Frontiers in Neural Development (12 C, 14 SWS) [M.Bio.322]

Learning objectives In-depth knowledge of neural development of insects. In-depth knowledge of principles and mechanisms of neural development of vertebrates and insects (among others: regionalization of the neuroectoderm, axon guidance, synaptogenesis, neural stem cells, glia). Knowledge of the most important model systems for neuro-developmental biology. Basic insights into the evolution of neural development. In-depth knowledge of the most important experimental approaches in neuro-developmental biology.

Core skills: Conception of experiments to answer scientific questions using modern methods. Execution of selected genetic, molecular and cell biological experiments (inter alia Drosophila: mutants and transgenic approaches, fluorescent immunohistochemistry; mouse: in vivo labeling of brain slices, in vitro cell differentiation, neural stem cells, myelination). Critical analysis and discussion of the results. Application of image processing software for data analysis and scientific representation of data.

Examination requirements: Knowledge of the neural development of vertebrates and invertebrates. Knowledge of different model systems and their respective strengths and disadvantages. Knowledge of modern methods for the analysis of neural development. Applying this knowledge to new scientific questions (for example, designing experiments and discussing possible outcomes).

Courses and examinations
1. Lecture: »Development and Evolution of the Nervous system« (2 SWS)
2. Seminar: »Conception of experiments with modern methods« (1 SWS)
3. Tutorial: »Exercises and consolidation of lecture ‚Development and Evolution of the Nervous system‘« (1 SWS)
4. Methods course: »Development of the nervous system« (10 SWS)

Examination: written examination (90 minutes)

Selection options
elective-compulsory

Admission requirements
cannot be combined with M.Bio.392 or M.Bio.393

Number of repeat examinations permitted
Twice

Course frequency: Academic Term
Each summer-semester

Duration
One semester

Language
English

Maximum number of students
12

Person responsible for module
Prof. Dr. Gregor Bucher