Systems Physiology

Module aims

To introduce systems physiology to engineers. Special emphasis is on describing organ systems needed for understanding the physics and models of the circulation

Learning outcomes

To understand the function of most organ systems To understand basic terms of cellular biology To understand new developments of biotechnology Knowing how to use physiological knowledge for engineering

Module syllabus

Introduction to physiological theories underlying the electrocardiogram; origin and significance of the ECG signal, anatomy and structure of the vascular system, 3-D structure of the vascular system; pressure-flow relationships of blood vessels, regulation of flow, exercise and adaptation of the cardiovascular system. Physiological basis of pressure measurements. Left ventricular function, pump function graphs, coupling of heart to the vascular system. Homeostasis, physiological control, autonomic nervous system. Brain function and sensory function, fine tuning of motion and gait. Structure and function of the Musculo-skeletal system. Muscle contraction. Cardiac muscles functions and pump graphs. Basic respiratory anatomy, mechanics and control. Respiratory function of blood. Integrative responses of physiological systems to exercise. Basic physiology of the DNA-RNA cycle, control of genetic network, systems biology, methods employed in genomic analysis; methods to change gene expression, genomics of exercise. Practical work is related to the integration of the cardiovascular the respiratory system and the nervous system

Pre-requisites

Basic knowledge of physiology 

Teaching methods

Lectures: 18 hours

Assessments

Examinations:

●  Written exam: Systems Physiology Final Exam; 80% weighting

    No type of previous exam answers or solutions will be available

Courseworks:

●  Problem sheet: Open Book Quiz 1; 6.67% weighting; Quiz 1

●  Problem sheet: Open Book Quiz 2; 6.67% weighting; Quiz 2

●  Problem sheet: Open Book Quiz 3; 6.67% weighting; Quiz 3