Comprehensive Biology: Human Systems, Genetics, Plant Anatomy, and Medical Imaging

What is vascular tissue?

Transport system: xylem (water up), phloem (sugars both ways).

What is endoscopy?

Using a camera on a flexible tube to view inside the body.

What are villi and microvilli?

Tiny finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase surface area.

Why are villi and microvilli important?

They maximize nutrient absorption into the bloodstream.

What is the function of the respiratory system?

To exchange gases (O₂ and CO₂) between the body and the environment.

What organs are involved in respiration?

Nose, mouth, trachea, bronchi, bronchioles, lungs, alveoli, diaphragm.

What is inhalation?

Rib muscles + diaphragm contract → lung volume ↑ → pressure ↓ → air flows in.

What is exhalation?

Muscles relax → lung volume ↓ → pressure ↑ → air pushed out.

What is dermal tissue?

the plant's "skin," a protective outer layer covering leaves, stems, and roots, like our epidermi

What is the function of the digestive system?

To break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste.

What organs are involved in digestion?

Mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, pancreas, gallbladder.

What are the 4 stages of digestion?

Ingestion, digestion, absorption, elimination.

How does gas exchange occur?

O₂ and CO₂ diffuse across thin alveoli walls into capillaries.

What factors maximize gas exchange?

Large surface area, thin membranes, moist surfaces.

What is the function of the circulatory system?

To transport oxygen, nutrients, hormones, and waste throughout the body.

What are the 4 major components of the circulatory system?

Heart, arteries, veins, capillaries.

What is the path of blood in the circulatory system?

Body → vena cava → right atrium → right ventricle → pulmonary artery → lungs → pulmonary vein → left atrium → left ventricle → aorta → body.

What is a heart attack?

Blocked blood flow to the heart muscle.

What are the causes/risk factors of a heart attack?

Atherosclerosis (plaque buildup), high fat diet, smoking, genetics, lack of exercise.

How do respiratory and circulatory systems interact?

O₂ diffuses from alveoli into blood; CO₂ diffuses from blood into alveoli.

How do digestive and circulatory systems interact?

Nutrients absorbed in villi enter the bloodstream and are transported to cells.

What is DNA?

Genetic material that carries instructions for all cell activities.

Why is DNA important?

It determines traits and controls cell function.

What is a gene?

A segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein.

What are the benefits of DNA screening?

Early detection of diseases, informed medical decisions.

What are the risks of DNA screening?

Privacy issues, anxiety, discrimination.

What are the benefits of cloning?

Reproduction of organisms, saving endangered species, medical uses.

What are the risks of cloning?

Low success rate, ethical concerns, genetic defects.

What are the benefits of transgenic organisms (GMOs)?

Higher yields, disease resistance, improved nutrition.

What are the risks of GMOs?

Environmental impact, allergies, reduced biodiversity.

What is ground tissue?

Storage, support, photosynthesis.

What is meristematic tissue?

Actively dividing cells that allow growth.

What are the main plant organs?

Roots, stems, leaves, flowers.

What is the function of roots?

Anchor plant, absorb water/minerals, store nutrients.

What is the function of stems?

Support plant, transport materials via vascular tissue.

What is the function of leaves?

Photosynthesis; gas exchange through stomata.

What is the function of flowers?

Sexual reproduction; produce pollen and eggs.

How does water move through plants?

Xylem transports water from roots → leaves.

How are sugars transported in plants?

Phloem distributes sugars produced during photosynthesis.

What are stomata?

Pores in leaves for gas exchange.

What do guard cells do?

Open/close stomata to prevent water loss.

What is medical imaging?

Technology that creates images of internal organs/tissues.

What is biophotonics?

Using light (lasers/endoscopes) in medical treatments.

What is ultrasound used for?

Monitoring fetal development safely.

What is the purpose of vaccines?

Provide immunity and prevent disease spread.

What is cancer screening?

Early detection of cancer (ex. mammograms).

How does lifestyle affect cancer risk?

Diet, exercise, smoking, and weight all influence risk.

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