The course consists chiefly of laboratory work. The experiments utilize equipment currently employed in modern neurobiological research. Theoretical subjects related to apparatus demonstrated will be taught before each session. The biological background will be studied and additional reading material will be distributed. Emphasis is placed on conducting experiments independently.
Students perfect their skills gradually as the experiments become more complex.
As a summary of the course, the students will plan and conduct an independent research project. The basic system used for electrophysiological experiments. Methods for characterizing time and voltage dependent ionic currents. The synaptic exocytic mechanism. Statistical methods for characterizing the course of neurotransmitter release.