Course overview
The aim of this course is to provide knowledge of the normal function of the human body and the ways in which the bodily systems integrate with each other. Neuromuscular system: nervous system organisation - autonomic, somatic, sensory, pain, musculoskeletal control and function. Endocrine system: homeostatic control, hormone action, classes and glands, hypothalamic-pituitary-organ interactions, reproductive hormones, thyroid hormones and abnormalities, clinical perspectives of hormones related to fuel metabolism, diabetes and stress. Cardiovascular system: the heart, circulatory system, cardiovascular control, blood pressure, cardiovascular disturbances. Respiratory system: respiratory mechanics, gas exchange, gas transport, control of respiration, respiratory diseases (restrictive, obstructive), extreme conditions (exercise, altitude). Cardio-respiratory integration: cardio-respiratory control during exercise, ventilation-perfusion matching. Urinary system: renal processes and control (glomerular filtration, tubular re-absorption and secretion), fluid balance, acid-base balance. Gastrointestinal system: digestive processes (motility, secretion, digestion, absorption), parts of the digestive system, control of digestion (intrinsic and extrinsic nerves, gastrointestinal hormones). The theoretical systems content is reinforced practically through state-of-the-art experiential technologies enabling real time collection and analysis of students' physiological data. These are used to apply the scientific method, as well as develop problem solving and critical analytical skills.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the physiological principles that underpin the function of the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary and gastrointestinal systems and relate these to anatomical structure.
- Explain the mechanisms underlying physiological and homeostatic functions, including sensory-motor integration, hormonal control, maintenance of blood pressure, respiratory gas exchange, acid-base balance and digestion.
- Recognise the boundaries of normal physiological function.
- Describe the interrelationship between physiological systems particularly during physical activity, living in extreme conditions and disease.
- Test physiological mechanisms through application of state-of-the-art experiential technologies that enable physiological experimentation with real time data collection and analysis.
- Measure and use physiological data to recognise the sources and significance of data variability and practice problem solving and critical analytical skills.