About Course
The Human Physiology course provides an in-depth study of the structure and function of human body systems, including their mechanisms, regulation, and coordination in maintaining homeostasis.
Students will explore the physiology of digestion, nutrient absorption, circulation, respiration, excretion, and neural coordination. Special emphasis is placed on organs such as the pancreas, liver, spleen, kidneys, heart, lungs, brain, and lymphoid tissues in regulating bodily functions.
By the end of this course, students will develop a strong foundation in human physiology, preparing them for careers in nutrition, health sciences, biomedical research, and clinical practice.
Course Modules
Module 1: Cell Structure & Function
- Overview of animal cell composition and organization.
- The structure and function of cellular organelles (nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, etc.).
- Cellular processes: Protein synthesis, energy production, and communication.
- Mechanisms of cellular transport and homeostasis at the cellular level.
Module 2: Tissues: Types, Structure, and Functions
- Types of tissues: Epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue.
- Structure and function of each tissue type.
- The role of tissues in maintaining bodily functions.
- Tissue regeneration and repair mechanisms.
Module 3: The Digestive System
- Anatomy of the alimentary canal: Mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus.
- Functions of digestive organs: The role of the pancreas, liver, and spleen in digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Digestion and absorption of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats).
- Regulation of digestive processes and secretion of digestive enzymes.
- Pathophysiology of digestive disorders (e.g., GERD, IBS).
Module 4: The Cardiovascular System
- Structure of the heart: Chambers, valves, and blood flow.
- The cardiac cycle: Systole, diastole, and heart sounds.
- Blood pressure regulation: The role of baroreceptors, kidneys, and hormones in controlling BP.
- Circulatory pathways: Pulmonary and systemic circulation.
- Hemodynamics: Blood flow, resistance, and cardiac output.
- Disorders of the cardiovascular system (e.g., hypertension, atherosclerosis).
Module 5: The Respiratory System
- Anatomy of the lungs: Structure of alveoli, bronchi, and respiratory muscles.
- Mechanisms of respiration: Inspiration and expiration, tidal volume, and lung capacity.
- Gas exchange and oxygen transport: Role of hemoglobin and diffusion.
- Regulation of breathing: Medullary centers and chemoreceptors.
- Respiratory diseases: Asthma, COPD, and pneumonia.
Module 6: The Excretory System
- Structure and function of the kidneys: Nephrons, renal tubules, glomerulus, and renal corpuscle.
- Urine formation: Filtration, reabsorption, secretion, and excretion.
- Plasma clearance: The role of kidneys in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.
- Osmolar regulation: The role of ADH and aldosterone in water and sodium balance.
- Pathophysiology of renal diseases: Chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections.
Module 7: The Reproductive System
- Male reproductive system: Anatomy of testes, epididymis, vas deferens, and prostate.
- Female reproductive system: Anatomy of ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and vagina.
- Spermatogenesis: Process of sperm production and maturation.
- Oogenesis: Ovum production and hormonal regulation.
- Hormonal control of the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and childbirth.
- Reproductive disorders: Infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and erectile dysfunction.
Module 8: The Lymphatic System
- Anatomy of lymphoid organs: Lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and bone marrow.
- Lymphatic circulation and the role of lymph in immune defense.
- Immune system functions: Innate immunity and adaptive immunity.
- The role of lymphatic vessels in fluid balance and immune surveillance.
- Disorders of the lymphatic system: Lymphedema, lymphoma, and immune deficiencies.
Module 9: The Nervous System
- Structure and function of the brain: Cerebrum, cerebellum, brainstem, and limbic system.
- Structure of the spinal cord and the nervous pathways.
- Motor nerves and sensory neurons: The transmission of electrical impulses.
- Neural coordination and communication: The role of neurotransmitters and synaptic transmission.
- Autonomic nervous system: Sympathetic and parasympathetic functions.
- Nervous system disorders: Multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke.
