Course Overview

BIO276 Anatomy & Physiology I is a foundational course designed to introduce students to the integration of structure and function within the human body. The course emphasizes the correlation of gross and microscopic anatomy with physiological processes, focusing on the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Laboratory exercises are included to reinforce theoretical concepts.

Course Structure and Requirements

• Credit Hours: 4

• Department: Mathematics and Sciences

• Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry recommended

• Required Text: Human Anatomy & Physiology, 12th Edition (Hoehn, Haynes, Abbott)

• Technology: Reliable computer and Internet access required

• Course Format: Structured schedule, not self-paced; includes lectures, readings, virtual labs, and discussions

Core Topics Covered

• The Human Body: An Orientation

• Chemistry Comes Alive

• Cells: The Living Units

• Tissue: The Living Fabric

• The Integumentary System

• Bones and Skeletal Tissues

• The Skeleton

• Joints

• Muscles and Muscle Tissue

• The Muscular System

• Fundamentals of the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue

• The Central Nervous System

• The Peripheral Nervous System and Reflex Activity

• The Autonomic Nervous System

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate understanding of anatomical and directional terminology

• Describe anatomical position, planes, sections, and body cavities

• List and identify the 11 organ systems and their functions

• Explain homeostasis and its mechanisms

• Apply concepts of basic chemistry to physiological processes

• Describe cellular structures, functions, and processes (including protein synthesis and cellular respiration)

• Identify tissue types and their roles

• Discuss the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems

• Apply homeostatic mechanisms and predict imbalances related to disease states

Key Subtopics and Competencies

Anatomical Terminology and Orientation

Understanding anatomical terms is essential for describing locations, directions, and planes in the human body. Students will learn to:

• Use correct anatomical terms for body planes (sagittal, frontal, transverse) and sections

• Identify major body cavities (cranial, thoracic, abdominal, pelvic) and regions

• Describe body directions (superior, inferior, anterior, posterior, medial, lateral, proximal, distal)

Homeostasis

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions. Key points include:

• Definition: The maintenance of a stable internal environment despite external changes

• Mechanisms: Negative and positive feedback loops

• Examples: Regulation of body temperature, blood glucose, and pH

• Imbalance: Can lead to disease states and disorders

Basic Chemistry in Physiology

Chemical principles underpin physiological processes. Students will cover:

• Atoms and Molecules: Basic units of matter and their interactions

• Role of Electrons: Chemical bonding (ionic, covalent, hydrogen bonds)

• Inorganic vs. Organic Compounds: Water, salts, acids, bases vs. carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids

• pH Concept: Measurement of acidity/alkalinity;

• Energy Forms: Potential and kinetic energy; ATP as the energy currency

Cellular Structure and Function

Cells are the basic units of life. Key concepts include:

• Cell Definition: Smallest living unit

• Extracellular Materials: Matrix, fluids, fibers

• Cell Regions: Plasma membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus

• Membrane Composition: Phospholipid bilayer, proteins, cholesterol

• Transport Mechanisms: Diffusion, osmosis, active transport

• Organelles: Mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes

• Protein Synthesis: Transcription and translation

• Cell Division: Mitosis, cytokinesis, meiosis

Tissues and Histology

Tissues are groups of cells with similar structure and function. Students will learn:

• Histology: Study of tissues

• Tissue Types: Epithelial, connective, muscular, nervous

• Membranes: Mucous, serous, cutaneous, synovial

• Glands: Exocrine vs. endocrine

• Tissue Injury and Repair: Inflammation, regeneration, fibrosis

Integumentary System

The integumentary system includes skin and its derivatives. Key points:

• Functions: Protection, temperature regulation, sensation

• Anatomy: Epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous layer

• Accessory Structures: Hair, nails, glands

Skeletal System

The skeletal system provides support, protection, and movement. Topics include:

• Bone Functions: Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell formation

• Microscopic Anatomy: Osteons, cells (osteoblasts, osteocytes, osteoclasts)

• Gross Anatomy: Long, short, flat, irregular bones

• Ossification: Embryonic bone formation

• Bone Growth and Repair: Remodeling, healing

Muscular System

Muscles enable movement and heat production. Key concepts:

• Muscle Types: Skeletal, smooth, cardiac

• Anatomy: Muscle fibers, fascicles, connective tissue coverings

• Contraction Physiology: Sliding filament theory, neuromuscular junction

• Metabolism: ATP production, muscle fatigue

Nervous System

The nervous system coordinates communication and control. Topics include:

• Organization: Central and peripheral nervous systems

• Nervous Tissue: Neurons, neuroglia

• Membrane Potential: Resting and action potentials

• Neurotransmitters: Chemical messengers

• Sensory Receptors: Detection of stimuli

Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems

Students will study the anatomy and function of the brain, spinal cord, cranial and spinal nerves, and reflexes.

• Brain Divisions: Cerebrum, cerebellum, brainstem

• Protection: Cranial bones, meninges, cerebrospinal fluid

• Reflexes: Involuntary responses

Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary functions. Key points:

• Functions: Control of smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, glands

• Comparison: Somatic vs. autonomic systems

Grading and Course Policies

Course Participation and Communication

• Weekly assignments must be completed on schedule

• Active participation in discussions and announcements is required

• Professional netiquette and communication standards apply

ADA Compliance and Student Ethics

Students requiring academic accommodations should contact the Student Success Center and provide documentation. All course work must adhere to the EDUKAN Code of Ethics.