Unit 241: Human Anatomy and Physiology

1. Overview of Human Anatomy and Physiology

1.1 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

• Definition of anatomy (body structure)
• Definition of physiology (body function)
• Relationship between anatomy and physiology

1.2 Organization of the Human Body

• Levels of structural organization: chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, organism
• Body systems overview

1.3 Anatomical Terminology

• Directional terms (anterior, posterior, superior, inferior, etc.)
• Body planes and sections (sagittal, frontal, transverse)
• Body cavities and regions

1.4 Fundamental Principles of Physiology

• Homeostasis
• Cell function and communication
• Basic physiological processes

2. The Skeletal System

2.1 Structure of the Skeletal System

• Types of bones: long, short, flat, irregular
• Bone tissues: compact and spongy bone
• Bone cells: osteoblasts, osteocytes, osteoclasts

2.2 Bone Development and Growth

• Ossification processes
• Bone remodeling

2.3 Functions of the Skeletal System

• Support and shape
• Protection of vital organs
• Movement facilitation via joints
• Mineral storage (calcium, phosphorus)
• Blood cell production in bone marrow

3. The Muscular System

3.1 Types of Muscle Tissue

• Skeletal muscle
• Cardiac muscle
• Smooth muscle

3.2 Structure of Skeletal Muscles

• Muscle fibers and fascicles
• Connective tissue components

3.3 Muscle Contraction

• Sliding filament theory
• Role of actin, myosin, ATP, calcium

3.4 Functions of the Muscular System

• Movement and locomotion
• Maintaining posture
• Heat production during contraction

4. The Nervous System

4.1 Components of the Nervous System

• Central nervous system (CNS): brain and spinal cord
• Peripheral nervous system (PNS)
• Autonomic nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions)

4.2 Neurons and Neuroglia

• Structure and types of neurons
• Functions of neuroglia

4.3 Neural Communication

• Action potentials
• Synapses and neurotransmitters

4.4 Functions of the Nervous System

• Sensory input
• Integration
• Motor output

5. The Cardiovascular System

5.1 Structure of the Cardiovascular System

• Heart anatomy
• Blood vessels: arteries, veins, capillaries
• Composition of blood

5.2 Circulation of Blood

• Pulmonary and systemic circulation
• Cardiac cycle

5.3 Blood Pressure and Regulation

• Factors affecting blood pressure
• Mechanisms of blood pressure regulation

5.4 Functions

• Transport of oxygen, nutrients, hormones
• Removal of waste products
• Immune system support

6. The Respiratory System

6.1 Structure of the Respiratory System

• Organs: nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs
• Alveoli and gas exchange surfaces

6.2 Mechanics of Breathing

• Inhalation and exhalation processes

6.3 Gas Exchange

• Oxygen and carbon dioxide transport

6.4 Respiratory Volumes

• Tidal volume, vital capacity, residual volume

6.5 Regulation of Respiration

• Neural and chemical control

7. The Digestive System

7.1 Structure of the Digestive System

• Organs of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract: mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine
• Accessory organs: liver, pancreas, gallbladder

7.2 Processes of Digestion

• Ingestion, propulsion, mechanical digestion, chemical digestion, absorption, defecation

7.3 Nutrient Absorption

• Absorption in the small intestine
• Role of villi and microvilli

7.4 Role of Liver and Pancreas

• Liver: bile production, metabolism, detoxification
• Pancreas: digestive enzymes, insulin secretion

8. The Endocrine System

8.1 Endocrine Glands

• Major glands: pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, gonads

8.2 Hormones and Their Functions

• Types of hormones: steroid, peptide
• Regulation of metabolism, growth, reproduction

8.3 Mechanisms of Hormone Action

• Hormone receptors
• Feedback control

9. Homeostasis and Feedback Mechanisms

9.1 Concept of Homeostasis

• Definition and importance

9.2 Feedback Mechanisms

• Negative feedback: examples and role
• Positive feedback: examples and role

9.3 Integration of Body Systems to Maintain Homeostasis

• Examples of physiological regulation