Sleep: Neurobiology, Medicine, and Society

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/sleep

Introduction

# Course Review: Sleep: Neurobiology, Medicine, and Society In today’s fast-paced world, where sleep often takes a backseat to work and social obligations, understanding the intricate relationship between sleep and health is more vital than ever. The Coursera course “Sleep: Neurobiology, Medicine, and Society” offers a comprehensive exploration of sleep's biological, medical, and societal significance, making it an excellent choice for anyone interested in enhancing their knowledge about this essential aspect of human life. ## Course Overview The course, instructed by a panel of esteemed professionals, provides up-to-date insights into the neurobiological underpinnings of sleep, the impact of sleep on overall health, and its societal implications. With a title emphasizing neurobiology, medicine, and society, participants can expect a well-rounded education that spans cellular biology to practical healthcare strategies. The course structure is thoughtfully designed, with two tracks—Standard and Honors—catering to different levels of engagement. Standard Track enrollees can select key units while ensuring they still receive a robust understanding of the critical concepts. ## Syllabus Breakdown ### **Neurobiology Section** The course begins with the Neurobiology Section, which is crucial for those aiming to understand the science behind sleep. **Unit 01** offers an overview from Dr. Ralph Lydic, setting the stage for the journey into the neurobiological aspects of sleep control. Those selecting the **Honors Track** have deeper dives available in **Units 02 to 04**, where experts like Dr. Helen Baghdoyan and Dr. Chiara Cirelli discuss advanced topics including mathematical modeling and the molecular genetics of sleep—essential knowledge for anyone looking to pursue further academic interests in this field. ### **Medicine Section** Transitioning into the **Medicine** curriculum, **Units 05 through 10** provide critical insights from established medical professionals, detailing the role of sleep in various health conditions. From how disordered sleep affects cardiovascular health to exploring insomnia and treatment options, this section is invaluable for both health professionals and laypeople seeking to understand the interplay between sleep and physical or mental health. - **Unit 05**, with Dr. Ronald Chervin, reaffirms how sleep medicine is an evolving field critical to understanding overall health. - **Units 07 and 09**, focusing on psychiatric disorders and insomnia treatments, respectively, showcase the course's practical relevance for mental health care providers. ### **Society Section** The concluding **Society Section** sheds light on societal facets of sleep, including circadian rhythms and daytime sleepiness—topics relevant for anyone looking to optimize their personal sleep habits or influence public health policy. **Units 11 and 12**, led by experts like Dr. Theresa Lee, underscore the social factors affecting sleep—a unique perspective that sets this course apart from more clinical settings. ## Review and Recommendation **Pros:** - The diverse faculty brings depth and credibility to the course, making complex subjects accessible. - The ability to choose between Standard and Honors Track enables learners to tailor their experience based on interest and commitment level. - Broad applicability: Insights into sleep can enhance personal well-being, inform professional practices, or inspire research. **Cons:** - The breadth of topics might feel overwhelming for those only seeking basic understanding—committing to the Honors Track requires a dedicated approach. Overall, “Sleep: Neurobiology, Medicine, and Society” is highly recommended for anyone seeking in-depth knowledge about sleep and its multifaceted significance. Whether you’re a student, healthcare professional, or simply a curious individual looking to better understand your sleep habits, this course will equip you with the tools necessary to appreciate the critical role sleep plays in health and society. Whether you wish to influence personal wellness or contribute to wider societal change, this course is an important step towards understanding and advocating for the science of sleep.

Syllabus

Unit 01 - Neurobiology Section: Course Introduction & Neurobiology of Sleep and Wakefulness (Part One) - (Standard Track & Honors Track)

This unit begins with a Course Overview video from Ralph Lydic, Ph.D., followed by the first portion of the Neurobiology of Sleep and Wakefulness lecture, delivered by Helen Baghdoyan, Ph.D. PLEASE NOTE: Only the Course Overview video, and the Getting Started and Syllabus readings are required for students who have chosen to engage in the Standard Track portion of the course content. Standard track students may also bypass all content in units 2, 3, and 4, and instead move directly to unit 5 after viewing the Course Overview video.

Unit 2 continues the lecture from Helen Baghdoyan, Ph.D. on the Neurobiology of Sleep and Wakefulness. PLEASE NOTE: This content is only required for students who have chosen to pursue the Honors Track certification.

Unit 3 continues the Neurobiology section of the content with a lecture from Victoria Booth, Ph.D. on the Mathematical Modeling of Sleep-Wake Regulation. PLEASE NOTE: This content is only required for students who have chosen to pursue the Honors Track certification.

Unit 4 closes out the Neurobiology section with a lecture from Chiara Cirelli, Ph.D. on Molecular Biology and the Genetics of Sleep. PLEASE NOTE: This content is only required for students who have chosen to pursue the Honors Track certification.

Unit 5 marks the beginning of the Medicine section of the course. This unit features an overview of Sleep Medicine from Ronald Chervin, M.D.

Unit 6 continues the Medicine section of the course, featuring a lecture from Helena Schotland, M.D. exploring how Disordered Sleep and Breathing may alter Cardiovascular Health.

Unit 7 further continues the Medicine section of the course with a lecture on the relationship of Sleep and Psychiatric Disorders from Eric Nofzinger, M.D

Unit 8 further continues the Medicine section of the course with a lecture from Christopher Drake, Ph.D. on the causes and consequences of Insomnia.

Unit 9 further continues the Medicine section of the course with a lecture from J. Todd Arendt, Ph.D. on the range of available treatments for Insomnia.

Unit 10 brings the Medicine section of the course to a close with a lecture on Sleep and Anesthesia delivered by George Mashour, M.D.

Unit 11 kicks off the Society section of the course with a lecture on Circadian Rhythms, Sleep, and Health from Theresa Lee, Ph.D.

Unit 12 wraps up the final section of the course and the Society section of the content with a lecture on Daytime Sleepiness and Sleep Need by Thomas Roth, Ph.D.