Purpose of Course and Learning Objectives: This course examines the current knowledge on the major endogenous neurotransmitter substances and exogenous analogues, ie the composition, cellular activity, receptor types and geography and modern views on activity in cerebral function and behavior, both in normal conditions and during CNS dysfunction. The course builds on the basic knowledge / the student / she has acquired from core courses, particularly of Physiology, outlining the basic principles of the Nervous System. The new knowledge gained focus on the mechanisms of action of neurotransmitter molecules and the role of the latter in the complex phenomenon of behavior.

The learning objectives are knowledge and understanding of the cellular mechanisms of behavior, the link to the specific biology of neurotransmitter substances, knowledge of relevant basic research and applications resulting in finding new therapeutic and pharmacological approaches. The restrictions on the interpretation of research results. Connecting different levels of research (in vitro, in vivo, clinical research) to achieve the final goal.

Course content: The course is divided into 4 sections

1. Headline reflection on the role of neurotransmitters (a) neurotransmitter systems and brain function, b) control of cell function, c) neurotransmitter receptors, d) Release of neurotransmitters)
2. Nefrodiavivastes and synaptic function (a) Basic pharmacology and actions of exogenous substances, b) Acetylcholine c) Dopamine, d) Noradrenaline, e) 5-hydroxytryptamine (serotonin), f) Excitatory amino acids, g) Inhibitory amino, n) Peptides i) Other neurotransmitter substances)
3. Role of neurotransmitters in CNS dysfunction (a) Study and modulation of neurotransmitters in humans, b) Diseases of the basal ganglia, c) The epilepsies, d) Schizophrenia, e) Disease Alzheimer, f) Anxiety (Anxiety), h) Depression, i) Pain and analgesia)
4. Neurotransmitters and behavior (a) sleep and wakefulness, b) Dependence and drug abuse)

Form and teaching outcomes: Attendance is mandatory and includes bibliographic work, and mandatory individual. It is based on a research topic suggested by the student / wo in collaboration with teachers (35% grade)
Exam scores or active class participation (questions, participate in discussion, etc.) and performance on written tests. (3-4 tests, 65% grade). Clarified that students take examinations during the examination if they have seen during the course.

Ηours of training per student: 30

From the 5th Semester

ECTS: 2

Course objective: The course aims in inspiring students on how physical principles and laws are applied on the technology developed in the field of diagnosis and treatment.

Course Syllabus: Electromagnetic Radiation: Fundamentals. Non-ionizing radiation: Spectral analysis, Basic radio theory (generation, transmission, transfer), applications. Optoelectronics: Basic knowledge, Optoelectronic devices, Signal transmission through optical fibers applications. Biomaterials: Historical review, the role of biomaterials in medicine and applications (dental, cardiovascular protheses, plastic surgery, biological membranes). Nanotechnology: Medical Applications: Medical Diagnostics, Controlled drug delivery, Regenerative medicine, Smart devices of nanotechnology. Biosensors: Principles, Biosensors ranking (biological, enzymatic, photonic), Applications (glucose monitoring, detecting pathogens, detection of toxic metabolites). Protocol for the control of electrical safety in electromedical equipment: Fundamentals of electrical safety, Categories of electric Medical devices, Measurement parameters, Control conditions.

Laboratory demonstrations: non-ionizing radiation spectrum and field measurement.

Forms of teaching: Class lectures, laboratory demonstrations, projects.

Hours of training per student: 28

Semester: 5th

ECTS: 2

Object: Studying the properties of dependence-producing substances offers the students a reliable and valid knowledge, on a subject that is almost certain that they will come across one way or the other during their professional career.

Content: The students are thought all basic knowledge on the dependence-producing substances during the lectures of «Pharmacology I», because dependence is basically considered a serious side-effect. In 1981, the elective subject «Drugs of Abuse» was added to the syllabus of the Ioannina Medical School, after a relevant demand of the students themselves. This coincided with the growing concern of the Greek public on a social phenomenon which at that time seemed to expand beyond the traditional subculture of certain marginal groups of population.

Teaching was planned from the very beginning on a modern basis, in order to reallocate the whole «problem» on a realistic and scientifically solid basis.

The lectures are focusing on:

• Opium alkaloids
• Ethyl alcohol and other Sedatives
• Amphetamines and Cocaine
• Cannabinoids
• Nicotine, and
• LSD and other Hallucinogens.

Apart from the lectures, students have the opportunity to see and discuss several movies, which are related with the problem of drug dependence (alcoholism, cocaine addiction, heroine addiction etc).

Teaching Methods and Outcomes: Due to the nature of the subject and because of its apparent social impact, students are encouraged to confront and argue on all drugs of abuse, in terms of commonly encountered questions among the public. The lectures are mostly planned to give the basis of these discussions. Students are given several questions before hand, so that they may think every possible answer and may also prepare a set of satisfactory arguments on each question.

By discussing all these topics, the students are becoming very competent to encounter all relevant questions later in their scientific and professional life as physicians.

Hours of training per student: 26

From the 5th Semester

ECTS: 2