Unit 1321: Physiology

1. Introduction to Physiology

• Definition and scope of physiology
• Historical milestones in physiology
• Importance of physiology in medicine and biology
• Relationship between physiology and other biological sciences

2. Cell Physiology

2.1 Cellular Structure and Organelles

• Overview of cell types
• Functions of major organelles (nucleus, mitochondria, ER, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes)

2.2 Cell Membrane Transport

• Passive transport: diffusion, osmosis, facilitated diffusion
• Active transport mechanisms
• Endocytosis and exocytosis

2.3 Cell Signaling

• Types of cell signaling (autocrine, paracrine, endocrine)
• Signal transduction pathways
• Role of receptors and second messengers

2.4 Cellular Metabolism

• Overview of catabolic and anabolic pathways
• ATP production and energy metabolism

3. Nervous System Physiology

3.1 Structure of the Nervous System

• Central and peripheral nervous systems
• Neuron anatomy

3.2 Synapses and Neurotransmitters

• Chemical and electrical synapses
• Major neurotransmitters and their functions

3.3 Nerve Impulse Transmission

• Resting membrane potential
• Action potentials
• Propagation of nerve impulses

4. Cardiovascular Physiology

4.1 Heart Anatomy and Function

• Chambers, valves, and conduction system

4.2 Blood Vessels and Circulation

• Types of blood vessels
• Systemic and pulmonary circulation

4.3 Cardiac Cycle

• Phases of the cardiac cycle
• Heart sounds and ECG basics

4.4 Blood Pressure Regulation

• Factors influencing blood pressure
• Neural and hormonal controls

5. Respiratory Physiology

5.1 Pulmonary Ventilation

• Mechanics of breathing
• Lung volumes and capacities

5.2 Gas Exchange

• Alveolar gas exchange
• Oxygen and carbon dioxide transport in blood

5.3 Regulation of Respiratory Function

• Neural control of respiration
• Chemical regulation and reflexes

6. Digestive System Physiology

6.1 Overview of Digestive Organs

• Structure and function of major digestive organs

6.2 Processes of Digestion

• Mechanical and chemical digestion
• Enzymes and their roles

6.3 Absorption of Nutrients

• Sites and mechanisms of absorption

6.4 Regulation of Gastrointestinal Function

• Neural and hormonal regulation

7. Endocrine System Physiology

7.1 Endocrine Glands and Hormones

• Major glands and hormone types

7.2 Hormone Action Mechanisms

• Steroid vs. protein hormones
• Signal transduction in target cells

7.3 Role in Homeostasis

• Regulation of metabolism, growth, and reproduction

8. Renal Physiology

8.1 Kidney Structure and Function

• Nephron anatomy

8.2 Urine Formation

• Filtration, reabsorption, secretion

8.3 Electrolyte and Acid-Base Balance

• Mechanisms of regulation

8.4 Renal Blood Flow

• Autoregulation and hormonal influences

9. Muscular System Physiology

9.1 Muscle Types and Structure

• Skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle

9.2 Muscle Contraction Mechanisms

• Sliding filament theory
• Excitation-contraction coupling

9.3 Energy Metabolism in Muscles

• ATP sources
• Muscle fatigue

9.4 Role in Movement and Thermoregulation

10. Reproductive System Physiology

10.1 Male Reproductive System

• Structure and function
• Gametogenesis

10.2 Female Reproductive System

• Structure and function
• Oogenesis

10.3 Hormonal Regulation

• Role of hypothalamus, pituitary, and gonadal hormones

10.4 Fertilization and Pregnancy

• Process of fertilization
• Early embryonic development and pregnancy maintenance