BIONB 4970

The Brain - Its Evolution and Development

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2015-2016 Catalog.

How does the brain evolve? One of the fastest-growing areas of study in neuroscience is the evolution of developmental mechanisms that have shaped the remarkable diversity in brain organization observed among vertebrates. This lecture course will consider the evolutionary and developmental origins ("evo-devo") of vertebrate brains from phylogenetic, molecular, anatomical, physiological, and behavioral perspectives. Topics include the evo-devo of brain regions such as the cerebral hemispheres and brainstem; sensory systems ranging from olfaction to vision and hearing; motor systems for posture, locomotion and speech; and mechanisms of social and sexual plasticity.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: BIONB 2220 or equivalent.

Permission Note Enrollment limited to: 50 students. Intended for juniors, seniors, and graduate students.

Outcomes

• Obtain a basic understanding of vertebrate brain organization.
• Critically evaluate the molecular, anatomical, physiological, and behavioral mechanisms proposed to influence the diversity in vertebrate brain organization.
• Prepare a bibliography addressing major trends in brain evolution for a single group of vertebrates.
• Communicate an understanding of vertebrate brain evolution in PowerPoint and essay formats.
• Work as part of a team to prepare a website outlining the major trends in brain evolution for a single group of vertebrates.

Distribution Category (PBS)

When Offered Spring.

Comments After Spring 2016, this course will revert to a Fall, alternate year, offering.

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