Physiology M - ZModule physiology II
Academic Year 2023/2024 - Teacher: NUNZIO VICARIOExpected Learning Outcomes
The lectures of this course aims at providing the knowledge of the functions of organs and systems of the human body and at analyzing the general principles underlying their physiological functions and control. The student will acquire the ability to describe the basic functioning of organs and systems and how they cooperate to maintain homeostasis and the knowledge of physiological adaptations to physical exercise.
Course Structure
Frontal lectures. If the course will be delivered via distance learning or mixed, the appropriate changes with respect to what was stated may be introduced in order to deliver the entire program reported in the syllabus.
Required Prerequisites
Prerequisites are biochemistry and anatomy.
Attendance of Lessons
Mandatory, according to the regulations of the Degree Course.
Detailed Course Content
Homeostasis – Molecular interactions – Cells and Tissues
Metabolism and communication: Membrane and cellular communication – Transport and Energy
Cellular and molecular physiology of the nervous system
Cells of the nervous system: Nerve cells – Glial cells – Action potential
Ion channels: Systematics – Structure and functioning – Channel types – Selectivity and modulation
Receptors and signal transduction: Principles of communication – Neurotransmitters – Receptors and Signal transduction
Morpho-functional organization of the central and peripheral nervous system
Central nervous system and neuronal network – Encephalon – Spinal cord – Cerebral functions
Sensory Physiology: receptors, somatic and visceral sensitivity – Hearing – Balance – Vision – Taste and smell
Spinal mechanisms of motor coordination: reflex actions
Postural control and vestibular reflexes
Cerebellum and basal ganglia
Organization of voluntary movement in cortical areas and cortico-spinal tract
Limbic system and functions of the hypothalamus
Higher nervous functions
Synaptic plasticity, neurotrophic factors, aging processes and cell death
Autonomic nervous system and Somatic motor system
Muscle and motor control Striated muscle and smooth muscle
Voluntary movement and methods of muscle contraction
Reflexes and integrated movement control
Mechanism of action of hormones
Hypothalamic hormones and adeno-pituitary hormones
Function of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis
Endocrine glands
Hormonal control
Metabolism and communication: Membrane and cellular communication – Transport and Energy
Cellular and molecular physiology of the nervous system
Cells of the nervous system: Nerve cells – Glial cells – Action potential
Ion channels: Systematics – Structure and functioning – Channel types – Selectivity and modulation
Receptors and signal transduction: Principles of communication – Neurotransmitters – Receptors and Signal transduction
Morpho-functional organization of the central and peripheral nervous system
Central nervous system and neuronal network – Encephalon – Spinal cord – Cerebral functions
Sensory Physiology: receptors, somatic and visceral sensitivity – Hearing – Balance – Vision – Taste and smell
Spinal mechanisms of motor coordination: reflex actions
Postural control and vestibular reflexes
Cerebellum and basal ganglia
Organization of voluntary movement in cortical areas and cortico-spinal tract
Limbic system and functions of the hypothalamus
Higher nervous functions
Synaptic plasticity, neurotrophic factors, aging processes and cell death
Autonomic nervous system and Somatic motor system
Muscle and motor control Striated muscle and smooth muscle
Voluntary movement and methods of muscle contraction
Reflexes and integrated movement control
Mechanism of action of hormones
Hypothalamic hormones and adeno-pituitary hormones
Function of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis
Endocrine glands
Hormonal control
Textbook Information
- Human physiology: an integrated approach. 8 ed. Author: Silverthorn - Ed. Pearson
Course Planning
| Subjects | Text References | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Peripheral and Central Nervous System | Recommended textbooks |
| 2 | Neurotransmitters | Recommended textbooks |
| 3 | Motor control | Recommended textbooks |
| 4 | Muscles and motor control | Recommended textbooks |
| 5 | Endocrine System | Recommended textbooks |
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
The final test consists of an oral test that the student can take in one of the sessions on the calendar. In itinere tests are foreseen in order to detect the effectiveness of the learning and teaching processes. The
final assessment and learning checks can also be carried out using
distance learning platforms, should the conditions require it.
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises
Characteristics and mechanism of contraction of the scheletal muscles
Functions of the central and peripheral nervous system
Describe the cell populations of the central nervous system
Cortico-spinal tract
Mechanism of action of the hormones
VERSIONE IN ITALIANO
Functions of the central and peripheral nervous system
Describe the cell populations of the central nervous system
Cortico-spinal tract
Mechanism of action of the hormones