Chronobiology-z 1400-216CHROBI-z

An introduction to biological rhythms, with a historical perspective. Fundamental terminology used in Chronobiology. Methods in rhythm research. Main body of evidence for the existence of the biological clock. Characteristic properties of circadian rhythms: circadian rhythms in constant conditions and the shifting of the phase of biological rhythms. The clocks of unicellular organisms (protozoan fission rhythms, physiological rhythms of bacteria). Daily migration of plankton. The influence of environmental factors on the rhythmic processes of organisms (photoperiod and temperature). Diel rhythms in the development and metamorphosis of organisms (insects, vertebrates). Localisation of the molecular biological clock and the mechanisms of its functioning in bacteria, fungi, plants and animals. Functional anatomy of the clock system in birds and mammals. Neurohormonal regulation of the rhythmic processes of vertebrates: the role of the pineal gland in the clock mechanisms of birds and mammals. Ecological aspects of biological rhythms. Biological rhythms and human activities: chronomedicine, chronopharmacology and chronotherapy. The future of biological rhythm research.