Anatomy and Physiology Review

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions from the anatomy and biology lecture notes focusing on the digestive system, enzymes, and related structures.

Aorta

The main artery that carries blood from the heart to the body.

Superior Mesenteric Artery

An artery supplying blood to the intestines, located higher up on the right side.

Catalase

An enzyme that catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.

Flexure

A bend or fold, particularly in the large intestine.

Hepatic Flexure

The bend of the colon near the liver.

Splenic Flexure

The bend of the colon near the spleen.

Cecum

The beginning segment of the large intestine, where the small intestine ends.

Ileocecal Valve

A valve that separates the ileum of the small intestine from the cecum of the large intestine.

Ascending Colon

The segment of the colon that goes upward from the cecum.

Transverse Colon

The segment of the colon that crosses horizontally across the abdomen.

Descending Colon

The segment of the colon that goes downward from the transverse colon.

Sigmoid Colon

The S-shaped section of the colon leading into the rectum.

Appendix

A small, tube-like structure attached to the cecum, which can become inflamed.

Epiglottis

A flap that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway.

Laryngeal Pharynx

The part of the pharynx below the mouth that connects to the larynx.

Sphenoidal Sinus

A sinus located behind the nasal cavity.

salivary amylase

An enzyme that begins the digestion of carbohydrates in the mouth.

Lingual lipase

An enzyme secreted by glands in the tongue that breaks down lipids.

Emphysema

A lung condition characterized by over-inflation of the air sacs, leading to breathing difficulties.