Molecular and cellular basis for physiology and polysomnography

The aim of the course is to provide knowledge in the biological basis for polysomnographic phenomena and related physiological events at the molecular, cellular and anatomical level. Through a series of readings, active learning exercises and classroom assessments, students will learn the biological basis for electrophysiological phenomena, with particular emphasis on the electroencephalogram (EEG).

Type of course

Subject specific course.

General learning objectives

Knowledge

After completion of the course, the candidate can

• Describe and reflect upon the role of the cell membrane and associated proteins in regulating the passage of molecules into and out of the cell
• Describe mechanisms of membrane protein presentation and endocytosis

• Describe cellular motility

  • Cell signaling via vesicular release, receptor activation and intracellular signaling cascades
  • Cellular excitability: mechanisms and consequences of the action potential

• Describe regulation and modulation of excitability by neurotransmitters

  • Roles of the axon and the axon terminal in neurotransmission
• Diagram the mechanisms of sensory transduction

• Describe muscle contraction as a calcium-dependent interaction of cytoskeletal elements

  • The role of neuronal regulation of myocytes via the autonomic nervous system
  • Pharmacological and hormonal regulation of myocytes
  • Divergent cellular features of cardiac and smooth myocytes
  • Unique metabolic and energetic features of neurons and myocytes

Skills

After completion of the course, the candidate should be able to communicate knowledge gained during the course by applying academic writing; to give a clear empirical and theoretical description

General competence

After completion of the course the student should be able to explain and discuss central perspectives and topics within biological and physiological aspects of polysomnography