Aims: The aim of this unit is to provide an overview of human and mammalian physiology, with particular emphasis on how the major systems of the body are integrated and controlled. There will also be some comparison with invertebrates and lower vertebrates.
Learning Outcomes:
After taking this unit, the student will be able to:
(a) demonstrate an understanding of the structure and function of the major physiological systems of the human body;
(b) demonstrate knowledge of how the functions of major organs and systems are integrated and regulated.
Skills:
Written Communication T/F/A, Data Acquisition, Handling and Analysis T/F/A, Problem Solving T/F/A, Working as part of a group F.
Content:
1. Animal structure and function: anatomy, physiology and functional genomics; bioenergetics; body plans; size and shape; homeostasis and feedback control.
2. Animal nutrition: food types and feeding mechanisms; food processing; mammalian digestive system; evolutionary adaptations.
3. Circulation and gas exchange: diffusion and mass transport systems within animals; simple systems; evolution of heart and circulation in vertebrates; structure, function and control of the mammalian heart; physical properties of blood vessels; exchange of materials at capillaries; lymph; blood pressure and how it is regulated.
4. Homeostasis - regulation of the internal environment: regulation of body temperature; water balance and waste disposal; filtration systems; comparative kidneys; modification of tubular filtrates in mammalian kidney; water conservation in human kidney; hormones that regulate the kidney; adaptations in animals that live in dry environments.
5. Hormones and other kinds of chemical signalling: hormones, neurotransmitters, etc - types of signal and nomenclature; cell surface and intracellular receptors; intracellular second messengers; hypothalamic and pituitary hormones; pineal and biorhythms; insulin and other hormones that regulate nutrient levels. Overview of other hormonal systems.
6. Nervous systems: neurons; electrical and chemical neuronal signalling; general organisation of nervous systems; structure and function of the vertebrate brain.
7. Sensory and motor mechanisms: principles of sensory perception; photoreception; audition; chemoreception; movement and locomotion.
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