Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

None

Co Requisite Comment

Students wishing to graduate with MRes in Neurosciences must undertake at least one of MMB8010, MMB8019 or MMB8020 and complete a project in Neurosciences.

Aims

The module aims are:

1. introduce the principles and practice of modern methods (primarily neurophysiology, imaging, and computational approaches) for investigating sensory systems (vision, audition and somatosensation).

2. explore sensory physiology at an advanced level from single neuron function to complex neuronal networks in the visual, auditory and somatosensory systems.

3. gain an understanding of how basic experimental studies and clinical investigations reveal the neuronal mechanisms underlying function of sensory systems in health and disease.

4. acquire basic knowledge in neural implant devices to regain lost senses.

5. gain specific knowledge on:

• neuronal signalling mechanisms
• cellular neurophysiology
• invasive and non-invasive techniques for studying the nervous system in humans and experimental animals
• gross sensory neuroanatomy (in primates and simpler animals)
• development of neural function and structure
• genetics and neuroanatomy of specific sensory disorders and their relationship to normal brain function
• multisensory neuromodulation and integration
• functional links between sensory systems, and disorders thereof
• higher brain functions that build on sensory function, such as visual memory and attention, reading, music perception.

6. learn how to acquire scientific knowledge through independent reading, deductive and inductive reasoning.

Outline Of Syllabus

The module will introduce the principles and practice of modern methods (primarily neurophysiological, neuroimaging, and computational approaches) for investigating sensory systems including the visual, auditory and somatosensory systems, chemical senses through a series of sessions;

Topics will include:

1. Essential neuroanatomy

2. Essential cellular neurophysiology

3. Neuroimaging techniques

4. Retinal structure and function

5. Visual system development

6. Colour vision (retinal processing, genetic disorders, central processing)

7. Visual cortical function (modularity, cognitive aspects, visual attention)

8. Sensory prosthetics

9. Somatosensation (touch, pressure, vibration, pain, temperature, position and movement)

10. The auditory pathway and neural oscillations

11. Auditory neurophysiology and neuropharmacology

12. Cortical basis and disorders of human auditory cognition

13. Neuromodulation across sensory modalities

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

Upon completing this module students should be able to:

1. discuss the fundamental organisation of the visual, auditory and somatosensory systems in humans (and other animals in general), and will understand how basic experimental and clinical studies inform present-day knowledge of the function of sensory systems

2. demonstrate a sound knowledge of basic experimental techniques in sensory systems research, including functional neuroimaging (fMRI, EEG, MEG), neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, and computation

3. demonstrate a broad knowledge base of advanced topics in the functioning of the human auditory, visual and somatosensory systems, including: the development of sensory pathways; modularity of vision and hearing; higher-level cognitive functions such as music processing; the genetics and cortical bases of sensory and cognitive disorders; sensorimotor integration.

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of this module the students should be able to:

1. critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the pervasive research paradigms in this field

2. produce a short presentation in power point on sensory systems

3. acquire scientific knowledge through independent reading and deductive and inductive reasoning

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Theoretical content will be provided by lectures and provide a framework on which to construct further guided independent learning. Lectures are presented in logical order, helping to build up deeper knowledge of various subjects.

Various activities will provide opportunities to develop other skills. These include a journal club to develop critical appraisal, preparing and delivering an oral presentation (which is one of the assessment) to help develop presentation skills and oral communication and a workshop (on spike train analysis) to develop analytical skills. A practical on fundamental neuroanatomy will introduce students to
gross anatomy of the human brain, cellular staining techniques and comparative neuroanatomy.

Students will undertake independent study which will involve additional reading and reflection. Assessment preparation and the formative MCQ will consolidate knowledge

Should public health circumstances dictate that it is necessary, in person sessions will be moved to online alternatives.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The essay will test students' detailed knowledge and critical understanding of a selected area of sensory neuroscience.

The oral presentation will help the students to develop their oral skills for presenting current topics in sensory neuroscience

The formative in-course MCQ test will help develop the students' knowledge across the breadth of the course, based on the content of all lectures.

General Notes

N/A