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Mammalian Physiology (PHOL0001)

Key information

Faculty
Faculty of Life Sciences
Teaching department
Division of Biosciences
Credit value
30
Restrictions
This module is compulsory for first year Biomedical Scientists, and Pharmacologists. Students on other degree programmes (including affiliate students) can take the 15 credit module PHOL0002 Introductory Mammalian Physiology.
Timetable

Alternative credit options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

This module provides a foundation in mammalian physiology. The introductory lectures on cell physiology deal with the movement of solute across cell membranes, membrane and action potentials and the special properties of excitable tissues. The principle organ systems are then covered conventionally: circulation, respiration, the gastro-intestinal tract, the nervous system, endocrines and the kidney. A set of four self-instructional practical sessions in Human Muscle, Breathing, ECG and Exercise physiology allow students to research aspects of the mammalian physiology they have encountered in lectures and reading.

By the end of the module you should be able to:

  • Describe the normal functioning of the body from both lectures and reading.
  • Understand some of the methods used to investigate physiological processes and the principles underlying them.
  • Assess scientific evidence and analyse physiological data
  • Research further information in the library and on the internet and evaluate the quality and accuracy of sources.
  • Communicate clearly and logically, both verbally and in writing.
  • Collaborate effectively with fellow students and with academic andÌýtechnicalÌýstaff.

Indicative lecture list (based on 2023/24 syllabus)

Body Fluid Compartments

The Transport Function of Cells

The Membrane Potential

Principles of Cell Signalling

Skeletal Muscle

Neuronal Structure & Function

Synaptic Transmission

Structure and Function of the Respiratory System

Gas Exchange

Control of Respiration

Introduction to Endocrinology

Endocrinology of the Reproductive System

Adrenal Glands: Physiology of Stress

Thyroid and The Control of Growth

Renal Regulation of the Internal Environment

Glomerular Filtration

Tubular Transport Processes (The Proximal Tubule)

Regulation of Plasma Osmolality

Regulation of Whole Body Ionic Balance

Immune Recognition & Response

Regulation of Immune Responses

Cardiac & Smooth Muscle

Physiology of the Blood

Functional Layout of the Circulation

Electrical/Contractile Properties of the Heart

Control of Cardiac Output

Control of Arterial Blood Pressure

Regulation of Tissue Blood Flow

Introduction to the Nervous System

Sensory and Motor Physiology

Autonomic Nervous System

Energy, Energy Balance & Metabolic Rate

Physiology of Exercise

Introduction to Gut Physiology

Gastrointestinal Secretions (2 lectures)

Digestion and Absorption

Gastrointestinal Motility

Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year

Intended teaching term: Terms 1 and 2 ÌýÌýÌý Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 4)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In person
Methods of assessment
10% Labs, practicals, clinicals
80% Fixed-time remote activity
10% In-class activity
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
168
Module leader
Dr Richard Tunwell
Who to contact for more information
r.tunwell@ucl.ac.uk

Last updated

This module description was last updated on 8th April 2024.

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