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UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology

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Neuromuscular Diseases MSc/MRes/PG Dip/PG Cert

Module: Motor Neuron Diseases and Diseases of Neuromuscular Junctions (CLNEG050)

Convenors: Prof Linda Greensmith and Pietro Fratta

The module gives an introduction to anatomy and development of motoneurons and neuromuscular junctions, the development of different motoneuron types and their physiology and function. It also gives an overview of several diseases that affect either the neuromuscular junction or motoneurons and lead to diseases affecting the motor system as a whole, including motoneuron disease (MND), Spinobulbar Muscular Atrophy and rare diseases of the neuromuscular junction.

It is now possible to register this module as part of your CPD activities. See the Short Courses section for more information.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this module students will understand the anatomy, development and functional characteristics of different spinal motoneuron subtypes and their interdependence with innervated muscles for the maintenance of intact neuromuscular junctions and correct functioning of the neuromuscular system. Students will also be able to understand the underlying pathology, genetic background and current research trends in motoneuron diseases and diseases of neuromuscular junctions. Students will be able to understand and interpret neurophysiological assessments in neuromuscular junction diseases. Students will be also able critically evaluate the validity of disease models for the development of future therapies

Journal club presentation

Students are also expected to take part in a journal club series in which postdoctoral and professorial research staff and PhD students also participate. Students will learn to present and interpret research publications and critically appraise their value, placing them in the context of the wider research field. Journal club presentations linked to the motoneurons, neuromuscular Junctions and associated diseases will be assessed and form a part of the final mark students receive for their learning in this module

Module dates:

The teaching for this module takes place within one intensive week.  In the 2017-18 academic year, this module will take place from the 22 - 26 January 2018

Assessment information:

  • 2 hour Multiple Choice Question exam (worth 70%) - provisionally scheduled for the 23rd February 2018
  • Journal club presentation (worth 20%)
  • Journal club participation (worth 10%)

Examples of lecture topics in the Motor Neuron diseases and diseases of Neuromuscular Junctions module: