Unit 2233: Animal Physiology

1. Introduction to Animal Physiology

• Definition and scope of animal physiology
• Importance of studying physiological functions and processes
• Levels of organization: cellular, tissue, organ, and system levels
• Overview of physiological principles

2. Cell Structure and Function in Animals

2.1 Animal Cell Structure

• Cell membrane: structure and functions
• Cytoplasm and cytoskeleton
• Organelles: nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, peroxisomes

2.2 Cellular Processes

• Metabolism: anabolic and catabolic pathways
• Transport mechanisms: passive (diffusion, osmosis), active transport, endocytosis, exocytosis
• Cell communication: signaling pathways and receptor types

3. Homeostasis in Animals

• Definition and significance of homeostasis
• Components of homeostatic control systems: receptors, control center, effectors
• Feedback mechanisms: negative and positive feedback loops
• Temperature regulation: thermoregulation strategies in animals
• Hormonal control and integration in homeostasis

4. Nervous System and Neurophysiology

4.1 Nervous System Structure

• Central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS)
• Neurons: types and structure
• Neuroglia cells

4.2 Neurophysiology

• Resting membrane potential and action potential
• Synaptic transmission: chemical and electrical synapses
• Sensory perception and signal processing
• Motor control and reflex arcs

5. Muscle Physiology

• Types of muscle tissue: skeletal, cardiac, smooth
• Muscle fiber structure
• Mechanisms of muscle contraction: sliding filament theory
• Energy metabolism in muscle activity
• Muscle adaptations to exercise and environmental factors

6. Respiratory Physiology

• Anatomy of the respiratory system
• Gas exchange principles
• Breathing mechanisms: inspiration and expiration
• Respiratory adaptations in different animal species
• Role and types of respiratory pigments (e.g., hemoglobin)

7. Circulatory System and Cardiovascular Physiology

7.1 Circulatory System Structure

• Heart anatomy and function
• Blood vessels: arteries, veins, capillaries
• Blood composition and functions

7.2 Cardiovascular Physiology

• Circulation types: systemic, pulmonary, and portal circulation
• Cardiac cycle and heart rate regulation
• Blood pressure regulation and factors affecting it

8. Digestive System and Nutrient Absorption

• Anatomy of the digestive system
• Digestive processes: ingestion, digestion, absorption, elimination
• Enzymatic breakdown of macronutrients
• Nutrient absorption mechanisms
• Role and importance of gut microbiota

9. Reproductive Physiology

• Male and female reproductive anatomy
• Gametogenesis: spermatogenesis and oogenesis
• Hormonal regulation of reproduction
• Reproductive strategies and cycles in animals

10. Endocrine System and Hormonal Regulation

• Overview of endocrine glands and hormones
• Hormone synthesis, secretion, and transport
• Mechanisms of hormone action
• Role of hormones in growth, metabolism, reproduction, and homeostasis
• Interaction between endocrine and nervous systems