Neurobiology of Learning and Memory II
Through the course, students will gain fundamental knowledge in memory studies and experience flavors of both critical/productive thinking when reading papers.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
Explain fundamental neural mechanisms underlying learning and memory, with emphasis on synaptic plasticity and hippocampal function.
Compare and contrast synaptic and systems consolidation processes, and evaluate their roles in different types of memory.
Interpret experimental data and primary literature related to memory research, demonstrating critical thinking and scientific literacy.
Discuss the anatomical and physiological features of the hippocampus and surrounding brain regions involved in memory formation and retrieval.
Evaluate the role of adult neurogenesis in memory and learning, integrating current research findings into broader theoretical frameworks.
Present and lead discussions on peer-reviewed journal articles, demonstrating the ability to synthesize and communicate complex scientific ideas.
Design a mock research proposal addressing a significant question in memory research, including hypothesis development, experimental design, and justification of methods.
Learn fundamental neural mechanisms of learning and memory, with a focus on memory. Through lectures and journal club presentations, discover connections between synaptic plasticity and memory, and the important role of the hippocampus in different types of memory. Compare and contrast synaptic and systems consolidation mechanisms of memory, and their effects and consequences. Apply this knowledge in preparing a mock grant proposal for a significant question in memory research.
1. Introduction and goals of this course
(short quizzes)
2. Synapse and memory
(short quizzes)
3. Approaches in memory studies
4. Linking synaptic plasticity and memory 1
(short quizzes)
5. Linking synaptic plasticity and memory 2
(short quizzes)
6. Journal Club
Each student chooses a paper for discussion in the class. A list of papers will be given.
7. Systems consolidation
(short quizzes)
8. Anatomy of the Hippocampus and surrounding areas
(short quizzes)
9. Adult neurogenesis (taught by Viviane Saito)
(short quizzes)
10. Hippocampal physiology 1
(short quizzes)
11. Hippocampal physiology 2
(short quizzes)
12. Study Section
Discuss and score research proposals
13. Final exam
short answer quizzes during term (40%), performance during journal club (10%), performance in research proposal/study section (10% /10%), and final exam (30%)
Basic knowledge of cellular biology and neurobiology. Passing “Introduction to Neuroscience” or equivalent is required.
The Neurobiology of Learning and Memory (3rd edition) by Jerry W. Rudy
The Hippocampus Book by Per Andersen, Richard Morris, David Amaral, Tim Bliss & John O’Keefe