An overview of the structure and function of the human body, including the organization of cells, tissues, organs, and systems.
Introduction to Human Anatomy & Physiology
Key concepts, terminology, and organizational levels
| Discipline | Focus | Typical Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomy | The structure of the body and its parts | Where is the heart located? What are the layers of skin? |
| Physiology | The function of those structures | How does the heart pump blood? How do muscles contract? |
| Integrated view | How form and function interrelate | Why does the shape of the alveoli aid gas exchange? |
(Mnemonic for the tissue types: Every Cool Musician Needs Equipment → Epithelial, Connective, Muscle, Nervous)
| System | Primary Organs/Structures | Main Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Integumentary | Skin, hair, nails, glands | Protection, temperature regulation, sensation |
| Skeletal | Bones, cartilage, joints | Support, movement, mineral storage, blood‑cell formation |
| Muscular | Skeletal, cardiac, smooth muscle | Body movement, posture, heat production |
| Nervous | Brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, sense organs | Sensory input, integration, motor output |
| Endocrine | Glands (pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, etc.) | Hormone secretion → regulation of metabolism, growth, reproduction |
| Cardiovascular | Heart, blood vessels, blood | Transport of nutrients, gases, wastes; immune defense |
| Lymphatic/Immune | Lymph nodes, vessels, spleen, thymus | Fluid balance, defense against pathogens |
| Respiratory | Nasal cavity, trachea, lungs | Gas exchange (O₂ ↔ CO₂) |
| Digestive | Mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas | Ingestion, digestion, absorption, elimination |
| Urinary | Kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra | Filtration of blood, waste excretion, fluid/electrolyte balance |
| Reproductive | Gonads, ducts, accessory glands | Production of gametes, hormones, support of offspring |
| Term | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Superior | Toward the head (up) | The shoulder is superior to the elbow |
| Inferior | Toward the feet (down) | The stomach is inferior to the diaphragm |
| Anterior (ventral) |