The aim of this module is to provide an understanding of the control of physiological systems and the response of the body to altered demand and disease states. This module introduces the learner to regulation of the physiological systems and the integrated response of the systems to changes in metabolism and disease states. Students will carry out a scientific experiment to investigate the response of five physiological systems to increased metabolism (exercise) and present this according to standard scientific practice.
Lectures
- Endocrine: Structure of glands, physiology of hormones and hormone release. Changes in the endocrine system through the lifecycle. Diseases of the endocrine system.
- ANS: Sympathetic and parasympathetic elements and ANS tone. ANS regulation of physiological systems.
- CVS Dynamics: Cardiac Output regulation in relation to blood flow, pressure and resistance. Cardiac reserve and heart disease. Blood pressure and volume regulation. CVS and renal responses to Hypertension, hypotension, haemorrhage and hypovolemia. Capillary exchange and Oedema.
- Pulmonary Dynamics: Ventilation and Blood gas regulation. Central and Neuromuscular disease. Regulation of airways resistance. COPD, Asthma and Pulmonary Fibrosis.
- Renal Function: Regulation of GFR and body fluid. Acid/base compensation mechanisms. Acidosis and alkalosis.
- Reproductive Physiology. The structure, function and hormonal control of the female reproductive system including menstruation and pregnancy. The structure function and hormonal control of the male reproductive system.
Practicals
- Anatomy and physiology of the nervous, endocrine and reproductive systems as first.
- Histology of Endocrine glands and reproductive structures.
- Experimental design, data collection and presentation of results.
- Calibration, sources of error.
- Scientific writing and reporting
This module will be delivered over one semester with a total of 45 contact hours. The module will use a mixture of lecture (21h), practical laboratory work (21h) and tutorials (3h). Simulated physiological experiments will be used as appropriate. Attendance at laboratory sessions is mandatory.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 50 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 50 |