Introduction to Neuroscience, Course syllabus, 2017-2018:
1) Introduction: The structure and basic function of Neurons. (Lampl 29/10/2017)
2) The Ionic basis of the resting potential: Nernst equation, Goldman equation. Pumps. (Lampl, 5/11/2017)
3) Passive membrane properties. Equivalent electrical circuit. Cable theory: derivation, solutions, and implications for neuronal function. (Lampl, 12/11/2017)
4) Active membrane properties and the action potential. (Lampl, 19/11/2017)
5) Hodgkin-Huxley experiments and model. Give to students home exercise #1: Passive and active intrinsic properties of neurons. (Lampl,26/11/2017)
6) Diversity of Ion Channels: Permeability, electrophysiology, single-channel recordings, channel structure. Ligand-gated ion channels (glutamate, GABA, glycine, serotonin, calcium…). Basic pharmacological tools. Clinical aspects of channel dysfunction. (Reuveny , 3/12/2017)
7) Synaptic Transmission - General overview. Measurements and modeling of synaptic transmission: The reversal potential, synaptic conductance, excitation and inhibition, Model of ionotropic and ligand-gated synaptic transmission. Short-term synaptic dynamics (synaptic depression and facilitation). Temporal and spatial synaptic integration. Electrical synapses. (Lampl,17/12/2017)
8) Synaptic transmission: Transmitter release, vesicles, quantal release, presynaptic molecular mechanisms. (Yizhar 24/12/2017)
9) Receptors: Molecular cascades, pharmacological manipulations. (Reuveny , 31/12/2017)
10) Neuronal Plasticity: NMDA versus AMPA receptors; Long-term potentiation (LTP) and beyond. (Segal, 7/1/2018)
11) Astrocytic control of synaptic function: gliotransmitters, mechanisms of release - experimental constrains and controversies. (Amitai, 14/1/2018).
12) Modern electrophysiological and optical recording techniques in the field of cellular and synaptic physiology. Exam Rehearsal. (Lampl, 21/1/2018).
13) Final Exam