NRSC 581 Neural mechanisms of behavior

Focuses on arthropods as model systems for understanding the control of behavior by the nervous system. Introduces sense organs and sensory processing, control of movement by motor neurons and central motor circuits, and integrative mechanisms and neuronal plasticity that give rise to complex behavior such as learning and memory.

Timetable

written paper for class
web links

Syllabus
Introduction: Arthropod sense organs-nervous system-behavior
Optomotor behavior and motion detection
Eye design and photo receptors
Color and polarization vision
Olfactory behavior and chemoreceptors
Olfaction: central processing
Mechanoreception
Phonotaxis and auditory processing
Thermoreception
Fast sensory-motor reflexes
Pattern generation: walking
Flight control
Neuromodulation
Development and behavioral plasticity
Learning and memory: behavior and brain structures
Learning and memory: circuits and molecules