SG-Module1-introduction2024
SG-Module1-introduction2024
White
Study Guide 1 – Introduction
Important Terminology
anatomy, physiology, dissection, palpation, homeostasis, receptor, effector
Important Concepts
1. Anatomy (to cut or dissect) and physiology (function, or how structures work) are
inseparable, because form and function are highly correlated.
2. Anatomy and physiology may be studied from several different perspectives: microscopic
anatomy (cells and tissues); gross anatomy (organs and organ systems, from regional or
systemic perspectives); physiology (physical and chemical principles, experimentation);
pathology (abnormal structure or function).
3. There is a hierarchy of structural complexity, in which each level is built on the previous
level: atoms/elements/ions (Ca++, Na+, K+) molecules (H2O, CO2, O2)
macromolecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids) organelles cells (very
diverse!) tissues (epithelial, nervous, muscle, connective) organs organ systems
organisms. Each level is significant in the study of anatomy and physiology and they are all
integrated.
4. Know the identities and general functions of the organ systems in the human body, especially
the ones we will be studying this semester (circulatory, lymphatic/immune, respiratory,
digestive, urinary, reproductive, and endocrine as it relates to these systems. We will cover
specific and detailed functions as we discuss each system.
5. Variation in structure is common; standard illustrations show the condition found in the
majority of people. Physiology also varies with age, gender, physical condition, and
environment. Significant variations in structure or function can result in disease or
pathology.
6. Most organ systems work closely with other organ systems to coordinate functions. The
circulatory system is integrated with nearly every other system because blood transports so
many necessary solutes and cells. Throughout the course, consider ways in which organ
systems work together and support each other both structurally and functionally.
7. Homeostasis (“same standing”) refers to the maintenance of a relatively stable internal
environment. Major disruptions in temperature, pH, salt balance, blood pressure, etc. are
prevented by a set of physiological mechanisms.
8. To maintain homeostasis, bodily receptors receive stimuli with receptors, and alert a control
center (e.g., the brain) via a sensory/afferent pathway. The control center coordinates an
action or a response via a motor/efferent pathway to an effector (usually a muscle or gland).
Muscle in the systems covered in this course is primarily smooth and cardiac under
involuntary control.
9. Negative feedback loops respond by reversing the stimulus, and positive feedback loops
respond by amplifying the stimulus. Know some examples.
QUESTIONS:
1. What does “anatomy” mean and how is it studied? What does “physiology” mean and
how is it studied?
2. What are the subdivisions of anatomy? What does the study of physiology require?
3. Outline the levels of structural complexity in the human body, from atoms to organism.
pathology?
6. Discuss an example of how two systems work together and are coordinated in their
functions.
8. Define receptor, control center, and effector, and explain how they function to control
bodily responses.