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Overview

The cellular and molecular mechanisms of memory across the brain, in both healthy and diseased states.

Animals must learn to survive, and the brain is the learning machine that does the job. But how does it do it? In this paper, we critically examine the neural mechanisms of learning and memory beyond synaptic plasticity, such as homeostatic plasticity, metaplasticity, intrinsic plasticity and neurogenesis. We also explore the evidence as to whether humans show synaptic or other plasticity, and how plasticity mechanisms become impaired in Alzheimer's disease.

About this paper

Paper title Nervous System Plasticity in Health and Disease
Subject Psychology
EFTS 0.0833
Points 10 points
Teaching period Semester 2 (On campus)
Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) $813.42
International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
Prerequisite
PSYC 430
Restriction
PSYC 474
Eligibility

Entry into Psychology 400-level normally requires a major in Psychology, a B+ average or higher in Psychology 300-level papers, and a pass in PSYC 311 Quantitative Methods. We highly recommend that students have completed PSYC 310 and PSYC 317 or equivalent. Students from other universities must show evidence of an equivalent level of competence.

For Neuroscience students, the prerequisites are met by completion of the requirements for a BSc in Neuroscience with an average grade of at least B+ in 300-level Neuroscience papers.

Completion of PSYC 430 in the first semester is strongly recommended, but not required.

Contact

owen.jones@otago.ac.nz

Teaching staff

Dr Owen Jones

Paper Structure

The paper covers three key themes:

  • Novel memory storage mechanisms and regulators
  • Synaptic plasticity in humans
  • Mechanisms of memory and plasticity deficits in Alzheimer's disease
Textbooks

Textbooks are not required for this paper. Readings will be primary articles and reviews.

Graduate Attributes Emphasised
Communication, Critical thinking, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this paper will be able to understand, critically assess and discuss both orally and in written form the evidence regarding novel memory mechanisms in health and disease.

Overview

The cellular and molecular mechanisms of memory across the brain, in both healthy and diseased states.

Animals must learn to survive, and the brain is the learning machine that does the job. But how does it do it? In this paper, we critically examine the neural mechanisms of learning and memory beyond synaptic plasticity, such as homeostatic plasticity, metaplasticity, intrinsic plasticity and neurogenesis. We also explore the evidence as to whether humans show synaptic or other plasticity, and how plasticity mechanisms become impaired in Alzheimer's disease.

About this paper

Paper title Nervous System Plasticity in Health and Disease
Subject Psychology
EFTS 0.0833
Points 10 points
Teaching period Semester 2 (On campus)
Domestic Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for 2027 have not yet been set
International Tuition Fees Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website.
Prerequisite
PSYC 430
Restriction
PSYC 474
Eligibility

Entry into Psychology 400-level normally requires a major in Psychology, a B+ average or higher in Psychology 300-level papers and a pass in PSYC 311 Quantitative Methods. We also highly recommend that students have completed PSYC 310 and PSYC 317 or equivalent. Students from other universities must show evidence of an equivalent level of competence.

For Neuroscience students, the prerequisites are met by completion of the requirements for a BSc in Neuroscience with an average grade of at least B+ in 300-level Neuroscience papers.

Completion of PSYC 430 in the first semester is strongly recommended but not required.

Contact

owen.jones@otago.ac.nz

Teaching staff

Dr Owen Jones

Paper Structure

The paper covers three key themes:

  • Novel memory storage mechanisms and regulators
  • Synaptic plasticity in humans
  • Mechanisms of memory and plasticity deficits in Alzheimer's disease
Textbooks

Textbooks are not required for this paper. Readings will be primary articles and reviews.

Graduate Attributes Emphasised
Communication, Critical thinking, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes.
Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this paper will be able to understand, critically assess and discuss both orally and in written form the evidence regarding novel memory mechanisms in health and disease.

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