BIPN 100 - A1 Introduction

Compare & contrast, apply structure-function-mechanism relationships

Structures relate to function at all levels of organization. Examples include:

• Bones: Provide structure and support for movement.
• Lungs: Facilitate gas exchange with a large surface area.
• Enzymes: Catalyze reactions with specific active sites.
• Neurons: Transmit electrical signals via specialized extensions.

Mechanisms can include:

• Signal Transduction: Reception, transduction, and response to ensure proper cell activities.
• Transport Mechanisms: Facilitated diffusion and active transport to maintain cell homeostasis.

Compare & contrast, apply types of homeostatic feedback (positive vs negative)

Negative Feedback:

• Returns a system to its set point.
• Examples:
  • Blood glucose regulation: Insulin lowers blood glucose when it rises; glucagon raises it when it falls.
  • Body temperature regulation: Sweating or shivering to maintain core temperature.

Positive Feedback:

• Amplifies the initial stimulus, moving the system further from its set point.
• Examples:
  • Childbirth: Oxytocin release increases uterine contractions, leading to more oxytocin release.
  • Blood clotting: Activation of clotting factors amplifies the clotting cascade.

Compare & contrast, diagram neuron structures and functions

• Cell Body (Soma): Contains the nucleus and organelles. Integrates signals.
• Dendrites: Branch-like extensions that receive signals from other neurons.
• Axon: Long extension that transmits signals to other cells. Insulated by myelin sheath.
• Axon Terminals: Endings of the axon that release neurotransmitters to communicate with target cells.

Compare & contrast 3 types of neurons

• Sensory Neurons: Transmit information from sensory receptors to the central nervous system (CNS).
• Motor Neurons: Transmit signals from the CNS to muscles or glands, causing a response.
• Interneurons: Located within the CNS; integrate sensory and motor signals. Act as intermediaries between sensory and motor neurons.