SCIENZE BIOMEDICHE DI BASE

Module FISIOLOGIA

To gain a clear understanding of the cellular mechanisms and networks that enable the human body to function. Knowing the integrated functioning of the different organs, apparatus and control systems through which the living organism obtains and maintains homeostasis. Clear understanding of the mechanisms that, when abnormal, turn into pathological dysfunctions. Having participated to Physiology classes, students will achieve knowledge on the mechanisms governing the functioning of the various apparatuses of the body, also acquiring notions of anatomical organization and physiopathology.

Lectures.  Attendance is strongly recommended

Cell membranes Mechanisms of transport and ion channels

Nervous system General organizzation of the central, peripheral and vegetative nervous system. Properties of excitable membranes: potential of membrane and potential of action.

Muscles Organization of skeletal muscles. Excitation-Contraction Coupling, single muscle twitch and tetanus. Smooth muscle: generalities,

Synaptic transmission Neuromuscular and central synapses. Neurotransmtters.

Cardiovascular System Properties of cardiac muscle. Aspecific and specific myocardium. Mechanic and electrical cardiac cycles. Coronary circulation. Vascular system: caracteristics of blood and blood vessels. Physical factors affecting blood flow. Laminar and urbulent blood flow. Laplace's law applied to vessels. Capillary changes. Functions of veins. Control of heart rate and blood pressure.

Respiratory system Upper and lower airways. Mechanism of Breathing. Alveolar ventilation. Surfactant. Spirometry. Basic mechanism of gas exchanges among lungs, blood and tissues. Carriage of the respiratory gas in the blood.

Urinary system Kidney homeostatic functions; kidney mechanisms: glomerular filtration; tubular absorption and secretion. Renal regulation of water, electrolyte and pH balance.

Digestive system: Basic principles on motor,secretory and absorbent activities

• Silverthorn - FISIOLOGIA UMANA. UN APPROCCIO INTEGRATO - PEARSON
• Carbone, Aicardi, Maggi - FISIOLOGIA. DALLE MOLECOLE AI SISTEMI INTEGRATI – EDISES