Course Overview

Introduction to Human Physiology

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the organization and function of the human body from the cellular to the organ system level. It emphasizes the integration of physiological systems and their roles in maintaining homeostasis, health, and disease. Students will learn foundational concepts in physiology, including cellular physiology, endocrine, neural, muscle, and sensory physiology.

• Course Code: PHYL 1001

• Department: Physiology and Biophysics

• Term: Fall 2025

Course Structure

Class Meetings

• Asynchronous Online Activity: Many course requirements can be fulfilled online.

• In-Person Exams: Exams are scheduled as follows:

  • Midterm Exam: Thursday, October 30, 2025 (7:30PM-9PM, 60 questions, 90 minutes)

  • Final Exam: During official exam period (120 questions, 3 hours)

• Tutorials: Weekly tutorials are available to support understanding of key concepts. Attendance is optional but recommended.

Course Description

Scope and Topics

The course focuses on the integration of various physiological systems and their contribution to homeostasis. Topics include:

• Cellular physiology

• Endocrine system

• Neural system

• Muscle physiology

• Sensory physiology

Students will examine the cellular communication, cell membrane function, gradients, mass balance, and energy within the context of human physiology.

Course Learning Outcomes

Block 1: Cellular and Endocrine Physiology

After completing this block, students will be able to:

• Define the establishment and functional role of life, including the role of the plasma membrane in regulating the internal environment.

• Describe the main cellular functions in terms of transport and communication.

• Explain the role of negative feedback in maintaining homeostasis.

• Identify examples of positive and negative feedback loops.

• Describe the differences between peptide, steroid, and amine hormones in terms of synthesis, control, and physiological effects.

• Explain the hypothalamus-anterior pituitary axis and identify short- and long-loop negative feedback.

• Characterize hormone secretion and its mechanisms of action.

Key Terms: Homeostasis, plasma membrane, negative feedback, hormone, hypothalamus, pituitary axis.

Block 2: Neural and Sensory Physiology

After completing this block, students will be able to:

• Characterize neuronal and non-neuronal cells in the nervous system and map out their organization.

• Describe the structure and function of neurons, including their parts and the generation of action potentials.

• Map out the sequence of events that lead to a chemical synapse and illustrate their importance in transmitting and modulating neural signals.

• Delineate the organization of central and peripheral nervous systems.

• Describe the somatic and autonomic arms of the peripheral nervous system.

• Draw or map out processes that allow humans to feel touch, pain, and temperature.

Key Terms: Neuron, action potential, synapse, central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, somatic, autonomic.

Block 3: Muscle and Energy Physiology

After completing this block, students will be able to:

• Explain the concept of energy conversion and transformation, emphasizing the importance of ATP as an energy-providing molecule.

• Describe the biochemical and mechanical actions of enzymes in human physiology.

• Explain the molecular organization and mechanical components of skeletal muscle that allow contraction, tension-length relationship, muscle fiber type, and impact of tension creation on skeletal muscle.

Key Terms: ATP, enzyme, muscle contraction, tension-length relationship, muscle fiber.

General Skills Objectives

Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate competencies in:

• Time management and prioritization

• Active class participation and reading relevant texts

• Critical thinking and scientific communication

• Self-regulated learning and adaptation of study habits

Example: Students will learn to communicate scientific information to a variety of audiences, including instructors, teaching assistants, and fellow students.

Course Materials

Required and Optional Resources

• Modified Mastering A&P (Pearson): Required for virtual labs and online assignments.

• Textbook: Human Physiology, 8th edition, by D. Silverthorn (optional, but recommended).

Students may purchase the textbook and/or Mastering A&P access code from the university bookstore or online. Both resources are designed to support learning objectives and lab completion.

Course Policies

• Attendance: In-person exams are mandatory; no make-up exams except for documented absences.

• Communication: Students are expected to check email and course platforms regularly for updates.

• Academic Integrity: All university policies regarding academic honesty and conduct apply.

Additional Information

• Support: Students have access to tutorials, office hours, and online resources for additional help.

• Technology: Some course components require online access and computer use.

Additional info: The syllabus emphasizes the importance of self-regulated learning and lifelong study skills, encouraging students to develop habits that will benefit them throughout their academic and professional careers.