• Components: dendrites, soma, axon, myelin sheath, synaptic terminals
• Types of neurons: sensory, motor, interneurons

1.2 Function of Neurons

• Resting potential and membrane properties
• Generation of action potentials: depolarization, repolarization, refractory period

1.3 Neurotransmission Process

• Synaptic transmission steps: neurotransmitter release, receptor binding, signal propagation
• Types of neurotransmitters: excitatory vs inhibitory
• Role of neurotransmitters in neural communication

2. Central Nervous System (CNS) and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

2.1 Overview of the Nervous System

• Division into CNS and PNS

2.2 Central Nervous System

• Brain: overview of structure and function
• Spinal cord: role in reflexes and signal transmission

2.3 Peripheral Nervous System

• Somatic nervous system: sensory and motor pathways
• Autonomic nervous system: sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions

3. Brain Anatomy and Function

3.1 Major Brain Regions

• Cerebrum: lobes and cortical functions
• Cerebellum: coordination and balance
• Brainstem: vital functions and pathways
• Limbic system: emotion, memory, and motivation

3.2 Functional Roles

• Motor control and sensory processing
• Cognitive functions such as language, decision-making, and problem solving

4. Neuroplasticity and Learning

4.1 Definition and Mechanisms

• Synaptic plasticity: strengthening and weakening of synapses
• Structural plasticity: dendritic branching and neurogenesis

4.2 Implications for Learning and Memory

• Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD)
• Role in skill acquisition and memory formation

4.3 Neuroplasticity in Brain Injury Recovery

• Examples of functional reorganization and rehabilitation

5. Neurological Disorders

5.1 Alzheimer's Disease

• Pathophysiology, symptoms, and progression

5.2 Parkinson's Disease

• Causes, motor symptoms, and treatment options

5.3 Epilepsy

• Types of seizures, causes, and management

5.4 Multiple Sclerosis

• Demyelination process, symptoms, and treatments

5.5 Stroke

• Types (ischemic, hemorrhagic), symptoms, and acute management

6. Neuropharmacology

6.1 Principles of Neuropharmacology

• Drug interaction with neurotransmitter systems
• Agonists, antagonists, and reuptake inhibitors

6.2 Medications for Neurological and Psychiatric Conditions

• Examples: antiepileptics, dopaminergic drugs, antidepressants
• Mechanisms of drug action and side effects

7. Brain Development and Aging

7.1 Brain Development

• Prenatal brain growth and differentiation
• Postnatal development: synaptogenesis and myelination

7.2 Brain Aging

• Cognitive decline and neurodegenerative changes
• Common age-related diseases

7.3 Strategies to Promote Brain Health

• Lifestyle factors: diet, exercise, cognitive stimulation
• Emerging research on neuroprotection