Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 1: The Electrical Properties of the Neuron from edX

Fundamentals of Neuroscience is a three-courseseries that explores the structure and function of the nervous system—from the inner workings of a single nerve cell to the staggering complexity of the brain and the social interactions they enable.

In this first course, you'll learn how individual neurons use electricity to transmit information. You'll build a neuron, piece by piece, using interactive simulations, then travel around Harvard's campus, where you'll see the inner workings of a lab and learn how to conduct DIY neuroscience experiments on your own.

Join us as we study the electrical properties in individual neurons, building a foundation for understanding the function of the entire nervous system.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Fundamentals of bioelectricity
The importance of resting potential
The properties of passive membranes

Action potentials, their currents, and their role in the nervous system
How you can do neuroscience in your home

Fundamentals of bioelectricity
The importance of resting potential
The properties of passive membranes
Action potentials, their currents, and their role in the nervous system
How you can do neuroscience in your home

Syllabus

Lesson1: The Resting PotentialThe nervous system functions by sending electrical signals between neurons. To begin our study of the nervous system, we will focus on a single neuron 'at rest,' which has an electrical potential across its membrane. We will understand the ionic basis underlying this electrical potential, and how to calculate it ourselves.

Lesson 2: Passive Membrane PropertiesElectrical signals between neurons can be sent through changes in their membrane potentials. In order to more deeply understand these electrical signals, we will first study the electrical properties of the neuron itself. We will examine the resistive and capacitive properties of the neuron, how these properties arise from biological factors, and how these properties influence how a neuron responds to electrical signals.

Lesson3: Action PotentialsIn this lesson we will investigate one of the fundamental ways that neurons send electrical signals, through an all-or-nothing process called the action potential. The action potential is generated by the precise opening and closing of voltage-gated channels that cause specific changes to the neuron's membrane potential. We'll develop an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms of these channels and the ionic currents behind the action potential.

Lesson 4: Action Potential PropagationNeurons send electrical signals through action potentials moving down their axons. In order to further develop our understanding of the way neurons generate and send electrical signals, we will integrate our knowledge of the electrical properties of the neuron and the action potential itself. This will allos us to understand how the nervous system has solved the problem of fast and reliable communication.

Lesson 5: DIY LabsSeeing or measuring something with your own hands is often the best way to learn! We've spent a lot of time discussing the electrical properties of neurons, and along the way you've seen many different demonstrations. You can perform some of these experiments, as well as others we haven't shown yet, yourself, using an inexpensive piece of equipment known as a SpikerBox.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Strong foundation in bioelectricity, a fundamental concept in neuroscience

Taught by David Cox, a professor of neuroscience at Harvard Medical School

Offers hands-on DIY labs, allowing learners to apply their knowledge in a practical setting

Provides a comprehensive overview of the electrical properties of neurons, action potentials, and their role in the nervous system

Suitable for learners with a basic understanding of biology and an interest in neuroscience

Requires no prior knowledge of neuroscience, making it accessible to beginners

Reviews summary

Enjoyable course in neuroscience

Learners say that this engaging course on neuroscience is highly recommended. Students highlight its knowledgeable instructors, interesting content, practical exercises, and accessible explanations. While some students found it challenging, many appreciated its clear and comprehensive approach. Overall, students largely positive about this course and recommend it to others interested in neuroscience.

Students highly recommend this course.

"I want to understand thé mechanisme of humain cells because i'm verry patient for neurosciences and because of that i'm here"

"Procuro por conhecimento mais e mais, e ainda existir uma pequena curiosidade sobre o nosso corpo e quero aprender sobre ele.."

"I highly recommend the course for anyone looking to elevate their skills."

Course can be challenging, but explanations make it accessible.

"These have been the most interesting MOOC courses I have done ."

"It can be demanding depending on your background, but these are excellent courses."

"I recommend them particulary for those people who think (erroneously) that the brain is like a computer."

Hands-on exercises help reinforce learning.

"The comprehensive content, practical exercises, knowledgeable instructors, and flexible learning options make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to excel in the field."

"I am a Senior Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering."

"This is my first go at MOOC neuroscience courses."

Instructors are experts in neuroscience.

"such a helpful course I highly recommend the course for anyone looking to elevate their skills."

"The comprehensive content, practical exercises, knowledgeable instructors, and flexible learning options make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to excel in the field."

Includes cartoons, humor, and real-world examples.

"Great course! I found the learning strategies very good."

"Including a bit of cartoon characters and good sense of humour to help digesting arid maths and biochemistry."

"Great videos! Plenty of them."

Instructors explain complex concepts well.

"I don't have a math or physics background at all, so was worried that this course would be too difficult for me..."

"But it wasn't too difficult at all."

"....I am really into mushrooms and found it interesting that mycellial mats form the same structure as neurons"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 1: The Electrical Properties of the Neuron with these activities:

Review basic science concepts, such as physics, chemistry, and biology

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Strengthen your understanding of foundational science concepts to enhance your learning experience in neuroscience.

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Review key principles and theories in physics, such as mechanics, thermodynamics, and electricity.
Refresh your knowledge of basic chemistry concepts, including atomic structure, bonding, and chemical reactions.
Revisit fundamental biological concepts, such as cell structure, genetics, and metabolism.

