Neuroplasticity and Neurogenesis in Health and Disease: Molecules, Cells, and Circuits
NS&B 360Z
Summer 2025
| Section:
01
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| Crosslisting:
BIOL 360Z |
This course will examine structural and functional neuroplasticity in the nervous system. The ability of the nervous system to reorganize itself by forming new connections, strengthening existing connections, or pruning away old synaptic connections is regulated by our environment, both within the body and the external world. We'll examine critical periods in development when sensory experiences change and sculpt the wiring of the brain, learn how the birth of new neurons changes across the lifespan, and how adult neurogenesis is altered by aging process, physical exercise, stress, and neuropsychiatric disorders, such as epilepsy and Alzheimer's Disease. We'll also learn about the potential stem cell therapies for enhancing brain repair and plasticity after brain injuries. After the basic material is introduced, class sessions will be scientific article discussion-based. Students will prepare for class by reading scientific papers and reviews on the topic. In class, we will introduce the topic with slide presentation and after that, we will discuss the topic based on the scientific article discussion. |
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| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
NSM NS&B |
| Course Format: Lecture / Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: NS&B213 OR BIOL213 OR PSYC240 |
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Fulfills a Requirement for: (Biology)(Neuroscience and Behavior) |
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Past Enrollment Probability: Not Available |
| SECTION 01 - Summer Session I |
Major Readings: Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore
Book: Neurogenesis and Neural Plasticity; Catherine Belzung, Peter Wigmore. Springer Berlin, Heidelberg; 2013. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-36232-3.
The online version of the book is available in the library to download, for free.
Book: The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science (James H. Silberman Books). Doidge, Norman (2007) Paperback copies are available at the campus bookstore and on reserve in the Library.
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Examinations and Assignments:
After the classes students will have extensive opportunities for feedback and will be requested to write an assessment for the last class, having to present it as an oral presentation of their assessment. Student evaluation will also include a final exam. |
Additional Requirements and/or Comments:
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Instructor(s): STAFF
Times: TBA; Location: TBA |
| Total Enrollment Limit: 15 | | SR major: 3 | JR major: 3 | | |
| Seats Available: 15 | GRAD: X | SR non-major: 3 | JR non-major: 3 | SO: 3 | FR: X |
| Drop/Add Enrollment Requests | | | | | |
| Total Submitted Requests: 0 | 1st Ranked: 0 | 2nd Ranked: 0 | 3rd Ranked: 0 | 4th Ranked: 0 | Unranked: 0 |
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