Scientific Terminology and Body Organization

Flashcards summarizing key scientific terminology and concepts related to body organization and physiological processes.

Anatomy

The scientific study of the body's structures, originating from the term meaning 'cutting open'.

Physiology

The study of how the body works and the function of body parts.

Histology

The study of biological cells and tissues.

Cell

The basic structural and functional unit of the body, formed from a group of atoms, molecules, and organelles.

Tissue

A group of similar cells working together; classified into types such as epithelial, connective, muscle, and neural.

Organ

A group of different tissues working together to perform specific functions.

Organ System

A group of organs working together; humans have 11 organ systems.

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

Negative Feedback

Mechanism where the response opposes the initial stimulus to reverse a change.

Positive Feedback

Mechanism where the response enhances the stimulus to produce a greater change.

Endocrine Communication

Cell communication involving secretion of hormones from glands into the blood.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers released by neurons that bind to receptors on target cells.

ATP

Adenosine Triphosphate, the energy currency of the cell.

Cell Membrane

A structure that maintains the composition of intercellular fluid and controls movement of substances in and out of cells.

Passive Transport

Movement of substances across a cell membrane without the use of energy.

Active Transport

Movement of substances against a concentration gradient using energy.

Mitosis

The process by which somatic cells reproduce, resulting in two identical daughter cells.

Meiosis

The process that forms gametes, resulting in four genetically diverse cells.

Mutation

A change in the DNA sequence leading to new alleles, which may result in varying outcomes in protein function.

Catabolism

The metabolic process that breaks down larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy.

Anabolism

The metabolic process that builds larger organic molecules from smaller ones, consuming energy.

Osteoporosis

A condition characterized by decreased bone mass and increased fracture risk.

Myelination

The process of forming a myelin sheath around nerve fibers to enhance signal transmission.

Action Potential

A rapid change in membrane potential that propagates electrical signals along a neuron.

Synapse

A junction between two neurons or a neuron and a muscle that allows for communication.

Reflex Arc

The neural pathway that mediates a reflex action, consisting of a sensory receptor, sensory neuron, integrating center, motor neuron, and effector.