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Unit of study_
ANAT2010: Concepts of Neuroanatomy
2023 unit information
This unit introduces fundamental principles in the structure, organisation and function of the mammalian central and peripheral nervous systems. We begin with an exploration of the basic building blocks - the cellular composition - of the brain and spinal cord. We'll then consider the overall organisation of the nervous system, followed by an in-depth focus on sensory and motor system concepts. This unit will then consider the building of a brain during development, from laying down the overall organisational plan to establishing connections in the nervous system. Concepts of higher order functions such as memory and sensory perception are introduced, followed by examples of neurodegenerative diseases. The theory component will also focus on a range of techniques in neuroanatomy, from experimental neuronal tracing studies to in vivo functional imaging, used to derive our understanding of nervous system connectivity and function. Tutorial meetings will provide the opportunity to encounter topics in functional anatomy and histology of the brain using photographs, diagrams, models, animations and problem-solving scenarios using real world clinical examples. Laboratory practical sessions offer students the special privilege to examine human brain specimens in the Anatomy labs and museum. Structural dentifications in typical magnetic resonance images will assist in reinforcing basic nervous system anatomy in a format that students are likely to encounter in further study. The production of a scientific e-poster introduces students to critical evaluation of a topic in the neuroscientific literature and communication of a core idea in words and graphics. This subject is of interest to students studying anatomy and related disciplines, students planning further study in neuroscience at senior levels and students in allied health fields. As the study of neuroscience embraces the fields of engineering, artificial intelligence, mathematics and computer science, economics. and law, this subject also serves as an elective for a wide range of study pathways.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Medicine and Health
| Study level | Undergraduate |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | Department of Medical Sciences |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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6 credit points from BIOL1XXX or MEDS1X01 or CHEM1XX1 or CHEM1903 |
|---|---|
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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ANAT2910 or BIOS1171 or BMED2401 or BMED2402 or BMED2403 or BMED2405 or BMED2406 or BMED2801 or BMED2802 or BMED2803 or BMED2804 or BMED2805 or BMED2806 or BMED2807 or BMED2808 |
| Assumed knowledge:
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Human biology highly recommended. At least 48 science credits recommended |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Identify the cellular components of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nervous system in photomicrographs and diagrams
- LO2. Identify major features of the brain and spinal cord in prosected specimens, models, diagrams, and photographs
- LO3. Describe the structural and functional relationships between major nervous system structures and apply this knowledge to basic clinical examples and to examples of neuroanatomical research
- LO4. Identify and describe the fundamental organisation of sensory and motor systems in humans using in-depth examples of specific motor and sensory systems
- LO5. Describe the major phases and mechanisms of nervous system development and relate to the basic structure of the adult human nervous system.
- LO6. Apply concepts of the structure/function relationship of major brain regions and cytoarchitecture to mechanisms of brain development and neurodegeneration
- LO7. Recognise and apply the core techniques - histology, in vivo imaging, experimental tracing studies, and pathology that form the basis of our understanding brain function at an anatomical level.
- LO8. Apply fundamental principles of brain anatomy to a critical evaluation of the scientific literature, public media, and emerging technologies in a scientific e-poster or literature review.
Unit availability
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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