Anatomy & Physiology I – Course Overview

This course provides an integrated approach to the study of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the structure and function of the human body. It emphasizes the relationship between body systems, organization from the cellular to the organ level, and the physiological processes that maintain homeostasis.

Course Objectives

• Describe the life functions that support, move, and protect the human body.

• Understand the organization of the human body from cells to organ systems.

• Develop skills to read and study science effectively.

• Utilize knowledge to think critically in health technology contexts.

Major Topics and Subtopics

Body Plan and Organization

The human body is organized into hierarchical levels, each with specific structures and functions.

• Levels of Organization: Chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, organism.

• Body Plan: Refers to the general layout of the body, including anatomical position, planes, and directional terms.

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment.

• Example: The body maintains temperature homeostasis through sweating and shivering.

Chemical and Cellular Basis of Life

Understanding the chemical and cellular foundations is essential for studying anatomy and physiology.

• Organic Compounds: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids.

• Cell Structure: Nucleus, cytoplasm, plasma membrane, organelles.

• Cell Functions: Metabolism, transport, communication, reproduction.

• Osmosis and Diffusion: Key processes for movement of substances across membranes.

• Equation (Osmosis): , where J is the flux, P is permeability, and C is concentration.

Tissues

Tissues are groups of similar cells that perform specific functions.

• Types of Tissues: Epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous.

• Functions: Protection, support, movement, communication.

• Example: Epithelial tissue lines the surfaces of organs and structures throughout the body.

Integumentary System

The integumentary system includes the skin and its derivatives, providing protection and sensory information.

• Functions: Protection, temperature regulation, sensation, vitamin D synthesis.

• Structure: Epidermis, dermis, hypodermis, hair, nails, glands.

Skeletal System

The skeletal system provides support, protection, and facilitates movement.

• Bone Structure: Compact bone, spongy bone, marrow.

• Bone Formation: Ossification processes (intramembranous and endochondral).

• Types of Bones: Long, short, flat, irregular, sesamoid.

• Joints: Articulations between bones, classified by structure and function.

• Example: The femur is a long bone that supports body weight and enables movement.

Muscular System

The muscular system enables movement, posture, and heat production.

• Types of Muscle Tissue: Skeletal, cardiac, smooth.

• Muscle Contraction: Sliding filament theory; actin and myosin interaction.

• Equation (Muscle Force): (Force equals mass times acceleration).

• Example: Skeletal muscles contract to move bones at joints.

Nervous System

The nervous system coordinates body activities by transmitting signals between different body parts.

• Divisions: Central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS).

• Neurons: Basic functional units; transmit electrical impulses.

• Synapses: Junctions where neurons communicate with other cells.

• Reflex Arc: The pathway followed by nerve impulses to produce a reflex action.

• Autonomic Nervous System: Sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions regulate involuntary functions.

• Example: The sympathetic nervous system increases heart rate during stress.

Sensory Systems

Sensory systems detect and process information from the environment.

• Special Senses: Vision, hearing, taste, smell, equilibrium.

• General Senses: Touch, pain, temperature, proprioception.

• Transduction: Conversion of stimulus energy into electrical signals.

Key Learning Outcomes

• Identify and describe the organization of the human body.

• Explain the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organ systems.

• Describe the principles of chemistry and physics as they relate to physiology.

• Understand the mechanisms of homeostasis and feedback systems.

• Describe the structure and function of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.

• Explain the processes of bone formation, muscle contraction, and nerve impulse transmission.

• Identify major anatomical features and their functions.

• Differentiate between divisions of the nervous system and their roles in homeostasis.

Sample Table: Major Tissue Types and Functions

Assessment and Study Tips

• Attend all lectures and labs; much exam material is lecture-based.

• Keep organized notes from both lectures and readings.

• Review key terms, definitions, and diagrams regularly.

• Practice identifying structures on models and diagrams.

• Complete all assigned homework and lab reports for reinforcement.

Grading Overview

Additional Info

• Prerequisites: None

• Corequisites: None

• Textbook: Human Anatomy and Physiology, 3rd Edition, Amerman, Erin C., Pearson Education, 2024.

• Lab Manual: Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory Manual, 3rd Edition, Mika, Thomas, et al., Van-Griner Publishing, 2023.

Additional info: This guide is based on the course syllabus and learning outcomes for Anatomy & Physiology I at Owens Community College. It is designed to help students prepare for exams and understand the foundational concepts of human anatomy and physiology.