Neuropharmacology of CNS Disorders

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Provide an overview of neurotransmitter systems in the brain and their putative functional roles
• Assess the hypotheses put forward to explain the neurochemical and neurophysiological bases for the following: schizophrenia, affective disorders, drug addiction and autism spectrum disorders.
• Describe the treatments used in these disorders, their efficacy and side-effects
• Describe the various techniques used to investigate CNS disorders and to assess their limitations
• Highlight recent advances in drug therapy that have arisen from a better understanding of the pharmacology of the brain.
• Use examples of psychotomimetic and psychotropic drugs to discuss the biochemical basis of mood and behaviour

The module provides an introduction to functional brain anatomy and important neurotransmitter signalling pathways. This is used as a framework on which to describe the symptoms and treatment of brain disorders with a particular focus on a subset of psychiatric conditions, such as schizophrenia. The possible underlying causes of these disorders, and advances in therapy, are discussed in the light of the most recent research in these topics.

The course is delivered through a series of lectures supported by recommended reading. A workshop on essay skills provides support in preparation for the written assessment.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.