• Using molecular and mouse genetics (genetically modified mice) in research on behavior, memory and neuron function with an emphasis on the contemporary methods and new discoveries in neuroscience.  
  • Semester Offered: Spring
  • Credits: 3
  • Course URL: canvas

Prerequisites

Genetics 01:447:380 or Genetic Analysis I 01:447:384 and General Biology Lab 01:119:117 or 01:119:102

Recommended: Methods of Molecular Biology and Statistics

Course Description

Using molecular and mouse genetics (genetically modified mice) in research on behavior, memory and neuron function with an emphasis on the contemporary methods and new discoveries in neuroscience.

Departmental Learning Goals

Course Syllabus 

Spring 2023 Syllabus

Course URL

Canvas

Course Learning Goals

  • To understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms controlling learning, memory and behavior.
  • To understand how these mechanisms can go wrong in mental disorders, and how mouse models can help to understand these disorders, such as depression, postpartum depression, drug addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism, Alzheimer’s and others.
  • To understand how the balance between nature (genes) and nurture (environment and epigenetics) shapes behavior of animals and humans.
  • To be able to read and discuss peer-reviewed original research neuroscience articles published in scientific journals.

Exams, Assignments, and Grading Policy

Every student is expected to present (being in the group of 4-6 people) an original published research paper, work on several tests (also being in the group of 4-6 people) and regularly participate in discussion in class. Participation during class means asking questions that contribute to discussion (and not just to get points for participation -- the latter will not count). Discussions of papers and active participation in class is required for a good grade and counts 20% of the final grade. There are four exams with no final exam. Each exam counts for 20% of the final grade. 

Course Materials

  • Principles of Neural Science, by Kandel, et al. Sixth Edition (2021), (ISBN 9781259642234) – Recommended
  • Original research articles posted on Canvas website material - Required

Course Closed?

There is no wait list for this course. Please continue to monitor WebReg for openings.  Please contact the Genetics Undergraduate Office (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), if you have any questions or concerns.

Faculty

Gleb P. Shumyatsky
Life Sciences Building 322, Busch Campus
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

** All information is subject to change at the discretion of the course coordinator.