Back by popular demand! The circadian clock is an internal body clock that controls all aspects of physiology and behavior in every single one of us. By interpreting external time cues, the circadian clock ensures our body performs at its best. This course will introduce you to this very important, yet infrequently discussed physiological machinery that controls your sleep-wake cycles, food intake, hormone production and immune system. Since disruptions in the circadian clock have been associated with human diseases, including chronic sleep disorders, various forms of depression, diabetes, metabolic syndromes and susceptibility to cancer, life-style choices (e.g., use of electronic devices at night, types of light bulbs used at home and meal times), work/school schedules and genetic mechanisms that cause clock disruptions will also be discussed.
Course Code
505433