Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Concepts

Anatomy

study of body structure "cut apart"

Physiology

study of chemistry and physics and the function of the body and its parts.

Interrelation of Anatomy and Physiology

Anatomy (structure) directly influences physiology (function); for example, the heart's structure allows it to pump blood effectively.

Regional Terms

refer to specific areas of the body, like cephalic (head) and cervical (neck). the interrelationships of all structures in a region

Systemic structure

a single body system, like the cardiovascular or respiratory system

Levels of Organization

Element → Cell → Tissue → Organ → Organ System → Organism.

Element

Hydrogen

Cell Level Example

red blood cells

Organ System

a group of organs working together to perform a specific function (e.g., digestive system).

Skeletal System

provides support, protects organs, and allows movement.

Metabolism

Metabolism is the sum of all chemical reactions in the body.

Anabolism

the process of building larger molecules from smaller ones (e.g., protein synthesis).

Catabolism

the process of breaking down larger molecules into smaller ones (e.g., digestion).

Role of ATP

ATP provides energy for cellular processes like muscle contraction and active transport.

Characteristics of Living Things

Organization, metabolism, responsiveness, movement, development, growth, and reproduction.

Oxygen

is needed for cellular respiration to produce ATP, which powers cellular functions.

Nutrients

provide energy and building materials for growth and repair.

Ideal Temperature for Survival

The human body functions best at around 37°C (98.6°F).

Atmospheric Pressure

is necessary for breathing and gas exchange in the lungs.

Response Pathway Steps

Stimulus → Receptor → Control Center → Effector → Response.

Negative Feedback

a process that counteracts a stimulus to maintain homeostasis (e.g., body temperature regulation).

Positive Feedback

amplifies the stimulus (e.g., contractions during childbirth).

Common Mechanism for Homeostasis

Negative feedback prevents extremes and helps maintain a stable internal environment.

Anatomical Position

Standing, facing forward, arms at the sides, palms facing forward.

Anterior vs Posterior

Anterior means front, and posterior means back.

Sagittal Plane

divides the body into left and right halves.

Coronal (Frontal) Plane

divides the body into front and back sections.

Transverse Plane

divides the body into top and bottom halves.

Main Body Cavities

The posterior (dorsal) cavity contains the cranial and spinal cavities, and the anterior (ventral) cavity contains the thoracic and abdominopelvic cavities.

Serous Membrane

covers body cavities and organs, reducing friction (e.g., peritoneum around the abdomen).