Human Anatomy and Physiology

URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/AB_1197

Course Objective

The aim of this course is to acquire basic knowledge in the field of the anatomy (construction) and physiology (function) of different organ systems in the human body. The construction and function of the cardiovascular system, respiratory system and kidney are central themes in this course. After the course the student is able to:recognise different organ systems of the human bodyto explain the construction of the various organ systems at various levels: tissue (histology), organs and organ systems.explain the function of the different parts within various organ systemsdescribe the mechanism of action of the various organs also by means of mathematical modelingexplain the role of anatomy and physiology of various organs for body function during health and diseasedescribe and motivate pathophysiological problems and anatomical abnormalities with basic cellular and biochemical processesmake use of the anatomical nomenclatureIn addition, it contributes to the learning objectives within the theme "scientific thinking and research".

Course Content

During the course the student is made familiar with the anatomical and physiological terminology, which is used in the daily practice in the clinic. During the 'cutting room' practicals, human preparation are used to study the construction and topography of various components (organs and tissues) of the body. The aim of the physiology practicals is to provide the student insight into non-invasive techniques he / she can use to investigate ( patho-) physiological processes in humans, including cardiovascular, respiratory and renal diseases). In addition, work-group sessions are organized to translate the (patho-) physiological processes to function or dysfunction of the human body, by studying patient cases. The cardiovascular, respiratory and renal system play an important role in maintaining the environment within the human body, especially during exercise. Exercise is of key importance to regulate the homeostasis of all systems in both healthy and sick people. The heart and blood circulation module discusses the anatomy of the heart and blood vessels, heart function, the regulation of the blood circulation. The respiration and exercise module involves the development and anatomy of the respiratory organs, how respiration takes place, and the supply of oxygen throughout the body. Furthermore, it is discussed how aerobic endurance affects respiration. Finally, within the kidney and homeostasis module, the construction, function and the importance of the kidney for ion management and the maintenance of the 'environmental interior' are highlighted (also by applying mathmatical modeling). Themes:Heart and circulation (blood pressure regulation)Lungs and exercise (breathing)Kidney and volume regulation ((ion) homeostasis)Integration

Teaching Methods

30 hours lectures 3 hours workgroup meetings 8 hours practical course in cutting room 8 hours practical course physiology 119 hour self-study NOTE: presence at workgroup meetings and practical course is mandatory.

Method of Assessment

Practical course: you need to pass the pre-examFinal written exam (80%)Note: all tests should have a score of 5,5 or higher.

Literature

Obligatory:
- Martini, Nath&Bartolomew: Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology 9e druk (2012) of 10e druk (2015); Pearson
- Benjamin Cummings; ISBN nr: 09780321761033 (9th)
- readers (work groups and practicals)

Target Audience

Compulsory course for second-year BSc Biomedical Sciences students.