Sleep and the Endocrine System

SLEE5009

Aims: To understand the specific role of hormones in modulating circadian rhythms and sleep architecture; to appreciate the direct and indirect effects of disorders in hormone systems on sleep. Content: Melatonin & the Pineal: The anatomy and physiology of the pineal and its role in sensing photoperiod. Melatonin as a chronobiotic and its role in normal function and possible therapeutics. Sleep and the Menstrual Cycle: The influence of female sex hormone levels on sleep architecture during the menstrual cycle. Some reference to menopause will be made, however, this will be dealt with in future modules. Sex Hormones & Corticosteroid Disorders: The influence of male sex hormones and imbalances of steroids such as in Cushing's diseases which may have direct or indirect effects on sleep. Management of such conditions is discussed in relation to sleep. Acromegaly, Hypothyriodism and Diabetes: These hormonal imbalances lead to pathophysiological changes that adversely affect sleep. This module examines these changes and management of such patients.

Unit of study details

Unit of study level: Postgraduate

Credit points: 2

Commencing semesters: 1, 2

Further unit of study information

Unit of study handbook: SLEE5009

Costs and scholarships information: Costs and Scholarships

Final dates to withdraw from units of study: Census Dates

Available for study abroad and exchange: No

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