This course explores the structure and functions of neurons and glia—the cells that make up our nervous system. Alongside this, we explore how the function (or dysfunction) of these cells contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. During this course, we’ll discuss how neurons and glial cells are specialized for their functions, including how glial cells are able to insulate our neurons to increase their signaling speeds, and how neurons are able to keep themselves healthy despite their unusual shapes. Importantly, we’ll also investigate what can go wrong when the functions of neurons and glial cells are compromised by injury or disease.Pre-requisites: Students should understand the basic fundamentals of animal biology (cell theory, genetics, molecular biology). ‘Introduction to the nervous system’ recommended but not required. This course can be taken alone, or in conjunction with the course ‘Using neural signaling to understand pain,’ which describes how neurons communicate with each other.Not Offered This TermEnroll