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Fall 2019
Cellular Neurobiology
Description:
This course focuses on understanding how neurons and the molecules they express contribute to brain function. Topics
covered include the structure and electrical properties of neurons, cell fate decisions, synapse formation and plasticity,
neuromodulation, and the function of simple neural circuits. We will also discuss molecular and genetic tools for
interrogating the nervous system. Examples are typically drawn from studies of sensory system development and
function in animals amenable to molecular and cellular level investigation. Students will have the opportunity to read
and discuss primary literature throughout the course.
Grading:
Problem Sets: 28% (7 problem sets total; lowest grade will be dropped; late problem sets receive 10 point deductions;
problem sets cannot be turned in more than 24 hours late); Problem sets will be posted on Fridays and due the following
Friday by 5pm.
You may work with other students on the problem sets, but the answers you submit must represent your own
understanding of the solutions. Direct copying is not permitted.
Midterm: 20%
Final (comprehensive): 35%
Participation: 7% (grades will come from answers to “daily quizzes” presented at the end of each lecture (which will not
be returned or regraded. the lowest daily quiz grade will be dropped), as well as class and precept participation)
Student Presentation: 10% (must attend all presentations)
Required Textbook:
From Neuron to Brain, 5th Edition, Authors: Nicholls, Martin, Fuchs, Brown, Diamond, and Weisblat, Published 2012
Other Readings will be drawn from the primary literature and from the following textbook:
Principles of Neurobiology, Author: Liqun Luo, Published 2015
Missing Lecture:
Students that miss a lecture for any reason (for an activity, sickness, etc) will be expected to complete the readings and
write a short paragraph (4-6 sentences) summarizing the content of the readings. Students must let us know about
absences ahead of lecture by email (to either the AI or the Professor).
Contact:
We will respond to your emails as soon as possible, though you should allow a 24-hour delay. We don’t guarantee
responses to emails sent within 24 hours of an exam or 4 hours of a problem set deadline. Do consider posting
questions to Piazza if you think they might be of interest to others: this will likely result in a faster reply, count
towards your participation grade, and benefit others.
Week 3: Neuronal Trafficking and Polarity; Ion Channels and Membrane Potential
Reading for 9/23:
Primary source: Yi et al. TGF-b signaling specifies axons during brain development. Cell 2010.
Reading for 9/25:
From From Neuron to Brain : Ch4 and Ch6
PS2 (covers Week 3) – due 10/4 5pm
==FALL RECESS==
==THANKSGIVING RECESS==
Weeks 12 + 13: Student Presentations (students will receive a grade both for their role as discussant and presenter)
12/2, 12/4, 12/9, and 12/11