Module #1 Introduction to Neuroscience Overview of the field of neuroscience, importance of molecular neuroscience, and course objectives
Module #2 Structure and Function of Neurons Anatomy and physiology of neurons, including dendrites, axons, synapses, and neural communication
Module #3 Neurotransmission and Synaptic Plasticity Mechanisms of neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity, and long-term potentiation (LTP)
Module #4 Molecular Biology of the Neuron Introduction to molecular biology, DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in the context of neurons
Module #5 Neuroreceptors and Signaling Pathways Types of neuroreceptors, signal transduction pathways, and second messenger systems
Module #6 Ion Channels and Electrical Signaling Structure and function of ion channels, generation of electrical signals, and action potentials
Module #7 Neurotransmitters and Neuromodulators Overview of major neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, their functions, and effects on behavior
Module #8 Glutamate and GABA:Excitation and Inhibition Role of glutamate and GABA in neurotransmission, excitation, and inhibition
Module #9 Dopamine and Reward Processing Dopamines role in reward, motivation, and addiction
Module #10 Serotonin and Mood Regulation Serotonins role in mood regulation, depression, and anxiety
Module #11 Neurotrophic Factors and Neuroprotection Role of neurotrophic factors in neural development, survival, and protection
Module #12 Molecular Mechanisms of Neurological Disorders Molecular basis of neurological disorders, including Alzheimers, Parkinsons, and Huntingtons diseases
Module #13 Molecular Basis of Psychiatric Disorders Molecular mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders, such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder
Module #14 Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration Role of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases and molecular mechanisms
Module #15 Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration Applications of stem cells in neuroregeneration, neural repair, and neurodevelopment
Module #16 Gene Therapy and Viral Vectors Principles of gene therapy, viral vectors, and applications in neurological disorders
Module #17 Optogenetics and Neural Circuit Manipulation Optogenetic techniques for manipulating neural circuits and behavior
Module #18 Molecular Imaging in Neuroscience Molecular imaging techniques, such as PET and MRI, in neuroscience research and clinical applications
Module #19 Neuropharmacology and Drug Discovery Principles of neuropharmacology, drug discovery, and development for neurological disorders
Module #20 Neuroethics and Societal Implications Ethical considerations and societal implications of molecular neuroscience research and applications
Module #21 Current Topics in Molecular Neuroscience Review of current research and breakthroughs in molecular neuroscience
Module #22 Case Studies in Molecular Neuroscience In-depth analysis of specific cases or studies in molecular neuroscience
Module #23 Research Techniques in Molecular Neuroscience Hands-on experience with research techniques, such as PCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry
Module #24 Course Wrap-Up & Conclusion Planning next steps in Introduction to Molecular Neuroscience career
