Genetic and Circuit Analysis of Motivated Behavior (370-0-20)
Instructors
Hojoon Lee
Meeting Info
Technological Institute LG72: Mon, Wed, Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM
Overview of class
This class explores the neural basis of motivated behaviors. We will examine anatomical
structures and functions that provide strategies (e.g. reward vs punishment, pleasure vs pain) to
set our bodies ‘in motion' towards maintaining homeostasis. Specifically, we take an in-depth
look at the drive to maintain energy balance. Why do we eat? How is food detected? How do we
know when to eat and when to stop? What sets the priorities between eating and other needs? Do
genes define behavior? Our goal is to answer these and many other questions about our
interaction with food. As an upper-level course, this highly-interactive class builds on knowledge
from other neuroscience courses (e.g. sensory biology, physiology, etc) for a systematic analysis
of current primary scientific literature. This course will consist of lectures and presentations by
students. This class may be used as a Neuroscience Group B elective or as a Biology Allied Field
elective.
Registration Requirements
NEUROSCI 202-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or NEUROSCI 311-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or
BIOL_SCI 302-0.
Learning Objectives
Students completing this course will:
1. Develop anatomical vocabulary
2. Relate the structure of the central and peripheral nervous systems to their function
3. Understand how animal behaviors arise.
4. Compare and contrast findings in research literature.
5. Identify and apply experimental methodologies.
6. Develop scientific thinking.
Evaluation Method
Other: 60%
Class participation: 10%
Quizzes: 20%
Writing assignments: 10%
Other (see below):
Breakdown of "Other" Oral Presentation 30% Research Paper 30%
This course is designed for advanced students with established foundational knowledge. A key
course objective is to help develop the scientific thought process: asking questions, testing
hypotheses, making observations and interpreting information. In this respect, the evaluative
processes of undergraduate and graduate students are not different.
Class Materials (Required)
None
Class Materials (Suggested)
None
Class Notes
This course was formerly coded by NEUROSCI 390-0-23. You should use NEUROSCI 390-0-23 when looking for CTECs on this course or instructor.
Permission numbers issued for preregistration must be used during your preregistration time.
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisites: NEUROSCI 202-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or NEUROSCI 311-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or BIOL_SCI 302-0.