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151-0255-00L 4 Credits
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Energy Conversion and Transport in Biosystems

Examiners: Dr. Kevin Boomsma
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:00:09

Abstract

Theory and application of energy conversion at the cellular level. Understanding of the basic features governing fluid transport in the principal fluidic systems of the human body. Connection of characteristics and patterns from other fields of engineering to biofluidics. Heat and mass transport processes within the human body and relation to biomedical technologies.

Objective

Theory and application of energy conversion at the cellular level. Understanding of the basic features governing fluid transport in the principal fluidic systems of the human body. Connection of characteristics and patterns from other fields of engineering to biofluidics. Heat and mass transport processes within the human body and relation to biomedical technologies.

Content

Introduction to the architecture of cells, tissues, organs, and entire-body systems. Diffusion-driven processes: Polymerization ratchet as a molecular mechanism for nano-force generation in cells; Principle of cell migration. Motor-driven processes: Introduction to molecular motors and their role in intra-cellular transport and cell division. Applications to cell dynamics based sensors and drug screening assays. Selected applications in the field of cell mechanics (cell migration and intra-cellular transport mechanisms). Preparation of the necessary knowledge-base for subsequent courses in cell biomechanics, Applications in bioengineering and biotechnology. Introduction to the main fluidic systems of the human body (arterial, cerebrospinal etc.). Description of the functionality of these systems and of analytical experimental and computational techniques for understanding their operation. Introduction of bioengineering approaches for the treatment of common pathogenic conditions of these systems. Heat and mass transfer models for the transport of thermal energy and chemical species in the human body. Physiology, pathology and biomedical intervention based on extreme temperatures (medical laser, tissue freezing and cryotherapy.)

Resources

Lecture Notes

Script as well as additional material in the form of hand-outs will be distributed.

Literature

Lecture notes and references therein

General Information

Language
English
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Energy Conversion and Transport in Biosystems
  • Thu 13:15-15:00 (CLA E 4)
2 h weekly
exercise Energy Conversion and Transport in Biosystems
jede dritte Woche
  • Fri 13:15-16:00 (ML F 39)
1 h weekly

Offered In