COURSE DESCRIPTION: We will consider the neuronal specific adaptations of organelles and pathways that regulate proteostasis. In-depth review of mechanisms underlying protein synthesis, recycling and degradation in neurons; mechanisms of polarized trafficking underlying protein localization at specific locations during neuronal differentiation and in mature neurons; neuronal homeostatic adaptations to activity-dependent changes in the intact circuitry; molecular basis of activity-dependent synapse remodeling under physiopathological conditions.

REQUIRED MATERIALS:No specific material, including textbook, required; the Course will be structured to include lectures, discussion of current literature and attendance to seminars by Invited Speakers on topics related to Course material.

PREREQUISITES: No prerequisite; previous attendance of the neuroscience MCN Course encouraged but not required.

SUITABLE FOR 1ST YEAR STUDENTS: Yes

UNIQUE TRAINING OFFERED IN THIS COURSE: Current Neuroscience Courses focus primarily on electrical properties of neurons, properties of ion channels, synaptic activity (MCN); properties of neuronal networks (System Neuroscience); and devel-opment of the nervous system (Developmental Neuroscience). The proposed elective Course will complement the curriculum by providing in-depth review of fundamental cellular mechanisms that endow neurons with the molecular machinery underlying their unique property of supporting directional information flow and capacity to modify such machinery on demand.

STUDENT ASSESSMENTS: Class participation and Oral presentation

THE COURSE IS LIMITED TO A GROUP OF 15 STUDENTS 

CREDIT HOURS: 1.5