Human Structure & Function 2

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Demonstrate a sound understanding of the principles of genetics
• Explain the principle functions of specified hormones
• Describe applications of genetic manipulation and engineering
• Describe key features and stages in the human life cycle
• Evaluate the co-ordinating and integrative role of the nervous system
• Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of muscle physiology
• Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of neurophysiology
• Demonstrate a sound understanding of the concepts of pH, acid-base balance, drug ionisation and buffer systems
• Identify the phases of the cell cycle and causes and implications of its disruption
• Compare and contrast the structure and function of the somatic and autonomic nervous systems, including reflexes
• Outline the structure and function of the human nervous system
• Explain the structure and function of the excretory system
• Predict the effect of specified endocrine malfunction
• Demonstrate development of your skills in analysis, presentation and manipulation of data
• Indicate development of independent working skills, team working and problem solving skills
• Apply an understanding of the above to the functions of the excretory system, transport of blood gases and respiratory system
• Demonstrate development of effective communication using oral, writing and computing skills
• Indicate development of skills in reading and research in specified topics
• Demonstrate an understanding of the mechanisms of respiration

In order to meet the learning outcomes, the syllabus will contain teaching in the following areas:

• Structural organisation and function of the human nervous system

Structure and function of the CNS and PNS. Neurogenesis and neural regeneration. Neuropathies and primary demyelinating diseases.

• Neurophysiology

Resting membrane potentials, graded potentials and action potentials. Examples of NS infections. Types and characteristics of synapses. Transmission at synapses. Examples of common neurotransmitters and drug interactions at synapses. Characteristics and components of a reflex. Characteristics and control of the autonomic nervous system. Comparison of the structure and function of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. Drug action e.g. beta blockers and sympathomimetics. Levels of hierarchy of somatic motor control. Neuronal pathways and tracts, neural integration. Structures and features of the main regions of the brain, features and possible causes of common brain disorders.

• Muscle Physiology

Characteristics, function and features of muscle types and the neuromuscular junction. Micro-organisation of skeletal muscle and events of muscle contraction. Muscle twitch and tetanus, isotonic and isometic contraction. Muscle tone and fatigue. Examples of muscle disorders.

• Renal Physiology

Structure and function of the urinary system. Structure and roles of nephrons and regulation of GFR. Body fluids, compartments and balance and renal regulation of osmolality. Action of diuretics. Possible causes of abnormal urinary constituents.

• Endocrine Physiology

Key glands, secretions and actions of the endocrine system. Key differences and similarities between the nervous and endocrine system. Regulation of blood glucose, diabetes type I and II and ketoacidosis. Thyroid and parathyroid hormones, abnormal thyroid conditions. Hormonal regulation of calcium, causes and consequences of abnormal calcium levels. Hormones of the adrenal glands, control of regulation, response to stress, consequences of over and under secretion. Roles of interrelationship of hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

• Genetics

Mitosis, meiosis and gametogenesis. DNA replication and protein synthesis. The cell cycle and its regulation. Regulation of gene expression and gene mutation. Consequences of disruption of regulation of cell cycle. Genetic inheritance. Genetic engineering and gene therapy.

• Acid Base Balance

pH of body fluids, buffers, pka and ionisation of drugs, acid base regulation, arterial blood gases. Metabolic and respiratory acidosis and alkalosis.

• Blood Gas Transport

Diffusion of gases, oxygen and carbon dioxide transport in the blood, factors affecting blood gas transport. Causes and consequences of anaemia.

• Respiratory mechanisms

Basic mechanisms and muscles involved in lung expansion and contraction. Pulmonary ventilation.

• The Human Life Cycle

Stages of life, factors affecting quality and longevity of life. Types of growth and growth disorders. Bone growth and maintenance. Use of growth charts. Cause and effect of ageing of tissues and systems. Main theories of ageing.

Teaching and learning methods

The module will be taught through a range of face to face and online learning and teaching strategies which will include:

• Lectures
• Tutor led tutorials
• Practical sessions
• Guided self-study
• Problem solving scenarios
• Group work
• eLearning

Resources & Reading list

General Resources

Additional recommended reading is available in the year 0 programme overview.

Textbooks

Marieb EN, Hoehn K. (2018). Human Anatomy & Physiology. London: Pearson.

Miko, I. & LeJeune, L. eds (2009). Essentials of Genetics. Cambridge, MA: NPG Education.

Assessment strategy

There are two components students need to complete, a coursework component and an examination component.

Both components need to be passed for progression and there is no compensation allowed between components.

The examination component has two exams and compensation is allowed across both examinations.

Failed students need to resit only the failed component at the supplementary opportunity.

Students are not normally permitted to repeat the year.

Formative

This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: External