Human Physiology: Course Overview and Key Topics

Course Overview

Introduction to Human Physiology

Human Physiology is the scientific study of the functions and mechanisms occurring in the human body. This course provides a comprehensive overview of the chemical and physical processes that underlie the operation of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems, with an emphasis on homeostasis and integration.

• Definition: Physiology is the branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts.

• Application: Understanding physiology is essential for careers in health sciences, medicine, and biomedical research.

Course Objectives

Core Goals

The course aims to help students:

• Describe and explain how the human body is organized and functions as a complex system.

• Understand the chemical reactions and chains of reactions in the human body.

• Interpret the meaning of homeostasis and its importance for health.

• Relate the structure of organs and tissues to their physiological roles.

• Analyze the effects of various factors on physiological processes, including pregnancy and immune response.

Student Learning Outcomes

Expected Competencies

Upon completion, students should be able to:

• Identify and describe the chemical pathways associated with the body.

• Explain how the chemical pathways are altered due to environmental or genetic factors.

• Discuss the significance of cholesterol, enzymes, and hormones in body systems.

• Interpret laboratory results and relate them to physiological processes.

General Education Learning Outcomes

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

• Apply mathematical and scientific methods to solve problems in anatomy and physiology.

• Evaluate information and arguments, considering alternatives and outcomes.

• Manipulate formulas, data sets, graphs, and tables to produce meaningful scientific conclusions.

Content/Topical Outline

Main Topics Covered

The following topics are included in the study of human physiology:

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of stable internal conditions in the body.

• Cell Structure and Function: Organization and roles of cellular components.

• Chemical Pathways: Biochemical reactions and their regulation.

• Membrane Diffusion: Movement of substances across cell membranes.

• Organ Systems: Integration and function of body systems (e.g., nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular).

• Reproductive System: Physiology of reproduction and development.

• Blood Physiology: Blood composition, clotting, and donation.

• Endocrine System: Hormone production and regulation.

• Osmosis and Diffusion: Mechanisms of water and solute movement.

• Blood Pressure and Heart Contractions: Regulation and measurement.

Key Terms and Definitions

• Homeostasis: The process by which biological systems maintain stability while adjusting to changing external conditions.

• Osmosis: The movement of water molecules through a semipermeable membrane from a region of lower solute concentration to higher solute concentration.

• Diffusion: The passive movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.

• Enzyme: A protein that acts as a biological catalyst, speeding up chemical reactions in the body.

• Hormone: A chemical messenger produced by glands that regulates physiological processes.

Important Equations

• Fick's Law of Diffusion:

$J = -D \frac{dC}{dx}$

• Osmotic Pressure:

$\Pi = iMRT$

• Blood Pressure:

$\text{Blood Pressure} = \text{Cardiac Output} \times \text{Total Peripheral Resistance}$

Sample Table: SCC Grading Scale

The following table summarizes the grading scale used in the course:

Grade	Percentage (%)
A	95-100
A-	90-94
B+	85-89
B	80-84
B-	75-79
C+	70-74
C	65-69
D+	60-64
D	55-59
F	59 or less

Methods of Instruction and Evaluation

• Instruction: Lectures, labs, and demonstrations are used to present material.

• Evaluation: Exams, quizzes, and homework assignments from both lecture and lab components.

Recommended Textbooks

• Human Anatomy and Physiology by Marieb & Hoehn, 11th edition.

• Physiology Lecture and Laboratory Manual by Bassett, 1st edition.

Conclusion

This course provides a foundational understanding of human physiology, emphasizing the integration of chemical and physical processes that sustain life. Mastery of these topics is essential for further study in health and biological sciences.