Chapter 1: An Introduction to the Human Body

Basics of Anatomy and Physiology

• Anatomy: Study of structure
• Physiology: Study of function
• Structure and function are closely related, as structure affects function and vice versa.

Review of General Biology

• Animal Cell Components:
  • Nucleus: Contains DNA; includes the nucleolus where ribosomal RNA is compacted.
  • Ribosomes: Made in the nucleolus; responsible for protein synthesis.
  • Golgi Apparatus: Series of curved sacs; "packaging house" for repackaging materials from the rough ER.
  • Mitochondria: Known as the "powerhouse" of the cell; produces ATP through cellular aerobic respiration using oxygen and glucose.
  • Cell Membrane: Composed of a phospholipid bilayer with hydrophilic (polar) phosphate heads and hydrophobic (nonpolar) fatty acid tails.

Organization of the Human Body

• Hierarchical Organization: Small to large
  • Chemical Level: Atoms (e.g., C, H, O, N, P) and molecules
  • Cellular Level: First level showing life characteristics; made up of biomolecules (DNA, RNA, proteins, carbs, lipids).
  • Tissues: Four main types - epithelial, connective, muscular, and nervous.
  • Organs: Made of different tissues (e.g., stomach, heart, lungs)
  • System Level: Organs communicating to form systems (e.g., digestive, respiratory)
  • Organismal Level: All systems collectively functioning as a human.

Metabolism

• Definition: Sum of all chemical reactions in the body.
• Two Types:
  • Catabolism: Breaking down large molecules into smaller ones; releases energy.
  • Anabolism: Building up small molecules into larger ones; stores energy.

Growth and Reproduction

• Life Cycle: Mitosis (growth), Meiosis (reproduction)
• Mitosis: Growth and cell production
• Meiosis: Production of gametes (eggs and sperm)
• Fertilization leads to a zygote, growing into a baby through mitosis.

Conclusion

• The lecture concludes with a note that there will be a continuation of Chapter 1 focusing on homeostasis and terminology.