Learning Outcomes

Organization of the CNS

Be able to describe the overall organization of the central nervous system (CNS)

Functional Classes of Neurons

Identify the three functional classes of neurons: afferent, efferent, and interneurons.
Explain their role, distribution, and connections within the nervous system.

Synapse Physiology and Transmission

Explain the mechanisms of synaptic transmission, including the steps involved in neurotransmitter release and receptor activation.

Types of Glial Cells

Identify the main types of glial cells (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and ependymal cells)
Explain the function of glial cells to support the health and functionality of the nervous system.

Protection and Nourishment of the Brain

Understand the protective and nourishing roles of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), meninges, and the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
Describe how these structures contribute to maintaining homeostasis in the brain.

Brain Organization and Function

Outline the organization of major brain regions (forebrain, brainstem, cerebellum).
Discuss their general functional associations between brain regions.

Spinal Cord Organization

Describe the organization of the spinal cord and how the mapping of neurons from spinal cord sections to various organs is established.

Reference Book Chapter:

Sherwood. Human physiology from cells to systems. 8th edition, 2011-168-218.pdf

Lecture Slides

Recorded lectures are available under "Media gallery".

Unit 1-Central Nervous system_lecture slides.pptx

Workshop Module B - Unit 1: CNS

Workshop lecture slides with activities

Activity 2: MCQ

Online videos (extra material)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RNLceVI8jcc

(Covers primarily the CNS function and organization, with some information on PNS branches)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3fLmpepJfg

(An overview of the CNS, with a few minutes at the end on the development of the nervous system - which is not in the learning objectives but very interesting)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WhowH0kb7n0

(Synaptic transmission)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2hHt_PXe5o&t=33s

(Action potentials)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qS83wD29PY

(Neuron structure and functional components)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWR3nML_R8Q

(Cerebral Spinal Fluid)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIkgQcmv0Xs

(The Meninges)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9sN9gOEdG4

(Blood-brain barrier)