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 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. Neural prosthetics for the restoration of sight

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

10. Cellular principles of somatosensory plasticity

11. The auditory pathway

12. Auditory neurophysiology and neuropharmacology

13. Cortical basis and disorders of human auditory cognition

14. Multisensory integration

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.