AIMS AND CONTENT

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the course, students should have acquired basic knowledge of:

• Neurons: synaptic transmission and neuronal subtypes.
• Neuronal differentiation and synaptogenesis
• Molecular mechanisms of neuronal and synaptic plasticity
• Memory: molecular mechanisms and brain localization
• Hippocampus and spatial memory
• Aging biomarkers

TEACHING METHODS

The course consists of lectures, for a total of 16 hours. Attendance is mandatory, in accordance with the Academic Regulations.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course aims to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms underlying neuronal development and function, as well as neuronal and synaptic plasticity. It will provide foundational knowledge to help students understand the cellular basis of memory and the potential effects of physical activity in regulating neuronal plasticity and influencing the physiological processes of neuronal growth, development, and aging. Specifically, the course will cover the following topics:

• Neurons, synaptic transmission, and neuronal subtypes
• Neuronal differentiation and synaptogenesis
• Mechanisms underlying neuronal and synaptic plasticity
• Memory: cellular bases and neuroanatomical localization of memories
• The hippocampus and spatial memory
• Biomarkers of aging

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Slides and review papers will be provided by the instructor.
As a reference textbook, Neuroscience by D. Purves et al., published by Zanichelli, can be used.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

AMBRA BISIO (President)

ANNA FASSIO (President)

PIERO RUGGERI (President)

LESSONS

LESSONS START

first semester

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: Portale EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam is integrated with that of the module physical activity and learning and consists of 31 multiple-choice questions. For each correct answer, 1 point will be awarded.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Assessment of the understanding of the mechanisms underlying neuronal development and function, as well as neuronal and synaptic plasticity

FURTHER INFORMATION

It is recommended to register on Aulaweb at the beginning of the course in order to receive information and stay up to date with all details related to the course.

In case of certification of Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), disabilities, or other special educational needs, it is necessary to contact the Faculty Representative of the DISABILITY and SLD Committee for DIMES, Prof. N. Girtler (nicolagirtler@unige.it). After evaluating each individual case, the professor will provide instructors with the appropriate guidelines for both lesson planning and exam arrangements.