BIOL1012 Systems Physiology
Module Overview
This module introduces students to the basic principles and concepts of physiology and how these principles operate in mammalian systems.
Aims and Objectives
Module Aims
The aim of the module is to introduce students to the basic principles and concepts of physiology and how these principles operate in mammalian systems.
Learning Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Explain homeostatic processes with reference to cellular physiology
- Describe how optimal blood flow distribution around the body is ensured by a combination of cardiac function and peripheral blood flow regulatory mechanisms.
- Describe the principles of digestion and nutrient absorption
- Describe the structure and function of the mammalian kidney.
- Draw annotated diagrams of cells and organelles, neurones and synapses
- Describe the structure of a typical biological membrane and explain the ways in which polar and non-polar substances cross this barrier.
- Explain and describe evidence for the ionic bases of the resting potential, action potential and excitatory synaptic potential. Calculate equilibrium and membrane potentials using the Nernst and Goldman equations.
- Describe the autonomic nervous system and its role in co-ordinating behaviours.
- Describe the control, structure and function of skeletal muscle and smooth muscle.
- Describe the structure and function of the mammalian cardiovascular system.
- Describe the structure and function of the mammalian respiratory system
- Explain how appropriate amounts of oxygen are delivered to the tissues using haemoglobin and how carbon dioxide is transported to the lungs to be excreted.
Syllabus
• Physiological Principles and Cellular Physiology • Neurophysiology/Electrophysiology - Nerve, Muscle, Synapse • Skeletal and Smooth Muscle • Cardiovascular • Respiratory • Digestion • Kidney
Special Features
An understanding of the experimental basis of the information is an important component of the course. Each student will complete four on-line computer practicals that relate to the learning outcomes of the course. The on-line computer practicals are available via Blackboard and all data can be saved to your personal file store. The write-ups will need to be submitted as a set by the deadline, which will be12:00 noon on the Thursday of week 10 of the autumn term. These will be marked and provide the continuous assessment element of the module.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, laboratory practicals and independent study
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 24 |
| Independent Study | 126 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Silverthorn, Dee Unglaub (2007). Human physiology : an integrated approach.
Guyton & Hall. Textbook of Medical Physiology.
Assessment
Assessment Strategy
Examination: comprising one 2-hour computer-based exam containing approximately 25 multiple choice or extended matching items questions. Please note that the supplementary examinations are printed on paper are not computer-based. Students will submit a write-up after every tutorial session. The write-ups are marked and returned to the students with feedback approximately one week after every submission. The first one of the four write-ups is a formative assessment. Three of the four submitted works will be counted as part of the continual assessment.
Summative
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Computer practicals | 30% |
| Written exam (2 hours) | 70% |
Referral
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Computer practicals | 30% |
| Written exam (2 hours) | 70% |