Course for international guest/part time students

Faculty

Faculty of Science

Organization

TTK Department of Physiology and Neurobiology

Code

neupephb22em

Title

Neuropeptides and neuroendocrinology L

Usual semester

Spring

Published semester

2025/26/2

ECTS

3

Language

en

Learning outcomes

The aim of the lecture is to provide a general introduction to neuroendocrine functions and peptide mediators and their investigation, introduction of the neuropeptides and hormones that play an important role in the regulation of various physiological and pathological functions, and to discuss their potential therapeutic implications. The course will also cover experimental methods used in neuroendocrinology and in the study of neuropeptide functions.

Course content

General characterization of substances involved in chemical communication. Hormones of the hypothalamo-hypophyseal system and their physiological effects, introduction of relevant neuroendocrine diseases. General characterisation of neuropeptides and their signalling, role of neuropeptides in various physiological (sleep, food intake, energy homeostasis, thermoregulation, sexual function) and pathological processes (pain, anxiety, depression), therapeutic applications.

Assessment method

k5 = exam mark (5) (1 failed, 5 excellent)  (graded on a scale from 1 to 5) The assessment is based on a within-semester written presentation and end-of semester colloquium, evaluating the students' knowledge on the basis of individual performance. During the semester, students choose a topic from a list provided by the instructor and, after independent preparation in the literature, write an independent essay of about 5 pages. During the examination period, students will take a written examination, which will include a test and essay questions. The final grade will be based on the results of the written exam.

Bibliography

Lecture handouts (pdf)

Programmes of the course