Physiology M - Z

Module physiology II

Knowledge of the mechanisms involved in the maintenance of homeostasis in relation to internal and environmental modifications. Knowledge of the mechanisms involved in autonomic nervous functions and endocrinology.

The different organs and systems are not isolated but they act as a unitary and integrated system, by means of the coordinating functions provided by the nervous and endocrine systems, which allow the maintaining of homeostasis and the right behavioural responses to the environmental stimuli. This series of lessons will explain the structure and functions of central nervous system and nerves, with a particular attention to sensory-motor integration and the control of homeostasis, by means of autonomic nervous system and hormones.

Students will familiarize themselves with different brain functions, including consciousness, sleep, learning and memory, and so on. They will also become aware that many biological problems are still unsolved and many other theories would probably change as a consequence of research advances.

Nervous system: cell biology

Neuronal excitability. Membrane potentials. Action potential and its propagation. Chemical and electrical synapses. Neurotransmitters. The neuromuscular junction.

Nervous system: sensory functions

The sensory receptors. Organization of sensory systems. Somatosensory system. The thalamus and cerebral cortex. Visual and auditory systems.

Nervous system: motor functions 

Hierarchical organization of motor system. Spinal mechanisms of motor coordination: spinal reflexes. Postural control and vestibular reflexes. Cerebellum and basal ganglia. Organization of voluntary movement: motor cortex and descending motor pathways.

Higher brain functions 

Organization of behaviour, consciousness and language. Control of emotions and motivation. Learning and memory. Sleep and circadian rythms. Electrical activity of cerebral cortex.

Skeletal muscles 

Muscle fibers. Mechanisms of muscle contraction. Metabolic aspects of muscle activity. The motor units.

Autonomic nervous system

Sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. Hypothalamus and limbic system.

Endocrine system 

Hypothalamus and pituitary gland. Thyroid hormones. Control of calcium homeostasis. Surrenal gland. Endocrine control of reproduction. Endocrine control of glucose metabolism.

Suggested books:

- Human Physiology: An integrated Approach. By D.U. Silverthorn. Ed. Pearson. 8th edition.

- Textbook of Medical Physiology. By Guyton and Hall. Ed. Elsevier. 14th edition.

Knowledge will be tested by means of a written examination (true/false test).

The evaluation will primarily check the ability to handle the logical flow of the discipline, and secondarily the acquisition of detailed contents.

The written examination may be followed by an oral exam, at the discretion of the lecturer or if requested by individual students.

Online oral exams will be possible in particular circumstances, should epidemiological conditions or anti-Covid regulations require it.