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School of Psychology

Neuronal Transduction and Transmission (C1120)

Neuronal Transduction and Transmission

Module C1120

Module details for 2012/13.

15 credits

FHEQ Level 6

Module Outline

The module follows a logical progression from sensory transduction, the point of entry of information into the brain, to an analysis of neuron-to-neuron communication through both chemical and electrical synapses. Transduction mechanisms in the visual and auditory modalities are the main focus, though other sensory modalities are also discussed. An overview of synaptic physiology is provided as an introduction to a detailed analysis of pre- and post-synaptic cell and molecular mechanisms. Non-synaptic information processing will also be introduced. Finally the module considers whether there are limits to the molecular reductionism approach to the problem of how the brain works.

Module learning outcomes

Understand how molecular and macromolecular structures underlie pre- and post-synaptic function

Appreciate the complexity of molecular cascades activated by neurotransmitters

Understand the important role of electrical synaptic transmission

Understand some of the key molecular mechanisms involved in auditory and visual transduction

TypeTimingWeighting
Unseen ExaminationSemester 2 Assessment75.00%
Coursework25.00%
Coursework components. Weighted as shown below.
EssayA1 Week 1 100.00%
Timing

Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.

Weighting

Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.

TermMethodDurationWeek pattern
Autumn SemesterLecture1 hour222222222220

How to read the week pattern

The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.

Dr Sergei Korneev

Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/7434

Dr Liz Somerville

Assess convenor
/profiles/2495

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