Course overview
In this course, students will further develop knowledge of the normal and abnormal physiological processes that occur across the life-span. Pre-conception. Maternal: physiological and immunological adaptions to pregnancy, physiological changes in preparation for lactation. In utero physiological growth and development: maternal-foetal interaction, placental and neural systems, cardiovascular systems. Physiological growth and development across the lifespan: infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood and ageing. Role of the immunological system and inflammation in normal physiology and in the development of disease. Cardiovascular system: cardiovascular disturbances and pathology of cardiac tissue. Endocrine system: control of growth and development, endocrine regulation of calcium and bone metabolism. Impact of genetic variants on normal physiology. Impact of physical activity, nutrition, environment, environmental contaminants, drugs and alcohol on pathophysiology and disease.
Course learning outcomes
- Analyse, compare and contrast the physiological changes occurring during the different stages of the lifespan.
- Explain the physiological impact of physical activity, nutrition, environmental contaminants, drugs and alcohol on the physiological systems throughout the lifespan
- Describe the differences between normal and abnormal states of physiology and development throughout the lifespan.
- Explain the pathophysiological impact of alterations to physiological systems throughout the lifespan.