1. Introduction: Development of the nervous system, Model organisms, Cell differentiation and histogenesis, Differential gene expression and signalling. 2. CNS Morphogenesis. Polarity and Segmentation. Axis establishment (anterior-posterior and dorso-ventral). 3. Neural Diversity and Differentiation. Embryonic neurogenesis and gliogenesis, progenitor cells. Molecular mechanisms of signalling, proliferation and death. Neuronal migration. 4. Neural circuits. Axonal growth (dynamics, mechanisms and molecules involved). Establishment of circuits. Topographical maps. 5. Metabolism and neuronal death. Reorganisation of neuronal networks. 6. Sensory systems. The course presents a broad overview of the fundamental principles of neural development and is organised by ontogeny, starting with early neural development, followed by patterning, axonal guidance and synapse formation. Throughout the course, each section will be placed in a comparative evolutionary framework, using both invertebrate and vertebrate systems.

Classroom lectures. Face-to-face classes: reduced (workshops, seminars, case studies). Student individual work. Final exam. Seminars and lectures supported by computer and audiovisual aids. Practical learning based on cases and problems, and exercise resolution. Individual and group or cooperative work with the option of oral or written presentation. Individual and group tutorials to resolve doubts and queries about the subject.