Neurogenetics of Behavior Laboratory (355-0-61)
Instructors
Valerie Kilman
847/491-3086
Hogan 2-160
Meeting Info
Hogan 2-112 Cell/Tissue Cultur: Tues, Thurs 3:30PM - 5:20PM
Overview of class
This is a project-based laboratory to investigate the genetic roots of neurobiology and behavior in a simple model system. We will study neural circuits and behavior using mutant analysis, neuroanatomical techniques, and behavioral paradigms such as courtship, aggression, and circadian and sleep behavior. We will use the fruit fly as a model system because of the amazing genetic tools available to study the fly nervous system and the conservation of basic neurobiological processes between flies and humans. During the first section of the course you will learn a variety of techniques through assigned projects. You will then design a project using the techniques learned in class, to be completed in the final weeks of the course. This will be summarized in a lab report due during finals week.
NOTE 1: This course requires manual dexterity, steady hands, and good vision. You will need to handle flies while keeping them healthy, dissect their brain tissue, and troubleshoot practical problems. If any of these might pose extraordinary challenges for you, please talk to the instructor before registering.
NOTE 2: You will need to come into the labs outside class time at least a few times a week to collect virgin flies. This is done at the beginning (before 9:15 am) and the end of the day and it is an ongoing task. Later in the course you likely also will need to come to finish experiments. Time outside regularly scheduled class is typically 2 or more hours per week, scheduled to our mutual convenience, and motivated students often elect to spend more time. Prerequisites: NEUROSCI 202-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or NEUROSCI 311-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or BIOL SCI 302-0.
Registration Requirements
Prerequisites: NEUROSCI 202-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or NEUROSCI 311-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or BIOL_SCI 302-0.
Learning Objectives
Students will acquire a deep understanding of:
1) Fundamental neurobiological principles arising from studies of the nervous system at the cellular and molecular level.
2) History and recent developments in neuroscience research.
3) Methods used to study the nervous system, including specific experimental techniques relevant to cellular and molecular neuroscience, the design, analysis and interpretation of experiments using specific techniques, and the strengths and limitations of those techniques.
4) Ethical issues raised by the growing body of information generated by neuroscience research, including the use of animals.
Teaching Method
Laboratory
Class Materials (Required)
• Primary research articles and reviews
• Public websites
• Other material assembled/written by the instructor
Class Materials (Suggested)
None
Class Notes
In-person classes only.
Prerequisites: Students must have completed NEUROSCI 202-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or NEUROSCI 311-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or BIOL SCI 302-0.
Enrollment Requirements
Enrollment Requirements: At this time, registration is reserved for neuroscience majors or by department consent.
Prerequisites: Students must have completed NEUROSCI 202-0 & NEUROSCI 206-0; or NEUROSCI 311-0 & NEUROSCI 206-0; or BIOL_SCI 302-0.