NRSC 100 - NEUROSCIENCES

[110 Hours]

This course is designed to introduce the first year medical student to the form, function, and dysfunction of the nervous system. This information is presented in the context of the clinical situation, when feasible, and with an emphasis on the major disease processes a general physician is likely to encounter. Faculty participation primarily involves members from the Departments of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Physiology. The material is presented in four blocks. The first block covers the anatomy and blood supply of the cerebral hemispheres. During this block, the student is also instructed, in a small group setting, in how to do a neurological examination. In addition, there are patient presentations and lectures dealing with stroke and Alzheimer’s Disease. The second block covers the systems located within the cerebrum, i.e. visual, limbic, learning and memory, and the role of the diencephalon in processing information. It also covers basic features of axonal and synaptic transmission, cell signaling, and diseases of molecules and neurotransmitters. In the third block, cortical motor function and the role of the basal ganglia and the cerebellum in motor function are covered as are the diseases associated with these structures. In addition, brain stem pathways and central systems are introduced as are their neurological deficits. The last block covers the auditory and somatosensory systems, sensory receptors, local circuits, spinal cord, pain management, and peripheral nerve and muscle disorders. The course material is presented in lectures combined with laboratory exercises utilizing human brain material, MRI films, and computer driven programs. Computer and video demonstrations as well as patient presentations are used extensively.