MBI-3016 Human physiology - 10 stp

The course is an elective course for students accepted to the Master´s program in Biomedicine.

The course can be taken as a singular course by students with a Bachelor´s degree in Biomedicine or similar (180 ECTS).

Recommended prerequisites: Basic knowledge at University Bachelor level in physiology, biochemistry and cell biology.

Application deadline for nordic applicants is 1st of December. Applicationcode: 9371

Admission requirements: see the admission requirements for the Master program in biomedicine

After the course, the students should be able to:

Knowledge

• Explain the dynamics of membrane potential, its changes during neural activities, and signal propagation within the central nervous system.
• Describe the integration of sensory inputs in the central nervous system, detailing the interplay among various brain areas and the spinal cord, and elucidate the induction of both simple and complex motor responses.
• Outline the mechanisms of muscle contraction and the energetics involved and discuss muscular adaptations to both acute and long-term physical activity changes, including the processes of muscle hypertrophy and atrophy.
• Discuss the regulation of gastrointestinal motility, nutrient secretion and absorption under various physiological conditions, and discuss the mechanisms regulating dietary balance and energy management.
• Discuss the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis, growth, and reproductive functions through endocrine and neuroendocrine systems.
• Explain the factors regulating cardiac output, including alterations in heart rate, cardiac inotropy, and venous return.
• Elaborate on the short-term and long-term mechanisms regulating blood pressure.
• Discuss the factors affecting pulmonary ventilation and circulation, pulmonary gas exchange, and outline the control mechanisms of breathing.
• Describe the physiological processes involved in urine production by the kidneys.
• Compare physiological responses to acid/base disturbances and provide examples of metabolic and respiratory disorders.

Skills

• Discuss the pathophysiology of common diseases to emphasize the importance of maintaining homeostasis.
• Critically analyze and evaluate current and potentially conflicting hypotheses and ideas within human physiology.

General proficiency

• Effectively communicate complex issues in human physiology both orally and in writing.
• Apply physiological knowledge to new areas to undertake advanced work tasks and project implementations.