The course consists of two modules: Neurobiology and Neurochemistry, which are taught independently and in parallel and include lectures on: Nervous system development - Cardiovascular system and nervous system interaction - Neuroimmunology - Neuroendocrinology - Neurosynthetic system Nervous System Biochemistry - Principles of Chemical Neurotransmission and Signaling - Neurotransmitter Systems - Cholinergic Neurotransmission, Catecholamines, Serotonin, Histamine, Neuropeptides, Glutamate, GABA, Purine Cytokine.

Upon successful completion of the course, students are expected to acquire the following knowledge, skills and abilities: 

Knowledge: 1. Knowledge and ability to describe the mechanisms of development of the nervous system and its anatomy - 2. Knowledge and ability to describe brain blood perfusion and regulation of blood flow, as well as the function of the blood-brain barrier - 3. Knowledge and ability to describe the brain's immune system and its interaction with the peripheral immune system - 4. Knowledge and ability to describe the mechanisms of interaction of the endocrine system and nervous system - 5. Knowledge and ability to describe other mechanisms involved in the regulation of nervous system function such as circadian rhythms and sleep - 6. Knowledge and ability to describe the molecular basis of cognitive functions - 7. Understand the function and regulation of biomolecules which control the biochemical and molecular processes of the nervous system - 8. Understand the function of the neurotransmitter systems and the biochemical-molecular mechanisms involved in information transfer.

Skills: 1. Understand the interactions between the various cells of the brain - 2. Understand the neurochemical base of neuronal function - 3. Understand the role of neurochemical systems regulation, as it applies to the function of the nervous system - 4. Understand the interactions of the various body systems with the nervous system - 5. Understand how diseases are caused by means of the disturbance of the physiological relationship of the nervous system with other body systems - 6. Understand the mechanisms of neurotransmission as well as their regulation - 7. Understand the mechanisms of action of neurotransmitters and drugs in neurological and psychiatric diseases.

Abilities: 1. Understand the modern technologies applied in the study of physiological and pathological functions of the nervous system - 2. Ability to seek employment or post- graduate education in related fields - 3. Rapid and effective integration into relevant employment environments - 4. Increased autonomy in related employment environments.

NEUROBIOLOGY: Development of the Nervous System: Axonal growth and guidance, Formation and removal of synapses, Neuroprotection and neurotoxicity - Interaction of the cardiovascular system and the nervous system: Brain blood flow. Innervation of blood vessels and the Hearts, Blood Brain Barrier, Ischemia and Brain Response to Ischemia, Metabolism of the Central Nervous System - Neuroimmunology: Astrocytes - neuronal metabolism - regulation of synaptic-transmission, Microglial cells-role in synaptic transmission and removal of synapses, The role of the peripheral immune system - Neuroendocrinology: Interaction of endocrine system and nervous system - Other mechanisms of nervous system regulation: Circadian rhythms-sleep and dreams, Mobilization-reward and addiction - Cognitive functions: Emotions-Empathy-Memory and learning, Language and communication.

NEUROCHEMISTRY: Nervous System Biochemistry: Overview - General principles of chemical neurotransmission and signaling - Cholinergic Transmission - Acetylcholine - Catecholamines: Enzymology - Biosynthesis - Receptors - Serotonin: Biosynthesis - Receptors - Re-uptake - Histamine: Biological activity at the CNS and periphery - Neuropeptides, Glutamate: Action in excitatory synapses - GABA: Synthesis - Receptors - function - Purinergic system, G proteins and cyclic nucleotides in the nervous system, Role of protein phosphorylation in the function of the nervous system - Biochemistry of Neuropathies-Dependence, Amino Acid Metabolism Disorders, Epilepsy

Prerequisites for the student to choose and attend the course: Animal & Human Physiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology

The course is offered to Erasmus students: Teaching in Greek language - Exams in English language.

The evaluation process is carried out in Greek language (there is the possibility in English for Erasmus students), with a final examination of the whole course that includes essay questions and/or multiple choice questions