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Mathematical modeling of REM sleep regulation
Colloquium| Speaker: | Cecilia Diniz Behn, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor |
| Location: | 1147 MSB |
| Start time: | Tue, Jan 18 2011, 4:10PM |
Recent experimental results have identified brainstem and hypothalamic neuronal populations that play an important role in the initiation and maintenance of states of wake, rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, and non-REM sleep. However, the dynamic interactions among these populations, particularly with respect to the regulation of REM sleep, are not well understood. To investigate these interactions, we developed a mathematical model of the sleep/wake regulatory network using a novel firing rate model formalism. By analyzing the bifurcation structure that underlies model dynamics, we can generate testable predictions regarding the mechanisms governing state transitions. In particular, we examine the mechanisms that produce the ultradian REM/non-REM cycling that is a key feature of human sleep, and we explore the implications of these distinct mechanisms for REM sleep physiology.
Refreshments will be served at 3:45 p.m. in MSB 1147