Molecular Principles of Brain Disorders

Description

Our brain enables us to perform even the most complex tasks. Sometimes however, diseases of the brain compromise its optimal function. In this course students learn what the clinical manifestations are of the neurological and psychiatric diseases, and what type of cellular or animal models are around to learn us more on how disturbed processes and systems in the brain lead to these illnesses and that may provide us with clues on treatment options. Various treatments options for these conditions, including the use of pharmacological agents and deep brain stimulation will be discussed. Next, students will be encouraged to critically analyze the impact of brain disorders on society. In this course we will focus on different themes: Theme 1: Neurodegenerative disorders (coordinator Dr. Wiep Scheper) Theme 2: Psychiatric disorders (coordinator Dr. Hylke Vervaeke) Course Objective: Gain insight into the etiology, expression and treatment of various brain diseases, as well as models used in preclinical science. Learning outcomes: After completion of this course, the student is able to: Explain the contribution of genetic and environmental factors to complex multifactorial diseases such as neurological and psychiatric brain disorders Elaborate on the etiology of Alzheimer's Disorder, neurodegenerative disorders, synucleopathies, ADHD, Major Depression Disorder, and Schizophrenia Elaborate on the various treatment options for neurological andpsychiatric brain disorders Explain gene-environment interactions and discuss some examples Elaborate on the differential role of the environment in the etiology of traits / disorders according to the ‘differential-susceptibility hypothesis’ Critically reflect on the impact of brain disorders on society Critically reflect on the boundaries between normal (healthy) and abnormal (ill) behaviour and the implications for society The student can conduct a small literature search and is able to collect, summarise and interpret information. Findings and conclusions, are reported in a written Scientific Review Assessment Information: Exam (Multiple Choice) (60%), Scientific Review Writing (40%), each at least grade 5.5. The Scientific Review Writing assignment can only be retaken in the next academic year, by enrolling in the course. Teaching Methods: Lectures: 44 hours Work groups: 8 hours Self-study literature review ('Scientific Review Writing'): 12 hours Self-study: 104 hours Course coordinators are Hylke Vervaeke and Wiep Scheper