Neuroendocrinology

At the end of this course, students should be able to: 1. outline the functional organisation of nervous system; 2. define nerve fibres; 3. enumerate the properties of synaptic transmission; 4. outline neurotransmitters and neuropeptides; 5. list types and functions of sensory receptors; 6. describe structure and functions of spinal cord; 7. discuss reflex action and other reflexes; 8. explain muscle spindle and muscle tone, tactile, temperature and pain sensations; 9. describe the structure and functions of cerebral cortex; 10. outline Motor pathways (pyramidal and extra pyramidal); 11. explain Basal ganglia, its connections and functions; 12. define cerebellum, its connections and functions; 13. describe vestibular apparatus and regulation of posture and equilibrium, physiology of sleep and sleep disorders, electroencephalogram (EEG) Physiology of memory, physiology of speech and its abnormalities; 14. explain thalamus- nuclei, functions and thalamic syndrome; 15. discuss hypothalamus and limbic system; and 16. describe analgesia system of the body disorders of cranial nerves and higher mental function assessment.

Historical origins of a Neuro-endocrine connection. A review of the physiologic anatomy of hypothalamo-pituitary link. Current concepts of channels of communication between the hypothalamus and the pituitary. Hypothalamic neurosecretions. The “master gland” of the endocrine system. Pituitary secretions and their current concepts of the servomechanisms between the hypothalamus, the pituitary and other endocrine organs.