Unit 2072: Comprehensive Human Physiology and Anatomy

1. Introduction to Physiology and Anatomy

• Overview of physiology and anatomy
• Definitions: structure vs. function
• Levels of structural organization: chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, system, organism
• Homeostasis: concept and importance

2. Cell Structure and Function

• Cell theory and cell types
• Cell components and organelles:
  • Nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, cell membrane
• Cellular processes:
  • Cell division (mitosis and meiosis)
  • Cellular metabolism (anabolism, catabolism, ATP production)
  • Transport mechanisms (diffusion, osmosis, active transport)

3. Tissues and Organs

• Four primary tissue types:
  • Epithelial tissue: structure and functions
  • Connective tissue: types and roles
  • Muscle tissue: types and characteristics
  • Nervous tissue: structure and function
• Organization of tissues into organs
• Examples of organ systems

4. Skeletal System

• Bone structure and types
• Functions of the skeletal system:
  • Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell production
• Overview of axial and appendicular skeleton
• Joints and types of movement

5. Muscular System

• Types of muscle tissue: skeletal, cardiac, smooth
• Muscle anatomy: muscle fibers, myofibrils, sarcomeres
• Mechanism of muscle contraction: sliding filament theory
• Role in movement, posture, and physiological processes

6. Nervous System

• Components: central nervous system (brain, spinal cord), peripheral nervous system
• Neuron structure and function
• Neural communication: synapses, neurotransmitters
• Sensory input, integration, motor output
• Autonomic nervous system: sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions

7. Cardiovascular System

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

8. Respiratory System

• Anatomy of the respiratory tract: nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs
• Mechanics of breathing: inhalation and exhalation
• Gas exchange in alveoli
• Oxygen transport and carbon dioxide elimination

9. Digestive System

• Structure of the digestive tract: mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines
• Accessory organs: liver, pancreas, gallbladder
• Processes of digestion: mechanical and chemical digestion
• Nutrient absorption and waste elimination

10. Endocrine System

• Overview of endocrine glands and hormones
• Major glands: pituitary, thyroid, adrenal, pancreas, gonads
• Hormonal regulation and feedback mechanisms
• Role in growth, metabolism, reproduction, and homeostasis

11. Reproductive System

• Male reproductive anatomy and function
• Female reproductive anatomy and function
• Gametogenesis: spermatogenesis and oogenesis
• Fertilization, pregnancy, and childbirth
• Hormonal control of reproduction