Chapter 1 Introduction To Physiology
Chapter 1 Introduction To Physiology
Chapter 1
Homeostasis - A Framework for Human Physiology
A. OVERVIEW
PHYSIOLOGY:
Definition The branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of
living organisms and their parts. It encompasses how cells,
tissues, organs, and systems function together to sustain
life.
Importance Understanding physiology is key to understanding how the
body maintains health and responds to diseases.
Integration Different body systems work together (e.g., cardiovascular
of and respiratory systems collaborate to supply oxygen to
Systems tissues).
B. HOMEOSTASIS
DEFINITION:
Process where the body maintains a stable internal environment despite
external changes. A dynamic state of equilibrium, not a static state, meaning
conditions are maintained within a narrow range rather than fixed at a single
point.
Example: Body temperature is regulated around 37°C, but it may fluctuate
slightly throughout the day depending on activity, environment.
IMPORTANCE OF HOMEOSTASIS:
Survival: Maintaining homeostasis is essential for survival, as cells
function optimally only within specific conditions (e.g., temperature,
pH).
Health: Disruptions in homeostasis can lead to diseases, such as diabetes
(disrupted glucose homeostasis) or dehydration (disrupted fluid
balance).
Cytoplasm: A gel-like substance that fills the cell, consisting of cytosol (fluid)
and organelles.
Func. The site where many cellular processes occur, such as metabolic
pathways, protein synthesis, and cell division.
Nucleus: Surrounded by a double membrane called the nuclear envelope,
which contains nuclear pores for the exchange of materials
between the nucleus and the cytoplasm.
Func. Houses the cell's genetic material (DNA) and regulates gene
expression, which controls cell growth, differentiation, and division.
Mitochondria: Composed of an outer membrane and a highly folded inner
membrane (cristae), which increases the surface area for
biochemical reactions.
Func. Generates ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through cellular
respiration, providing energy for the cell's activities.
Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER):
Rough ER: Studded with ribosomes, the site of protein synthesis, and
folding.
Smooth ER: Lacks ribosomes; involved in lipid synthesis, metabolism of
carbohydrates, and detoxification of drugs and toxins.
Golgi Apparatus: A series of flattened, membrane-bound sacs (cisternae).
Func. Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for transport to
their final destinations, either inside or outside the cell.
Lysosomes: Small, membrane-bound organelles containing hydrolytic enzymes.
Func. Break down waste materials, cellular debris, and foreign invaders
(e.g., bacteria) through a process called autophagy or
phagocytosis.
Cytoskeleton:
Components:
Microfilaments: Thin, thread-like structures made of actin;
involved in cell movement and structural support.
Intermediate Filaments: Provide tensile strength, maintaining
the cell's shape and anchoring organelles.
Microtubules: Hollow tubes made of tubulin; involved in cell
division, intracellular transport, and structural support.
Func. The cytoskeleton provides structural integrity, aids in cellular
movement (e.g., via cilia and flagella), and organizes the cell's
contents.
Cellular Communication:
Signal Transduction: The process by which a cell converts an external
signal into a functional response.
Steps: Involves the binding of a signaling molecule (ligand) to a
receptor, triggering a cascade of intracellular events leading to a
specific response (e.g., gene expression, enzyme activation).
Receptors: Specialized proteins on the cell surface or within the cell that
bind to signaling molecules (e.g., hormones, neurotransmitters)
and initiate a cellular response.
Second Messengers: Molecules that transmit signals from receptors to
target molecules inside the cell (e.g., cyclic AMP, calcium ions),
amplifying the initial signal and leading to a coordinated response.