Synaptic Transmission

Catalog description

This module will cover the fundamentals of basic cell biology as well as focusing on cellular specializations that are exaggerated in neurons. Topics include polarized protein trafficking, organelle motility, cytoskeleton organization, synaptic scaffolds, intracellular signaling cascades and cell-to-cell communication, including communication between neurons and non-neuronal cells. We will cover genetic methods for the study of molecular function in neurons and finally we will have a class project to discuss how neurotrophic factors promote cell survival and the molecular mechanisms of neuronal death. Instructor consent required.