Animal Physiology

Principles and mechanisms of physiological regulation in animals, with a focus on humans.

Beginning with a solid understanding of cellular physiology and regulatory processes, students will explore the function of the major body systems: endocrine, nervous, cardiovascular, muscular, digestive, urinary. While the focus will be on human physiology, we will explore how other non-human animal systems have been adapted to different physiological constraints and selective forces.

Possible textbook: Human Physiology- An Integrated Approach (Silverthorn)

Topics to cover:

• membrane transport

• homeostasis

• membrane potentials

• cell-cell communication

• endocrine system

• endocrine control: oxytocin, stress, reproduction

• endocrine control: digestion, metabolis

• organization of the nervous system

• graded and action potentials

• learning and memory

• sensory processes: vision, taste, smell, auditory

• skeletal muscles

• muscle contraction

• smooth muscles

• cardiovascular anatomy

• cardiac muscle and electrical conduction

• cardiac regulation, output, and blood vessel transport

• respiratory system anatomy

• gas exchange and transport of oxygen

• carbon dioxide regulation

• renal system

• electrolyte and fluid balance