Aim

The course aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of circadian rhythm and sleep in the context of biomedical sciences. The course will cover a range of topics, beginning with an introduction to circadian rhythms and sleep regulation. Participants will explore the molecular mechanisms underlying circadian rhythms, including the role of clock genes and their interplay within positive and negative feedback loops. Additionally, the experimental models and methodologies to study sleep and circadian rhythm, including cells, flies, mice and humans will be presented. The impact of circadian rhythm disruption on various health conditions, such as age related diseases, as neurodegenerative diseases, and ageing will be addressed. The workshop will also discuss the relevance of chronobiology in determining optimal drug administration schedules to enhance therapeutic outcomes while minimizing side effects. Participants will gain some hands-on experience with data analysis of sleep and circadian rhythm recording enabling them to design and conduct rigorous experiments in the field. Furthermore, the course will emphasize the translational aspects of circadian rhythm research, particularly in pharmacology. Participants will explore the concept of chronopharmacology and the optimization of drug therapy by considering circadian rhythms. The course will also address the relevance of outreach activities to promote sleep health and circadian rhythm education. Participants will learn strategies for engaging with various target audiences and disseminating accurate information about sleep hygiene practices, circadian biology, and the consequences of circadian disruption. Collaboration with schools, community organizations, and healthcare providers, as well as using digital platforms and social media, will be highlighted as effective means of broadening the reach of sleep and circadian education. This course offers a multidisciplinary approach of circadian rhythm and sleep, and it equips PhD students with knowledge, skills, and outreach strategies to advance research in this field, understand the impact of circadian rhythm on health and disease, and contribute to the development of therapeutic interventions and public health initiatives.

Program

Available here.