This module is primarily for students who have completed general biology modules previously and who are now advancing their knowledge of human physiology and anatomy. This will provide them with a firm foundation and an advanced understanding of the principles of the physiological and anatomical processes which can then be further applied to health and nutritional related courses. All primary body systems will be studied. As an advanced module this module will incorporate upcoming and trending topics in the current literature.
Digestive System
(Structure, function, disorders, absorption of nutrients and nutraceuticals).
Cardiovascular systems
(structure, function of the lung, heart, blood-vessels, blood as a transport system of nutrients and nutraceuticals)
Endocrine System
Sources, transport and functions of hormones; Mechanisms of action of hormones, Principle endocrine glands, the hormones they secrete and their functions; Link system to relevant health related topics e.g. Type 2 Diabetes.
Excretory System
Structure and function of the urinary system; Structure and function of the kidney - macro and micro(nephron); Steps in urine formation; Regulatory functions of the kidneys, the importance in terms of drug dosage. The structure and function of the liver and it’s many roles in the body.
Nervous System
the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system; Main functions of the nervous system including sensory, integrative and motor division; Structure and function of a neuron and neuroglia, Types of neuron including sensory, association and motor; Transmission of an action potential and nerve impulse conduction; Role and functions of the central nervous system; Role and function of the peripheral nervous system including Sensory and Motor Division, Somatic and Autonomic nervous system, sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions; Link system to relevant health related topics e.g. Alzheimer Disease. Neurophysiology in terms of understanding the importance of neurotransmitters, their receptors and as potential drug-targets.
Reproductive System
Structure and function of the male and female reproductive system; Principle events of the menstrual cycle and interactions of hormones that regulate the cycle; Process of fertilisation; Sexually transmitted diseases.
Sensory Physiology
Classification of types of sensory receptors; Structure and function of the complex sense organs i.e. eyes, ears, nose and taste buds.
This module is aimed at developing a deep overall expertise in human physiology and anatomy with the use of small-group teaching techniques both in lectures and PBL sessions. At the same time as facilitating teaching, these techniques will also allow an informal and formal assessment regime. The results of this will then be fed-back into the module as it progresses. Formal continuous assessments will be carried out bi-weekly in the PBL-format classes. Students will prepare and give individual presentations on current physiology topics relevant to the Food and Pharma industries. Workshop sessions will be used to emphasise and expand on material covered in lectures. These sessions will also contain continuous assessment and feedback. As an advanced module this module will incorporate upcoming and trending topics in the current literature.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |