Lecture Notes: Understanding Anatomy and Physiology

Introduction

• Purpose of Lecture: Understanding the complexity and functionality of the human body through anatomy and physiology.
• Key Idea: You are a complex organism with systems working together.

Interesting Facts About the Human Body

• Intestines are as long as a three-story building when stretched.
• Enough saliva is produced in a lifetime to fill more than one swimming pool.
• Lose about two-thirds of a kilogram annually in dead skin cells.

Disciplines Explained

• Anatomy: Study of structure and relationships between body parts.
• Physiology: Study of how body parts function together.

Historical Context

• Ancient studies involved vivisection and secret dissections.
• Public dissections in the 17th and 18th centuries.
• Anatomy Act of 1832 allowed legal access to bodies for study.

Key Principles

1. Complementarity of Structure and Function: Structure determines function.
2. Hierarchy of Organization:
   • Atoms → Cells → Tissues → Organs → Organ Systems → Organism
3. Homeostasis: Maintaining stable internal conditions necessary for survival.

Anatomical Terminology

• Anatomical Position: Body erect, facing forward, arms at sides, palms forward.
• Planes of the Body:
  • Sagittal: Divides body into left and right
  • Coronal (Frontal): Divides body into front and back
  • Transverse: Divides body into top and bottom
• Directional Terms:
  • Anterior/Ventral: Front
  • Posterior/Dorsal: Back
  • Superior/Cranial: Above
  • Inferior/Caudal: Below
  • Medial: Toward midline
  • Lateral: Away from midline
  • Proximal: Nearer to trunk
  • Distal: Farther from trunk

Application

• Example of directional terms in medical scenarios (e.g., locating a toothpick in the body).

Conclusion

• Anatomy and physiology provide a comprehensive understanding of body function and structure.
• Understanding these principles is essential for recognizing how internal balance and function are maintained.
• Thanks to contributors and supporters for making educational resources available globally.

This lecture script was prepared by Kathleen Yale, with contributions from the Crash Course team, including Dr. Brandon Jackson as consultant.