Aims

- To study the normal function of the sensory systems, especially the visual and somatosensory systems.
- To study the neurophysiological mechanisms responsible for controlling movements, from the simple reflexes to the most sophisticated voluntary hand movements.
- To investigate the neural basis of learning and memory.
- To provide the basic knowledge for further advanced Neuroscience courses.

Main themes

- Introduction to the most important techniques in Neurosciences: recordings, reversible lesions, transcranial magnetic stimulation, functional brain imaging¿
- Receptors and transduction mechanisms
- Central processing of sensory informations: vision, tactile, pain, proprioception and balance.
- Motor control: spinal reflexes, muscle tone, posture, corticospinal system, motor cortical areas, basal ganglia, cerebellum, voluntary movements, locomotion, motor coordination¿
- Sensori-motor integration; role of the posterior parietal cortex in movement control.
- Distinct forms of learning and memory.

Content and teaching methods

- Introduction to the most important techniques in Neurosciences: recordings, reversible lesions, transcranial magnetic stimulation, functional brain imaging¿
- Receptors and transduction mechanisms
- Central processing of sensory informations: vision, tactile, pain, proprioception and balance.
- Motor control: spinal reflexes, muscle tone, posture, corticospinal system, motor cortical areas, basal ganglia, cerebellum, voluntary movements, locomotion, motor coordination¿
- Sensori-motor integration; role of the posterior parietal cortex in movement control.
- Distinct forms of learning and memory.

Other credits in programs