This module will explore the neurobiological underpinnings of neurodegenerative diseases. It will focus on the anatomical and functional alterations in a...

Neurobiology of Brain Injury and Disease I (NEUR0011)

This module will explore the neurobiological underpinnings of neurodegenerative diseases. It will focus on the anatomical and functional alterations in a variety of degenerative neurological disorders. Emphasis will be put on recent research into understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of disease and, when applicable, how this might lead (or has led) to new therapeutic venues. Students will be encouraged to use the knowledge of functional neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and molecular and cellular neurobiology acquired as part of their Neuroscience degree course in a synoptic manner, to understand basic neuropathology.

The module will comprise a series of lectures delivered by specialists in the field of neurodegeneration. Students on NEUR0011 will receive 1 paper to review and will be asked to deliver a written report as part of their coursework. A wrap-up session will focus on the discussion of selected aspects covered in the lectures by using a problem-based, student-led approach. Additional tutorials will provide guidelines on how to read original research articles and write review reports, and on revision and exam techniques.

Indicative lecture topics: 

PART 1: The role of the modern day neuropathologist in clinical diagnostics and research. PART 2: Neuropathology approaches in specific CNS disease
	Huntington’s disease
	Ataxias
	Parkinson’s disease
	Alzheimer’s disease
	Clinical Research in Alzheimer’s disease
	Mitochondrial dysfunctions in neurodegenerative disease
	Frontotemporal dementia
	Spinal Muscular atrophy
	Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
	Problem-based wrap-up session on neurodegenerative diseases
	Presentation of scientific papers

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