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
General anatomo-functional organization of central nervous system. Basic functioning of motor system
and of some sensory sistems.
Full programme
-General anatomo-functional organization of the nervous system;
-Electrophysiological and anatomical techniques for studying the nervous system;
- Brief overview of electrochemical properties; biological membrane and channels
- General physiology of the neuron (resting potential, action potential, electrotonic currents)
- Synaptic transmission (neuromuscular synapse; central synapses; ionotropic and metabotropic neurotransmitters and their receptors); neurotransmitters (catecholaminergic; serotonergic; GABAergic)
-Psychophysics of perception;
Somatosensory system: receptors, somatosensory pathways; cortical somatosensory areas (primary somatosensory areas and high order somatic areas);
-Visual system:
Eye organization; retina and visual pathways; visual cortical areas (organization primary visual cortex and hints on high order visual areas);
-Acoustic system:
Structure of the ear. Acoustic receptors; auditory pathways; cortical auditory areas (primary audotory area and hints on high order auditory cortex);
-Structure and function of brainstem (cranial nerves; reticular formation; brainstem nuclei; ascending and descending pathways);
-Vestibular system
-Spinal reflexes (stretch reflex; flexor reflex);
-Behavioral and neurophysiological postural control;
-Anatomy and physiology of cerebellum and basal ganglia;
-Cortical motor system; anatomo-functional aspects of primary motor cortex;
hints on sensorimotor transformations and on premotor cortex
Bibliography
Fondamenti anatomo-fisiologici dell'attività psichica. A cura di A. Maravita
Ed. Poletto
Teaching methods
Lectures will consist of lectures in presence
Assessment methods and criteria
Oral examinations.
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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