Lecture 4: Respiratory System

Biomedicine

Biomedicine

Human Sciences - The study of biological and physiological processes in humans, particularly in relation to health and disease.

Respiratory System

The organ system responsible for gas exchange, including structures such as the nose, trachea, bronchi, and lungs.

Gas Exchange

The process of oxygen (O2) entering the blood and carbon dioxide (CO2) being expelled, essential for cellular respiration.

Mucociliary Escalator

A defense mechanism in the respiratory tract that uses cilia and mucus to trap and remove inhaled particles and pathogens.

Alveoli

Small air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs, maximizing surface area for efficient oxygen and carbon dioxide transfer.

External Respiration

The exchange of gases between the lungs and the blood, primarily occurring in the alveoli.

Internal Respiration

The exchange of gases between the blood and body cells, crucial for cellular metabolism.

Cellular Respiration

The metabolic process by which cells convert glucose and oxygen into energy (ATP), producing carbon dioxide as a byproduct.

Pulmonary Surfactant

A mixture of lipids and proteins that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing collapse and aiding gas exchange.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

A progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation, often caused by smoking and environmental factors.

Asthma

A chronic inflammatory condition of the airways, leading to reversible bronchoconstriction and difficulty breathing.

Pneumonia

An infection of the alveoli and bronchioles, often resulting in inflammation and fluid accumulation, leading to cough and difficulty breathing.

Rhinitis

Inflammation of the nasal mucosa, causing symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and runny nose, often due to allergies or infections.

Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which can be acute or chronic, often resulting from infections or irritants.

Ventilation

The process of moving air in and out of the lungs, involving inhalation and exhalation, essential for gas exchange.

Cilia

Microscopic hair-like structures in the respiratory tract that help move mucus and trapped particles out of the lungs.

Eustachian Tubes

Tubes that connect the nasopharynx to the middle ear, helping to equalize pressure in the ear.

Alveolar Macrophages

Immune cells located in the alveoli that engulf and destroy pathogens and debris, playing a key role in lung immunity.

Blood pH Regulation

The process of maintaining stable blood pH levels, influenced by carbon dioxide levels and bicarbonate buffering.

Sputum

Mucus that is coughed up from the respiratory tract, which can provide diagnostic information about respiratory conditions.