Functions

The course focuses on the mechanisms of body functions from cell to system and is organised around the central theme of homeostasis, i.e. how the body maintains the constancy of the internal environment needed for all cells and organs to function properly despite continuously changing external and internal demands. In order to accomplish this goal the course integrates different disciplines including Physiology, Neuroanatomy, Biochemistry; Chemistry and Physics providing the students the view of the complex interplay between macro- and micro functional levels acting in life processes. The course is designed to highlight the integration between the different functional systems of the human body, in perspective how the functions related to the part of the body just discussed contribute to the homeostasis. The course is designed in 2 blocks. The first block will focus on the structure and function of the nervous system, the endocrine system, the reproductive system, the muscle and on mechanisms adopted by the human body to maintain the homeostasis. The second block will address the structure and function, in body's homeostasis, of cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive systems, liver, adipose tissue and on the biological response to stress. During the course, the message of the lectures will be reinforced and expanded by Practical Activities, PBL, Seminars, small group activities and training sessions.

At the end of the course the students are expected to achieve knowledge on:
- the structure, metabolism and function of the nervous system and of the endocrine system.
- mechanisms underlying the functions of cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive systems, liver, muscle, adipose tissue and on the biological response to stress.
- the dynamic integration of organs into apparatuses and the general functional control mechanisms in physiological conditions.
- the interaction and communication at the cellular, tissue, organ and system level in the organization of adaptive responses.