Introduction to Physiology

Study Notes

Introduction to Physiology

Physiology is the study of how living organisms function.
It examines the processes occurring within an organism at various levels of organization.
It encompasses a wide range of topics, from molecular interactions within cells to the coordination of systems within the whole organism.
Physiological processes constantly adapt to internal and external environmental changes.

Cellular Physiology

Cells are the basic units of life, maintaining their internal environment through intricate mechanisms.
Membrane transport is crucial for cell function.
Active transport moves substances against their concentration gradient, requiring energy.
Passive transport moves substances along the concentration gradient, without energy expenditure.
Diffusion and osmosis are examples of passive transport.
Cell signaling pathways enable communication between cells and coordinate cellular responses.
Signal transduction cascades relay signals from the exterior to the interior of cells.
Cell metabolism, the sum of all biochemical reactions within a cell, is essential for energy production, growth, and repair.
Specialized organelles (e.g., mitochondria, ribosomes) perform specific metabolic functions.

Organ Systems

The human body comprises various organ systems with specific functions.
The cardiovascular system circulates blood, transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste products.
The respiratory system facilitates gas exchange, taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide.
The nervous system coordinates body functions via electrical and chemical signals.
The endocrine system controls bodily functions using hormones.
The digestive system breaks down food into absorbable nutrients.
The urinary system eliminates waste products from the body.
The skeletal system provides support and protection.
The muscular system enables movement.
The integumentary system (skin) protects the body from the environment.
The immune system defends the body against pathogens.

Homeostasis

Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment.
This includes regulating factors like temperature, blood pH, and blood glucose levels.
Negative feedback loops are crucial for maintaining homeostasis.
These loops detect deviations from the set point and activate mechanisms to restore balance.

Neural Physiology

The nervous system consists of neurons and neuroglia.
Neurons transmit information via electrical signals (action potentials).
Synaptic transmission involves neurotransmitter release between neurons.
Sensory neurons receive stimuli and transmit signals to the brain.
Motor neurons carry signals from the brain to muscles and glands, causing actions or reactions.
Various neurotransmitters mediate specific physiological functions.

Environmental Physiology

Environmental factors significantly influence physiological processes.
Body temperature regulation is essential for proper function.
Acclimatization allows organisms to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Specialized Physiology

Specialized physiological processes exist for particular functions.
Vision, hearing, and taste have specific mechanisms.
Mechanisms for reproduction are highly complex.

Physiological Measurements

Various techniques measure physiological parameters.
Blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature are common measurements.
Specialized equipment is necessary for these measurements.

Description

Explore the fundamentals of physiology and how living organisms function at various levels of organization. This quiz covers key topics such as cellular physiology, membrane transport mechanisms, and the processes that adapt organisms to their environments. Test your knowledge on both active and passive transport and cell signaling pathways.