Unit 106: Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

1. Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology

• Overview of anatomy vs. physiology
• Levels of structural organization (chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, system, organismal)
• Anatomical terminology and body planes
• Homeostasis and its importance

2. Cellular Structure and Function

• The cell as the basic unit of life
• Cell membrane structure and function
• Organelles and their roles (nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, etc.)
• Cellular processes (diffusion, osmosis, active transport, cell division)
• Cell specialization and tissue formation

3. Skeletal System

• Functions of the skeletal system (support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell formation)
• Bone classification and structure (long, short, flat, irregular bones)
• Bone tissue composition and growth
• Joints: types and functions
• Cartilage types and roles

4. Muscular System

• Overview of muscle tissue types: skeletal, cardiac, smooth
• Structure of skeletal muscle fibers
• Mechanism of muscle contraction (sliding filament theory)
• Muscle functions and movement
• Interaction with the skeletal system

5. Cardiovascular System

• Structure and function of the heart
• Types of blood vessels: arteries, veins, capillaries
• Blood composition and functions
• Circulatory pathways: systemic and pulmonary circulation
• Role in oxygen and nutrient transport

6. Respiratory System

• Anatomy of the respiratory tract (nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs)
• Mechanics of breathing
• Gas exchange process in alveoli
• Transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide in blood
• Regulation of respiration

7. Digestive System

• Organs of the digestive tract (mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines)
• Accessory digestive organs (liver, pancreas, gallbladder)
• Processes of digestion, absorption, and elimination
• Enzymatic breakdown of macronutrients
• Nutrient absorption and metabolism

8. Nervous System

• Structural divisions: central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS)
• Neuron structure and function
• Nervous impulses and synaptic transmission
• Brain and spinal cord overview
• Sensory and motor pathways
• Role in controlling body functions and reflexes

9. Endocrine System

• Overview of endocrine glands (pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, etc.)
• Hormone types and mechanisms of action
• Regulation of metabolism, growth, and homeostasis
• Interaction with nervous system

10. Reproductive System

• Male reproductive anatomy and functions
• Female reproductive anatomy and functions
• Gametogenesis: spermatogenesis and oogenesis
• Fertilization and early development
• Pregnancy and childbirth basics

Summary and Integration

• How body systems interrelate to maintain homeostasis
• Case studies/examples of system interactions
• Review and Q&A