Molecular Principles of Brain Disorders

COURSE OBJECTIVE
Gain insight into the etiology, expression and treatment of various brain diseases, as well as models used in preclinical science.

COURSE CONTENT
Our brain enables us to perform even the most complex tasks. Sometimes however, diseases of the brain compromise its optimal function. In this course students learn what the clinical manifestations are of the neurological and psychiatric diseases, and what type of cellular or animal models are around to learn us more on how disturbed processes and systems in the brain lead to these illnesses and that may provide us with clues on treatment options. Various treatments options for these conditions, including the use of pharmacological agents and deep brain stimulation will be discussed.

In this course we will focus on a different themes:
Theme 1: Neurodegenerative disorders (coordinator Dr. Wiep Scheper)
Theme 2: Psychiatric disorders (coordinator Dr. Hylke Vervaeke)
Theme 3: Neurodevelopmental disorders of intellectual disability and autism (coordinator Dr. Rhiannon Meredith)

Next, you will be guided in writing a literature review.

TEACHING METHODS
Lectures, practical, computer lab, study group, and literature review

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
Exam (Multiple Choice) (60%), literature study (40%), each at least grade 5.5

RECOMMENDED BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE
Basic (first and second year level) courses in Cell Biology and Neurosciences

TARGET AUDIENCE
Course in the track ‘Neurosciences’ in the minor ‘Biomolecular Sciences and Neurosciences’. Course in the minor 'Topics in Biomedical Sciences'

REMARKS
The track ‘Neurosciences’ is an excellent preparation for the Master Neurosciences. This minor course requires a minimum of 25 participants and a maximum of 150. This course is part of the Minor Neurosciences and the minor Topics in Biomedical Sciences. Students from both minors have priority.