A laboratory course on electrophysiological methods in neuroscience. Part I, Basic techniques (electronics, microelectrodes, suction electrodes, pin electrodes) for recording resting, action and receptor potentials. Part II: Investigating a central pattern generator that produces repetitive movements. Part II employs computer-based data acquisition and pharmacological treatments, and involves a self-designed research project. The course includes a discussion of articles and reviews each week. For the syllabus and videos of procedures, see the open website: tinyurl.com/SmithBio330.

A laboratory course on electrophysiological methods in neuroscience. Part I, Basic techniques (electronics, microelectrodes, suction electrodes, pin electrodes) for recording resting, action and receptor potentials. Part II: Investigating a central pattern generator that produces repetitive movements. Part II employs computer-based data acquisition and pharmacological treatments, and involves a self-designed research project. The course includes a discussion of articles and reviews each week. For the syllabus and videos of procedures, see the open website: tinyurl.com/SmithBio330.

The TEM is used to study morphological features of large molecules, cells, tissues, small organisms, and particles at a resolution of 0.3 nm. Ultrathin sections (~100nm) need to be cut to study internal features of cells and tissue. Negative staining techniques can be applied to observe large molecules, small organisms, and particles. Mechanical and optical components will be reviewed and operational parameters improving image quality covered. Instruction includes lectures, demonstrations and discussions and substitutes part of CMI training towards independent microscope use.

The SEM is used to examine small surface features of both biological and nonbiological materials. By using a beam of electrons, a resolution of 3-10nm can be achieved. Besides high-resolution surface topography, compositional information about a sample can be collected when the system is equipped with an X-ray detector. Mechanical and optical components will be reviewed and operational parameters improving image quality covered. Instruction includes lectures, demonstrations and discussions and substitutes part of CMI training towards independent microscope use.

The LSCM is used to study fluorescently labelled live or fixed cells, tissues, and small organisms. By blocking the out-of-focus light, the image quality is improved compared to widefield fluorescence microscopy. Optical sections of materials can be collected and used to reconstruct the three-dimensional structure. Mechanical and optical components will be reviewed and operational parameters improving image quality covered. Instruction includes lectures, demonstrations and discussions and substitutes part of CMI training towards independent microscope use.

Molecular level structure-function relationships in the nervous system. Topics include development of neurons, neuron-specific gene expression, mechanisms of neuronal plasticity in learning and memory, synaptic release, molecular biology of neurological disorders, and molecular neuropharmacology. Prerequisites: BIO 200 and NSC 210 or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 20.

The use of immunological techniques in clinical diagnosis and as research tools. Experimental exercises include immune cell population analysis, immunofluorescence, Western blotting, ELISA and agglutination reactions. An independent project is completed at the end of the term. Prerequisite: BIO 306 (may be taken concurrently). Enrollment limited to 16 students.

An introduction to the immune system covering the molecular, cellular, and genetic bases of immunity to infectious agents. Special topics include immunodeficiencies, transplantation, allergies, immunopathology and immunotherapies. Prerequisite: At least one of the following: BIO 202, 204 or 230. Laboratory (BIO 307) is recommended but not required.

Fundamental concepts of nervous system function at the cellular level (electrical signals, membrane potentials, propagation, synapses) and also the systems level (motor control, generating behavior, perception of visual form, color and movement). This course provides a strong foundation for BIO 310 and NSC 318. See website (tinyurl.com/bio300) for full syllabus. Prerequisites: BIO 200 or 202 or NSC 210.

A largely anatomical exploration of the evolutionary origins, adaptations and trends in the biology of vertebrates. Enrollment limited to 20 students. BIO 272 is normally taken with or prior to BIO 273.