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Synaptic Pharmacology and Function

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Synaptic Pharmacology and Function

This course is part of Synaptic Pharmacology Specialization

Instructor: Anna Lee, Ph.D.

Included with

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3 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Intermediate level

Recommended experience

5 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

3 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Intermediate level

Recommended experience

5 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

Skills you'll gain

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

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This course is part of the Synaptic Pharmacology Specialization

When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.

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There are 3 modules in this course

This course explores how the nervous system communicates, with a special focus on pharmacological principles, synapses, and the neural control of movement. Learners will explore the fundamental principles of synaptic transmission, including how neurons communicate with each other and with muscles, and how drugs and other chemicals, such as poisons, can modify these processes.

The course emphasizes the neuromuscular junction as a model system for understanding how synapses translate electrical signals into movement. Topics include neurotransmitters and receptors, and the mechanisms by which drugs alter signaling in the neuronal interface with muscles. Real-world examples from medicine, pharmacology, and everyday substances are used to illustrate how changes at the synapse influence behavior and motor function. To be successful in this course, learners should have a background in biology. This course provides a strong foundation for those interested in neuroscience, pharmacology, medicine, or related health and biological sciences.

Module details

This module introduces the principles of receptor pharmacology, including the concepts of potency, efficacy, and the actions of drugs as agonists, antagonists, and allosteric modulators. We will also explore how different routes of drug administration influence absorption and effect, as well as how therapeutic windows determine safe and effective drug use.

What's included

4 videos1 reading2 assignments

4 videosTotal 27 minutes

Introduction to the Synaptic Pharmacology1 minute
Pharmacology of the Synapse: Receptor binding, agonists and potency8 minutes
Pharmacology of the Synapse: Receptor antagonism14 minutes
Pharmacokinetics, routes of administration and the therapeutic window4 minutes

1 readingTotal 10 minutes

Course Syllabus10 minutes

2 assignmentsTotal 60 minutes

Introduction to Pharmacological Principles practice quiz30 minutes
Introduction to Pharmacological Principles Quiz30 minutes

This module introduces synapses as specialized sites of communication between neurons. We will learn about the historical discoveries that led to our understanding of synaptic transmission and how modern imaging reveals the dynamics of synaptic signaling. The role of synapses in coordinating spatial and temporal patterns of neuronal communication will also be explored.

What's included

1 video2 readings2 assignments

This module explores the molecular events that control neurotransmitter release from neurons, using the neuromuscular junction as a model system. We will examine how toxins disrupt synaptic vesicle fusion and neurotransmitter breakdown, leading to impaired communication between nerves and muscles.