Event

Speaker: Ruby Kim (Duke)

Tuesday, Jan. 25 at 4pm 

Title: A mathematical investigation of the circadian clock and dopaminergic system

Abstract: The mammalian circadian clock drives 24-hour rhythms in many important physiological processes, such as the sleep-wake cycle and hormone regulation. Experiments have suggested that the clock is also involved in both the synthesis and removal of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine is involved in learning, motivation, and movement, and imbalances in the dopaminergic system are linked to a host of neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and addiction. Many patients with dopamine-related conditions also often experience circadian disruptions, but it has not been understood why. We have created a mathematical model of the influences of the circadian clock on dopamine based on experimental findings. Our model predicts daily variation of extracellular dopamine that corresponds well with experimental data. In this talk, we will discuss the results of our mathematical model in detail. We will additionally spend some time exploring the dynamics of the model and connecting our results to the experimental literature.