Anatomical Reference Systems and Body Structures

These flashcards cover key concepts of anatomical reference systems, body structures, and related terminology based on the lecture notes provided.

What are anatomical reference systems used for?

Anatomical reference systems are used to describe the locations of the structural units of the body.

What divides the body into equal left and right halves?

The midsagittal plane.

What does the transverse plane divide the body into?

The transverse plane divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) portions.

What is the frontal plane also known as?

The frontal plane is also known as the coronal plane.

What is the opposite of ventral?

Dorsal.

What does the term 'anterior' refer to?

Anterior refers to the forward part of an organ or the front of the body.

What is the opposite of superior?

Inferior.

What does 'proximal' mean in anatomical terms?

Proximal means situated nearest the midline or the beginning of a body structure.

What is the meaning of 'distal' in terms of body structures?

Distal means situated farthest from the midline or beginning of a body structure.

What is the dorsal cavity?

The dorsal cavity is located along the back of the body and contains the structures of the nervous system.

What is included in the ventral cavity?

The ventral cavity includes the thoracic and abdominal cavities.

What is homeostasis?

Homeostasis is the process through which the body maintains a constant internal environment.

What does 'histology' study?

Histology studies the microscopic structure of tissues.

What are the four main types of tissue?

Epithelial, connective, muscle, and nerve tissue.

What is the basic unit of life?

The cell.

What distinguishes stem cells from other cell types?

Stem cells are unspecialized cells capable of renewing themselves and can differentiate into specialized cells.

What is a genetic disorder?

A genetic disorder is a pathological condition caused by an absent or defective gene.

What is an example of a genetic disorder that affects red blood cells?

Sickle cell anemia.

What is the purpose of the Human Genome Project?

To map the complete set of genetic information in humans.

What are embryonic stem cells capable of?

Embryonic stem cells can develop into any cell type in the body.

What is the definition of a tissue?

A tissue is a group or layer of similarly specialized cells that join together to perform specific functions.

What is the function of connective tissue?

Connective tissue supports and connects organs and other body tissues.

What is the role of epithelial tissue?

Epithelial tissue forms protective coverings for internal and external body surfaces.

What does anaplasia indicate in tissue pathology?

Anaplasia indicates a change in the structure of cells and their orientation to each other, often found in cancer.

What is the definition of hypertrophy?

Hypertrophy is an increase in the size of a tissue or organ due to an increase in the size of its cells.

What is a gland?

A gland is a group of specialized epithelial cells that produce secretions.

What are exocrine glands?

Exocrine glands secrete their products into ducts that lead either to other organs or out of the body.

What system includes the heart and blood vessels?

The cardiovascular system.

What is the primary function of the nervous system?

The nervous system coordinates the reception of stimuli and transmits messages throughout the body.

What are the main components of the muscular system?

Muscles, fascia, and tendons.

What is the function of the integumentary system?

The integumentary system protects the body against bacteria and helps regulate temperature.

What does the male reproductive system produce?

The male reproductive system produces sperm necessary for fertilizing an ovum.