PHYL 2041

The aim of this class is to understand the functional mechanisms of the human nervous system and its clinical significance. The course covers the electrical and chemical properties of neurons and glia, and how neurons communicate with one another and with muscle cells. It reviews the motor, sensory and higher integrative functions of the central nervous system, and the closely related autonomic nervous system. It also surveys the physiology and functional anatomy of the somatosensory, visual, auditory, vestibular and chemical senses. Both normal functions and selected pathologies of these systems will be discussed. The class also covers important investigative techniques in neuroscience. The overall objective is to provide a solid, factual foundation of knowledge in neurophysiology as well as its underlying principles.