Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - BISC 423 D100

Developmental Neurobiology (3)

Class Number: 2738

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 25, 2025
    Fri, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 202, MBB 222, and MBB 231, all with a minimum grade of C-. Recommended: BISC 333 or MBB 331.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

All aspects of neuronal development from the specification of neurons in the early embryo to the formation and maturation of neuronal circuits. Both invertebrate and vertebrate model organisms will be studied with emphasis on the molecular basis of nervous system development.

COURSE DETAILS:

This is an introductory course in Developmental Neurobiology. It will cover various aspects of neuronal development beginning with the specification of neurons and regionalization of the developing nervous system in the early embryo. We will follow the birth and differentiation of neurons, their axon outgrowth and navigation as well as synaptic target selection and the formation and maturation of neuronal circuits. The various developmental processes will be presented using studies from both invertebrate and vertebrate model organisms with emphasis on the molecular basis of nervous system development. Selected topics will be explored in more detail using primary literature.

Grading

  • Tutorials 10%
  • Online Quizzes 20%
  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Final Exam 50%

NOTES:

The grading scheme is preliminary.

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

Development of the Nervous System, 4th Edition
Authors: Dan Sanes, Thomas Reh, William Harris, Matthias Landgraf
eBook ISBN: 9780128040287
Hardcover ISBN: 9780128039960
Primary literature will be used in addition to the textbook.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.