Archived Version

The Degree Regulations and Programmes of Study has been formulated as a dynamic online publication in order to provide the most up to date information possible. Master versions of the Degree Regulations and Programmes of Study incorporating all changes to date are archived twice a year on 1 September and within the first three University working days prior to the start of Semester 2 in January. Please note that some of the data recorded about this course has been amended since the last master version was archived. That version should be consulted to determine the changes made.

view archived version

Somatosensory Mechanisms (U01069)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : MED-4-NSsomat

We will study the physiological characteristics of peripheral nerves, the neuroanatomical organisation of afferent pathways and the neuropharmacology and molecular mechanisms involved in somatosensory neural processing and its modulation, through lectures/practical/discussions. Emphasis will be on processing of nociceptive/pain sensation and mechanisms by which analgesia may be induced. The molecular changes in spinal cord underlying chronic pain represent a distinct form of neural plasticity in the central nervous system. Pain arising from nerve injury (neuropathic pain), unlike inflammation, is resistant to many centrally acting analgesics. Neural mechanisms underlying these different pain states and new targets for the design of therapeutic agents will be explored. Neurotransmission, nerve growth and signalling mechanisms in pathological states are addressed and investigations related to clinical pain problems are presented. Discussions: gene expression in sensory systems, factors regulating somatosensory processing, growth factor regulation of sensory neurons and cortical somatosensory processing in clinical pain states. Immunocytochemical techniques to investigate chronic pain mechanisms will allow familiarisation with (a) quantitative data recording and analysis, (b) experimental protocol design/data capture, (c) data interpretation and presentation. A practical report and an oral presentation will form course assessment. 1-2 projects offered. Feedback comments include: 'Very interesting and engaging course, well taught and supported. Lived up to expectations, lab work surprisingly enjoyable'.

Entry Requirements

? This course is not available to visting students.

? Pre-requisites : Permission of the Curriculum Approval Officer.

? Special Arrangements for Entry : Directors of Studies must contact the Programme Secretary or Programme Organiser for Honours Neuroscience before registering a student for this course. Priority is given to Honours Neuroscience students.