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Brain, Hormones and Metabolism

HAP40306

About this course

During the course Brain Hormones and Metabolism different aspects of brain function will be discussed, with specific emphasis on the physiological aspects. The course is subdivided in 5 themes, namely morphology of the brain, the aging brain, mitochondrial basis of brain diseases, brain-muscle communication and brain-gut communication. Theme 1-3 are related to the (aging) brain, and are considered to be fundamental knowledge of the brain and brain-related conditions. Theme 4 and 5 focus on the role of the brain in the functioning of periferal organs (intestine and muscle). An important part of the course will involve a research project-oriented lab cycle. As part of this cycle, students will perform a research project linked to the themes of the course. The outcomes of this research project are presented in a group report and presentation.

Learning outcomes

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to:

  • Interpret and analyse how neurons in the brain communicate with each other
  • Explain the role of the AMPA and NMDA receptors in memory formation, and explain the molecular basis of memory-related illnesses
  • Explain the role of mitochondria in neural cell function and how it relates to brain diseases
  • Interpret and analyse how the brain controls skeletal muscle function, and how this is altered by fatigue and aging
  • Analyse and integrate the effects of peripheral hunger and satiety signals to feeding circuits in the brain with specific emphasis on the hypothalamic neurons
  • Setup an experiment to demonstrate a.o. the GDF15 response in cell lines in response to a trigger and interpret the results

Prior knowledge

Mandatory Knowledge:
ZSS06100 Laboratory Safety
Assumed Knowledge:
EZO10306 Human and Animal Biology I; HAP20306 Human and Animal Biology, part 2; HAP21806 Behavioural Endocrinology.

Resources

Additional information

  • Credits
    ECTS 6
  • Level
    master
If anything remains unclear, please check the FAQ of Wageningen University.

Offering(s)

  • Start date

    10 March 2025

    • Ends
      2 May 2025
    • Term *
      Period 5
    • Location
      Wageningen
    • Instruction language
      English
    • Register between
      1 Jun, 00:00 - 9 Feb 2025
    Enrolment open
These offerings are valid for students of Utrecht University