Unit 122: Human Anatomy and Physiology

1. Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

• Overview of anatomy vs. physiology
• Levels of structural organization: cells, tissues, organs, systems
• Anatomical terminology: planes, directions, and regions
• Homeostasis and feedback mechanisms

2. The Skeletal System

• Functions: support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell formation
• Types of bones: long, short, flat, irregular
• Bone tissue structure: compact vs. spongy bone
• Bone formation and growth: ossification, remodeling
• Joints and their classifications

3. The Muscular System

• Types of muscle tissue: skeletal, cardiac, smooth
• Muscle anatomy: muscle fibers, myofibrils, sarcomeres
• Mechanism of muscle contraction: sliding filament theory
• Muscle mechanics: origin, insertion, antagonistic pairs
• Role in movement, posture, and heat production

4. The Cardiovascular System

• Structure of the heart: chambers, valves, conduction system
• Blood vessels: arteries, veins, capillaries
• Blood composition: red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, plasma
• Circulatory pathways: systemic and pulmonary circulation
• Functions: transport of oxygen, nutrients, waste, and hormones

5. The Respiratory System

• Organs involved: nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs
• Mechanics of breathing: inspiration and expiration
• Gas exchange process in alveoli
• Respiratory volumes and capacities
• Role in oxygen supply and carbon dioxide removal

6. The Nervous System

• Central nervous system (CNS): brain and spinal cord
• Peripheral nervous system (PNS): somatic and autonomic divisions
• Neuron structure and function
• Neurotransmitters and synaptic transmission
• Coordination of body activities and response to stimuli

7. The Digestive System

• Organs: mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, gallbladder
• Processes: ingestion, digestion, absorption, elimination
• Digestive enzymes and their roles
• Nutrient absorption mechanisms
• Role in energy supply and waste elimination

8. The Endocrine System

• Major endocrine glands: pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, etc.
• Hormones: types and modes of action
• Regulation of hormone secretion and feedback loops
• Role in homeostasis, growth, metabolism, and reproduction

9. The Reproductive System

• Male reproductive anatomy and functions
• Female reproductive anatomy and functions
• Gametogenesis: spermatogenesis and oogenesis
• Hormonal regulation of reproduction
• Fertilization and early embryonic development