Module 2: Cell Biology and Histology

Module Topics and Learning Objectives in Anatomy & Physiology

Introduction

This document provides a comprehensive outline of the major topics and learning objectives for a college-level Anatomy & Physiology course. The modules are organized to guide students through foundational concepts, body systems, and physiological mechanisms, supporting effective exam preparation and mastery of core material.

Module 2: Cell Biology and Histology

MT 2.1: Characteristics of Cell Biology

• Cells are the basic unit of life.

• Cell shapes and sizes relate to function.

MT 2.2: Cell Membrane

• Structure: phospholipid bilayer, proteins, carbohydrates.

• Fluid mosaic model.

• Selective permeability maintains homeostasis.

MT 2.3: Membrane Transport

• Passive transport: diffusion, osmosis, facilitated diffusion.

• Active transport: requires energy (ATP).

• Vesicular transport: endocytosis, exocytosis.

MT 2.4: Membrane Potential

• Resting membrane potential: difference in charge across membrane.

• Established by ion gradients and membrane permeability.

• Equation: $E_m = \frac{RT}{zF} \ln \frac{[\text{ion outside}]}{[\text{ion inside}]}$

MT 2.5: Cell Signaling

• Cells communicate via chemical signals and membrane receptors.

MT 2.6: Cytoplasmic Organelles

• Major organelles: nucleus, mitochondria, ER, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes.

• Cytoskeleton: microtubules, microfilaments, intermediate filaments.

MT 2.7: Nucleus and Protein Synthesis

• Nucleus: contains DNA.

• Central Dogma: DNA → RNA → Protein.

• Transcription and translation processes.

MT 2.8: Cellular Energy and Respiration

• Aerobic respiration: uses oxygen, produces ATP.

• Anaerobic respiration and fermentation: less ATP produced.

MT 2.9: Cell Cycle

• Phases: interphase, mitosis, cytokinesis.

• DNA replication, chromosome structure.

• Meiosis vs. mitosis: genetic variation.

MT 2.10: Characteristics of Histology

• Histology: study of tissues.

• Four major tissue types: epithelial, connective, muscle, neural.

MT 2.11: Epithelial Tissue

• Characteristics: cell layers, shapes, functions.

• Exocrine vs. endocrine glands.

MT 2.12: Connective Tissue

• Types: loose, dense, cartilage, bone, blood.

• Functions: support, protection, transport.

MT 2.13: Membranes

• Types: mucous, serous, cutaneous, synovial.

MT 2.14: Tissue Repair

• Processes: inflammation, regeneration, fibrosis.