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The Cellular Neurophysiology course provides an in-depth exploration of the cellular and molecular features of neurons. Key topics include the cellular components of the nervous system, CNS development, and the organization and function of synaptic and non-synaptic regions in neurons. The course examines the roles of presynaptic and postsynaptic structures, axonal and dendritic polarity, and synaptic vesicle dynamics, delving into mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity and learning. Students will also study injury responses, repair processes, and the differences in regenerative capacity between the CNS and PNS. The course concludes with an analysis of gap junctions in neural communication, development, and disease.
* Major cellular components of the nervous system. Classification of neurons based on traditional methods and novel approaches.
* Migratory pathways during CNS development. Development of neuronal polarity and axon / dendrite specification. Regulation of axonal and dendritic intracellular transport: neuronal transport routes, cytoskeleton and motor protein types and functions.
* Mosaic structure of neurons I.: the presynaptic area and its functions. Quantal release and Ca microdomains within the presynapse. Synaptic vesicle turnover and presynaptic architecture.
* Mosaic structure of neurons II.: the postsynaptic area and its functions. Structure and function of dendritic spines. Formation and maintenance of the postsynaptic area. Phase separation and scaffold proteins, cytoskeletal rearrangements. Neurotransmitter receptor transport and turnover. Comparison of excitatory and inhibitors postsynaptic features.
* Mosaic structure of neurons III.: the axon and the axonal initial segment. Formation, structure and functions of the AIS and the Ranvier node. Myelin sheath within the PNS and the CNS.
* Repair and regeneration within the central and peripheral nervous system upon mechanical injury. Proximal and distal events upon axonal transection, retrograde and anterograde signals. Differences in axonal regeneration within the PNS and CNS. Astroglia reactions, glial scar formation.
* Different forms of neuronal plasticity and its main forms: presynaptic and postsynaptic components. Short and long-term synaptic plasticity. Associative learning: Associative learning: spike-timing dependent plasticity, LTP and LTD. Intrinsic and homeostatic plasticity, activity-dependent adaptation at the synaptic and cellular level.
* Gap junctions (GJs) within the nervous system: functional and pathological roles. Structure and composition of GJs and hemichannels. Functional importance of GJs during development, synapse maturation and network functions. GJs in pathological conditions.
At the end of the course, the learner will be able to identify the major cellular components of the nervous system and describe unique characteristics of neurons, including their classification using both traditional and modern approaches. Students will be able to distinguish between presynaptic and postsynaptic functions and compare the structural and functional properties of these areas. In addition, the learner will be able to understand the formation, structure, and functional role of the axonal initial segment (AIS) and the node of Ranvier in neural communication, as well as to evaluate different forms of neuronal plasticity. Students will also be able to describe the repair and regeneration processes in the nervous system following injury, highlighting differences between the CNS and PNS. Finally, the learner will be able to to discuss the structure and function of gap junctions, including their role in development, network functions, and pathological conditions.
The course will take place in the Spring semester of 2024/25, with sessions organized once a week over 8 meetings. Each session will last 2.5 hours, including two short breaks. Attendance is mandatory. Hungarian students will attend in-person at the South Building of the Lágymányos Campus, while international students can join online via Teams.
Active participation is expected to enhance comprehension of the course material. Lecture handouts, along with recommended readings from textbooks or review papers, will be made available before each session. Students should review these materials beforehand to gain an initial understanding of the topics. Group discussions will take place in Teams breakout rooms to deepen understanding, with discussion topics provided in advance to allow students to prepare individually.
A background in biology, such as a BSc in Biology or a related field, is required to engage fully with the course material. This course is especially recommended for students interested in the molecular and cellular foundations of neuronal functions, thus a fundamental knowledge of general molecular and cellular biology is essential.
1) Byrne, Heidelberger, Waxham: From Molecules to Networks: An Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience Eds: J. H. Byrne, R. Heidelberger, M. N. Waxham. Academic Press, 3rd Ed., 2014. ISBN: 978-0-12-397179-1
2) Purves (Ed.): Neuroscience. 6th Edition 2018 Oxford University Press ISBN 9781605353807
3) scientific review papers (provided via the course’s Canvas / Teams site)
The course integrates lectures with interactive group activities to support a thorough understanding of cellular neurophysiology. Each session combines passive and active learning in a structured approach:
1. Pre-Lecture Preparation: Students review handouts and recommended readings beforehand, enabling more engaged and effective participation. Discussion topics are provided in advance to support individual preparation.
2. Lectures: Core concepts are delivered through hybrid lectures (to be recorded in Teams). Key topics are introduced in group discussions (see the next point) and then synthesized in a lecture overview, guided by the instructor.
3. Group Discussions in Breakout Rooms: Collaborative discussions on Teams allow students to engage with peers, ask questions, and deepen understanding, structured to encourage active participation from all.
4. Supplemental Online Resources: Textbooks, lecture recordings, and additional resources support learning outside of class and prepare students for the oral exam.
This challenge-based, student-centered, and technology-enhanced approach ensures students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights, preparing them for advanced study and research. Group discussions foster transversal skills and promote intercultural learning. An inclusive environment is emphasized through equitable participation, support materials for diverse learning styles, and instructor openness to feedback, creating a welcoming space where all students can benefit from their active participation.
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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
