Introduction to Human Anatomy & Physiology I: Concepts and Terminology

Course Overview

This study guide summarizes foundational concepts from the beginning of a college-level Human Anatomy & Physiology I course (BIOL 203). It covers essential terminology, subdivisions of anatomy, and introductory principles necessary for understanding the structure and function of the human body.

Required Materials

• Textbook: Human Anatomy & Physiology, 12th edition by Marieb and Hoehn

• Lab Manual: A&P I Lab Manual by HCC Faculty (online on Canvas only)

• Online Access: Pearson's Mastering A&P and eText

Course Structure and Objectives

• Each module covers a specific topic with learning objectives listed at the beginning.

• Objectives guide what information students are responsible for learning.

• Quizzes and exams are organized by topic and objectives.

Topic 1: Concepts and Terminology

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy and physiology are closely related fields that study the structure and function of the human body. Understanding basic terminology is essential for success in this course.

• Anatomy: The study of the structure of body parts and their relationships to one another.

• Physiology: The study of the function of body parts and how they work to carry out life-sustaining activities.

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

• Feedback Mechanisms: Processes that regulate homeostasis, including negative feedback (reduces change) and positive feedback (amplifies change).

Key Anatomical Terms

• Gross Anatomy: Study of structures visible to the naked eye.

• Microscopic Anatomy: Study of structures requiring magnification (e.g., histology, cytology).

• Developmental Anatomy: Study of structural changes throughout the lifespan (e.g., embryology, gerontology).

• Pathological Anatomy: Study of structural changes caused by disease.

• Radiographic Anatomy: Study of body structures using imaging techniques (e.g., X-ray, CT scan, MRI, PET, ultrasound).

Subdivisions of Anatomy

Anatomy is divided into several branches, each focusing on different aspects of body structure.

• Gross Anatomy:

  • Regional Anatomy: Study of structures in a particular area of the body.

  • Systemic Anatomy: Study of structures within a specific organ system (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive).

  • Surface Anatomy: Study of external features as they relate to deeper structures.

• Microscopic Anatomy:

  • Histology: Study of tissues.

  • Cytology: Study of cells.

• Developmental Anatomy:

  • Embryology: Study of development before birth.

  • Gerontology: Study of aging and age-related changes.

• Pathological Anatomy: Study of disease-related structural changes.

• Radiographic Anatomy: Use of imaging to study anatomy.

Systemic Anatomy

Systemic anatomy focuses on the study of all structures within a particular organ system. Examples include:

• Integumentary System

• Skeletal System

• Muscular System

• Nervous System

• Endocrine System

• Cardiovascular System

• Lymphatic System

• Respiratory System

• Digestive System

• Urinary System

• Reproductive System

Examples and Applications

• Example: Studying the heart's structure (anatomy) and how it pumps blood (physiology).

• Application: Using MRI to visualize brain structures (radiographic anatomy).

Comparison Table: Subdivisions of Anatomy

Subdivision	Focus	Methods/Examples
Gross Anatomy	Structures visible to naked eye	Dissection, observation
Microscopic Anatomy	Structures requiring magnification	Histology, cytology
Developmental Anatomy	Changes over lifespan	Embryology, gerontology
Pathological Anatomy	Disease-related changes	Biopsy, autopsy
Radiographic Anatomy	Imaging techniques	X-ray, CT, MRI, PET, ultrasound

Key Equations and Scientific Principles

• Homeostasis Principle: The body maintains internal stability through feedback mechanisms.

• Negative Feedback Example: Regulation of body temperature.

• Positive Feedback Example: Blood clotting process.

*Additional info: Expanded definitions and examples were added for clarity and completeness. The comparison table was inferred and organized based on standard academic subdivisions of anatomy.*