Course Description
Understanding how the brain controls breathing is an important and exciting area of scientific and clinical study. The primary aim of the course is to highlight how breathing is generated and regulated by both the central and peripheral nervous systems. We will discuss these topics from molecular, cellular, and systems levels. An emphasis will be placed on the control of breathing during both health and disease. For example, we will discuss how sleep disorders impact respiratory control. The secondary aim of the course is to focus on describing the scientific method, and how to read and criticize scientific publications. This is an appropriate course for students who are interested in aspects of neuroscience and clinical pathophysiology.
Lecture Topics:
- Overview for the respiratory system – neuro-anatomy
- Cellular and systems approaches to studying respiratory neurobiology
- Work of breathing
- The brain and breathing – what’s the link?
- Peripheral mechanisms of respiratory control
- Central mechanisms of respiratory control
- Genetics and breathing (e.g., Central congenital hypoventilation syndrome)
- Respiratory disorders (e.g., Sleep apnea)
Prerequisite
(BIO270H1, BIO271H1) / (PSL300H, PSL301H1)
Lecturer(s)
Prof. J. Fraigne
Course Administrator
Nalini Dominique-Guyah
RW 535
416-978-8608
nalini.dominique@utoronto.ca
Contact Hours
24L, 12T
Required Text(s)/Readings
NONE
Evaluation (Subject to change)
Weekly quizzes: 10% of total grade
Two assignments: 30% of total grade
Term test: 30% of total grade
Final examination: 30% of total grade
Last updated on June 26th, 2023