BIOL 310 Neural Development (Not offered 2006-2007)
Development can be seen as a tradeoff between genetically-determined processes and environmental stimuli. The tension between these two inputs is particularly apparent in the developing nervous system, where many events must be
predetermined, and where plasticity, or altered outcomes in response to environmental conditions, is also essential. Plasticity is reduced as development and differentiation proceed, and the potential for regeneration after injury or disease in
adults is limited; however, some exceptions to this rule exist, and recent data
suggest that the nervous system is not as hard-wired as previously thought. In
this course we will discuss the mechanisms governing nervous system development, from relatively simple nervous systems such as that of the roundworm, to
the more complicated nervous systems of humans, examining the roles played
by genetically specified programs and non-genetic influences.
Format: lecture/discussion/laboratory, six hours per week. Evaluation will be
based on exams, short papers and lab reports.
Prerequisites: Biology 202 and either Biology 205 or Biology 212. Enrollment
limit: 24 (expected: 12). Preference given to Biology majors.