Learning objectives
To achieve the knowledge on the anatomical organization and the fundamental neurophysiological mechanisms of brain integrative functions
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
Neuron general physiology and synaptci transmission. Embriology of the nervous system. Anatomy of spinal cord and encephalon. Basic functioning of motor control and some sensory sistems. Autonomic nervous sytem and hypothalamus
Full programme
General anatomy of the nervous system; Embriology of the nervous system and differentiation of the cerebral structures; Techniques for the study of the nervous system; Cytological features of neurons and glia; Hints on electrochemical properties; Biological membrane and channels; General physiology of the neuron (rest potential, action potential; electrotonic currents); Synaptic transmission (neuromuscular junction; central synapses; ionotropic and metabotropic receptors); Types of neurotransmitters; Anatomy of the spinal cord; Reflexes (electrophysiology and behavioral description; stretch and flexor reflex); Structure and basic functions of brainstem (cranial nerves; reticular formation, brain stem main nuclei; ascending and descending pathways); Vestibular system; Posture control; Psychophysics of perception; Somatosensory receptors and ascending pathways; Thalamus; General organization of cerebral cortex; Cortical somatosensory system (including primary somatosensory cortex and high order somatic cortical areas); Acoustic system from cochlea to auditory cortex; Anatomy and physiology of the visual system (retina, visual pathways, primary visual area and hints on high order visual areas); Anatomy and physiology of cerebellum and basal ganglia; Cortical motor system and hints on sensory-motor transformations; Autonomic nervous system; Anatomy and physiology of hypothalamus and limbic system
Bibliography
Fondamenti anatomo-fisiologici dell'attività psichica. A cura di A. MaravitaEd. Poletto
Teaching methods
Lectures will be in blended fashion, consisting of lectures in presence and streaming, and videorecording uploaded on the course electronic site. In the case of persistency of Covid emergency, lectures will be held only on-line or as videorecordings
Assessment methods and criteria
Oral examinations.If needed due to a persistency of Covid emergency, they will be carried out orally in on-line modality
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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