Unit 178: Human Anatomy and Physiology

1. Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

• Overview of human body structure and function
• Levels of organization: chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, system, organism
• Anatomical terminology: directional terms, body planes, body cavities
• Basic concepts of physiology: homeostasis, feedback mechanisms

2. Cell Structure and Function

• The cell as the basic unit of life
• Cell components and organelles: nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, cell membrane
• Cellular functions: protein synthesis, energy production, transport mechanisms
• Cell communication and signaling
• Role of cells in maintaining homeostasis

3. Skeletal System

• Overview of skeletal system components: bones, joints, cartilage
• Bone structure and types of bones
• Types of joints and their functions
• Functions of the skeletal system: support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell production
• Bone growth and remodeling

4. Muscular System

• Types of muscle tissue: skeletal, smooth, cardiac
• Structure of muscle fibers
• Mechanism of muscle contraction (sliding filament theory)
• Roles of muscular system: movement, posture maintenance, heat production
• Muscle metabolism and fatigue

5. Cardiovascular System

• Anatomy of the heart: chambers, valves, blood flow
• Blood vessels: arteries, veins, capillaries
• Composition and functions of blood
• Cardiac conduction system and heart rhythm
• Circulatory pathways: systemic and pulmonary circulation
• Regulation of blood pressure and heart rate

6. Respiratory System

• Organs of respiration: nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs, diaphragm
• Mechanics of breathing: inspiration and expiration
• Gas exchange in alveoli
• Transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide in blood
• Regulation of respiration

7. Digestive System

• Organs involved: mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum
• Accessory organs: liver, pancreas, gallbladder
• Processes of digestion: ingestion, propulsion, mechanical and chemical digestion, absorption, defecation
• Nutrient absorption and metabolism

8. Nervous System

• Central nervous system: brain and spinal cord overview
• Peripheral nervous system: sensory and motor divisions
• Neurons and neuroglia: structure and function
• Neurotransmitters and synaptic transmission
• Sensory input, integration, and motor output
• Autonomic nervous system and regulation of body functions

9. Endocrine System

• Overview of endocrine glands: pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, etc.
• Hormones: types and mechanisms of action
• Regulation of metabolism, growth, reproduction, and stress response
• Feedback loops in hormonal regulation

10. Reproductive System

• Male reproductive anatomy and physiology
• Female reproductive anatomy and physiology
• Gametogenesis: spermatogenesis and oogenesis
• Fertilization and early development
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Hormonal regulation of reproductive functions