Introduction to Animal Energetics and Homeostasis

Introduction to Animal Energetics and Homeostasis

• Course Code: AVBS 2005

• Focus on principles of animal energetics and homeostasis.

• Short session for introduction, with no practical component this week.

• Emphasis on preparing for practical classes in upcoming weeks.

Important Information

• Emergency Procedures:

  • Evacuation protocols shared; use stairs, not elevators.

• Contact Information:

  • Instructor located in Gum Building.

  • Best contact via email or after lectures.

• Tutorial Component:

  • Managed by Imka.

• Group Learning Activities:

  • Conducted in practical classes; expected participation.

Course Content Overview

• Main Focus:

  • Study of animal function at a biochemical level.

  • Key aspects include:

    • Cellular metabolism.

    • Energy acquisition from the environment.

    • Impact of energy deficits on animals.

• Structure of Learning:

  • Start at the cellular level, moving to tissues and whole animals.

  • A strong emphasis on biochemical processes over molecular ones, such as transcription and translation.

Biochemical Pathways

• Introduction to complex biochemical pathways:

  • Some processes may appear daunting initially, but clarity will be achieved throughout the semester.

  • Hands-on experience with biochemical data via blood analysis in the semester.

  • Learning goal: diagnose metabolic disruptions and suggest treatments.

First Principles of Metabolism

• Understanding normal metabolic functions:

  • Implications of metabolic disruptions.

• Structural focus on:

  • Cytology (cell structure).

  • Histology (tissue structure).

• Discussion on hormones and endocrine regulation as a key coordination mechanism.

Examples of Metabolic Disruptions

• The case of a hypothyroid dog illustrating:

  • Changes in physical state, energy levels, and overall behavior due to hormonal deficiency.

  • Treatment effect on the organism’s metabolic functions and appearance.

Carbohydrate Metabolism Disruption

• Example: untreated Type 1 diabetic dog:

  • Symptoms: polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyuria (excessive urination).

  • Chemical basis for symptoms rooted in carbohydrate metabolism.

Structure and Function of Cells and Tissues

• Relationship between cell structures (like adipocytes) and their metabolic roles (energy storage).

• Importance of understanding the coordinated metabolism within various tissue types while maintaining the cellular ability to perform all metabolic functions.

• Coordination mainly regulated through hormones.

Introduction to Practical Classes

• Initial weeks devoted to cytology and histology practical activities.

• Preparation activities required prior to practical sessions for effective learning.

Underlying Concepts of Metabolism

• Discussion on:

  • The energy density of macromolecules (e.g., lipids vs carbohydrates).

  • Implications of feeding domesticated animals and obesity issues.

Overview of Topics

• Starting with:

  • Cytology and tissue types.

  • Building towards an understanding of energy and biosynthetic processes.

  • Discussion of laws of thermodynamics as they pertain to cellular function.

Enzymes and Metabolic Reactions

• Role of enzymes in metabolism;

  • Understanding enzyme-catalyzed reactions under constant cellular conditions.

  • Planning for detailed studies on carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism.

Assessment Overview

• Final Exam: 1.5 hours, includes:

  • Two-thirds multiple choice questions.

  • Short answer questions for deeper understanding assessment.

• Group Work:

  • Cytology assignment due later in the semester.

• In-semester Test:

  • 40 minutes multiple choice worth 25% of the final grade.

• Early feedback task in week three worth 5%, allowing students to assess their knowledge.

Texts and Resources

• Recommended textbooks for reference:

  • "Essential Cell Biology."

  • "Textbook of Veterinary Histology."

  • "Physiology of Domestic Animals."

• Access to annotated slides and virtual microscopy resources on Canvas for practical support.

Conclusion

• Emphasized the need for personalized learning approaches, connecting topics back to real-world examples like personal pets.

• Encouragement for active participation and feedback throughout the semester.

• Final reminders about upcoming classes and expectations.