The Neuroscience Laboratory aims to provide students with a basic understanding of some of the experimental paradigms and study methods commonly used in the Neuroscience field.
In particular, in the second module we will provide information on the most commonly used preclinical techniques to study the neurobiological substrates of behavior, in normal or pathological conditions. Examples of experimental approaches used to identify and validate new therapeutic targets for the treatment of psychiatric diseases will also be provide
In particular, in the second module we will provide information on the most commonly used preclinical techniques to study the neurobiological substrates of behavior, in normal or pathological conditions. Examples of experimental approaches used to identify and validate new therapeutic targets for the treatment of psychiatric diseases will also be provide
teacher profile teaching materials
Programme
Elements of development of the mammalian nervous system. Neuroanatomy and histology of the nervous system: organization of the central (CNS) and peripheral (PNS) nervous system. Neurons: neuronal subtypes and their distribution. Glial cells: astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia. Cytoarchitecture of selected areas of the CNS: cerebral cortex, basal ganglia, hippocampus, substantia nigra, cerebellum and spinal cord. Human neuropathology: neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. In vivo and in vitro models for the morphological study of human neuropathologies: transgenic mouse models and induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSC). Macroscopic observation and manipulation of neuroanatomical murine samples (brain, spinal cord). Preparation of normal and pathological murine brain samples for immunohistochemical analysis, using neuronal and glial markers. Light microscopic observation and characterization of the morphological phenotype of normal and pathological murine brain. Application of morphological techniques (e.g., immunofluorescence) to the study of iPSC and motor neurons derived from them, using markers for the recognition of specific organelles (mitochondria, peroxisomes). Observation and quantitative analysis by confocal microscopy. Preparation of samples of neuropathological models (in vivo and in vitro) for ultrastructural examination and observation by electron microscopy (SEM, FIB/SEM).Core Documentation
Scientific articles, lecture slides and other useful teaching materials will be provided after each lecture/lab session.Type of delivery of the course
Theoretical and practical lectures. Seminars and specific technical session in groups.Attendance
Compulsory.Type of evaluation
The level of acquired knowledge and competences will be evaluated. The critical ability in reviewing literature on methodological topics related to the subject will also be assessed.