Animal Physiology This course examines the body functions of animals and humans using general physiological principles and a comparative approach. Lectures will cover the function of each of the major physiological systems (nervous, endocrine, muscular, etc.) and will describe how animal physiology has been shaped by evolution to allow animals to survive in a wide range of environmental conditions. Lectures will focus mainly on physiological processes occurring at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. Occasional journal article discussions will provide case studies of current topics in animal physiology. Laboratory exercises, reports and oral presentations emphasize experimental design, analysis and independent study using various methodological approaches including electrophysiology, neurotransmitter manipulations, nutritional analysis, and exercise physiology. (BIOL 0140  and BIOL 0145 or NSCI 0251).

Neuroplasticity In order for the brain to encode, process, and retain new information, it is constantly changing. Neuroplasticity refers to this capacity of the central nervous system to modify its organization in response to a wide variety of endogenous and environmental stimuli. We will discuss the molecular and cellular basis of various forms of neuroplasticity within the adult brain (e.g., synaptic plasticity, synaptogenesis, and neurogenesis). In this course we will explore how neuroplasticity contributes to learning and memory, neural regeneration in response to injury, and various neuroloigcal diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, and depression). Evaluation will be based on student-led discussions of the primary literature, article critiques, and a final review paper. [BIOL 0145 and (BIOL 0140 or NSCI 251); open to juniors and seniors] 3hrs sem.

Cell Biology and Genetics In this introduction to modern cellular, genetic, and molecular biology we will explore life science concepts with an emphasis on their integral nature and evolutionary relationships.  Topics covered will include cell membrane structure and function, metabolism, cell motility and division, genome structure and replication, the regulation of gene expression and protein production, genotype to phenotype relationship, and basic principles of inheritance.  Major concepts will be illustrated using a broad range of examples from plants, animals, and microorganisms.  Current topics in biology will be integrated into the course as they arise.

Comparative Vertebrate Biology This course will explore the evolution of the vertebrate classes and the adaptations that allow them to live in almost every habitat on Earth. We will study the phylogeny, anatomy, physiology, and ecology of the major extinct and extant taxa of vertebrates and discuss how each group solves the problems of finding food, finding mates, and avoiding predators. Laboratory exercises will focus on the comparative anatomy of a cartilaginous fish (the dogfish shark) and a mammal (the cat). Students will learn to identify some anatomical structures of the vertebrate body and learn basic functions and the evolutionary homologies for these structures. Occasional field trips will introduce the local vertebrate fauna in their natural habitat.

Animal Behavior The behavior of animals primarily from an ethological perspective, with respect to genetics, physiology, evolution, and other biological factors. The course follows the history and methods of studying individual and social behaviors like feeding, courtship, mating, parental care, defense, predation, and migration. We examine live animals in the field and lab to illustrate such processes as instinct, learning, and communication. Discussion topics address recent research, and students design their own research projects. Oral, and written reports are required. (BIOL 0140 or BIOL 0145) 2.

Fundamentals of Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience Neurons are the building blocks of complex circuits that underlie perception and behavior. In this course we will examine the molecular and cellular basis of neuron structure and function. The topics include the molecular and cellular basis of action potential propagation, the molecular biology of synaptic transmission, the molecular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, and the molecular mechanisms of sensory transduction. Laboratory exercises will train students in commonly used neurobiology techniques and engage students in novel investigations. (BIOL 0145 (Note: AP credit in biology cannot be used to satisfy this requirement) Open to neuroscience majors, nonmajors by waiver; Not open to seniors).

Endocrinology Endocrinology is a branch of animal physiology devoted to the study of hormones and the endocrine glands that produce them. Hormones are essential for maintaining homeostasis and coordinating biological functions such as growth, reproduction, metabolism, and reaction to stress. This course will cover the diverse mechanisms through which hormones influence physiology and behavior. The endocrine system will provide a window into understanding animal physiology more broadly, with a focus on clinical applications. Lectures will describe the cellular and molecular basis of endocrine regulation and consider the function of each of the major hormone groups produced by the body, such as hypothalamic, pituitary, adrenal, and sex steroids. Weekly journal article discussions will cover current topics in endocrinology, and written work allows students to research endocrine topics of their own interest. .

Mark Spritzer

Reviews and ratings for Mark Spritzer at Middlebury College.Mark Spritzer teaches Animal Physiology, Neuroplasticity, Cell Biology and Genetics and more.  Explore top rated instructors and find the best for you.Is Mark Spritzer good ? Find out on MiddCourses.

I enjoyed Professor Spritzer's lecture style and the style of his exams. While there was a lot of material to memorize, I felt I was prepared for every exam. He was very thorough and I learned a great deal in this course. 

I really enjoyed cell bio with Mark Spritzer! While the exams can be dense and are entirely based on memorization, I always knew exactly what to expect and I really appreciated that. Professor Spritzer is very nice and understanding and I would definitely take a class with him again.

This was one of the most difficult classes I've ever taken at Middlebury. While I was already accustomed to the heavy amounts of memorization required for any class with Spritzer, this felt particularly excessive. 