The Study of Physiology

Overview of Physiology

• Definition: Physiology is the study of the internal processes that enable living organisms to respond to challenges.
• Commonality: All living things share the need for survival through complex internal mechanisms.

Building Analogy

• Construction: Just like buildings require specific elements arranged in order, living organisms rely on fundamental biological components.
• Elements of Life: DNA dictates the assembly of molecules, cells, tissues, organs, and systems in various combinations to adapt to environments.

Importance of Physiology

• Health Maintenance: Understanding the interactions that maintain balance (e.g., blood pressure, body temperature) informs health practices.
• Research Topics:
  • Effects of Artificial Light: Study on how light exposure disrupts sleep cycles via retinal cells signaling the brain.
  • Sports Physiology: Investigating cardiovascular adaptations from exercise that enhance physical performance.
  • Space Physiology: Researching zero gravity effects on bodily functions for future space exploration.

Physiologists' Contributions

• Core Information for Healthcare: Physiologists provide essential data for doctors, dentists, and veterinarians in clinical settings.
• Health Challenges: Addressing issues like air pollution's impact on oxygen uptake and mechanisms of obesity.
  • Obesity Research: Investigating how gut-to-brain signals about satiety can be disrupted, leading to overeating.

Call to Action

• Engagement: There remains much to discover in physiology, presenting opportunities for new research aimed at tackling global health issues.