Physiology
Physiology
Physiology is the branch of biology that aims to understand the mechanisms of living things, from the basis of cellular function at the ionic and molecular level to the integrated behavior of the whole body. It also considers the influence of the external environment on organism function at multiple levels. Physiology helps us to understand how the body works and how it responds and adapts to the challenges of everyday life. It also helps us determine what changes in cellular or organismal function as a result of disease, facilitating the development of new treatments and guidelines for maintaining human and animal health. The emphasis on integrating molecular, cellular, systems, and whole body function distinguishes physiology from other biological sciences.
Physiology is required for the "Dental Hygiene", "Kinesiology", "Nutrition and Dietetics", "Public Health" and "Pre-Health Professions" degrees and may serve as an elective for other degrees including "Biological Sciences".
This course emphasizes principles of cellular and systemic functions of the human body. Lecture topics include scientific method, basic inorganic and organic chemistry, solute as well as water transport and balance, homeostatic mechanisms, and functions of the major organ systems. This course emphasizes demonstrations and techniques of commonly utilized laboratory equipment. Laboratory topics will primarily consist of analysis, interpretation and evaluation of data gathered relating to homeostatic mechanisms, functions of the major organ systems and disease. Experiments reinforce material presented in lecture.