Over the past 30 years, mathematical models have increasingly been used as a tool for understanding the behavior of biological systems. In this course, we will discuss mathematical methods for modeling physiological systems. We'll concentrate on models of excitable systems such as neurons and cardiac cells. The class will start with a discussion of chemical reaction models and models of cell membrane dynamics. Then, we'll consider different approaches for modeling individual cells. Very detailed physiological models can be created, but they may be difficult to analyze mathematically. Conversely, simplified models are easier to analyze but may lose important details of the biological system. We'll discuss what level of detail is needed to formulate a useful model.

Finally, we'll consider multicell models describing the sensory systems, cardiac dynamics, working memory, and rhythms in the nervous system. There is some flexibility to pursue other topics such as biological clocks, pattern formation, molecular motors, and time delays in biological models depending on the interests of the class.

Any questions? Just send me mail. montgome@rose-hulman.edu
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