Physiology

Catalog description

Physiology presents an integrated approach to the fundamental concepts of systems physiology and overall homeostatic balance. Basic physiological terminology and concepts are introduced and clinically relevant examples of homeostatic control are presented. An overall understanding of the homeostatic functions of the autonomic nervous system and how physiological cell membranes regulate intercellular communication via ionic (electrical) conduction, as well as the maintenance of the body fluids, is essential to understanding the body as a whole. The cellular functioning of skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle is also discussed. The core course is designed to provide first-year students with a solid foundation of basic physiological principles that will be built upon in the subsequent Systems courses and clinical applications.