Review electrical engineering

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Review the basics of electrical engineering to strengthen your foundation for this course.

Browse courses on Electrical Circuits

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Review basic electrical concepts, such as voltage, current, and resistance.
Study Ohm's law and its applications.
Analyze simple electrical circuits to understand how components are connected and interact.

Create a visual representation of a neuron

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Develop a deeper understanding of neuron structure and function by creating a visual representation.

Browse courses on Neurons

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Gather information about the different parts of a neuron, such as the soma, dendrites, and axon.
Choose a suitable visual medium, such as drawing, painting, or computer graphics.
Create a detailed and accurate representation of a neuron, highlighting its key features.

Six other activities

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Build a simple circuit using a breadboard

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Gain hands-on experience in building and testing electrical circuits.

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Gather necessary materials, such as a breadboard, wires, resistors, and LEDs.
Follow online tutorials or videos to learn the basics of breadboarding.
Design and build a simple circuit, such as an LED blinker or a voltage divider.

Solve practice problems on neuron bioelectricity

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Sharpen your problem-solving skills and reinforce your understanding of neuron bioelectricity.

Browse courses on Electrophysiology

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Find online resources or textbooks that provide practice problems on neuron bioelectricity.
Attempt to solve the problems independently, using the concepts learned in this course.
Check your answers against provided solutions or consult with a tutor or instructor for feedback.

Attend a workshop on DIY neuroscience experiments

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Learn hands-on techniques and gain experience in conducting neuroscience experiments.

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Search for workshops on DIY neuroscience experiments offered by universities, research institutions, or community organizations.
Register for a workshop that aligns with your interests and availability.
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the hands-on activities.

Read 'Introduction to Electromagnetism' by David Griffiths

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Enhance your understanding of electromagnetism, a fundamental concept in neuroscience.

View Introduction to Electrodynamics on Amazon

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Read Chapter 1 to gain a foundational understanding of the basics of electromagnetism.
Study Chapter 2 to explore Gauss's law and its applications.
Review Chapter 3 to learn about Faraday's law and electromagnetic induction.

Volunteer at a neuroscience lab or clinic

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Gain practical experience and insights into the field of neuroscience by volunteering in a relevant setting.

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Research and identify neuroscience labs or clinics that align with your interests.
Contact the organizations to inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Participate in assigned activities under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Design and present a poster on a specific neuroscience topic

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Develop your research and communication skills by presenting a poster on a neuroscience topic.

Browse courses on Scientific Communication

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Choose a specific neuroscience topic that interests you.
Conduct research to gather information and develop a hypothesis.
Design a visually appealing and informative poster that summarizes your research findings.

Career center

Learners who complete Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 1: The Electrical Properties of the Neuron will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Neuroscientist

Neuroscientists study the nervous system, including the structure and function of the brain. Coursework in this class will help you build a foundation in the electrical properties of neurons, a fundamental component of the nervous system.

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Neurosurgeon

Neurosurgeons operate on the brain and spinal cord to treat a variety of conditions. To perform your job effectively, a foundational understanding of neurons will be vital, which this course will help you build.

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Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. The electrical properties of neurons are foundational to understanding the brain and will be essential to your work.

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Pharmaceutical Researcher

Pharmaceutical Researchers develop and test new drugs and treatments for a variety of diseases. This foundational course in the electrical properties of neurons will help you understand how drugs may affect the nervous system.

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Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct research in a variety of fields, including biology, chemistry, and physics. This foundational course in the electrical properties of neurons can help you understand the fundamental processes of the nervous system.

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Psychologist

Psychologists study the human mind and behavior. By understanding neurons and how they communicate, you can build a strong foundation in a core component of human behavior, brain function.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts play a role in making sense of a company’s data, turning it into a clear representation of patterns that provides valuable insights. By taking this course, you gain the foundation to understand the fundamental process of the nervous system, which translates to recognizing patterns and problem-solving.

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Neurologist

Neurologists diagnose and treat diseases of the nervous system, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. This course will be useful in your career as it establishes a foundation in the electrical properties of neurons, which is critical for understanding the nervous system.

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Teacher

Teachers educate students at all levels, from preschool through college. This course may be useful as it will help you understand the electrical properties of neurons, which can help you teach students about the nervous system.

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Science Writer

Science Writers communicate complex scientific concepts to a general audience. This course may be useful as it will help you build a foundation in the electrical properties of neurons, a complex scientific concept.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers create instruction manuals, technical reports, and other documents to explain complex technical concepts. This course may be useful as it will help you build a foundation in the electrical properties of neurons, which can help you better understand the subject matter you will be writing about.

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Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data to solve problems and make informed decisions. This course may be useful as it will help you build a foundation in the electrical properties of neurons, which can help you better understand data related to the nervous system.

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Writer

Writers create written content, such as books, articles, and speeches. This course may be useful as it will help you build a foundation in the electrical properties of neurons, which can help you better understand human behavior and psychology, which can inspire your writing.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course may be useful as you learn about the electrical properties of neurons, which can help you build a strong foundation in a core component of artificial intelligence.

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Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. This course may be useful as it will help you build a foundation in the electrical properties of neurons, which underlies human interaction, which can help you as you design user experiences.

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