Anatomy and Physiology: Regulation, Integration, and Control Course

Lesson 1 • Levels of Structural Organization

Covers the six organizational levels from chemical to organism, linking structure to function at each tier. Anchors all subsequent system-specific content in a unified framework.

Lesson 2 • Anatomical Terminology and Body Planes

Introduces directional terms, body planes, and regional nomenclature used throughout clinical and research settings. Provides the shared language required for precise anatomical communication.

Lesson 3 • Homeostasis and Feedback Mechanisms

Defines homeostasis and distinguishes negative from positive feedback loops with physiological examples. Establishes the regulatory logic that unifies all control systems covered later.

Lesson 1 • Peripheral Nervous System and Reflexes

Distinguishes somatic from autonomic divisions and traces reflex arc components. Demonstrates how peripheral pathways execute rapid, involuntary regulatory responses.

Lesson 2 • Synaptic Transmission and Neurotransmitters

Details chemical and electrical synapses, neurotransmitter release, and receptor binding. Connects synaptic events to the integration of excitatory and inhibitory signals.

Lesson 3 • Membrane Potentials and Action Potentials

Explains resting membrane potential, graded potentials, and the all-or-none action potential. Links ion channel dynamics to the electrical signals that drive neural communication.

Lesson 4 • Central Nervous System Organization

Maps the brain and spinal cord regions to their regulatory and integrative functions. Establishes the structural basis for higher-order control discussed in later chapters.

Lesson 1 • Sympathetic Division Anatomy and Function

Traces preganglionic and postganglionic sympathetic pathways from the thoracolumbar spinal cord. Connects structural organisation to fight-or-flight physiological responses.

Lesson 2 • Higher Control of Autonomic Function

Identifies hypothalamic, limbic, and cortical centres that modulate autonomic output. Connects emotional and cognitive states to visceral physiological changes.

Lesson 3 • Parasympathetic Division Anatomy and Function

Traces craniosacral parasympathetic pathways and their terminal ganglia near target organs. Links acetylcholine signalling to rest-and-digest homeostatic maintenance.

Lesson 1 • Hormone Chemistry and Receptor Mechanisms

Classifies hormones as amino acid-based or lipid-based and links chemistry to receptor location. Establishes the molecular basis for hormone action used throughout the chapter.

Lesson 2 • Thyroid and Adrenal Gland Regulation

Covers thyroid hormone synthesis and metabolic effects alongside adrenal cortex and medulla secretions. Links these glands to metabolic rate, stress response, and electrolyte balance.

Lesson 3 • Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis

Details hypothalamic releasing hormones, anterior pituitary tropic hormones, and posterior pituitary peptides. Demonstrates the master regulatory axis controlling multiple peripheral glands.

Lesson 4 • Calcium and Fluid-Regulating Hormones

Examines parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, aldosterone, and ADH in mineral and fluid balance. Integrates endocrine control with renal and skeletal system functions.

Lesson 1 • Blood Vessel Structure and Blood Flow

Distinguishes arterial, capillary, and venous wall structures and their roles in flow regulation. Connects vessel compliance and resistance to systemic blood pressure.

Lesson 2 • Neural and Hormonal Blood Pressure Control

Examines baroreceptor reflexes, chemoreceptor input, and hormonal axes regulating arterial pressure. Integrates autonomic and endocrine mechanisms into a unified pressure-control model.

Lesson 3 • Cardiac Muscle and Electrical Conduction

Covers cardiomyocyte structure, excitation-contraction coupling, and the intrinsic conduction system. Establishes the cellular basis for rhythmic, coordinated heart contractions.

Lesson 1 • Pulmonary Anatomy and Airway Mechanics

Maps conducting and respiratory zones and explains the mechanics of inspiration and expiration. Provides the structural context for understanding ventilation efficiency.

Lesson 2 • Lung Volumes and Ventilation Measures

Defines tidal volume, functional residual capacity, and other spirometric measures. Connects ventilation parameters to alveolar gas composition and clinical assessment.

Lesson 3 • Gas Exchange and Transport

Applies Dalton's and Henry's laws to alveolar and tissue gas exchange and explains haemoglobin binding. Links oxygen-dissociation curve shifts to physiological and pathological conditions.

Lesson 1 • Glomerular Filtration and Its Regulation

Explains filtration pressure forces, GFR determinants, and autoregulatory mechanisms. Connects glomerular dynamics to systemic blood pressure and renal disease.

Lesson 2 • Acid-Base Balance and Renal Compensation

Covers bicarbonate reabsorption, hydrogen ion secretion, and ammonia buffering in the tubules. Explains how the kidneys correct metabolic and respiratory acid-base disturbances.

Lesson 3 • Tubular Reabsorption and Secretion

Details sodium-linked transport, passive reabsorption, and active secretion along each tubule segment. Links transport mechanisms to the final composition of urine.

Lesson 4 • Fluid and Electrolyte Homeostasis

Integrates osmolarity sensing, ADH, aldosterone, and ANP into a comprehensive fluid balance model. Connects renal regulation to cardiovascular and endocrine system interactions.

Lesson 1 • Temperature Regulation and Thermoregulation

Examines hypothalamic thermostat function, heat gain and loss effectors, and fever pathophysiology. Integrates autonomic, endocrine, and behavioural responses to thermal challenges.

Lesson 2 • Haemorrhage and Fluid Loss Responses

Traces baroreceptor, hormonal, and renal responses that restore blood volume after haemorrhage. Integrates cardiovascular, endocrine, and renal mechanisms into a unified compensatory model.

Lesson 3 • Neuroendocrine Stress Response

Analyses the HPA axis and sympathoadrenal activation during acute and chronic stress. Connects cortisol and catecholamine effects to metabolic, immune, and cardiovascular outcomes.

Lesson 4 • Cardiovascular and Respiratory Integration

Traces coordinated adjustments in cardiac output, ventilation, and gas exchange during increased metabolic demand. Demonstrates how feedback loops across systems maintain oxygen delivery.