Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology Part 1

A collection of flashcards based on the introduction to Anatomy & Physiology lecture notes covering key concepts, definitions, and systems of the body.

What is anatomy?

The study of the structure of body parts and their relationship to one another.

What is physiology?

The study of the function of body parts; how they work to carry out life-sustaining activities.

What does the concept of complementarity of structure and function imply?

Function always reflects structure; what a structure can do depends on its specific form.

What are the four types of macroscopic anatomy?

Gross anatomy, regional anatomy, system anatomy, and surface anatomy.

What is cytology?

The microscopic study of cells.

What is histology?

The microscopic study of tissues.

What are the levels of structural organization in the human body?

Chemical level, cellular level, tissue level, organ level, organ system level, and organismal level.

What is the primary function of the integumentary system?

Forms external body covering and protects deeper tissues from injury.

What does the skeletal system do?

Protects and supports body organs, provides a framework for muscles, and stores minerals.

What is the primary role of the muscular system?

Allows manipulation of the environment, locomotion, and facial expression.

What is the primary function of the nervous system?

Fast-acting control system that responds to internal and external changes.

What are hormones?

Chemical messengers secreted by the endocrine system to regulate processes such as growth and metabolism.

What is the function of the cardiovascular system?

Transport blood, which carries oxygen, carbon dioxide, nutrients, and waste.

What role does the lymphatic/immune system play?

Picks up fluid leaked from blood vessels, disposes of debris, and houses white blood cells for immunity.

What is homeostasis?

The maintenance of relatively stable internal conditions despite continuous changes in the environment.

What is a set point in homeostasis?

The normal range for homeostasis to which each variable is compared by the control center.

What are the three components of homeostatic control?

Receptor, control center, and effector.

What is the function of a receptor in homeostasis?

Monitors the environment and responds to stimuli.

How does negative feedback work?

Opposes stimulus by reducing or shutting off the original stimulus.

What is positive feedback?

Enhances or exaggerates the original stimulus, often leading to a cascade effect.

How does homeostatic imbalance relate to disease?

A disturbance of homeostasis that can lead to changes associated with aging and decreased efficiency of control systems.