65952 - Physiology

Learning outcomes

At the end of the programme, the student will have knowledge on general principles of animal functioning and the integration of the different functions through the endocrine and nervous modulation. The student will also know the principle of environmental sensing and the molecular mechanisms of environmental adaptation.

Course contents

Principles of homeostasis. The cell membrane: structure and function. Membrane diffusion and transports. Chemical communication: receptors and ligands. Endocrine control of animal functions: endocrine glands, hormones and target cells. Signal transduction of lypophilic and hydrophilic hormones. Main hormones and effects. Neural control of organism functions: the neuron, membrane resting potential, action potential. Neural transmission, electric and chemical signaling. Release and uptake of neurotransmitters. Sensing the environment through olfactory, gustative, mechanical, electric, temperature receptors. 

Readings/Bibliography

Fisiologia degli animali. A. Poli, E. Fabbri etc. Edises, Napoli. 2014 new edition on 2018.

Any textbook in English on Animal Physiology

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons

Assessment methods

The final exam aims to evaluate teach goals have been reached. The students should know: the principles of homeostasis; strategie of animal adaptation to the environment; role of cell membrane in animal physiology; endocrine and nervous regulations.

The final mark will be the average of marks reported in three specific open questions to which the students will be invited to answer synthetically and in a focused manner, using drawings to help the discussion.

The final mark of the 12 CFU course will be integrated in the following manner:

Biochemistry 6 CFU = 50%

Physiology 6 CFU = 50%

Teaching tools

Power point slides, animations.

Office hours

See the website of Elena Fabbri