Introduction to Physiology
“What is physiology?” Levels of organization of living matter. Physiology of the cell. Homeostasis as the foundation of physiology and homeostatic regulation systems.
Musculoskeletal system
The different types of muscle fibres. Structure and types of skeletal muscle. Functional organization of the muscle and excitation-contraction-release cycle. Smooth muscle function and functional adaptations. The Posture.
Blood, Hematopoiesis and Immunity
Blood components. Haemostasis. Blood functions. Blood coagulation. Immunity and Allergy.
Cardiovascular System
Structure of the heart. Excitability, Automatism, Rhythmicity and their nervous and hormonal adjustments. Cardiac mechanical activity. Cycle and cardiac output. Arterial pressure. Nervous and hormonal regulation of the heart. Cardiovascular adaptation to exercise and emotions. Cardiovascular adaptations to extraordinary environments.
Respiratory System
Composition of atmospheric and alveolar air. Structure and function of the respiratory system. Ventilation: lung volumes, capacity and compliance. Gas exchange: gas mixing between air and alveoli and alveolar-capillary gas exchange. Pulmonary circulation. Ventilation / perfusion ratio. Respiratory effects of physical activity and emotions. Breath in psychosomatic medicine. Breath in extraordinary environments.
Urinary System
Structures of the Urinary System. The kidneys and their main functions. Regulation of water and electrolyte balance. Regulation of acid-base balance. The endocrine function of the kidney (renin and regulation of arterial pressure - erythropoietin and erythropoiesis). The Urination. Adjustment of the volume and constituents of body fluids.
Digestive system
Metabolism and regulation of food and water intake. Gastrointestinal Motility Gastrointestinal secretions. Digestion and absorption of nutrients and water. Liver and its functions.
Endocrine system
General principles and function of the endocrine system. Regulation of the endocrine system. The hypothalamic-pituitary functional unit. Thyroid. Parathormone and Calcitonin. Endocrine pancreas. Adrenal medulla: adrenaline and noradrenaline. Adrenal Stress - Adaptation. The male and female reproductive system.