Topics in Neuroscience (390-0-29)

Topic

Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis

Instructors

Wei-Chun Wang

Meeting Info

Technological Institute M120: Mon, Wed, Fri 3:00PM - 3:50PM

Overview of class

This course will emphasize active learning and will be taught using a mixture of short lectures,
readings, assignments, quizzes, group discussions, journal clubs, and research proposal
presentations. This course will introduce key topics related to the microbiota-gut-brain axis. In
addition, students will develop the skills to critically read and analyze primary research articles.
Furthermore, students will work as a team to discuss research papers, deliver a journal club
presentation, and propose a future research direction.

Registration Requirements

Prerequisites: Students must have completed NEUROSCI 202-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; NEUROSCI 311-0 and NEUROSCI 206-0; or BIOL_SCI 302-0.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:
1. Discuss topics and content centered on the microbiota-gut-brain axis.
2. Utilize scientific databases and online resources to aid in critically evaluating published work.
3. Explain and interpret relevant biomedical methodology used to study the microbiota-gut-brain
axis.
4. Summarize and critique research articles on the microbiota-gut-brain axis using the scientific
method.
5. Value the importance of microbiota-gut-brain communication in health and disease.

Class Materials (Required)

Instructor will provide reading material related to lectures.

Class Materials (Suggested)

Computer

Class Notes

This course will open up to non-majors on May 24th.

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.