ERIC Number: EJ1324533
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021-Dec
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1043-4046
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Teaching Bioelectricity and Neurophysiology to Medical Students Using LabAXON Simulations
Advances in Physiology Education, v45 n4 p702-708 Dec 2021
Patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings of neuronal activity require a large amount of space and equipment. The technique is difficult to master and not conducive to demonstration to more than a few medical students. Therefore, neurophysiological education is mostly limited to classroom-based pedagogies such as lectures. However, the demonstration of concepts such as changes in membrane potential and ion channel activity is best achieved with hands-on approaches. This article details an in silico activity suitable for large groups of medical students that demonstrates the key concepts in neurophysiology using the LabAXON simulation software. Learning activities in our practical include: (1) measurements of voltage and time parameters of the neuronal action potential and its relationship to the Nernst potentials of Na[superscript +] and K[superscript +]; (2) determination of the stimulus threshold to evoke action potentials; (3) demonstration of the refractory period of an action potential; and (4) voltage-clamp experiments to determine the current-voltage relationship of voltage-gated Na[superscript +] and K[superscript +] channels and the voltage dependence of, and recovery from, inactivation of voltage-gated Na[superscript +] channels. We emphasized the accuracy of quantitative measurements as well as the correct use of units. The level of difficulty of the activity can be altered through different multiple choice questions relating to material introduced in the associated lectures. This practical activity is suitable for different class sizes and is adaptable for delivery with online platforms. Student feedback showed that the students felt the activity helped them consolidate their understanding of the lecture material.
Descriptors: Medical Education, Medical Students, Teaching Methods, Physiology, Neurology, Energy, Learning Activities, Laboratory Experiments, Computer Simulation, Human Body
American Physiological Society. 9650 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20814-3991. Tel: 301-634-7164; Fax: 301-634-7241; e-mail: webmaster@the-aps.org; Web site: https://www-physiology-org.bibliotheek.ehb.be/journal/advances
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
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Author Affiliations: N/A